To start off, I work with a diverse group of people — which is fun and interesting in it’s own respect.  One of my co-workers (Darrell), who is one of my workout partners, has always tended to ask me questions regarding style and fashion — this peaked my interest.  Always joking I would say, “I’m going to put you on TopNotch!”.

That day finally came and the spoils were great.

Spoils from a successful 4 hour shopping trip.

For some background, Darrell is a bigger guy, who has lost almost 100 pounds and counting, is looking to incorporate more stylish things into his wardrobe.

This is where you begin to identify the things that are wardrobe staples (essentially the items that comprise any outfit, in simple terms).  Those would be shirts, jeans/pants and shoes.  Of course belts, socks, jackets and scarves are important; however, this is just the beginning.

So, what do you do when entering stores that you’ve really never shopped at?  Find your size.  Due to our rigorous gym routines, my co-worker has a stronger athletic build and needs form fitting clothes to excentuate what he’s been building in the gym.  So, I suggested three main stores to find perfect fitting shirts:

• Express
• GAP
• Banana Republic

With the above three destinations, there is no way that anyone can go wrong with a purchase at either location.  Our goal was to walk away with at least one full outfit; however, we walked away with many because of the number of shirts that we got from Express.  Next, we moved on to shoes.  For some reason, he was intrigued by Chelsea boots (which aren’t a bad choice) — my advice: You like them in pictures; but, try them on for yourself.  Needless to say, we walked away with one pair of great looking boots that can either be worn dressed up or casually.

All in all, it was a successful outing.  But don’t believe me, a picture speaks 1000 words: