During these tough economic times, shopping for a designer suit may be slightly out of the budget. Even so, one still desires to keep abreast of the latest fashion trends for the season. That is why it is important to own that one classic men’s suit that will never go out of style. According to a recent post on men.style.com’s the Upgrader Hotlists, a trim gray suit is always in fashion. In fact, a patch-pocket gray suit was one of the 16 fall essentials for 2008, also featured in the Hotlists. But with the wide variety of fabrics and cuts to choose from, and the even wider spectrum of gray hues—from deep charcoal to light gray and everything in between-- it’s no mystery that the world of gray designer suits is a big one.

To help you choose a gray suit that will not only be a stylish fashion choice, but a smart investment, here are a few of the top-rated gray suits according to men.style.com. While the list of different suits on the website range in price from $1,000 to $5,000, Menswear eCollection offers the same stylish mens suits at affordable prices, so you don’t have to shell out a lot of cash.

Coming in at first place is a two-button, medium gray wool suit, featuring a notch lapel and dual side vents. Among many other Italian suits, this classic suit was rated number one by consumers and by the editor of men.style.com. You will find a similar suit at Menswear eCollection for under $140. Designed and hand-tailored in Italy, this suit offers superior lining and fine Italian cotton pocketing.

Another top pick is a three-button, 120-weight, gray wool suit with silk lining and a notch lapel. This suit is considered an ideal business-travel suit because it is soft, lightweight, and still has a fresh look to it. Menswear eCollection offers this suit and other similar discount suits for around $109.

And, as you shop for your affordable trim gray suit, don’t forget the adjective--trim! According to GQ’s “How to Buy a Suit” guide, the most important part of a suit is how it fits, and trim is in.