When you’re first starting out, (or if you’re starting over) it’s important to learn how to cultivate a work wardrobe on a budget. Because you’ll be spending 40+ hours a week at work, cultivating a work wardrobe that makes you feel good is extremely important because it will help you start off each day on a positive note. When you look good, you feel good!
Cultivating a work wardrobe that makes you feel good is extremely important because it will help you start off each day on a positive note.
Invest in 4 Key Pieces.
For ladies, these pieces are:
- A well fitted blazer
- A nice white blouse that can be worn alone or under something else
- A pair of slacks or pencil skirt (or both)
- Neutral pumps or flats depending on what you prefer (either black or nude colored)
For men, these pieces are:
- A well fitted suit which you can wear together or wear as separates (go for black, grey, or navy)
- A classic white button down shirt
- A pair of nice shoes in brown or black
- A leather belt that is the same color as your shoes
You’ll want to invest in these pieces and make sure you purchase quality items because these pieces will be the basis of your work wardrobe. While it’s possible to buy inexpensive versions of these items, purchasing items, that are better quality but still not crazy expensive, (Try Banana Republic Factory Store and Nordstrom Rack) you’ll get more use out of them, and they will last longer. Even though you’ll be spending a little more now, you’ll spend less in the long run.
Determine what the dress code is where you’ll be working.
It would be a shame to spend money on more business formal attire if everyone in the office dresses business casual or casually, so determine what the office environment is like before going on a shopping spree. Still go for the 4 key pieces mentioned above, because you can mix and match those to be more casual, but that way you have a good business base to work with.
Shop for inexpensive items to change up your look:
I’ve talked about how accessories can easily change up your wardrobe on a budget, but when figuring out how to cultivate a work wardrobe on a budget, you’ll want to go for items like shirts to change up your look.
If you’re in a more formal environment, think of purchases some inexpensive button down shirts or blouses from somewhere like H&M. Because you’re investing in a few basic pieces, you’ll want to purchase inexpensive items to change it up so you’re not wearing the same thing every day. H&M has great items for both men and women that serve as an inexpensive way to change up your look.
If you’re in a more casual environment, find some casual clothes that still look polished. Even if the dress code is casual, you still want to appear as clean and polished. If someone could mistake you for just having rolled out of bed, you shouldn’t be dressed like that for work. Opt for a plain t shirt, jeans, and a blazer to give you a casual yet professional vibe.
Find what you like, then hunt for the best price.
Sometimes you’ll find something you love, only to find that it’s over your budget. If this happens, hunt for the best price. Search online because often different outlets will have different prices. Also, don’t write off consignment stores or second hand purchases. Websites like ebay and poshmark have a lot of items that are “new with tags” or “like new” for sale, which drops the price a lot.
If you’re not comfortable of the idea of wearing someone else’s clothing, just take the items immediately to the dry cleaner before wearing them. (You should do this regardless) Once you know what you like and what your size is, hunting for the best price is relatively easy. Just remember that it’s important not to write anything off. Cultivating a work wardrobe on a budget means that you have to explore different options to get the appearance and price you want!
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It may seem difficult when figuring out how to cultivate a work wardrobe on a budget, but hopefully these simple tips and tricks help you in your journey! Remember that developing a work wardrobe takes time. Start with a few key pieces that you love, and build from there! Happy hunting!