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Tip Store: Clothes: Men's Clothing
Three Ways to Find a Suit on a Budget
I would go one of two ways depending on your budget. There are some op shops that have the better quality labels and items, and you may be able to find a suit there, and possibly a couple of good quality ties. The shirt is not such a problem as long as it is neatly pressed, and I would go with classic white or a solid light colour shade. If you are in a position to spend a little more, I would check out the larger shopping centres. My partner needed a new suit recently for his son's wedding. We bought a new suit for around $80 which fitted beautifully, and at some shops there are special deals where they throw in a shirt and tie, so it is well worth shopping around. You could always check if any friends of around the same size have a suit they are willing to lend him for interviews or that they are willing to sell if they have no further need for a suit.
Contributed by Glenys Smith, 18th April 2013
Contributed by Glenys Smith, 18th April 2013
Finding a Good Suit on a Budget
When I was at Uni and needed a suit for job hunting, I did the rounds of the op shops They have great pre-loved suits and sometimes brand new ones that are end of lines which some shops get. You can try the suit hire shops which sell some of their hire suits, but some can be a bit tatty so you have to be careful. You can also find shirts and ties the same way.
Contributed by Angelo Caltabiano, 18th April 2013
Contributed by Angelo Caltabiano, 18th April 2013
Wardrobe Update for a Man
Try the charity shops, particularly in upmarket suburbs. When we were going on a cruise which had a "formal night" and hubby had no dinner suit (and normally would never wear one), he found one at the Salvos store for $25.00. Shirts at Vinnies are only a few dollars. Shoes I think you would have to purchase new.
Contributed by Judith Lowe, 18th April 2013
Contributed by Judith Lowe, 18th April 2013
New Home for Lonely Suits!
The first thing I would do is call family and friends (mothers group, sports club) with men of a similar size and ask if they would like a new home for any items that may be collecting dust or are the wrong size, worn at past weddings or events and not needed anymore. Then I would go to op shops, try fancy parts of your town or city, they usually have dressier clothing in perfect condition. Also look at Big W they advertise whole office outfits, including shoes and socks for under $100. The shirts can be taken to an embroidery service if your husbands company needs a logo stitched on and they become tax deductible.
Contributed by Kirsty Thomson, 18th April 2013.
Contributed by Kirsty Thomson, 18th April 2013.
Suits on a Budget
Charity shops stock so many choices of quite up to date men's suits, you just have to search them all and your husband will have to try them on. Every mans nightmare I'm sure! In north Brisbane the Endevour Foundation has a shop that carries mainly donated formal and wedding attire so ask Charity head-offices if such an outlet exists where you live.
Contributed by Melody Francia, 18th April 2013
Contributed by Melody Francia, 18th April 2013
A Pre-loved Work Wardrobe
Try the second hand stores. They often have good quality menswear. St Vincent de Paul, Anglicare, Presbyterian. Myer has 50% off men's business shirts at the moment.
Contributed by Leonie Smyth, 18th April 2013
Contributed by Leonie Smyth, 18th April 2013
A New Wardrobe for Jenny's Husband
Your local op shops should be your first port of call. Aim to get one suit, two to three shirts and a belt there. Don't forget to get the suit dry cleaned. Then supplement the wardrobe with a few new shirts from Kmart. Shoes can be bought at a reasonable price from Big W and Kmart. This should be enough to get him started for around $100 Once he has an income coming in, this wardrobe can gradually be replaced with all new or better quality items. The old wardrobe then becomes his back up wardrobe.
Contributed by Wendy Gower, 18th April 2013
Contributed by Wendy Gower, 18th April 2013
Back to the Office on a Budget
Op shops are treasure troves full of wonderful classic suits, outfits and accessories. eBay can also be another option to search for your special items. Check out garage sales, ask family and friends if they have anything they could help you out with or maybe you could borrow to start with. I have two sons I have outfitted with suits like this over the years and you can often find something with much better quality than anything you could afford to buy brand new. Don't forget suit hire places that are looking to sell off some of their stock. Asking costs you nothing. Gumtree may have something to offer and well as newspaper advertisements. Leave no stone unturned and you'll be amazed what you can find. Don't forget that a good drycleaner can bring a suit up to look new. Shirt and tie sets are also available from Big W. They may not be your first choice but can look quite nice once added to a nice suit. Polish up those old shoes and he'll look a million dollars!
Contributed by Kathleen Burke, 18th April 2013
Contributed by Kathleen Burke, 18th April 2013
Putting Together a Men's Wardrobe
Having a husband and four sons this is a ongoing issue for me. I use the following guidelines to streamline the wardrobe decisions.
