One of the common mistakes I and many others have committed when attempting to dress better is confusing dressing fancier for dressing better. The dress shirt m

One of the common mistakes I and many others have committed when attempting to dress better is confusing dressing fancier for dressing better. The dress shirt made from cheap polyester that fits badly is not better than a well made t-shirt that fits perfectly. Instead, I've found that one should strive for clothing that fits well, has quality fabric, good form and flows. - Fit is self explanatory. The clothing needs to fit well. Bear in mind fitting well does not mean ultra tight. One's buttons should not be straining to keep the shirt closed. Also, fit depends on the style of the outfit and the wearer. Some people want looser pants, other people want skin tight pants. - Fabric's effects can be subtle, but extremely powerful. Not only does fabric affect comfort, but it can also affect one's mood or attitude. If I'm wearing a soft sweater, I feel free and warm, the fabric hugs me and moves with me. If I'm wearing a more robust cotton oxford, I'm more locked down, the fabric is a little rougher, a little less giving, but perhaps that combo makes me feel like I'm wearing a uniform, like I'm ready to do my work. Fabric also provides a visible sense of quality. A dress shirt that is thin and weak is visibly different from a shirt made from a thick, stunningly white cloth. Even if a person watching you doesn't consciously notice, they will subconsciously. - Form is how the item is constructed and laid out. For instance, how are the pockets arranged in a coat? A quality coat will have subtle, well designed pockets that integrate nicely with the aesthetic. A less thoughtful coat will have pockets haphazardly placed, often with needless accoutrements like epaulettes and flaps and buttons. Not that these accoutrements are bad. They simply need to be arranged with care. - Flow is an element wholly invented by me, but it's basically whether the item works. Does it go with your aesthetic? Does it work on your body? Does it go with the rest of your outfit? Sometimes it just doesn't work [1] (sorry Michael Cera). If you're not comfortable—both mentally and physically—in your clothes, then they aren't the right clothes. ^[1] https://www.gettyimages.ae/detail/news-photo/michael-cera-seen-at-magic-radio-whilst-promoting-arrested-news-photo/962029508 https://www.gettyimages.ae/detail/news-photo/michael-cera-se...