1 Getup, 2 Budgets: Ready for Anything

Money can’t buy good style–and you don’t have to sink a ton of money into your wardrobe to look and feel your best.

At Primer, we’re big believers in finding clothing that balances good looks, good quality, and good value. While some items (suits, shoes) are usually worth spending that extra coin, you can pinch pennies in other places. Is a $60 T-shirt or a $200 pair of jeans worth it? That depends on what “worth it” means to you. If the item in question is made particularly well, and fits perfectly, it might make sense to own one $60 T-shirt than 3 $20 tees.

To illustrate that point, we’ve come up with a rugged urban autumn Getup that looks great whether you’re splashing out or on a strict budget.

fall style getup outfit inspiration

quilted jacket barbour quilted jacket jcrew factory half zip knit rodd and gunn textured half zip knit buck mason tri blend curved hem tee next level tri blend tee target slim jeans dstld slim jeans joe fresh gingham shirt bonobos gingham shirt grant stone chromexcel boot danner service boots

Big & Tall Alts

All jackets and shirts have xx+ sizes

Bonobos shirt extended sizes

Levi's 541 Athletic fit jeans

At this time of year, a good jacket is a necessity–not to mention, the first thing most people will notice about your outfit. Barbour is an iconic heritage brand, best known for making durable, handsome-yet-functional outerwear. This diamond-quilted jacket is lined in fleece and is cut with a little extra room, so you can layer it over thicker sweaters without feeling cramped. The Buttoned Down version has similar styling, and features contrast flannel lining around the neck for extra warmth.

The weave of this J. Crew Factory sweater is substantial without being overly bulky, so layer away–over a button-down, under a sports coat, and so on. The Rodd & Gunn version swaps out a waffle-knit pattern for a subtle rib stitch, in a merino wool/alpaca blend instead of cotton.

Here, consider material more than looks. The cotton sweater might be something you wear in late spring/early fall, while the wool half-zip will probably be a more seasonal piece. Cotton is also machine washable. Then again, the merino will probably keep you warmer, and may very well last longer. Think about what matters most to you.

With so many layers, we’re keeping the palette neutral so that the various colors complement each other rather than clashing and competing. A rich brown and black gingham collared shirt is a rugged fall staple, and the Joe Fresh iteration is an affordable classic. Upgrade to the Bonobos version if you sometimes have issues with standardized sizing–with three fit and three length options, you’ll get a more tailored result.

brown gingham shirt

A t-shirt is a t-shirt is a t-shirt…right? Up to you. The Next Level crewneck is pre-laundered and shrunk, so it has that perfect “favorite tee” softness fresh out of the box. The Buck Mason shirt has a curved hem, which looks a little more tailored and pulled-together when you’re wearing it alone. For both, a tri-blend gives a vintage vibe.

buck mason tri blend

The original work clothes turned everyday wear, jeans are designed to be durable. The DSTLD denim jeans are pre-rinsed and shrunk (and one of our best pairs of slim jeans right now). The Goodfellow pair is true slim (rather than skinny); they’re comfortable as well as stylish.

grant stone boots

No cold-weather smart casual Getup would be complete without a handsome pair of boots, so slip on one of these options for size. Danner’s Jack II Boot is made from full-grain leather with a no-nonsense rubber sole and contrast stitching. Grant Stone’s Diesel boots feature Goodyear welt construction and a steel shank for added strength and durability.

What are your favorite steals–and what do you like to splurge on? Let us know in the comments.

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Andrew Snavely

Andrew founded Primer in 2008 and brings 15+ years of men's style expertise. Known for his practical, relatable approach to style and self-development, he has been a recognized speaker at conferences and has styled work for top brands. Off-duty, he loves photography & editing, and enjoys road trips with his dog, Leela. Raised in rural Pennsylvania, educated in DC, and living in LA for nearly 20 years, Andrew's diverse experiences shape the relatable and real-world advice that has helped millions through Primer. On Instagram: @andrewsnavely and @primermagazine.