1.Pick a base neutral that suits the colouring of the person i.e. grey, black, brown, tan or navy. Select three colours that complement. These are your wardrobe colours (plus white) - don't deviate. At first glance, it may appear restrictive and boring, but in the end everything will match and give you many more choices (works kind of like a budget - although restrictive you can do more with less).
2.For every pair of pants, select three shirts. (Google and look at YouTube for "capsule clothing" and you'll find plenty for females - take the principles for blokes). 3 pants, 3 shirts, 3 jackets produces about 40-odd different outfits.
3.If on an extreme budget, ONLY buy plain shirts, never patterned. People remember a patterned shirt, plains are much easier to mix and match.
Try good op shops - we pick up large amounts of clothing there at a fraction of the cost.
Just check say the Myer catalogue and determine what is current in office work wear. Check trouser length, cuff style, pant fronts (pleats are out!) and fit (slim fit or wider fit - it fluctuates with seasons). Check the current "colour" trends. Watch how they pair or layer clothing to extend the wardrobe for more casual wear or casual Friday's if his new workplace participates.
We found last summer a short sleeve check shirt with a patterned/logo t-shirt and casual pants was the go. We adjusted it to a plain t-shirt with a check shirt with a casual pant and achieved the look. In fact we made three outfits; plain t-shirt and pants, check shirt and pants and check shirt with plain t-shirt with pants and voila - on trend. It also meant he could still use the plain t-shirt (black or white) to pair with a sports jacket and jeans or casual pants and suddenly he was the "cool" guy - great for travelling on planes and casual work events/meetings. Classy but casual.
This works for any age, but great for the guy over 40 who wants to look trendy without looking weird or old!
Jeans - though not work wear ... still an essential wardrobe piece. Dark blue or black are "more formal", make sure the pockets are straight and the stitching matches the fabric. It's the most slimming and can be worn dressed up or down. Remember to get them long enough - should break over the arch at the front of the foot and be an inch off the floor at the heel of the shoe.
Shoes set the tone for the outfit. When we were updating my husbands wardrobe surprisingly we needed 3 more pairs of shoes; casual loafers, formal and deck shoes to extend his wardrobe to fit many occasions.
When you buy basics like t-shirts - pay extra at Myer or DJs - they are stain resistant and will go the distance longer without losing their shape. Always buy black and white.
Op shop his ties (there are heaps! - look for silk) but buy the belt new (only leather - otherwise you'll be replacing it quickly). We buy ours from a shoe repair store (or go to a rural area - they are more likely to have a better range of leather). Shoes and belt colour should always match i.e. tan, brown, black or reddish brown tone. Navy shoes will match with a black belt.
Op shop the suit and other pair of pants. Make sure they are classic and close to being in vogue. Large rural op shops have more classic lines (not so affected by the trends).
DFO's and similar places can be good but be wary as they are selling out cheap LAST seasons stuff - so be careful and make sure you know the current trends and try to buy only basics there.
When you op shop - check fit as follows:
Jackets/shirts: The shoulders seam must come to the outside edge of the shoulder line. The neck must be comfortable, no worn fabric or fraying, no puckering anywhere (i.e. arms, chest; crunch shoulders forward to be sure). The sleeve of jackets must come down at least an inch over the wrist bone, shirts to just over the wrist bone. Check buttons are all there (and re-sew on strongly when you get home, saves time down the track!). Length of jackets - about the hip line. Check by raising and lowering the hem - the "right" line will be determined by his body size and shape. Hint - don't finish the hemline at his widest point! It just attracts attention to the wide area. (Goes for girls too!)
Pants: Hem must be an inch from the floor at the back - don't buy them too short! No cuffs. No pleats (seriously adds bulk you don't need!). Mid to slim fit. Good fabric. No puckering.
Also check seams intact and sewn strongly, jackets button without puckering, zips work smoothly (carbon, i.e. a lead pencil, rubbed on a sticky metal zipper will often make it operate more smoothly).
Alterations: the hardest place to alter is the v-line. The V-line is the area formed from each shoulder point to mid-chest. Anything within that area is difficult to adjust. If it doesn't sit flat, puckers or is too wide/narrow - leave it on the shelf. Clothing can be altered up to two sizes; up or down, otherwise it's too costly and can lose the original shape and cut. Get alterations done professionally if needed although most length alterations are fairly easy on a sewing machine (even I can do them!) Just match the thread colour and thread weight well (i.e. jeans use a thicker thread).
