This post is all about trendy work clothes on a budget. This post contains affiliate links at no extra cost to you.
Whether you’re headed to a job interview, starting a new job, or looking to update your workwear, we’ve got 13 of the best places to shop for affordable and trendy work clothes.
You don’t have to spend a lot of money to create a gorgeous professional wardrobe. There are plenty of retailers with reasonable prices that offer work wardrobe pieces.
First thing, it’s always best to shop your closet. Take a look at what you already own.
Also, take into consideration your workplace dress code and personal style. Some places of work require more formal work attire — think a full suit, heels, and blazers.
While others may offer a more business casual dress code. This can be blouses, open-toed shoes, and maybe even jeans.
13 BEST PLACES TO BUY TRENDY WORKWEAR ON A BUDGET
People have different budgets or what they deem to be “affordable.” In this case, we considered affordable items to be less than $100 — give or take.
Many of the women’s workwear at these stores retail for much less.
Here are the top 13 best stores to buy trendy workwear on a budget:
- H&M – H&M offers on-trend business clothes at a very affordable price. Must-have snags: blazers, blouses, and dress pants.
- MANGO – This retailer is my go-to for capsule wardrobe pieces. Snag season-proof work clothes that you can wear year after year at affordable prices. Mango is also the go-to for good quality clothing such as blazers, jackets, and coats.
- LOFT – Take advantage of the continuous sale events for even more savings. LOFT is great for smart casual and elevated casual attire.
- T.J. MAXX – Grab high-quality clothing at cheap prices. T.J. Maxx’s prices are so low because they buy past-season merchandise and even canceled orders from other retailers. Look for staples such as black trousers, button-down shirts, or classic footwear.
- TARGET – Target offers in-season work clothes with a more trendy feel. Look for cropped trousers, camisoles for layering, cardigans, and sweaters.
- ASOS – This retailer offers high-quality clothes at discounted prices. Many of their workwear is at a discount and they offer workwear for taller ladies.
- OLD NAVY – Old Navy is great for business casual work outfits. Shop Long cardigans, blouses, and workwear basics at affordable prices.
- EXPRESS – Fashion-forward styles and silhouettes will make Express your go-to for chic work clothes. Shop the iconic editor pants or tailored blazers for a dressier business clothes option for less.
- NORDSTROM RACK – Nordstrom Rack is the discount outlet that sells clothing that hasn’t sold, even with markdowns, at the Nordstrom department stores. Save on trendy pieces up to 70% off.
- BANANA REPUBLIC FACTORY – Grab Banana Republic-inspired clothes at a fraction of the cost. With these outlet prices, you’ll be able to grab high quality without spending your entire paycheck.
- AMAZON – Many retailers are now selling on Amazon, making it a great place to shop and get some items to your door overnight. Don’t forget to check out Amazon’s The Drop collection for fashion-forward clothing items.
- ZARA – This retailer is great for trendy workwear with a hint of European flair. The on-trend workwear piece makes it easy to transition from desk to happy hour.
- Thrift Stores – Thrifting is not just for casual clothing, but also a great place to find cheap work clothes. It’s also a great place to find vintage workwear pieces or designer items that someone has donated.
Here’s more about how to get trendy work clothes on a budget
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR TO WORK ON A BUDGET?
Clothing items to wear to work on a budget include trousers, blazers or cardigans, blouses, a neutral dress, and a couple of pairs of shoes for the season.
You will want to consider your job’s dress code when deciding how formal or informal to dress. For example, if your office is more casual, you may not need to invest in a blazer.
HOW CAN YOU BUILD AN AFFORDABLE WORK WARDROBE?
In order to build an affordable work wardrobe, look for versatile and classic items that you can wear again and again — think about creating different outfits
You don’t need to invest in 5 different trousers for the week. Instead, budget for 1 or 2 neutral trousers that you can wear interchangeably. The same goes for the Blazers.
Add in a couple of camisoles to layer underneath and a couple of cardigans. Throw in a pencil skirt if that’s your vibe or a sheath dress.
The most cost-effective way to dress is by incorporating an office wear capsule wardrobe. This will serve as your foundation for an affordable work wardrobe.
HOW DO YOU FAKE AN EXPENSIVE WARDROBE?
The best way to fake an expensive wardrobe is to make sure the clothes fit your body. Ill-fitting clothes will look cheap. Consider visiting a seamstress to adjust hems or secure loose buttons.
A seamstress is one of the best-kept secrets when it comes to looking expensive. Also, save some money for dry cleaners.
Dry cleaning can preserve your wardrobe and make it last longer than sticking it in your washer at home. Be sure to look at the cleaning instructions of a garment.
Next, stick to the neutrals. Loud prints and colors can come off as cheap. Tonal dressing looks elevated and expensive. Invest in pieces that pair well together.
Budget for a great pair of shoes. Your footwear can make or break an outfit. Make sure your shoes are free from scuffs, tears, or holes.
And finally, take it easy on the accessories. Less is more when it comes to elevated workwear attire.
Stick to sleek gold or silver jewelry. A nice watch and studs with a sleek bun look so chic.
HOW TO LOOK EXPENSIVE AND CLASSY WITH CHEAP CLOTHES?
If you want to look expensive and classy with cheap clothes, first start by redefining cheap. An article of clothing can be cheap or cheaply made.
Stay clear of cheaply made clothing. Clothes can look cheap if there are loose threads, missing buttons, or are ill-fitting.
There are plenty of retailers selling affordable workwear with clean lines and silhouettes. Look for classic styles — think old money. It’s better to invest in quality clothing than quantity.
Stay clear of trendy items and stick to the basics. A well-structured black blazer paired with black pants and a satin cami can look super expensive and can be found at Mango for under $100.
It’s all about how you pair your clothes and style it. Remember, YOU wear the clothes, not the other way around.
LOOKING FOR MORE POSTS LIKE THIS ONE?
- Key Workwear Essentials: Business Casual Capsule Wardrobe
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- 7 Insanely Effortless Ways to Dress Up an Outfit
This post was all about trendy work clothes on a budget.
