Lucky guys. You don’t have to deal with skirt lengths, killer heels, or panty hose. But there are some rules to getting it right.

DO:

Get to know what "fit" is for you. This includes looking at yourself in a full-length mirror, front and back. With the lights on. And a good tailor at your side.

Toss two pieces of clothing for every one you bring home. This will prevent closet/drawer overload. And you’ve been meaning to say goodbye to those old college tees anyway, weren’t you?

Match your socks to your pants. You want your pants to look longer, not your shoes to look taller.

Upgrade.This is the single best thing you can do as you move from school to professional life, or up the ladder at work. This means trading baggy khakis for a sleeker style, investing in a decent suit for more formal events like weddings, and replacing tired footwear, belts and even socks.

Buy fewer, better things. Investing once in a classic like a navy blazer or charcoal suit, a cashmere sweater, good boots or even a better quality tee shirt beats continual spending on trendy or just trashy items.

Shop before you need it -- a classic suit, tuxedo, sportcoat, great white dress shirt. Life events sometimes happen quickly and you should have the tools in your closet to deal with them.

Speaking of tools -- a shoeshine kit, lint roller, nail clipers, nail file, and as you age, a magnifying mirror -- all come in pretty handy.

DON’T:

Pair a baggy bottom with a baggy top. It will make you look fat. Period. A tight top and bottom will make you look 1960’s Italian film noir; a good look for some, but for most guys, a real stretch. Go for balance; slim top, relaxed bottom, and vice versa.

Think that your scuffed shoes aren’t noticed. They are. Become acquainted with a real shoeshine kit, not that cheap silicone in a sponge. Ditto for bitten fingernails. “What’s he so nervous about?” people will wonder, so invest in a cuticle clipper; Tweezerman makes a great one.

Button the bottom button on your blazer or untucked shirt. This allows the fabric to move away form your body when you sit.

Only wear nice clothes for work. To paraphrase Coco Chanel, “You never know when you’ll have a date with destiny, so be sure to be dressed for it”.