Back to Basics Starter Work Capsule for under $250

Scenario: You are starting a new job that has a more professional dress code than your closet is equipped for. You have pieces that you can use and get away with but you need to up your game and build a work capsule for under $250.

First: I suggest stripping your current wardrobe down to the bones and bring forward anything that you can use for your new work wardrobe.

Try things on in a more formal way, like adding a blazer or slipping on some heels and see if that moves it from a casual wardrobe to work.

I give five simple steps for building a work wardrobe in this post that will help you get an idea of where you stand, and what you may need.

Next: Once you have gone through those steps I suggest looking for your pieces at thredup, ebay, or used/consignment stores.

That are so many treasures and deals that you can find there and many times you can find things that look like they have never been worn and even still have tags.

This will save you tons and allow you to get some extra pieces if you wish.

I’ve put together some suggestions that start with a small collection of pieces that most women already have in their closets. There is no point in buying something when you have pieces that will work.

In my experience most women have at least one of the of the following in their wardrobes:

• any style of blazer (even if you just bought it for job interviews)
• a long sleeve blouse
• heels
• flats
• boots (good for seasonal weather)
• a structured bag or two (blue bag, black bag)

Most women also have at least a small collection of accessories like jewellery and scarves which can completely change and dress up and outfit.

The pieces that I have selected to add I picked for their cohesiveness. That is important when you want to make as many outfits as possible with as little pieces as possible.

The new addition pieces I have selected are:

• white blouse
• dark green sweater
• striped pullover
• black sweater
• pencil skirt
• slim dress pants
• trench

Grand Total: $226.85 
(which can be made way lower if you find these pieces second-hand)

In the next post I am going to show a bunch of outfit combinations from these pieces so you can see how they can all be paired.

I hope that this gives you a start on your new work wardrobe.

Do you have a favourite second-hand retailer for finding great pieces?

This post contains affiliate links. By using my links to shop I may receive a small commission (at no cost to you). Thanks for supporting what I do 

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