Change the buttons if needed to be more current (like changing the handles in a kitchen refit!).
A good fit makes everything look "more expensive".
Underclothes: Socks; choose fine weight and same colour as pants. My husband prefers to wear a singlet, both in cold weather for warmth without bulk and in summer to conceal perspiration. Don't buy white - it shows up particularly under a white shirt. We buy grey. (This is for woman's underwear too! Always buy your skin colour; either light or dark ... white shows!)
Scarves/vests: Checked or tartan are usually classic - check the current trends and workplace protocol.
Other things for blokes that are often overlooked are: a good watch, a decent manicure (clean and trimmed nails are essential), good haircut and eyebrow line (seriously Google YouTube on how to cut eyebrows for blokes online to DIY), good umbrella and a handkerchief! And check his glasses if he wears them.
The devil is in the detail. When money is available, try to update buying classic, plain, good quality clothing as much as possible, you will save money in the long run.
Basic rule of thumb: your wardrobe should be 80% plain, classic basics and 20% trendy highlights. Have fun!
Contributed by Esther Armstrong, 18th April 2013
1.Pick a base neutral that suits the colouring of the person i.e. grey, black, brown, tan or navy. Select three colours that complement. These are your wardrobe colours (plus white) - don't deviate. At first glance, it may appear restrictive and boring, but in the end everything will match and give you many more choices (works kind of like a budget - although restrictive you can do more with less).
2.For every pair of pants, select three shirts. (Google and look at YouTube for "capsule clothing" and you'll find plenty for females - take the principles for blokes). 3 pants, 3 shirts, 3 jackets produces about 40-odd different outfits.
3.If on an extreme budget, ONLY buy plain shirts, never patterned. People remember a patterned shirt, plains are much easier to mix and match.
Try good op shops - we pick up large amounts of clothing there at a fraction of the cost.
Just check say the Myer catalogue and determine what is current in office work wear. Check trouser length, cuff style, pant fronts (pleats are out!) and fit (slim fit or wider fit - it fluctuates with seasons). Check the current "colour" trends. Watch how they pair or layer clothing to extend the wardrobe for more casual wear or casual Friday's if his new workplace participates.
We found last summer a short sleeve check shirt with a patterned/logo t-shirt and casual pants was the go. We adjusted it to a plain t-shirt with a check shirt with a casual pant and achieved the look. In fact we made three outfits; plain t-shirt and pants, check shirt and pants and check shirt with plain t-shirt with pants and voila - on trend. It also meant he could still use the plain t-shirt (black or white) to pair with a sports jacket and jeans or casual pants and suddenly he was the "cool" guy - great for travelling on planes and casual work events/meetings. Classy but casual.
This works for any age, but great for the guy over 40 who wants to look trendy without looking weird or old!
Jeans - though not work wear ... still an essential wardrobe piece. Dark blue or black are "more formal", make sure the pockets are straight and the stitching matches the fabric. It's the most slimming and can be worn dressed up or down. Remember to get them long enough - should break over the arch at the front of the foot and be an inch off the floor at the heel of the shoe.
Shoes set the tone for the outfit. When we were updating my husbands wardrobe surprisingly we needed 3 more pairs of shoes; casual loafers, formal and deck shoes to extend his wardrobe to fit many occasions.
When you buy basics like t-shirts - pay extra at Myer or DJs - they are stain resistant and will go the distance longer without losing their shape. Always buy black and white.
Op shop his ties (there are heaps! - look for silk) but buy the belt new (only leather - otherwise you'll be replacing it quickly). We buy ours from a shoe repair store (or go to a rural area - they are more likely to have a better range of leather). Shoes and belt colour should always match i.e. tan, brown, black or reddish brown tone. Navy shoes will match with a black belt.
Op shop the suit and other pair of pants. Make sure they are classic and close to being in vogue. Large rural op shops have more classic lines (not so affected by the trends).
DFO's and similar places can be good but be wary as they are selling out cheap LAST seasons stuff - so be careful and make sure you know the current trends and try to buy only basics there.
When you op shop - check fit as follows:
Jackets/shirts: The shoulders seam must come to the outside edge of the shoulder line. The neck must be comfortable, no worn fabric or fraying, no puckering anywhere (i.e. arms, chest; crunch shoulders forward to be sure). The sleeve of jackets must come down at least an inch over the wrist bone, shirts to just over the wrist bone. Check buttons are all there (and re-sew on strongly when you get home, saves time down the track!). Length of jackets - about the hip line. Check by raising and lowering the hem - the "right" line will be determined by his body size and shape. Hint - don't finish the hemline at his widest point! It just attracts attention to the wide area. (Goes for girls too!)
