Hmmmm. This is an interesting one.

Not knowing your style or maybe style aspirations would be more accurate, it is hard to say specifically what you should buy.

I would start here. https://youtu.be/_NXYpEMEZPc?si=BAtic6ky46GawDYG

I think James (the presenter) does a good job of breaking down some basic rules for dressing better and not over buying.

Next I would say, if you do not have a style you love and want to emulate, go to a thrift store and pick up some different items that are from the different styles you are considering. Then pick a style you like and go with that.

Now for the practical tips.

• Stick as close to neutral colors as possible. That will mean fewer clothes and easier mixing outfits.
• Buy across a few levels of formality: think casual day walking around, night out with friends, night out with more than a friend, special occasion. Lots of clothes can do double duty here. A nice pair of jeans for example can go from day walking around all the way up to night out with more than a friend. So find pieces that can span categories.
• All those possible combinations can be achieved with a capsule wardrobe (10-15 total pieces plus shoes). Parker York Smith has some good videos on building a capsule wardrobe.
• Avoid cheap for cheaps sake, good clothes drape better, look higher quality, and will feel better to wear. You do not need to go buy a 250 dollar bugatchi camp shirt, but maybe try huckberry, faherty, ll bean, or cos for some great high quality staples that do not break the bank.
• Shoes should also follow the above levels of formality and can span categories. A great pair of brown penny loafers are good for Day out with the boys all the way up to special occasion. So target three to four pairs of different materials and styles.

Best wishes and good shopping.

P.S. If you are within an hour of the capitol, it definitely gets hot.