1- There has always been a saying that you can judge a man by his shoes. That saying holds true! Appropriate fitting footwear is the first step to dressing sharp. Classic footwear is just as important as classic clothing. You may be shocked at the sticker price, but a good pair of dress shoes will last longer and stay good-looking with a little light cleaning and occasional shine!

2- When you're a younger man, dress to look older! The way you dress is the way you are perceived. Get rid of the t-shirts, cargo pants, sweats, sweatpants, baseball caps, etc. They keep you looking young. By aging you a little and buying more stylish clothing, you can get the respect you deserve from your peers.

3- Don't follow fashion trends. They change way too much and way too quickly and no one has the money to continue to buy new clothes every time it changes. Stay away from pants that are only presentable during the "in" season. Stick to the classic clothing staples for the core of your wardrobe and avoid anything that's too far out on the cutting edge, even if you look really good in it!

4- Take care of your clothing. Once you have spent some money on a few good pieces, it's worth it to spend a bit more money to keep them in good shape. Buy quality hangers for your shirts and suits. Get a shoe tree for your shoes. Be careful using the washing machine as well. Some clothes do not allow for the use of a washing machine.

5- Always have atleast one good suit in your closet. If your job requires you to wear them regularly, buy a variety with colors and styles. If you're buying off the rack, take the time to have the suit fitted! A good tailor can make the small changes that can take your suit from looking mediocre to perfect for you!

6- White and Blue shirts are the backbone to a sharp wardrobe. Because these are so popular, it can be available in different styles, sizes, fabrics, and prices, giving many options for people on a budget. Patterns can liven up the basic colors as well!

7- Own dark fitted jeans and know when to wear them. Jeans are always changing, whether the wear style, or white washing, ripping, etc. Keep it simple and stick to fitted jeans in dark colors with no rips or stains. Depending on the shirt, they can be casual or business-casual.

8- Look beyond Denim! For social occasions, wear well cut and classically styled trousers. They're less common in the younger crowds, so you'll stand out from the rest of your classmates. Also, trousers can come in wool or cotton, which gives you more a more breathable pair of pants than jeans!

9- Replace your old t-shirts with polos or sports shirts. A good polo in a simple, dark color when it's fitted well is always presentable and flattering! Button short sleeved shirts in the summer are also a great option (brands like Carhartt are good). If you're going to wear a t-shirt, make sure it's new, clean, close-fitted, and in a solid, dark color.

Tip: Some of your clothes can come from a thrift store. It may be work it to spend a couple dollars to have something tailored for a less expensive trip to the store!