Value For Money

Recently our very own Marcus Jaye wrote an article on the wardrobe basics that are considered to be the best of their type. The kind of items that are at the apex of quality, fit and style, will never go out of fashion and could potentially last you a lifetime.

However, if my time writing for this site has taught me anything, it’s that some (if not most) men don’t have the spare cash to spend on expensive items, especially things like luxury t-shirts and chinos. Instead, their hard-earned salary goes towards necessities such as a roof over their head, electricity and food. Or probably just lots and lots of beer.

Either way, it’s important to emphasise that, like all industries, fashion works on a broad spectrum. Just as there are some labels that are the best of their kind, there are also brands that are affordable and offer great value for money, too. I’ve even been having conversations lately about how it would be possible to shop entirely at vintage and second-hand shops and still look great. But more on that another day.

My general philosophy when it comes to buying clothes is this: splurge on the important pieces, save on everything else. And what I mean by that is when it comes to items such as tailoring, shoes and outerwear I like to do my research, save up and buy the best I can afford. This is because you really do get what you pay for – whether it’s a fully canvassed suit over a fused one or high quality leather that will last you a lifetime.

But when it comes to staples such as t-shirts, chinos, jeans, shirts and knitwear, I go with brands and retailers that I know deliver value for money.

I’ve become familiar with these stores through doing my homework and trying on every item I could get my hands on. Luckily for you, I’m willing to share what I’ve discovered – so here are my favorite places to pick up great value for money basics…