Create a Work-Friendly Wardrobe on a Budget?
Congratulations! The good news is it’s really easy to create a basic wardrobe with just a few key pieces. You can mix and match those essentials in a variety of combinations, so you don’t have to feel like you’re always wearing the same thing and will have outfits suitable for various occasions. Let’s get you started.
Use neutral colors as your base (black, gray, navy, or tans). This will not only ensure all your clothes will go together, it also can be a huge time saver (President Obama only wears gray or navy suits, eliminating that small decision he’d have to make every morning).
Use accessories to switch up your look. Once you’ve got the basics (see below for suggestions), accessories like ties for men or jewelry for women can add more color and variety to your wardrobe.
When you find a piece you love that fits you well, buy multiple versions of it in different colors.
If you have more room for things like sweaters and blazers, the image above showcases something similar for you. With just 9 items (including shoes), you have an entire week’s worth of outfits. Created as an example for a business trip, these are good basics (three dress shirts, a blazer, v-neck sweater, loafers, two trousers, and a pair of cuff links).
The list below makes a comprehensive checklist of classic clothes that make up a simple wardrobe. This includes:
- 2 formal suits
- 1 classic tuxedo
- 3 go-to blazers
- 4 dress shirts
- 2 slim dark jeans
- 2 slim neutral chinos
- 2 belts
- 1 watch
- 1 pair of sunglasses
- 1 turtleneck sweater
- 1 neutral cardigan
- 2 dress shoes (black and brown)
- 1 pair each of loafers, mocassins, and sneakers
- 1 neutral scarf
- 3 ties
- 4 pocket squares
- 3 checked shirts
- 2 bowties
- 6 basic T-shirts
- 3 polo shirts
- 1 pair of flip flops
Obviously, you don't need to go out and buy everything on this list. Tweak for your specific needs and work dress code, and buy the important stuff first (a tuxedo, for example, probably isn’t for you if you’re not going to wear it at least three times in the next few years, and we wouldn't exactly call pocket squares or bow ties "essentials" you need right off the bat).
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