When I think of the word “gentleman,” it’s easy for me to get lost in the idea of the shiny, new, and expensive. After all, some of the most prominent gentlemen of this day and age are part of the “one percent.” What we must remember is that money does not buy the status of “gentleman.” Rather, to be a gentleman is to practice a lifestyle that exemplifies chivalry, humility, and selflessness.

Money does not make a gentleman. Instead it is chivalry, humility, and selflessness. Click To Tweet

That being said, there are numerous ways to dress like Hugh Jackman without spending loads of cash.

1.) Thrift Stores

This may seem absolutely crazy to some people, but this is my first stop when looking for dress clothes. Whether it’s a blazer I need for a one-time business meeting or a tie that I will wear for the rest of my life, thrift stores are gold mines. The saying, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure,” is spot-on here. I have found nice button down shirts in thrift shops with retail tags still attached! If you’re willing to spend the extra time and effort digging through hand-me-downs, you can save a ton of money.

2.) Discount Fashion Retailers

I’m a shameless Maxxinista. Stores like TJ Maxx, Ross, Marshall’s, etc. are PRIME for those of us who desire to look nice but can’t spend $500/week on our wardrobe. They are known for carrying designer items for reasonable prices. They acquire items by taking advantage of department store cancellations, closeout deals, and manufacturer surpluses. Find the store nearest you below!

3.) Clearance Racks

Department and designer stores can still be great options for budget shoppers. They sometimes have great seasonal sales and a generally wider variety of sizes than the stores listed above. If you happen to be shopping in a department or designer store, you should always check the clearance rack first. Clearance racks can save you up to 75% percent off retail prices. That’s real money!

*Tip: Even thrift stores and discount retailers have clearance racks. Give those a look before searching the rest of the store for even better savings.

Honorable mention: H&M

H&M is a low-price designer store. Even their full-price clothes are reasonable compared to most other clothing retailers, and they offer some of the most modern gentlemanly styles.

A Gentleman will never be defined by the things he chooses to wear, but a he should not be “fined” if he aspires to dress like JT in “Suit and Tie.” The next time you’re in the market for some classy new digs, challenge yourself to limit spending to $50 for your entire outfit. Consider using the cash you saved to buy your significant other some flowers or a thoughtful gift for a fellow gentleman. Besides, sir. Isn’t that what being a gentleman is truly about?

Mr. South