Cheaper dress recommendations for a student???

[zach9]

I will be graduating in about two weeks and will be attending several end of year events that require more formal wear (shirt/tie). I have been looking at getting a brooks brothers extra slim fit shirt and a couple of ties from the tiebar, anyone have any other recommendations for pants/belt/shoes that are quality yet not too pricey. I'm looking to spend less than 200-250$ (maybe more if I buy shoes as well)

 

[schrag]

You spending for one outfit or trying to get a few? Given the time frame and need for convenience/trying stuff on, look for sales on Mall brands (Banana Republic, DKNY etc), and focus on fit and quality more than the label; I'd choke paying $80 for polyester/rayon dress pants, but at $15-20 it becomes more reasonable (as a stop-gap). Look trousers with a high percentage of wool (or cotton), a slimmer belt that's actually leather, and shirts that fit your frame well. Avoid ties less than 2" or more than 3 1/4", and balance them against the shirt when considering patterns/solids. For shoes, Florsheim may be a good match for price/value, especially if you can get them on sale or use a web voucher for 20+% off. Many models are offered in 2 widths for each size, which is nice. I'd advise browsing online, but with 2 weeks to go getting it in time may be a problem in some cases. Fit, material & value are what you need to focus on to make your money go the furthest.