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Image Credit: Mytour / Alli WaatajaMany believe that professional attire must come with a hefty price tag to be both fashionable and suitable for the workplace, but this is far from accurate. Numerous stores, both physical and online, offer elegant, modern, and refined clothing at affordable prices—knowing where to shop is key.
Shopping for workwear can be enjoyable, yet it can also be overwhelming, particularly when you’re constrained by a budget and unsure where to begin. The ideal destinations for affordable workwear should feature a broad selection of office essentials, including tailored pants, blouses, skirts, blazers, and outerwear, available in a wide range of sizes.
To identify the best budget-friendly options, we evaluated numerous clothing retailers, focusing on aspects like pricing, variety of styles, size inclusivity, and return policies. Additionally, we sought insights from stylists Dina Scherer and Katie Carreiro, who shared expert tips on discovering affordable yet stylish workwear.
Whether you’re preparing for an important job interview or aiming to curate a versatile wardrobe for any professional setting, these retailers offer the perfect pieces to help you stand out in the office.
The store offers an extensive range of clothing from both affordable and high-end brands.
Sizing can be inconsistent across various brands.
Amazon serves as a massive marketplace featuring countless clothing brands and a vast array of items suitable for professional settings. The Amazon Fashion section simplifies browsing through categories such as dresses, tops, footwear, handbags, and accessories.
For those who prefer high-end fashion, Amazon offers access to over 800 premium brands, including Coach, Calvin Klein, and Free People. Additionally, Amazon Essentials, the platform's in-house brand, provides a wide variety of work-appropriate attire, such as blouses, cardigans, wrap dresses, and button-down shirts, with most items priced under $40.
Although a Prime membership isn't mandatory for shopping, it offers benefits like free two-day delivery, exclusive discounts during Prime Deal Days, and a 'try before you buy' feature, allowing you to test up to six items for seven days before making a purchase.
The return process is straightforward—simply log into your account, select the item you wish to return, and Amazon will provide a refund or replacement if the request is made within 30 days of purchase.
Price Range: Starting at $5 | Size Range: XXS–6X | Return Policy: 30-day window
IMAGE: TargetTarget features multiple in-house brands offering both formal and casual attire in a wide range of sizes.
Certain online purchases may require a minimum $35 order for shipping eligibility.
Target offers an impressive range of affordable, high-quality clothing from its in-house labels such as A New Day, Universal Thread, and Ava & Viv. A New Day and Universal Thread provide essential workwear like blouses, button-ups, skirts, dresses, tapered trousers, and even flare jeans for casual Fridays. Meanwhile, Ava & Viv focuses on plus-size fashion, offering sizes XXL to 4X.
With a Target Red Card, you can enjoy a 5% discount on all purchases and free two-day shipping on most orders. However, some items may require a minimum $35 purchase for shipping, which can be inconvenient for smaller orders.
Target’s return policy is customer-friendly, allowing returns within 90 days for most items. Red Card holders get an additional 30 days, and Target-branded items can be returned or exchanged within a full year.
Price Range: $6–$60 | Size Range: XXS–4X | Return Policy: 90 days for most items; 120 days for Red Card holders; one year for Target-brand items
The store offers a wide variety of clothing perfect for creating a versatile capsule wardrobe.
Shipping can be slow, with delivery times sometimes exceeding a week.
Old Navy is a favorite among shoppers for its extensive collection of versatile clothing that transitions effortlessly from casual to professional. Unlike other brands, Old Navy simplifies the search for workwear with its dedicated “wear to work” section, featuring wide-leg trousers, jumpsuits, chinos, button-down shirts, and more.
Old Navy excels in offering pieces that form the foundation of a capsule wardrobe. For instance, a pair of trousers, a skirt, or a dress can be paired with basics like a neutral blouse, a timeless blazer, or a cozy sweater to create numerous outfits from a minimal selection.
Online orders come with a flat $7 shipping fee, but members enjoy free shipping on orders over $50. While the standard five to seven-day delivery is acceptable, some customers have reported delays, so this is worth considering.
