How to Buy Good Quality Clothing on a Thrifty Budget

Even if you're on a budget, you can still buy high-quality clothing. The new items don't have to be lower-quality items that may not reflect the image your employer wants to project. Consider stores such as Ross Dress for Less or higher-end consignment stores.

Instructions

1. Have a clear idea of what you need, whether it is a blouse to complement several outfits or a complete suit. Budget a set amount of money for your planned purchases, and make sure your purchase won't cut into money for bills.

2. Watch television advertisements running during store sales; read store sales inserts from your local newspapers. Visit a higher-end consignment store and browse their stock of ladies professional wear.

3. Visit the stores that are running clothing sales. If these are JC Penney's or Ross Dress for Less, look immediately for the items you need. Don't get sidetracked by other items on display. Stick with your set budget.Look for clothing items in your size. If you need a new dress suit, visit those clothing racks. Make sure the style of items you select reflects the image your employer wants you to project.At a consignment store, select gently used, high-quality items to try on. Look for signs of damage or wear.

4. Try on each item to make sure it fits correctly. If an item is "slightly" too large or small, put it in the "do not buy" pile. As you are trying on clothing, scrutinize your reflection carefully to make sure it projects a professional image. Put any "too casual" clothing items in the "do not buy" pile as well.

5. Look for any accessories you may need, such as shoes. If you have included shoes in your clothing budget, find and try on several pairs. Again, look at the image they portray. Are they professional? As you are wearing the shoes, walk around--on a carpeted floor--and make sure they are comfortable. Nothing is worse than wearing "torture chamber" shoes, especially when you have to wear those shoes for a minimum of 8 hours a day.

6. Try on the complete outfit and look at yourself in the dressing room mirror. Ensure that each item fits well and suits your body style and coloring. Look at the accessories, such as shoes, and make sure they complement the outfit(s) you are buying.

7. Have an idea of your current wardrobe at home. Will individual items mix or match well with anything in your closet? Look at any accessories you are thinking of buying and compare them with what you have at home. Make sure those accessories will complement your wardrobe. Your aim is to supplement and replace; you don't want to start a whole new wardrobe.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep your receipts and the tags you clip off your purchases. If you have to return or exchange anything, it will be much easier to do with these items.

• Don't buy based on emotion. An outfit, blouse, pants or shoes can be so cute on the hanger or as you try it on. If it isn't something you need, firmly put it back on the rack.

• Don't buy any consignment store items that you have any doubts about. These stores generally have an "all sales final" policy.