How to Shop Like a Man, and Actually be Good at it

Author: Benedict Yossarian

Of course you’re busy to go shopping, or maybe you just simply hate it. But even if you are a man, you can still learn how to be smart in stores in order to buy the best stuff and to save a buck.

Have you ever walked into a Louis Vuitton store? If you can recall, the first things that you will see are usually luggage – carryalls, suitcases, and trunks of infinite variety will be around you.

But if you walk past those luggage, you will discover a few interesting things made by the same designer that you might not know about (like razor-sharp suits made to cut you a mean silhouette). This is what good shopping means – moving beyond what’s obvious and then learning all your options.

Why It Matters

Most men are fraught with uncertainty, harried, and hurried when it comes to shopping. Most likely it ranks between having a colonoscopy and dental cleaning when it comes to the list of things that you would rather not do.

However, when you learn to do it the right way, you will know what you are looking for and you will be able to stretch your money to go an extra mile. It also becomes more like an opportunity rather than an obligation. So for better savings and better stuff, here is something that will set you apart from the rest.

Shopping Guide

Here is a basic shopping guide for you, compiled by a well-respected men’s magazine called Esquire:

• When buying a suit, check the inside and look for the seams. If they are hand-sewn, you will see a single thread that is running in wavy patterns; but if they are machine-sewn, you will see two threads that are joined together in chainlike patterns. Generally, hand-sewn stitches are more resilient.
• For your overcoat, make sure that you buy only cashmere or wool (a blend of these two is alright). Also, choose a waterproof piece if possible.
• If you are buying button-fly trousers, you need to count the buttons. If the number is two or less, you’re looking for trouble. Also, have it tailored (one-inch break only) so that just a little cloth would be seen draping over your shoes.
• Before buying shoes, bend it to simulate walking. When the shoe has returned to its flat position and yet it’s still wrinkled, it’s a sign that it’s made of shoddy leather. In addition, never buy your shoes in the afternoon – this is because your feet expand all throughout the day.
• For shirts, look for harder and shinier buttons. It’s much better if it’s made from mother-of-pearl. And when you find ripples around the buttons upon fitting the shirt, it means that it’s too small for you.
• Good leather jackets look supple and soft, while cheap ones look coated and shiny. Also check the lining if it’s good. Cotton lining is the best, but synthetic ones like rayon works too.
• Shopping for boots is also easy. First, make sure that they’re lined and as much as possible, waterproof. Try them on over your thick wool socks in order to mimic the conditions during the actual wear.

About the Author:

The author of this article is Benedict Yossarian. Benedict recommends Costume Finder for all your fancy dress needs or perhaps Queens Leather for some stylish leather laptop cases?

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/fashion-articles/how-to-shop-like-a-man-and-actually-be-good-at-it-739175.html