I challenged my pal Chris to document what he wore – and why – for a week. Running Mr. Everyday Dollar, Chris has mastered the art of living minimally – starting with his wardrobe – and is an expert when it comes to personal finances (check out his post on Mother’s Day gifts on a budget right here on SG).

He also lives in beautiful Madison, Wisconsin (my hometown!), and dates a good friend of mine who I’m pretty sure took these pictures. Circle of life, kids!

Here are the results of his summer sartorial challenge:

MONDAY

Polo: Banana Republic | Jeans: Levi’s | Shoes: PF Flyers

 

“I believe in building a functional wardrobe around classic pieces; the summer is when I break out the polo. My favorite is the Banana Republic Luxe-Touch – a staple for work.”

 

TUESDAY

 

Polo: Banana Republic | Shorts: Banana Republic

Belt: L.L. Bean | Shoes: Sperry Top-Sider

 

“My favorite pair of shorts that I throw on after work were once pants that I had in my donate-to-charity pile. I had my tailor – who takes in the sides and sleeves of all my shirts – perform the transformation for $10.”

 

WEDNESDAY

 

Shirt: Gap | Pants: Dockers |Belt: L.L. Bean | Shoes: Sperry Top-Sider

 

“The OCBD is my year-round workhorse because of its versatility. It looks great with a pair of chinos for the office, but it also works with jeans or shorts and I can dress it up with a knit tie, or wear it under a V-neck sweater come fall and winter.”

 

THURSDAY

 

Tee: American Apparel | Shorts: J. Crew  | Shoes: Converse | Sunglasses: Ray-Ban

 

“Summertime is festival time and I love the comfort of a well-worn American Apparel T-shirt and my beat-up Converse.”

 

FRIDAY

 

Shirt: Banana Republic | Tie: the tie bar | Tie Bar: the tie bar

Chinos: Lands’ End Canvas | Desert Boots:  Clarks

 

“My standard wedding practice is to throw on a gingham shirt, a knit tie, and a pair of slim chinos. While my desert boots usually don’t get any play in the summer it was fun to bust them out with a pair of no-show socks.”

Looking for some advice that’ll leave you more moolah for your own wardrobe? Check out Chris’s guide to “Lazy and Uncomplicated Investing” here.

Then tell me:

How do you keep your wardrobe’s budget in check?

 Want more real-life style inspiration? Click here