Pants: Hem must be an inch from the floor at the back - don't buy them too short! No cuffs. No pleats (seriously adds bulk you don't need!). Mid to slim fit. Good fabric. No puckering.
Also check seams intact and sewn strongly, jackets button without puckering, zips work smoothly (carbon, i.e. a lead pencil, rubbed on a sticky metal zipper will often make it operate more smoothly).
Alterations: the hardest place to alter is the v-line. The V-line is the area formed from each shoulder point to mid-chest. Anything within that area is difficult to adjust. If it doesn't sit flat, puckers or is too wide/narrow - leave it on the shelf. Clothing can be altered up to two sizes; up or down, otherwise it's too costly and can lose the original shape and cut. Get alterations done professionally if needed although most length alterations are fairly easy on a sewing machine (even I can do them!) Just match the thread colour and thread weight well (i.e. jeans use a thicker thread).
Change the buttons if needed to be more current (like changing the handles in a kitchen refit!).
A good fit makes everything look "more expensive".
Underclothes: Socks; choose fine weight and same colour as pants. My husband prefers to wear a singlet, both in cold weather for warmth without bulk and in summer to conceal perspiration. Don't buy white - it shows up particularly under a white shirt. We buy grey. (This is for woman's underwear too! Always buy your skin colour; either light or dark ... white shows!)
Scarves/vests: Checked or tartan are usually classic - check the current trends and workplace protocol.
Other things for blokes that are often overlooked are: a good watch, a decent manicure (clean and trimmed nails are essential), good haircut and eyebrow line (seriously Google YouTube on how to cut eyebrows for blokes online to DIY), good umbrella and a handkerchief! And check his glasses if he wears them.
The devil is in the detail. When money is available, try to update buying classic, plain, good quality clothing as much as possible, you will save money in the long run.
Basic rule of thumb: your wardrobe should be 80% plain, classic basics and 20% trendy highlights. Have fun!
Contributed by Esther Armstrong, 18th April 2013
Regular Op Shopping Builds a Great Wardrobe
I have been volunteering with the Red Cross Superstore for the last nine years. I sort, price and press A grade clothes for sale in the store and I sincerely recommend having a look through you local op shop at least once a week and I am sure if you let the guys there know what style and size you are after they will keep a look out for you we are a very helpful lot.
Contributed by Maureen Lewis, 18th April 2013
Contributed by Maureen Lewis, 18th April 2013
Savvy Suits
I have kitted out business wear from second hand shops. You need to go to your most affluent suburb/areas though as this is where you are more likely to find the designer labels. The other great spot is contact the more posh schools and find out when they have their school fetes as there is usually a white elephant or clothes stall and you will find a bargain. Another is to contact any uniform shops and ask if they have shop display or cancelled orders or when they have their sales.
Contributed by Julie Spratt, 18th April 2013
Contributed by Julie Spratt, 18th April 2013
When it comes to Dressing on a Budget You have Friends
Op Shops, Gumtree and eBay are your friends. Some time ago I needed to suit up my man and found an Italian suit (still with the label) at my local Vinnies shop for the princely sum of $60. If you tell the ladies at the shops your situation, they'll keep their eyes peeled for you too.
Contributed by Paula Wiles, 20th April 2013
Contributed by Paula Wiles, 20th April 2013
A Freecycle Formal Wardrobe for Work
Do you have a Freecycle group in your city? If so ,join one and ask for what you need. The principle is that you make a contribution of something: books, furniture, household goods etc. and you can then ask for what you need. People are always giving away these things away and I have had a few free pieces of furniture, dress patterns etc. The only thing is don't ask for anything too big like a car or expensive entertainment stuff such as a 50 inch Flat screen TV or such. Anything you receive must not be sold on either.
Contributed by Glenda Booth, 20th April 2013
Contributed by Glenda Booth, 20th April 2013
Buying a Formal Wardrobe
Visit the op shop associated with the cathedral or high society church in your city. The clothes are of a very high standard and very cheap. I purchased a superb dinner suit for my husband for $50 and two beautiful sports jackets for $15 each. They were all bespoke garments and it was lucky the previous owner was the same height and weight. It is worth purchasing suits and jackets that can be altered by a tailor as the quality of the fabric is vastly superior to off-the-rack garments.
