Since this thread was bumped: I broke down and bought a few spread collar shirts, and I like em better with ties. They look less "school boy" than button downs do.

My pair of dress black boots are looking a little shoddy these days, but damned if I have $245 for the pair of Allen Edmonds I like.

Oh, and pocket squares = money. But you can't over do it with one of those shiny silk jobbies. I picked up a fine light blue paisley jobby that didn't really go with anything else in my ensemble, and I think that's the way to do it.

i think that the problem that i'm running into with this advice is that the Senator's trying to dress well enough that he can convince rich people to give him money, whereas i'm shooting for more of the "borderline capable" look to sustain low, and therefore achievable, expectations.

Just keep it as simple as possible. In the long run it'll give you the most possiblities for your $$. That way you'll be able to mix match and not look like your wearing the same thing everyday when you are. You'll also be able to wear it for longer because it's less likely to go out of style.

Buy a sportscoat that doesn't look like you're in a yacht club, and keep it at the office. If you suddenly feel underdressed for an occasion or if something slighty dressy springs up on you, you'll be okay. Make sure it's someting that can go with almost anything. I have a blue linen one for the summer, and a wool for the winter.

picked up a pair of these this weekend for $89 and a belt to match.

Pimpin ain't easy, but its necessary.

Veal. Awesome.