We’ve all had that moment where we open our closet doors to get dressed for work that day and can’t find a single thing we want to wear. With so many people, even those with jobs, on tight and fixed budgets these days, few people can afford to spend any money on clothing. Here are some ways you can expand your work wardrobe without shelling out much cash.
New clothing will always cost more than used. So when you’re trying to update your wardrobe on a fixed budget, check first in thrift stores and secondhand stores. There are a multitude of places you can find used clothing and accessories that are in great shape. Start at local thrift stores. It can take some vigilant hunting to find the good pieces here but when you walk out with a whole new outfit for cheap, the hunting effort will be worth it. Look for stores like Buffalo Exchange and Plato’s Closet where you can often find designer pieces for really cheap. The stores pay customers a little to bring in their gently-used clothing and accessories so you know the pieces are in good shape and in style or the stores wouldn’t purchase them.
You can also use the Internet to find cheaper used clothes. Check Craigslist or eBay for cheap clothing. Especially on eBay, you might be able to find designer clothes for much cheaper. Inexpensive doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality and style these days with so many options online.
If you’re not having luck with these sources, head to a discount department store like Kohl’s, Ross, Marshall’s, or TJ-Maxx where they sell designer clothing and products for much cheaper than department store prices. These are a great option when you’re looking for something specific or to replace some staple items.
They key to fresh outfits is the accessories. So when you feel bored with your wardrobe, instead of running out and buying a whole bunch of new clothes, look for some new accessories that will help liven up old outfits. With a few staple items, like a pencil skirt, trousers, a few blouses, cardigans, and jackets, you can create an infinite amount of outfits through the accessories. Accessories are generally cheaper and with the many options of places to shop above, you can find especially cheap gear to mix up your style.
Consider adding a few unique items into your work wardrobe that can be worn in several different ways using your staple pieces and accessories but can also be worn in more casual settings so the money you spend works double-time. Get customized t-shirts made, make your own jewelry, or put studs on your favorite jacket or pair of shoes.
Updating your wardrobe doesn’t necessarily mean getting all new pieces. With a crafty attitude and a small budget you’ll be able to create at least a few new outfits to wear to work without spending much at all.
