How to Put Together a Chic Office Look Without Breaking the Bank
If you often wake up in the morning and find yourself worrying about what you’re going to wear, you’re not alone. Many career women struggle to find office-appropriate clothes that are actually comfortable, stylish, and most of all, affordable. But dressing the part doesn’t always have to be that difficult — the key is to invest in timeless pieces that you can mix and match.
Here’s how you can do it:
Splurge on classic pieces
It seems counterintuitive to buy expensive clothes when you’re trying to save money, but investing in classic pieces actually saves you more money in the long run.
Style expert Maria Duenas Jacobs explains that good investment pieces stand the test of time and will help you avoid impulse buys that barely last a season. “Stick to classic styles and silhouettes for splurge items. I recommend investing in big-ticket items like leather jackets, coats, blazers and a nice handbag,” she recommends. “Choose one item per season to splurge on and soon, you’ll have your go-to pieces.”
Buy pants that actually fit
It doesn’t matter which type of work pants you prefer: cropped, tapered, wide-legged, or high-waisted — you need to make sure they fit you perfectly. Brightside’s guide to choosing the right jeans for your body emphasizes the importance of a good rise, fit, and cut over the latest trendy pair. You need to pick a style that will highlight your assets.
For instance, if you want to hide your tummy and show off your legs, you can go for high-waisted pants. If you want a pair that can transform from an office look to a party look, you can go for slim jeans. But if you’re in the mood for something simple and comfortable, straight-leg pants are your best option. The 7-day knit straight leg pants on Woman Within show how these types of pants are exceptionally easy to mix and match with a variety of tops and jackets. You can wear them with high heels if you want something fancy, or pair them with comfy flats if you’re heading out to run a few errands after work.
Get a good-quality bag
Your work bag shouldn’t only be able to hold everything you need for the office, it should also look good with everything in your wardrobe. Madewell’s Transport Tote is a good option for those looking for a convenient catch-all they can take around on a busy day, while the Dagne Dover Legend Tote is a structured bag that has different compartments for safely storing your keys, folders, tumblers, and supplies. Both totes come in classic neutral colors that can easily complement your existing wardrobe.
If you’re more of a backpack girl, however, you can go for Matt & Nat’s Fabi Faux Leather Backpack or Lo & Sons’ Hanover Deluxe Travel Backpack — it all depends on the demands of your job and the things you always bring with you.
Spend time on skincare
Your chic office ensemble will not look as good if you feel and look tired all the time. Our list of ‘7 Amazing Beauty Brands’ features essentials like Unwrapped Life Shampoo & Conditioner Bars, FACE atelier Ultra Matte silicone-based spray mattifier, and ella+mila New Lip Scrubs. These beauty products can be a great complement to your new set of clothes, as healthy skin is always the best thing anyone can wear.
At the end of the day, looking good shouldn’t be complicated and stressful — nor should it cost a lot of money. It’s all about having the basics and sticking with pieces that you will feel comfortable and stylish wearing