I‘ve lost track of how many times I’ve found the perfect shirt or skirt and just had to buy it. But let’s face it ladies—we can’t all afford to splurge on every piece we’ve ever wanted (the sad truth). Because of this, I have learned the art of creating a wardrobe that mixes high and low price points.
Building your work wardrobe can seem a bit daunting pricewise, but by investing in the right pieces and saving on others you can help keep you from breaking the bank completely. And my favourite part of it all: no one will know the difference!
Shoes: Splurge
One thing that sets the tone for an outfit is a great shoe. A neutral pair of heels is so versatile and timeless that the investment will be worth it I promise you. By splurging on a staple pair of black shoes for work, you can make the rest of your outfit look like you spent your life savings on it, even if you didn’t.
1. Net-A-Porter Christian Louboutin The Pigalle patent-leather pumps, $625
2. Barneys Manolo Blahnik BB Pump, $595
3. Rupert Sanderson Delrose High Heel Pumps, $585
4. Giuseppe Zanotti E46110 001 Pumps, $695
Dress Shirts: Save
This is a great one to save serious money on. So many department stores have mastered the button-up blouse and are offering them at affordable prices. Keep an eye out in stores like H & M, Target and Zara for these awesome steals. By stocking up on these babies, you can reinvent the other pieces you splurged on, so you’ll never seem like an outfit repeater.
1. UNIQLO Women Silk Print Long Sleeve Blouse, $49
2. Nic + Zoe Modern Blouse, $108
3. Tom Top Sheer Chiffon Blouse, $14
Bag: Splurge
I’m a big believer in every woman needing a good quality purse for work. Between our wallets, makeup, iPad, and lunch we’ve got a lot of things to carry with us daily. Opt for a big neutral bag with some structure that will fit all of your essentials. A high-end bag always finishes off any outfit and will make you look polished as well as professional.
1. Neiman Marcus MARC by Marc Jacobs Too Hot to Handle Bentley Tote, $571
2. Nordstrom Kate Spade Claremont Drive Marcella Tote, $551
3. Neiman Marcus Tory Burch Robinson Mini Double-Zip Tote, $548
4. Barneys 3.1 Phillip Lim Medium Pashli Satchel, $825
Accessories: Save
Much like the dress shirt, accessories are an area where you can really fake it ‘til you make it. Once you start making the big bucks, splurge away! But until then, there’s no point spending hundreds of dollars on a statement necklace when there are so many great accessory options for a fraction of the price.
1. 2020AVE Textured Golden Necklace, $13
2. 2B Polka Dot Watch, $19
3. Humble Chic Neon Deco Necklace, $48
By: Kelly Stewart, Toronto
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