How To Look Professional on a Budget
Most of my readership is 50 or older, and many are retired. Of those still in the workforce, a large percentage work from home or in jobs that only require casual dress. Knowing this, it may seem odd that I’m writing about how to look professional on a budget, but I’m doing it for two reasons. One, I get emails from gurls who are still working and need help, and two, everyone needs to look professional from time to time. Real estate closings, court, the doctor’s office – whatever the reason, I’ve got you covered!
Tips On How To Look Professional On A Budget
First off, looking professional has to do more with confidence and fit than it does with the price of the clothing. If you wear your budget-friendly outfit with the same confidence you would a $1,000 look, it would make a huge difference. Lipstick helps too! Lol!
- Shop at budget-friendly retailers.
- Buy neutrals.
- Take advantage of sales and discount racks.
- Create a capsule wardrobe full of the basics.
- Fit, fit, fit!
- Accessorize.
- Hair, makeup, and a big smile.
The outfit above fits in a lot of these categories and one that I didn’t mention. Buy versatile clothing that can be worn in many different ways. You want to stretch your dollars, and getting more wear from your clothing is the way to do it. Try to pick items that can be dressed up or down.
This outfit is one that can be dressed up or down. I love wearing a satin shirt with a pair of jeans for an elevated casual look. Just because these are dress pants doesn’t mean you can’t wear them with a turtleneck and an oversized Grandpa cardigan like this one.
How To Look Professional on a Budget – Skirts
Pleats are IN this season, and this pretty skirt would look great at the office. It has an elastic waist, is machine washable, and best of all – it’s just $31 dollars! I’ve posted mainly neutral colors, but this comes in others, such as pink and pale blue.
When I think of office wear, a pencil skirt always comes to mind. They are flattering on almost everyone and easy to pair with a loose-flowing blouse or a shirt and blazer. This skirt is VERY popular. It has a 4.3 rating and has been reviewed over 11,000 times! It comes in lots of colors and prints and is only $20 dollars!
How To Look Professional on a Budget – Pants
A nice pair of stretch work pants is a must-have in my book. I mean, sure, I can work, but I have to be comfortable! These are pull-on with an elastic waist, and of course, they have pockets. These are NOT expensive pants. The whole point of today’s post is to keep things budget-friendly, and these are very affordable at just $32 dollars. Worried about the length? Don’t! These come with markings so that you can cut them to the right hem!
When I say these are budget-friendly, I mean FRIENDLY. Coming in at only $14 dollars, these look more expensive than they are. The description says they are mid-rise, non-see-through, non-fading, wrinkle-resistant, and breathable! All kidding aside, $14 dollars may not be much to some of you, but to some families, that’s a sacrifice. It’s good to have options. 🙂
How To Look Professional on a Budget – Tops
Isn’t this blouse pretty? It’s a nice take on the classic button-down. I love the V-neck! This is only $28 dollars and comes in over fifteen colors. This would look great with the pencil skirt or the pants. Put a tasteful necklace with it, and you’re good to go!
If you want a more traditional work shirt, this button-down is perfect. I’m showing it in red, but of course, it comes in black, white, navy, and yellow. This has a rating of 4.6 stars and has been reviewed almost 3000 times. At just $26 dollars, it’s a great buy.
How To Look Professional on a Budget – Blazers
Blazers are a good look pretty much anywhere but you can’t go wrong wearing one in a professional setting. This is a longer version than the standard blazer so you might want to get a more traditional length like the one below. Like the other items I’ve shared, it comes in many colors and is just $49 dollars.
I LOVE this plaid jacket. Even if you’re not looking for an office look, this would be a great buy to pair with jeans this fall. It’s shorter and more fitted than the blazer above. I like the color combination but it’s available in others and is just $42 dollars.
I love this plaid jacket, and it is perfect for dressing up or down. I’ve worn it out to eat with a pair of jeans, and it looks soooo nice!
How To Look Professional on a Budget – Cardigan
You don’t have to wear a blazer or suit to look professional. This long cardigan is gorgeous and chic in camel. I’m not the only one who thinks so since it’s been reviewed over 3,000 times and has a 4.4-star rating. It’s also a very affordable $32 dollars.
How To Look Professional on a Budget – Dress
Sometimes a dress is what you need. I hate to say it, but this would look great in the office or at a funeral. Sorry, but it’s true. When you get to a certain age, you attend a lot of funerals, and a black dress is a necessity. This Grace Karin dress is perfect, whatever the occasion, and just $45 dollars.
What about it, Gurls? Are you heading to the office these days? If not, do you still need professional clothing? Let me know if you’d like to see more.
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Blazers looks so classic.
Thanks for sharing options at a variety of price points. I work with kindergarten students, so I’m not looking to wear higher-end items to work. I still like to appear put-together, though.
Very cute pieces and prices. I’m retired but still like to dress up when I get a chance. I appreciate you showing clothing ordinary women can afford.
Love all Clark’s shoes & Boots. I am Canadian.
Love how mindful you are about offering less expensive but good quality options in your posts. Was wondering if you had or could do a post on cruise wear for an informal and formal cruise. We’re leaving on a 4 day cruise to Cozumel (first timers) in January and any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Suzanne, I’m not sure, I would have to think about that.
The first two outfits are my favorites! I ordered the tan edges and their delivery is delayed. 🙁
I vowed never to wear a suit after I retired. However, I really do find I like to dress up a bit more every now and then. I’ll wear a nice dress and blazer to church or out to dinner; it helps me enjoy the “specialness” of the occasion.
Thanks for sharing these awesome ideas!!
Are the sleeves on the satin shirt long? Do the cuffs button?
They sleeves were too long, but the blouse was too big for me. I sent it back and ordered a smaller size.
Yup…I have many years until retirement but I work in an office where I can wear jeans everyday. Thanks for curating all types of clothing for all occasions. You are AWESOME!!!