Contributed by Louise Drummond, 21st April 2013
Contributed by Louise Drummond, 21st April 2013
Update Your Wardrobe
To update your wardrobe on a tight budget look at the op shops in wealthy suburbs. If you live in Melbourne, South Yarra, Malvern and Bentleigh all have good op shops. Google all the op shops in your area.
Contributed by Wendy Rice, 21st April 2013
Clothes for Office Work
On doing a cheap cruise my husband outfitted himself with a new jacket and trousers at the local op shops. They also sell suits at some of them. We found they are just as good as new ones for a lot more money and the most expensive part was the dry cleaning bill. His coat was $8.00 and the dry cleaning was $12.00! One of his friends also bought himself a new jacket and you cannot tell the difference. My husband came up very nicely.
Contributed by Jill Crutcher, 23rd April 2013
Contributed by Jill Crutcher, 23rd April 2013
Save on Updating a Work Wardrobe
My family has a wonderful wardrobe thanks to me shopping at places like Savers, St Vincent, Salvation Army etc. With some careful looking and trying things on you will be surprised what great things you can find that mixes and matches which is really important when putting a new wardrobe together. Just be careful to check over the clothes thoroughly for any wear, stains, holes etc. Be especially careful to check fabric in good light for stains, I have been caught a few times due to bad lighting. Also friends or family may have suits, ties, shirts etc. they only wear occasionally etc. that they are willing to pass on to you, doesn't hurt to mention it and see if they have anything. Often people happy to give it you rather than taking it somewhere. Good luck for you and your husband.
Contributed by Joann Avagliano, 21st April 2013
Contributed by Joann Avagliano, 21st April 2013
Give Your Man a Wardrobe Update
Try Lowes or Big W for very reasonably priced slacks and shirts. Big W had suits available, I'm not 100% sure if they still do, but Lowes definitely do. If your husband isn't opposed to wearing second hand, try eBay and op shops. And also try Myer. I know they're not cheap, but each clothing area of Myer has a 50-75% off rack that I always make a beeline for! I picked up a beautiful dress for a friends wedding for $32 from these racks.
Contributed by Emily Smith, 18th April 2013
Contributed by Emily Smith, 18th April 2013
Buy Quality Men's Shirts Online
Try to Google TM Lewin or Charles Tyrwhitt for good quality/reasonably priced men's shirts. You will need to work out neck and arm length measurements before ordering but these shirts will last for years - my husband has been wearing some of his shirts for 4 years before looking to replace them, and he wears them 5 days a week! I find $35 - $40 per shirt good value for the quality of these shirts.
Contributed by Lauri Hannaford, 18th April 2013
Contributed by Lauri Hannaford, 18th April 2013
Don't Go Past Op Shops for Quality Workwear
I work in an op shop and we sell suits to several estate agents and lawyers in the area. You can get top quality name brands for a fraction of the price, we often have new business shirts as well. It may take a few visits but it's worth persevering to get a good but cheap wardrobe.
Contributed by Margaret Holz, 18th April 2013
Contributed by Margaret Holz, 18th April 2013
Office Clothes on a Budget
Rivers outlet stores have suits for $35 and very nice shirts as well. But don't forget to check out the op shops. Some suits are only $7 or $8 and there are many ties, belts and business shirts as well. A good "sports coat" and contrast pants looks great as well.
Contributed by Janine Benson, 18th April 2013
Contributed by Janine Benson, 18th April 2013
Small Men Shop in Teen Boys Department
Your tip about buying boy's clothes in the men's dept. also works the other way – my husband is a slim build, and we save money by buying some of his clothes in the kids' section! The size 16 boys' clothes are the same size as the small men's sizes, particularly when it comes to t-shirts and jumpers. We save quite a bit of money picking up plain boys tees and jumpers for hubby – he doesn't mind, and often the difference in the actual item is negligible. This may also work for smaller women in the girls' clothing lines – unfortunately I'm not little enough to find out!
Contributed by Amanda, Adelaide, 15th March 2009
Contributed by Amanda, Adelaide, 15th March 2009
Work Clothes Cheaper at Trade Secrets
If you work in the city you can get heaps of cheap business wear at Trade Secret. Shirts, pants, ties. It's all there! Brand names at half the price, seriously. Whole outfits for $60. It's only work clothes, why pay a mint when you can look great for cheaper.
Contributed by Murray, Camp Hill, April 25th 2005
Contributed by Murray, Camp Hill, April 25th 2005
Curly Waistbands
Use iron-on rug binding on men's trousers to prevent "waist-band curing" of trouser tops.