My grandfather also told me that no matter what style you prefer, making sure you look like a professional is essential for certain occasions in life.

We have all heard our fathers and grandfathers give us advice like this on everything from the birds and the bees to oil changes. I consider “the suit rule” just as important as any of those other pieces of advice the men in our lives have learned and passed on through the generations.

If you can’t afford to buy a suit, you can always rent one. But keep in mind that a suit is an investment in your life that will pay off huge dividends. Owning a suit is a Man Rule that all men should follow. Why? Well, lets consider those occasions where your suit will come in handy.

Your Teenage Years

During high school we begin to experience bits and pieces of growing up. This is the time most young men begin to apply for jobs while going to school. A suit, of course, will give you a sense of professionalism at a job interview.

In high school there are also things called dances. Again, a suit will always help you look dapper for a night to remember the rest of your life.

As a senior in high school many of us have interviews with our future universities and clubs–universities and clubs we hope will accept us for our academic achievements. However, a good interview is simply not enough.  A suit shows the university that you are serious about school.

Your College Years

Once you get accepted to a university you will have many club functions to appear in. And if you didn’t have a job before, you will definitely need a job now–especially with the rising tuition prices.

During this time in your life you will most likely have an internship that could lead to permanent employment. What better way to impress your prospective employer than showing up to work dressed like a million bucks?

Your Post-College Years

By graduation you have used your suit many times for many different occasions and you better believe there will be job interviews. This is a good time to invest in a tailored suit because most men have stopped growing and it’s also a point in your life where you will gain many new responsibilities.

During college we lived with our parents or in dorm rooms paid by our parents. It would be wise to use that time to save money to buy a suit once you graduate instead of on clothes you won’t be wearing for much longer.

More then one suit might be need at this point depending on what your life dictates. For example, if you’re going to law or business school you will need multiple suits.

Your Working Years

Once you land a job you may be required to dress professional. Even if you don’t work for someone else you may still need a suit–especially if you choose to start your own business.

Business meetings, loan requests, fancy dinners: they all require you to dress like a pro and wear a nice suit.

In life, all men will need to look professional. How much you’re wiling to spend  is really up to you. You can find a suit as cheap as $100 dollars–cheaper than some nice dress shirts. While price doesn’t necessarily dictate quality, too cheap will show.

My grandfather left me with this nugget of advice: instead of spending money on clothes that will go out of style, save your money and invest in a well-tailored suit because that will always be in fashion.

Be ready for all the moments in your life. Be ready to always be dapper in your life.

J. Navarro 

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