How To Build A Budget Friendly Office-Appropriate Wardrobe

Building a budget friendly office-appropriate wardrobe is a lot easier than you think.  Whether your office is casual and creative, or buttoned-up and sophisticated, it is very important that you are wearing appropriate business attire for work. The good news is you don’t have to spend a fortune to do so.  

Here are my tips that I follow religiously to maintain an office-appropriate wardrobe without putting a dent in my wallet since I started working in my early 20s.

INVEST IN A “POWER” SUIT

The “power suit” is synonymous with dress for success because the look exudes power.  Regardless of the type of industry you are in, the power suit commands attention and creates a perception of rank and prestige.  

I had worn my “power” suit (black pinstripe pant suits) for years and not only until the last few years that I started to switch over to another “power” outfit.  My current power suit is my $50 yellow color shift dress.  I feel happy, comfortable, and more confident whenever I wear it.

Nowadays, you don’t have to wear a manly power suit to command attention or power because your confidence is your best suit.  So look through your wardrobe and find that “power” outfit that always gives you a boost of confidence whenever you wear it.

INVEST IN QUALITY BASICS

The best work wardrobe begins with the right basics. I have a collection of basics that I invest in that can last a decade.  And they are worth every penny because these quality basics allow me to pair most of my other separates in my wardrobe. I often share on the blog the importance of investing in timeless essential pieces  because they can be worn over and over again.

SHOP SMART

You don’t have to spend a fortune to build your office-appropriate wardrobe. I always look for pieces that can be worn during or after work hours.  Most of these pieces are either purchased on ebay, consignment stores, or high fashion stores like Zara, H&M, and Topshop.  The $10 skirt that you see on this post is from Zara and I have been pairing it with different tops to change up my look.

GET CREATIVE WITH ACCESSORIES

This tip has saved me so much money throughout the years.   We all know that accessories can amp up any outfit.  I love getting creative with my jewelry, bags, and scarves to change up my look.  

I’ve been in the workforce for 20+ years and still follow these tips religiously to update my office-appropriate wardrobe so that I can stay stylish without going broke.