Brown Glen-Plaid Wool/Linen Blend, Banana Republic - $475
While traditional brown suits often feel old-fashioned, this glen-paid style looks refined when matched with chocolate spectator lace-ups. The wool-linen blend offers comfort during warmer weather. (The suit vest is an additional $150.)For more information, visit www.bananarepublic.com.
Charcoal Cashmere/Wool Blend, Tommy Hilfiger - $495
With a slim cut and peak lapel, this gray wool suit evokes power without pomp. If you'd like to add a bit of personality, try a pastel dress shirt. "Blue is always a No. 1 seller," says Fisher, but he also suggests a pale pink, which pairs nicely with gray.For more information, visit www.tommy.com.
Irish Linen, J. Crew - $386
While linen might not be right for top-level board meetings, it is a stylish alternative on hot days and perfect for summer weddings. A white shirt, paired with a navy or olive tie, looks best. Kathryn Finney, founder of The Budget Fashionista blog, suggests custom-made Worthington brand shirts, which can be ordered through J.C. Penney's Web site. They only cost $69 to $79 and fit better than something off the rack, she says.For more information, visit www.jcrew.com.
Seersucker, Brooks Brothers - $398
Yes, you can wear seersucker, but be warned: It's not for the fashion-phobic. Before diving into the woven-fabric deep end, gauge what other guys are wearing to the office--you don't want to look completely inappropriate. If you do choose something like this classic-cut suit from Brooks Brothers, wear it with a basic white Oxford shirt, says Fisher. To lower the impact of the look, wear the seersucker blazer with khaki chinos or the seersucker pants with a navy blazer.For more information, visit www.brooksbrothers.com.
Navy Wool, Lauren by Ralph Lauren - $350
Even before black, a navy wool suit should be the first in every man's closet. It's great for interviews, meetings and everything in between. This version by Ralph Lauren--purveyor of classic American style--comes in natural-stretch wool and features a notched collar. For more information, visit www.lordandtaylor.com.
