Presenting yourself in the best way possible is important in life. It sets the tone for how people see you, gets you off on the right foot, and shows that you have confidence — that you’re not lazy and that you put real thought into how you carry yourself.

Yes, hygiene matters, but something just as important (and often overlooked) is fashion. For a lot of men, it’s easier to pretend style doesn’t matter or to avoid thinking about it altogether. But my Grandmother Theresa taught me at a young age that it does matter. She always told me to make sure my clothes matched and to keep them ironed. Simple advice, but it stuck with me. I still remember how I liked my pants ironed a very specific way, and she always made sure they were perfect.

I often hear people say, “I’ve got no one to impress, so why does it matter what I wear?” or “Who are you trying to impress?” But that’s the wrong way to look at it. It’s not about impressing anyone — it’s about showing pride in yourself and giving the people around you the respect of looking your best.

Over the last few years, I’ve found a new passion for fashion and for putting together what the cool kids call “fire fits.” I enjoy matching colors, pairing the right pieces, and taking pride in the way I show up — whether I’m heading to work or going out for a nice meal.

Here are a few simple ways to elevate your wardrobe without breaking the bank.

First, start with shoes. I LOVE shoes, so I tend to build my outfits from the ground up. Now, don’t go off the deep end like me and buy more than you need (Lauren says I already have way too many), but invest in one nice pair that can match a variety of outfits. I recommend a low-top retro-style sneaker — they’re relatively inexpensive and come in a ton of colors.

Next, get yourself a pair of black, gray, and brown pants, along with a three-button Henley or drop-cut shirt in those same three colors. Just like that, you’ve created nine different outfit combinations without even trying.

Another small detail that sets an outfit apart is matching socks. I usually try to match my socks to my shirt for that extra polished look. It seems simple, but it really does make a difference and helps you stand out in a clean, intentional way.

If you want to add accessories, go with a nice watch on one wrist and a charmed or beaded bracelet on the other. Finish it off with a good belt, and boom — you’re going to look great heading out the door.

And finally, the most important part of all: make sure your clothes fit correctly. Take the time to try things on. A great outfit in the wrong size won’t give you the confidence you’re looking for. But a well-fitting outfit — one that feels good and moves with you — can completely change the way you carry yourself. Fit is everything, and when your clothes fit well, you’ll feel your best.

Now, I hope you start taking a little extra time to think about what you’re going to wear and how you’re going to present yourself. But here’s something else to consider: pay attention to what other people are wearing, too. Give compliments. Think about how good it feels when someone notices your effort — then pass that feeling on to someone else. It’s as simple as, “Hey man, those shoes are awesome.” A small sentence, but it can make someone’s day. As Pat McAfee says, “Say something nice, it could change someone’s life”.

“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. ~ Proverbs 27:17