THE “F” WORD(s)

Every great wardrobe is built on three essential pillars, the “f” words:

fit, function, and fabric.

Whether you’re stepping into the office, grabbing coffee with friends, or stepping out to schmooze– mastering these elements will elevate your style and I’ll show you how to do it without straining your budget.

The pillars of fashion are all important, but far from equal— focusing too much on one while ignoring the others can lead to outfits that fall flat. That’s where the “70/20/10 rule” comes in, because balance doesn’t always mean equal parts.

When it comes to style, fit reigns supreme. Even the most expensive suit or designer piece can look sloppy if it doesn’t fit correctly. On the other hand, a perfectly tailored $30 blazer can appear far more polished than an ill-fitting $300 one. Fit transforms your clothes from just fabric to a statement of confidence and professionalism.

Think of fit as the 70% in the "70/20/10 rule." It’s the majority share because it has the biggest impact. Clothes that fit well complement your body shape, boost your confidence, and give the impression that you’re in control—even on a budget.

PRIORITIZE FIT ABOVE ALL ELSE 

• Know your measurements: Take the time to measure your chest, waist, inseam, and shoulders. Most brands have size guides, and knowing your numbers helps you shop smarter.
• Try before you buy: Off-the-rack pieces often need tweaks, so don’t settle for something “almost” right.
• Invest in alterations: Tailoring is a budget-friendly way to elevate affordable pieces. Hemming pants, taking in shirts, or adjusting blazer sleeves can cost as little as $10–$30.
• Experiment cautiously: Slim fits, regular fits, or relaxed cuts—know what works for you.

Once you’ve nailed the fit, it’s time to think about how your wardrobe serves your daily life. This is where function comes in, accounting for 20% of the “70/20/10 rule.”

While fit ensures your clothes look sharp, function ensures they work for you—whether you’re at the office, a casual meetup, or a networking event.

Function is about versatility. For someone navigating the demands of a casual workplace and social outings, every piece in the wardrobe should have multiple uses. A tailored blazer, for instance, isn’t just for the office—it can be paired with dark jeans and a T-shirt for drinks with friends or a pair of chinos and chelseas for a casual date look.

• Start with the essentials: Invest in versatile pieces like a
• white button-down shirt, dark denim, and neutral-colored chinos.
• Dress for your lifestyle: If your workplace leans casual, prioritize polished basics that you can dress up or down.
• Think layers: A well-fitted sweater over a collared shirt or a lightweight jacket can add functionality and style.
• Plan outfits in advance: Visualize how a piece can be styled for different scenarios before purchasing.

By focusing on function, you’re not just buying clothes—you’re building a wardrobe that makes dressing well effortless.

Mastering the balance of fit, function, and fabric is the key to building a wardrobe that looks sharp, feels effortless, and works for your lifestyle.

When you apply the “70/20/10 rule,” to your style, you can focus your energy—and your budget—on the elements that matter most. Fit is the foundation, deserving the bulk of your attention. When your clothes fit well, they instantly elevate your style, no matter the price tag. Function ensures your wardrobe aligns with your life, offering versatility and practicality in equal measure. Finally, fabric ties it all together, enhancing comfort and longevity without requiring a splurge.

YOU'RE NOT JUST BUYING CLOTHES

Once you’re ready to take fabric into consideration, you’ll want to pay a lot of attention to the weight of the fabric. Items like wool and leather, even cotton should have heft to them. If a high priced piece doesn’t feel like it weighs much, it's likely a sign that the fabric isn’t the highest quality.

Achieving balance doesn’t mean equal parts—it means prioritizing where it counts. Start with fit, think through function, and pay just enough attention to fabric to ensure it works for you. With these pillars in mind, you can confidently refine your personal style on any budget.

If you’re looking to revamp your wardrobe, build it from scratch, or just add some new tasteful additions visit Dolce Vita MAN. With their wide selection of styles, you’re guaranteed to build a wardrobe that can be as timeless and refined or as flashy and unique as you need all without draining your wallet. You can use code ______ to get 15% your first order today!