Creating a business clothing budget can be a challenge, especially when your workplace requires a dress code. This can be particularly difficult when you live in a large city, as one survey showed the cost of women’s clothing in cities such as Chicago and New York is among the most expensive in the world. However, there are ways to create a work wardrobe without breaking the bank. If you need clothing for a new job or to update your current wardrobe, there are a few strategies you can use that may help you save money and look fashionable as well.
1. Keep the Base Colors Simple
While you might dream of a varied business wardrobe that is filled with bright colors, you can save money by keeping your base items simple. Neutral colors, such as black, navy, tan, and grey can all help you build a variety of outfits without having to buy coordinating pieces. You can always dress up skirts, pants, and blouses with colorful scarves and other accessories that give them that unique and fashionable kick.
2. Choose Quality Fibers
You might be tempted to buy large quantities of blouses and pants at a discount outlet because less expense means you can buy more items. However, this may end up costing you more money over time. The cheaper the fibers, the more likely the garment will wear out quickly, and you might find yourself replacing these items after only a few months.
To ensure you buy quality items that last and retain their quality through repeated washings, read labels before you buy. The benefits of cotton and other natural fibers, such as wool, include durability and affordability, so chances are these items will last you longer than those made of synthetic materials. Over time, this means fewer shopping trips and more money in your wallet.
3. Take Advantage of Shopping Apps
You cannot take advantage of sales unless you are aware of them, so setting up a few shopping apps on your smartphone is one way to track them. Many clothing stores offer apps and email subscriptions to their customers, and you might even get deals that are not available to those who do not use the app. Because many of these apps and email offers are meant to be convenient for mobile users, there is a good chance you can take advantage of coupons and other offers while at your favorite clothing store.
4. Make Financial Sacrifices
Because creating a fashionable business wardrobe from quality items might require spending a bit more at the outset, cutting costs in other areas can help you avoid building credit card debt and pad your clothing budget. Take a look at your personal finances and be honest with yourself about where you might be wasting money. You might be able to cut back on fancy coffee drinks, beer and wine, and entertainment. Compare insurance companies to ensure you are getting the best deal on your monthly premiums, and cut costs on your grocery bill by clipping coupons and using shopping apps.
5. Create an Accessory Arsenal
Having a varied collection of accessories can be one of the best-kept secrets to building a business wardrobe. Accessories such as jewelry, watches, scarves, sunglasses, and hats can all draw the eye away from simple business coordinates and allow you to be creative without violating the office dress code. Fashion accessories are typically affordable and can even be purchased in bulk, which gives you a wide variety of items to choose from every day.
Creating a business wardrobe on a budget is possible when you are willing to read labels, cut costs in your lifestyle budget, and shop wisely. From skirts to blouses and fabulous accessories, you can build a quality wardrobe that will work as hard as you do.
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