Tips for Making Office Fashion Affordable

If you’re a mom returning to work—or are currently working, but want to dress your best at the office—you may be wondering how you can put together a professional wardrobe without breaking your budget. Money-saving expert Andrea Woroch has tips to help you update your wardrobe with fashionable work-wear on a budget.

1. Scope Out Consignment Stores
Back when you were expecting, consignment shops were goldmines for inexpensive maternity wear. Lucky for you, they're also a great resource for professional attire. Sell some of your gently-used maternity wear and stock up on business basics including blazers, slacks and pencil skirts. For tips on navigating consignment racks, check out this article from Woman's Day.

2. Shop for Shoes Online
Ultimately, footwear is one of the most important parts of a professional wardrobe. Despite the sheer joy of finding that perfect pair of black-patent pumps, shopping with a toddler is often a trying experience. Avoid the department-store drama and shop online at e-retailers like Endless or Piperlime, who offer free shipping both ways. Alternatively, find free shipping codes for Macy's and other popular retailers from sites like FreeShipping.org to avoid delivery charges.

3. Think Simplicity
You obviously can't afford a series of tailor-made suits, but you can afford a few simple pieces you can dress up or down, as the situation requires. Button-up blouses are a must and can be found on the cheap at Target, Old Navy and other discount retailers. And don't forget cardigans - find a few in your most flattering colors to wear all year long.

4. Avoid Trendy
Keeping up the trends is expensive and you'll often end up with a closet full of unwearable items from last scene. Go for the classics and use accessories to showcase your inner trendsetter -- think freshwater pearls, stud earrings and a tangerine handbag.

5. Keep it Clean
Cleanliness is next to godliness, or at least next to a good first impression. No matter the quality or cost of your clothes, it's vital they remain clean and pressed at all times. You can reduce dry cleaning costs by avoiding such items altogether or using the home-laundry packets readily available at your grocery store.

6. Gauge the Office Culture
You'll feel really uncomfortable in a formal suit if the business owner is sporting jeans and a graphic tee. Many younger entrepreneurs encourage a more relaxed look, so it pays to gauge the office culture before heading into an interview. If the company website doesn't yield any insight, talk to the hiring manager about the office dress code when you schedule the interview.

7. When in Doubt, LBD
The last thing you want to deal with during a job interview is insecurity over your appearance. If you're struggling over what to wear, keep it simple with a little black dress. This versatile piece can be paired with a blazer and smart pumps for corporate cultures, or with a bright cardigan and layered necklace for more casual environments.

8. Swap Your Maternity Clothes
If you have friends or family members who recently announced they're expecting, it's time to dust off your maternity clothes and consider a swap. Ask the new mom to be if she has any business attire that she would be willing to exchange for your pregnancy wear.