Here’s a bit of fashion trivia for you beauty-and-brains bearing fashionistas out there: In 1818, Henry Sands Brooks made history with the first ready-to-wear fashion emporium in America. He called it Brooks Brothers, and since then the brand has delivered fashions to shoppers nationwide.

No, this isn’t a history article. And no, it’s not about finding the perfect gift for your Dad, either. Brooks Brothers sells chic fashions for women and children, too. This is a how-to-shop guide to help you get your hands on the brand’s stylish offerings.

How to Shop Brooks Brothers

What to expect.
If you have an idea in your head of what Brooks Brothers sells, we’re not going to try and alter your perspective– you’re probably right. For men, yellow blazers, plaid vests and lots of polo shirts. For women, the kind of work suit that stays in your closet for a decade or more, argyle sweaters and more polo shirts. They’re not exactly trendy, but they are chic. If the timeless look is up your alley, check out the website to see more.

Country Club.
Want to look the part at a golf outing with co-workers? Or perhaps you need to impress your future in-laws when you meet them at “the club.” This is the collection for you. Cute tennis outfits, vests and the like are all in this collection, and relatively affordable too.

Black Fleece.
Our personal favorite of the Brooks Brothers collections, Black Fleece is pure chic. Sheath dresses, ridiculously well-tailored separates and timeless prints and textures. It’s part school-girl, part Stepford wife, part just plain adorable.

Special Order.
Can’t find exactly what you’re looking for? No worries. Brooks Brothers may have been the first retailer to create a “Ready Made” suit, but they have always made items for individual customers upon request. If you’d like a dress in a different color or pattern, or appreciate certain details not found in stock garments, they can create a garment to fit your needs.

Scoring Deals.
As with many retailers, Brooks Brothers will send you e-mails featuring special offers and events, and it takes less than a minute to sign up for them online. Another way to stretch your cash? Outlet stores! Visit brooksbrothers.com to find the one nearest you. If there isn’t one, you can always shop the clearance section online, and it’s risk-free, too. Even items priced at 50% can be returned by mail or to the store.