Style on a Budget

Don't let your limited budget limit your style. There a quite are few things you can do to keep your look fresh even when you need to be wise with your wardrobe dollars.

Here's how :

1. Wear more color

A great way to liven up your look is to incorporate more color into your wardrobe. Perhaps this is just a matter of wearing a brightly colored t-shirt under a v-neck sweater, or sporting a new shirt or sweater. Adding color will liven up otherwise dull neutral tones. But the most important thing is to wear color near your face since that is where it will have the most impact and keep you from looking washed out.

Note: Whether you are on a budget or not, shopping sales is just a smart thing to do. If you want to pick up a new shirt, sweater etc., you don't have to wait long for any number of retailers to have a sale. Just keep your eyes peeled.

2. Seek Out a New Pair of Glasses/Sunglasses

I have worn glasses since I was 2 years old. This is one area where I allow myself to spend a little money in order to get the best looking glasses I can find. After all, it’s my face! Glasses are a great way to express yourself too. The interesting thing about glasses is that you could simply be wearing jeans and a t-shirt, but with the right glasses you suddenly look fashion savvy. Like me, you may want to have a couple of pair--one pair that is bold and one that is more subdued. This way you can match your glasses with your mood or outfit.

Note: If you don’t wear glasses, then make it sunglasses. Cool shades are always a good thing and we all know how they are one of the ultimate fashion accessories.

3. Treat Yourself to One or Two Super Pieces

If you can possibly afford it, I believe in buying one or two great pieces that will really keep you looking stylish. This may be a cool sport coat, a leather jacket or an awesome pair of jeans that really show off your assets. What ever it is, make sure it’s something that you know you will wear often and is flattering. I just bought a moleskin sport coat that was a bit expensive, but it looks great and I know I will get a lot of use out of it.

4. Sport a Snappy Belt

I also just bought a really cool belt with a big buckle that I know will be a show stopper. You may have noticed that recently elaborate belts with interesting buckles have become quite the fashion statement. And they can be quite inexpensive as well.

5. Avoid Tattered Looking Shoes

A tattered pair of shoes is always a turn off. I don’t care if you wear dress shoes or sneakers, keep ‘em looking their best. This may just mean getting a shoe shine or picking up a new pair altogether.

6. Get a Groovy watch

I have a friend who has a thing for watches. He likes to match them with what he is wearing, and he doesn’t spend a lot of money on them either. Since men don’t have many options when it comes to jewelry, this is a great way to express yourself as well as liven up your look.