First impressions matter a lot, especially when starting a new job. From your looks to your attitude, the way you show up at your new place of work matters.
Speaking of looks, some people tend not to pay much attention to their work outfits. While it’s work and not fashion week, it is still important to dress well.
It might seem impossible, especially if you’re in a financial rut as a result of being unemployed for a while. Regardless of your situation, there’s no excuse to show up for work looking unkempt or disorganized.
If you don’t know how to look elegant, especially on a tight budget, here’s how.
Note what you have in your wardrobe
Go through your wardrobe and take stock of the professional outfits— trousers, shirts, blazers, and shoes— you already have. Once that is done, you can mix and match outfits, and arrange them neatly. Also, arrange your informal wear separately to avoid mixups.
Additionally, declutter your wardrobe and remove torn, faded, dirty, and outdated clothes and shoes, which you can either dispose of, wash/iron, sell or donate. Doing this gives your wardrobe space for new wears, and also gives you an idea of what you’re working with.
Self-grooming is important
Being on a budget is no reason to look unkempt. Self-grooming has little to do with your finances and more to do with your hygiene.
Hygienic practices like bathing at least once a day, brushing your teeth, and washing your hair go a long way in making you look neater and smell fresher.
Additionally, you can cut or style your hair in a professional manner, wear minimal makeup, groom your beard, and so on.
Also, don’t forget to use deodorant and perfume. You don’t want to go about your day smelling like a skunk. It’s the fastest way to turn off your boss and co-workers.
Consider taking out a small, low-interest personal loan to fund your work wardrobe
If you don’t have enough formal outfits, you might want to consider taking a low-interest loan from a reputable loan company. This loan can help you upgrade your wardrobe with clothes, shoes, and accessories that are suitable for work.
You might feel tempted to splurge, but remember that you’re on a budget and the loan is only a means to an end. Spending wisely will help you get the best out of the loan, so you can look your best while working.
Invest in the basics
When shopping for work clothes and you’re unsure of your style, keeping it basic is the way to go.
Basic clothing like white shirts, black slacks, and black shoes are great items to add to your professional wardrobe. Whether you prefer a strictly professional or business-casual style, you can achieve it while on a budget and still show up looking your best.
Keep in mind you can spice up your outfit with some accessories, and also add a splash of color but make sure they’re not over the top. This way, you can switch your style easily from professional to business casual, and so on.
Look out for sales offers from clothing stores or buy from thrift stores
Most clothing stores hold clearance sales periodically or give offers and discounts. By buying clothes in sales, you have the opportunity to buy more for less. If you’re in luck, you might even find a few high-end pieces which you can buy for a cheaper price.
If you cannot find any sales at your clothing store, you might want to check out thrift stores. Thrift stores offer affordable professional clothing, which is great when you’re on a budget.
When you buy from thrift stores, you can find quality pieces that can serve you for a long time, at a smaller price.
Fraquoh and Franchomme
P.S. We want to hear from you! How often do you buy new clothes? Do you buy many at once or a few every now and again?Do you make a specific budget for fashion? Share your feedback, questions or thoughts in the comments below! For more articles on style, fashion tips and cultural insights, you can subscribe to Attire Club via email or follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram!