Transitioning from student life to the professional world often comes with a sartorial shock. For one former student, swapping leggings and oversized sweatshirts for conference rooms and video calls presented a new challenge: building an office-appropriate wardrobe without draining her bank account.
Investing in a Reliable Foundation
Inspired by how New York City mayor Zohran Mamdani achieved a polished look with budget-friendly suits, she sought advice from professional wardrobe stylist Samantha Elise. The goal was clear: learn to dress for the office without accruing debt, reverting to 1980s corporate clichés, or sacrificing personal flair.
Elise's first rule is to prioritise spending on high-quality staples. While fast fashion's low prices are tempting, she advocates investing more in foundational pieces like a classic pair of black trousers or a timeless trench coat. "Pieces that you can pare everything back to are what I would invest in, because that’s what’s creating that reliable foundation in your closet," Elise explained.
She emphasises the 'touch test' as a key method for identifying quality. "Nine times out of 10, the feeling alone lets you know the quality. I know I’ve come across good denim when it feels thick and sturdy." For well-made basics, she recommends brands like Aritzia and Madewell, both of which offer straightforward return policies for at-home assessments. For office-appropriate denim, she suggests higher-end labels such as Citizens of Humanity and Agolde.
Injecting Personality and Shopping Smart
Moving beyond drab and beige corporate wear is essential, even on a budget. Elise advises incorporating elements that feel authentic, such as a favourite pattern or a bold pop of colour. Experimenting with different silhouettes—like longer-sleeved tees or statement balloon trousers—can also elevate a look while maintaining professionalism.
For standout items, Elise is a firm advocate of the second-hand market. "Go on Depop and find something for $20 versus spending $400 on a designer [striped shirt]. All stripes look the same. Let’s not waste money there, because then you have the striped shirt and no pants to wear it with," she quipped. This approach allows for unique statement pieces while freeing up budget for core items.
Revitalising Your Existing Wardrobe
Perhaps the most budget-friendly strategy is to shop your own closet with a fresh perspective. Elise uses platforms like Pinterest to find inspiration for new outfit combinations from clothes she already owns. "There’s a lot of second-guessing when it comes to [putting together outfits]. You have more answers than you think you do. So trust yourself and be creative," she encouraged.
Simple styling tricks can also breathe new life into old ensembles. Elise recommends playful layering techniques, such as tying a sweater over the shoulders or knotting a blazer around the waist, to add dimension and style to a basic office outfit without spending a penny.
Putting this advice to the test, our writer visited a dressing room near The Guardian's New York office to experiment with Elise's principles, proving that a sharp, personal, and professional wardrobe is achievable without a fortune.
