Last year when I went back to work outside the home, I realized very quickly how I had let my professional work wardrobe slide. After all, I had not used business clothing for many years. I had to start adding bits and pieces to my closet so that I could be comfortable and look professional too.
Here are some of my tips and tricks that I use to create a great work wardrobe on a budget
* Purge the Old – You know there are clothes in your closet that you will not wear again. Whether it is due to the fact that they do nor fit or they are out of style, just get rid of them.They clutter up the closet and make finding an outfit more stressful.
* Make a List – Now that you know what you have, you need to know what is missing from your wardrobe. Make a list of your wants and needs. Keep a copy with you in your purse and by the computer for shopping purposes.
* Buy Basics – Work wardrobes are pretty easy to put together when you buy traditional styles and basics. Black, white, grey, navy, red can all be mixed and matched. You can then add accessories for the pops of color that you love. The classic and traditional styles will last forever and always be appropriate for the workplace.
* Be Careful of Trends – While a lot of trendy pieces are beautiful, always think about how it will integrate into your work wardrobe. If it is something you will only wear for a season, skip it for something you can wear more often or as a layered piece.
* Shop Discount Stores Online and Off – Use your list to find the classics you love at discount retailers online and offline. Look at shops like Macy’s, Ann Taylor, Marshalls. Hautelook, Nordstrom, Burlington Coat Factory and similar for clearance items and sales. Don’t forget outlet malls too! You do not have to pay full price for fabulous clothes and you can get a better quality that will last a lot longer than a low quality, cheaply made item.
* Always Watch the Clearance Sales – End of season sales can gain you some fabulous buys! Always be watching so you can pick up a piece here and there.
It does not have to cost a fortune to look great and feel great while at work. Shop smart and your work wardrobe will be one you will be proud to wear every day.What tips do you use when shopping for clothing and fashion items on a budget?
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These are great tips and I have used most of them in the past when I had to have a work wardrobe. I didn’t make a list and I realize now how much that could have helped me,. Purging was always the most difficult thing for me.
You have some great tips listed and I’m a big believer of purging the old. I need to remember about making a list and sticking it in my purse so i can remember what needs to be bought to complete outfits. I also shop at some great thrift stores to add to my wardrobe.
Yes buying the classics work for me. If the fabric is quality, they last for years and well worth the money.
Don’t forget about thrift stores. I’ve found some lovely things there for very little money.
Thank you for the tips. I always find at least one or two that I haven’t tried or just forgot about over the years.
It has been many years since I worked outside the home but I think the classics are always appropriate and always look good. Purging is painful but necessary – my husband says if I buy something then something else has to come out of the closet!
Good idea with making a list. That way you know exactly what to look for; plus, it helps you get your outfits inline in your head. Purging first is important. Basics are great and go with it all. When I want to try something out there or a new trend, I shop thrift store on sale rack. Get a close version really cheap to test out if I’m really going to wear that bright color or leggings.