WalletPop's bargain eye for the laid-off guy: Get a GQ look for under $50

Ever since the Chicago Tribune gave me the heave-ho in April, I've been thinking a lot about my image and the way I dress. An awful lot.

Ready to hit the job market in mind, body, spirit and attitude -- but not in wardrobe -- I sought the advice of a true master, and a man after my own Italian roots. Marco Liotta, who owns two Amarcord Vintage Fashion stores in New York City, agreed to take me on as my fashion mechanic ... and just to make things interesting, we at WalletPop finessed Marco into the equivalent of one fashion-savvy arm tied behind his back. That is: Could he make me over at a Goodwill store, and on less than $50?