How to Shop for Career Clothes on a Budget

You don't need a lot of money to find great looking clothes for work. For those on a tight budget, it is possible to find career clothing at affordable prices. Gently used clothing is generally just as great as new clothing. By looking into second hand shops in your area, touring garage sales, or even bidding on auctions listed on Ebay, you can find the perfect outfit to fit within your budget. Follow some of the tips below to shop for clothing that won't put a hole in your wallet.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
    

   Shop at thrift shops or second hand stores. You can often find clothing that is in great condition at affordable prices. You can also donate any used clothing that is in great condition or receive cash in exchange for the clothes that you give the store as well.

2. 
    

   Browse all of the garage sales in your area. Especially hit the towns that have city-wide garage sales. There are always bargains to be found, and plenty to check out with enough variety available.

3. Bid on Ebay. Find gently used and even new clothing that you can buy on a budget. There is often name brand prices such as Macys, Ann Taylor, and more that you can buy for half the price you would spend at a retail store. Shop around Christmas time when the sales are hitting big, and especially after Christmas.

4. Sign up for a free account at the freecycle network website (see resources). Type in your area in the search box to see if there is a group nearby you. Most of the items are offered for free and all that you have to do is contact the owner and usually just pick them up. Sometimes there are people who offer clothes, or you can place a post to let others know you are looking for clothing for work. Somebody may be able to help you find some or have clothing available that they are willing to give you.

5. 
    

   Shop for off season clothing during off season times. For example, shop the summer sales just as fall is approaching, and purchase your winter clothes when they are going off the racks during the summer. This is a great way to find quality clothing at clearance prices.

Resources

• The FreeCycle Network
• Fashion on a Budget

[smilesatme1]

on 4/23/2009 Nice tips and we can easily apply it. Thanks!

[jjsteenhagen]

on 4/23/2009 Great Advice. Currently, I'm looking to find a new job on an extremely tight budget. Thanks for the pointers.

[elyria]

on 4/23/2009 helpful advice!

[stone24]

on 4/23/2009 Really good info on How to Shop for Career Clothes on a Budget

[jull14]

on 4/23/2009 Thanks for writing this wonderful article I am sure many people will benefit from it, I have an account for freecycle and I donated and gain some stuff. Thanks for sharing. Julia