The Choosy Beggar

Are men of particular proportions overlooking the best deals in town? Saying as much, New York Times style contributor Elliot David boldly endorses Ralph Lauren Kids. “There are perks to being, let’s say, compact,” he says. “The fit is fantastic and the quality is just as good as Ralph Lauren’s other lines, but Polo Kids is half the price.” Judging by his post’s comments, David isn’t the only guy exploiting this genetic gift. The Beggar’s a wee too big to test this strategy, but, if you fit the bill, we say shop away! A guy shopping for kids’ gear looks the same as a guy shopping for his kids. [NYTimes.com]

• Beyond The Rack – Cheap Monday, Paper denim
• eBay Fashion Vault – X
• Editors’ Closet – X
• Gilt Man – Paul Smith & Mosley Tribes sunglasses (pictured), Marc by Marc Jacobs, Buckler, Ralph Lauren Purple
• Haute Look – Tourneau pre-owned watches, Cole Haan sunglasses, Breil, William Rast
• Ideeli – X
• Reverse (pass: Reverse) – Acne Jeans, Nudie Jeans
• Row Nine – Gucci eyewear
• Rue La La – Cockpit USA, Antik denim
• The Top Secret – X
• Urban Bloke – Ben Sherman, Scotch & Soda

So long as you’re willing to forgo precious metals, GQ proves that respectable wrist-wear need not require an arm… or a leg. What’s not to love about this Timex stainless steal “Oversize Camper” for a mere $50? (Available by July.) In the popular “all black” category, you’d be forgiven for dropping less than a G on this Zodiac ZMX 03, or this Brera Orologi Eterno Chrono. Same goes for this classic Tissot Heritage Visodate.

• Beyond The Rack – Paper denim
• eBay Fashion Vault – X
• Editors’ Closet – X
• Gilt Man – Buckler, Ralph Lauren Purple (pictured), Costume National, Invicta, The ProportionofBlu
• Haute Look – Tourneau “certified” pre-owned watches
• Ideeli – X
• Reverse (pass: Reverse) – Acne Jeans, Nudie Jeans
• Row Nine – Gucci eyewear
• Rue La La – Antik denim
• The Top Secret – X
• Urban Bloke – Ben Sherman, Scotch & Soda

It’s great to see guys putting more thought into what they wear, but, being Beggars, we’re more excited about the creativity — and sensibility — that’s going into the actual buying process. From eBay to thrift shops to Uniqlo to sample sales, Joshua Kissi and Travis Gumbs of Street Etiquette (left) show GQ how it’s done here. Meanwhile, John from Reading, PA (right), diligently breaks down the anatomy of a $150 outfit for Put This On. Thrift shops and Salvation Army stores; flee markets and yard sales; warehouse, overstock and clearance deals — This guy is fearless in his pursuit of the deal. Of course, success on par with Team Etiquette and Big John requires a little effort, but arguably no more than the work it takes to execute any degree of style. Productive deal hunting needn’t take more out of you than, say, trips to the barber. More important than time & physical effort is a good eye for quality & style — no matter where you find it.