Nothing Suits Me Like a Suit (or, how I managed to spend a lot of money)

So it happened, I finally decided I should force myself to dress like a big boy when at important university functions. This means buying a suit. So, I shall tell you the story of my perilous journey to the Men's Wearhouse.

About a month ago I was at a university function and a friend informed me that I looked like a student. So, I got the idea that I should buy a couple suits. That weekend while watching the NFL playoffs, a commercial for the MW came on. It was obviously directed at men that love warehouse settings. I said to myself, "You are a man, and you love warehouses! This seems like the place for you." Also, they had a Buy 1 suit get a suit for 100 dollars. More on my poor interpretation of that deal later.

I pitched the idea to my lady friend and she informed me she had been thinking the same thing. We are on the same page, off to the MW we go. I will say, for someone who is woefully ignorant of fashion the MW is helpful. I already have a black suit I got when I was younger and since I have the genes of Benjamin Button, I still fit in that suit. So, I walked in and told them that I would like to purchase two suits, one grey and one navy blue. They looked at me dubiously and asked my profession. I informed them that I was a college Professor. They did not seem sold. I am sure this was a hard sell as I had a gap sweatshirt on from 1995 and was later informed (by Elaine) that it had several pieces of shredded cheese stuck to it (probably from lunch).

However, they proceeded to show me a great number of suits. At this point I had interpreted their deal as, "One suit is $100 the other suit is free." I am not sure how I decided that was the deal, but I did. As a result, I was trying on suits like money was no option. I found two outstanding suits, they fit me great, I pretty much look like Brad Pitt.

Just like this actually

The staff was great, they explained pairing shoes, ties, and shirts. They were funny, friendly, and patient with my ineptness. I proceeded to the checkout happy and assuming I would spend a max of 270ish dollars. At this point Elaine had realized what I thought the deal was and what the actual deal was (buy one suit at FULL price get the other suit for $100). Since money was not an option (in my mind), I had picked out two fairly expensive suites. I had been saving money up for this and we had enough to buy for the suits with the real deal and she was nice enough to try and pay before I got out of the changing room.

Unfortunately, I made it out of the changing room and thought to myself WOW I really got them on this deal. The register says $1250 dollars and I am paying max $270ish....suckers. Well, long story short, they rang up the discounts and the final amount was between $270 and $1250...much closer to the latter. We paid, I threw up in my mouth, and we went to eat at Noodles and Co. Wonderful place to eat by the way.

The funny thing is, after I got over the initial shock I am actually proud of the suits. I work my full-time job and do extra work on the side to pay off student loans and have spending money. This was easily the largest amount of money I have ever paid on clothing in one setting. But, I am happy with the purchase and the MW was a great place. If you are looking for a suit and intimidated by the process, I would suggest going there. Also, dressing up is much more enjoyable when you have nicer clothes and you have a vested interest in them. The other big reason I am at peace with my horrible understanding of the Buy 1 get 1 for $100..I look really good.

Navy blue suit

Grey suit

So great, that I have instated "Suit Up Friday!" I will be wearing a suit to work every Friday. Why? Because I am unashamed of my need for compliments, everyone dress down on Friday, resulting in a greater likelihood that I get more compliments. Simple math.

Have a great weekend.

A man and a plan....

So, I have picked my training plan and will begin it in a few short weeks. However, it is vitally important I get prepared to layout my plan. This video documents my organization.

 

I know what you are thinking, how could he have been anything but a college professor....he is so articulate and doesn't ramble!

Seriously, thought how about that organization! My Mom would be proud.