It's a broad characterization for sure, but certainly a simple look to master. If you read Valet regularly, than you're likely familiar with the style of dress that we prescribe—quality, well-fitting staples with a hint of preppy, a dash of humor and finished with some personal edge.

Start with

A clean cotton shirt (knit tie, optional).

Brooks Brothers extra-slim fit shirt, $79.50 and knit tie, $15 at the Tie Bar

Paired with

Dark Denim. Levi's 501s, $37 to $98

Khakis. J.Crew's essential chino, $60

Finish with

Classic shoes.

Converse All-Stars, $45. Clarks desert boots, $95. Florsheim long wings, $225

Optional layers

Denim Jacket. $60, at Levi's

Navy Blazer. $155 at Lands' End

Vintage Sweatshirt. $40 at Alternative Apparel

Of course, the best way of obtaining the perfect fade to your jeans is to buy them raw and lovingly wear them in yourself. But if you're looking for an easier path, there are plenty of handsome options out there. Even APC's making a faded style of their famed New Standards now. Those will set you back $310. Here are some more wallet-friendly options:

Levi's, $54

Gap, $64.50

J.Crew, $96

Listen up gents. There's a good chance that many of you are wearing your suits a tad too big.

Shoulders

The jacket's shoulders should hug your own. If they don't, the fabric will jut out and droop.

Back & Lapels

They should lay flat against the body. They shouldn't pull or bunch.

Chest

You should be able to place two finger's width in between you and your jacket. Not much more or less.

Sleeves

They should stop at the hinge of your wrist (allowing a quarter-inch of shirt cuff to peek through).

We're big proponents of wearing a watch. It instantly communicates your personal style to someone (and it's also a very pragmatic solution to a basic need). Here are three classics to model your choice after, depending on your lifestyle.

The Diving Watch

Rolex Submariner,
$4,200

The Driving Watch

Tag Heuer Carrera,
$3,900

The Dress Watch

Cartier Tank,
$7,800

First off, you can sprinkle some powder (like Gold Bond) into the shoes before wearing them. It's also good practice to give them a day to breathe and dry out in between wearings. To protect your shoes (and your feet) for the long run, simply give the illusion of going sockless by wearing a pair of loafer socks. Gold Toe makes the best version. They're treated with an antimicrobial agent to avoid smells and they feature a grippy rubber tab on the heel to keep them in place.

Gold Bond Foot Powder, $8 at Amazon

Gold Toe No Show Socks, $18 at Amazon