How to Dress Professionally on a Budget

Working in a professional environment and attending interviews or meetings requires you to dress professionally. Unless you work in Hollywood and attend red carpet events, you don't need to wear designer suits to look professional. Most people can achieve a professional wardrobe on a budget.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Mix and match your outfits. If you have two suits, you can change the look on a daily basis by wearing a different shirt with each suit. To be budget-minded, you must buy clothing that coordinates with your current clothing.

2. Buy good, comfortable shoes that you can wear daily. Match your shoes to your wardrobe, which may require that you have two pairs of shoes. For ladies, a pair of mid-size pumps works well for both casual and formal attire.

3. Use accent pieces. You can use a scarf or a tie to dress up an outfit. Most accessories can be bought on a budget and can be used with a variety of outfits. Buy cubic zirconium instead of diamonds; they look good and don't cost a fortune.

4. Invest in quality clothing that can be worn repeatedly. The fabric must resist wrinkles and stains. You should look at the stitching to make sure that strong thread was used.

5. Shop at a second-hand store. You can often find a designer suit that someone has donated. Also consider buying second-hand clothes that are larger sizes and having them altered to fit. This often saves you money and helps you stick to your budget.

6. Wait for deals. Almost every clothing store switches inventory at the end of the season. Look for items that have a classic look in order to be able to wear them year after year.

[CareerFashion]

on 10/4/2008 Having struggled with budget wardrobes in my 20'ies, I must say that this is good advice!
May I suggest also that if you buy inexpensive accessories in sets, when they are on sale, you can change "accessorie sets" every day and gice the impression that you are wearing a different suit.