Jeans are not pants.
I tend to disagree that pants are that important as the OP says. The blazer is a much bigger deal in terms of fit, etc. Any tailor can make most pants look decent and fitted. Just the fact that you're not wearing jeans out sets you apart.
That said. I've found that the $69 Calvin Klein or Perry Ellis 'suit separates' at Macy's works just fine. I buy a size slightly up so my tailor can adjust them to me better. She likes a little extra to work with. I think the best time of year to find them is President's Day weekend. Best sales.
I tend to disagree that pants are that important as the OP says. The blazer is a much bigger deal in terms of fit, etc. Any tailor can make most pants look decent and fitted. Just the fact that you're not wearing jeans out sets you apart.
That said. I've found that the $69 Calvin Klein or Perry Ellis 'suit separates' at Macy's works just fine. I buy a size slightly up so my tailor can adjust them to me better. She likes a little extra to work with. I think the best time of year to find them is President's Day weekend. Best sales.