5 secrets to affordable style

Style doesn't have to cost you a fortune. Looking great is all in the choices you make.

If you want a stylish and trendy look, you don't need to fork out thousands of rands. Gina Soteriou, a fashion stylist, image consultant and owner of Soteri Collections, says: "A man who knows his style, knows who he is and where he is going. You don't have to be an avid follower of international fashion trends or have Bill Gates' bank balance to look your best, you just need to look in the mirror and consider your face and body shape and your hair and eye colour."

Here are 5 tips to great style without having to spend money.

1. Wardrobe essentials
Soteriou says that your cupboard should stock the essentials and this is all you need to look great. "All you really need is a well constructed quality suit, a decent pair of black shoes, a few dress shirts and a sports jacket."

2. Accessories
Accessories add spunk to every outfit. Soteriou says you don't need to go wild when buying accessories: "A good watch, a leather wallet and a black belt are great accessories to have." Scarves, cufflinks, a few ties and sunglasses are stylish and, if you shop around, you can find these items at decent prices.

3. Know what suits you
Buying the latest fashion fad may put you in the spotlight, but if something doesn't suit you, rather not waste your money. Soteriou says: "Pick something that complements you. Certain elements will decide whether you need to wear a pair of straight leg pants, jackets with shoulder pads or slim fit jerseys. The way an outfit is put together should always work to give your body balance. Getting it right the first time will save you a ton of money in the long run!"

4. Confidence is a plus
Apart from clothing, your personality and confidence adds to your style and costs you nothing. "In order for a man to display confidence and determination in both his personal and work life, he needs to walk and talk the part. The walking and talking part is encompassed by how a man feels in what he is wearing," says Soteriou.

5. The professional look
Anja Cruse-Bothma, an image consultant and Director of iStyle!, says a professional look can say a thousand words. She says: "A suit shows power. Wear a good quality suit correctly and add a bit of confidence, a good sense of humour, have manners and a great haircut and you have instant style!"