If you’ve noticed there has been a long time between posts, it’s because I recently got a job and I’m two weeks into a seven week full-time stint of training. When I found out I got the job, I was told business wear was required. Upon surveying my wardrobe, I could see I had a few pieces that could be worn to work and would fit the business wear attire but I also knew I’d have to make a few extra purchases to get through.
The only problem was I was limited by my budget. It’s often a common predicament to be told you’ve got a job, to then making sure you have the appropriate clothes for work. A lot of my work clothes pre-kids were donated or sold and cotton drill shirts weren’t going to suffice for this work environment.
Thankfully, I used a few of these tips to create some work appropriate outfits.
If you’ve recently got a job, and have a limited budget, here are my tips on how to create a last-minute workwear wardrobe on a budget.
1. Shop your wardrobe first
The first place to check for work appropriate clothes is in your wardrobe. Look for black pants, shirts and dresses that have sleeves and look smart. Most work places have a casual approach to workwear. It’s not all suits and stilettos. The dresses from Little Party Dress got the tick of approval. I also had stripe pants, a blazer and shift dress from Veronika Maine that I could use as part of my work wear wardrobe.
2. Head to Op shops
A week before I started my new job, I headed out with some friends to check out some local op shops. I was able to buy two dresses for under $10. One dress from Katies that still had it’s tags attached for $8 and one green Peter Morrissey dress for $5. Op shops are a great place to look for quality work wear. I was pretty happy with my purchases.
3. Shop at local boutiques during the sales
I was able to nab this gorgeous dress from Instyle Boutique for half price during a recent sale. For $35, I could not complain about the price or the amazing fit. Local boutiques like Wardrobe 22 and Stylefast will have clothes that are suited for work, under $70.
4. Shop at department stores
A few of my colleagues have worn clothes that have caught my eye. One friend admitted her gorgeous blouse (which looked like it had come from Seed Heritage) was on the reduced rack for $3 at Kmart. While ‘fast fashion’ can be looked down upon ethically, if you are in desperate need of work clothes, check out what is on offer at department stores. They will suit your budget and sometimes their reduced items may help you create a workwear wardrobe for little cost.
5. Go to a clothes swap
Another great way to build a work wardrobe is by going to a clothes swap. You could organise your own event, or check locally on Facebook Marketplace for any clothes swap events in your area. Essentially, you bring clothes that you no longer wear and can choose to pick up clothes others have brought in to swap. There is no guarantee your size will be available and this can be a bit hit and miss, but you never know until you try it and see.
I receive my first pay next week, so you just never know what I may be adding to cart to build my workwear wardrobe.
