"Isn't kicking up my personal style a notch or three going to cost a lot?"

Short answer, no. It does not necessarily have to cost you an arm and a leg to begin dressing like an adult in possession of some education, grooming, sophistication, and (good) taste. As I've mentioned here in recent posts, physical and online sales, thrift, and consignment shops are a great way to start revamping your wardrobe in the move away from over-sized t-shirts, grubby sweats, and cargo pants without breaking the bank or maxing out your credit card.

With time, practice, and a plan, you can assemble a fantastic and unique wardrobe of shoes, odd pants and jackets, shirts, neckties, and a suit or two that will serve you well for a long, long time with proper care and maintenance.

But here's one important suggestion that won't cost you anything. Zilch. Nil. Nada. Nothing. And it contributes immeasurably to kicking up your personal style a notch or three. Ready? Here ya go.

Unearth those dormant manners, table and otherwise, that your mother and father hopefully instilled in you and start practicing them. All the time. Even when it's just you by yourself. If you make pleasant manners a habit, it's much easier than if you only practice them in social settings.

And if you need to brush up, go to Amazon.com and look for any one of several titles by Peter Post, many of which are geared especially toward guys who want or need to brush up on polite conventions. It's just one important part of kicking up your personal style. Don't ignore it. Remember, it's not all about the clothes and shoes.

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