When budgets are tight, the last thing a guy wants to spend money on, is clothes.

But investing in your image is important, whether you’re looking for a new job or just trying to hang onto the one you have, says Carson Kressley.

A stylist, author, television personality and sartorial savant, told guys how to update their fall wardrobes at a recent Denver appearance. The entertaining and informative host, whose TV gigs have included “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy” and “How to Look Good Naked,” cracked jokes, told the models to “smise” (model jargon for “smile with your eyes”) and flirted with members of the audience.

Frivolity aside, Kressley said the economy is forcing men to make more careful choices when it comes to shopping. “It’s all about quality, fit and value,” said Kressley, who promotes Hugo Boss tailored clothing and sportswear. “You don’t need trendy and disposable clothes. This is the time to buy the best quality you can afford.”

When investing in an item—whether it’s a pair of designer jeans, a suit or a sweater —the key to getting the most from it is being able to wear it in different ways, Kressley said.

The guy who has trouble picking out clothes or accessories on his own doesn’t need to hire a stylist or buy a book, even though Kressley would be happy for a guy to pick up one of his two style tomes (“Queer Eye for the Straight Guy” or “Off the Cuff: The Essential Style Guide for Men—And the Women Who Love Them”). What can be more productive is finding a trustworthy sales consultant at a favorite store, he says. (NYT)