Welcome back to the latest series here on The Peak Lapel! In this seven-part series we will show you how to put together an entire week’s worth of outfits for under $1,000. Sounds impossible?! Well, believe us, it can be done! Stick around, and make sure to check back on the site, as we release each day’s edition of this series over the coming weeks. It will culminate in a downloadable PDF that will be available to all email subscribers (so make sure you’re subscribed by entering your email on the bottom of the page, or in the drop-down menu in the upper left corner of the site).
We’ll be focusing on a more business-casual look and feel overall, as this will cover a majority of guys, in most situations. If you’re working in a more corporate environment, you will likely have a collection of a few suits that you rotate through anyway. On the other hand, it’s always better to be a little bit better dressed than your counterparts, so if you’re used to truly casual-wear, this series will show you how to upgrade. Finally, if business-casual is your typical go-to, this series should give you lots of inspiration for outfits to put together to throw into your rotation. All while far from breaking the bank! We’ll be covering everything from perfect office looks, to a semi-casual look, to weekend looks as well. Everything will be included, so you’ll be prepared for just about anything a typical week might throw at you.
Lastly, just a few parting pointers before we get started. One, we will not be using any sale prices. Since price constantly fluctuates at many online retailers, in this series we’ll be using the highest, typical retail price so that, no matter when you get around to shopping, you’ll be able to make this whole week’s worth of outfits for less than a grand. Two, we will not be including basics in this series. Meaning, ties, socks, undershirts, belts, and so on we will assume you already own and have in your closet or drawers. We’ll be focusing on the meat and potatoes here, so to speak, not the salt and pepper. Alright! That just about does it. Now let’s get to it!
This Friday look is for those that don’t want to quite be so casual on a day that many others might choose to. It’s still not too stuffy, though, and is a great outfit to throw on for the office, but will work just as well if you decide to have a bit of fun at night.
Bonobos Cotton Dress Pants — (Already Purchased): Comes in a ton of fits and colors, and made with that signature Bonobos curved waistband to illuminate bunching in your rear. One of the more reasonably priced items from Bonobos, and something to build your wardrobe out with. Start with a navy, and then add from there until you have something, well, for every day at the office. Because they’re cotton they will feel a bit lighter, and wear somewhat less dressy. This also means they’re more versatile.
Proper Cloth Custom Dark Navy Medium Gingham Dress Shirt — $80: Pricey as far as shirts might go, but for what you are getting, this is a steal. Great fabric that will go with just about anything — every guy needs a classic gingham shirt like this in his closet. But the best bit here is, of course, that you can customize it to look exactly how you would want. Cutaway collar? Sure, no problem. Want a button down collar? Done. Plus, this will fit like a glove, and they will remake it as many times as they need to in order to get it perfect. We have had very good experiences with them in the past. Full review here. Anyway, it’s proof that even on a tight budget, solid MTM options do exist!
Jack Erwin Charlie Penny Loafer — (Already Purchased): As we have mentioned, these Jack Erwin loafers are a perfect entry into slightly higher end shoes. They are classic, versatile, and easy to wear. Pair these with the outfit put together here and you’re in for a killer, but still somewhat laid back, look. But these shoes will work just as well with chinos, shorts, or even a full suit. Available in three colors. Darker is more conservative, while lighter is more summer-y and a bit more casual.
TOTAL: $467 + $127.50 + $123 + $87 + $80
LEFT OVER: $115.50
Be sure to check back soon for the next weekday’s installment!