There's a huge difference between those who use men's clothing in a generally inoffensive and appropriate manner and those who truly understand men's clothing. Regrettably, the largest demographic segment falls under neither of these banners and feels perfectly at home in zeppelin-sized sweatshirts and baggy jeans. Getting the basics of men's clothing down pat puts you into the top half of the clothes-buying population. Grasping a few choice principles can catapult you into the upper tier.

For one thing, great dressers understand that there's a time and a place for every look. For traditional events such as weddings, black-tie affairs, and funerals, a gentleman rarely strays from the course. Should he choose to make a fashion point, he will do so in a decidedly understated manner such as choosing one or two accessories or taking the slightest license with his basic pieces. This may mean cuffing his pants an extra quarter-inch lower (presently the style), or opting for a full Windsor tie knot over the generic half Windsor.

What the Savvy Understand about Men's Clothing

Seasoned shoppers and purveyors of style acknowledge that there's a time for bargains and a time for quality. Certainly, good bargains may exist on well-made goods such as suit jackets and pants, but it's wiser to avoid cutting corners here. If you must save, it's best to do so by bargain-shopping the basics, from black t-shirts and socks to boxer shorts and athletic wear.

When it comes to dress shirts, ties, slacks, shoes, and jackets, a sharp eye for quality will serve you much more than sticker-consciousness will. There's no substitute for premium fabrics and first-rate craftsmanship, both of which are apparent to the eyes and the hands. Choose a few building blocks for each season, and you'll have the basis of a dynamic and functional wardrobe no matter what the occasion calls for.