If you’re not happy with your purchase, items must be returned within 30 days of the in-store purchase or delivery date. Returns are free when made in-store or via mail using a prepaid return label or QR code.
Price Range: $5–$60 | Size Range: XXS–4X | Return Policy: 30-day window
IMAGE: H&MThe brand frequently refreshes its collections with the latest fashion trends.
The quality of garments can be inconsistent.
If you love staying on top of the latest trends and want your wardrobe to mirror that, H&M is an excellent choice. Known for its stylish and modern clothing, the retailer is also celebrated for its affordable options.
The easy-to-navigate website allows you to explore hundreds of pieces perfect for work presentations, virtual meetings, or evening outings. Both in-store and online, you’ll find a variety of items that can be styled alone or paired with other pieces, such as elegant pencil skirts, high-waisted trousers, satin blouses, button-down shirts, and more.
Orders under $60 include a flat $6 shipping fee. While H&M’s clothing often looks premium, some customers have reported issues with quality, such as poor stitching, items falling apart after washing, or inconsistent sizing.
If you encounter any issues with your purchase, the store’s return policy allows returns within 30 days. However, a $6 shipping fee will be deducted from your refund.
Price Range: Starting at $10 | Size Range: XXS–4XL | Return Policy: 30 Days
IMAGE: Nordstrom RackIt offers luxury brands and popular department store items at significantly reduced prices.
Some items, depending on the brand, may still be pricey.
Shopping from high-end brands can be expensive, but Nordstrom Rack is ideal for discovering affordable workwear from premium labels like Calvin Klein, DKNY, Sam Edelman, Theory, and more. In fact, Scherer recommends Nordstrom Rack for its high-quality, stylish selections at a fraction of the original cost.
The store features thousands of discounted clothing items, including corduroy flare pants, oversized jackets, relaxed blouses, and more from luxury brands. Whether you need a tailored blazer for a crucial meeting or a coordinated pantsuit, you’ll find plenty of workwear essentials both in-store and online.
Keep in mind that some items may still be pricey even with significant discounts. To avoid overspending, we suggest filtering your online search by price and brand to find the most affordable options.
A flat $10 shipping fee applies to orders under $89, but shipping is free for orders $89 and above. In-store purchases can be returned within 30 days, while online purchases have a 40-day return window.
Price Range: $10–$200 | Size Range: XXS–4X | Return Policy: 30 days for in-store purchases; 40 days after order date for online purchases
IMAGE: UniqloThe brand offers minimalist, versatile styles that can be effortlessly paired together.
Limited physical store locations restrict opportunities for in-person shopping.
Uniqlo is known for creating stylish, comfortable, and affordable clothing. Its collection features timeless basics in neutral shades that can be paired with vibrant, colorful, or patterned items to craft a well-rounded professional look. Among its extensive range of offerings,
Uniqlo offers linen and satin blouses, ribbed and mesh sweaters, cardigans, dresses, and more, which can be styled formally for work events or casually for evening outings.
Additionally, if you want to add flair to your outfit, you can explore accessories such as handbags, sunglasses, and belts. While Uniqlo’s online store makes shopping convenient, its limited 59 U.S. locations may pose a challenge for those who prefer in-person shopping and don’t live near a store.
Shipping costs $8 for orders under $99 and is free for orders $99 and above. Returns are accepted within 30 days for both in-store and online purchases, with a $7 shipping fee deducted from your refund.
Price Range: Starting at $10 | Size Range: XXS–3XL | Return Policy: 30 days
IMAGE: J.Crew FactoryIt offers a mix of classic and bold clothing with a preppy aesthetic.
Return shipping fees are subtracted from your refund.
J. Crew pieces are often expensive, making J. Crew Factory an excellent alternative for affordable yet fashionable options. The outlet has both physical stores across the U.S. and an online shop featuring a wide range of clothing that balances timeless and trendy styles, appealing to all age groups.
While exploring the extensive collection, you’ll find essentials like single- and double-button blazers, linen tops, cotton button-downs, and more, discounted up to 70% off the original price. You can refine your search by size, color, price, discount, or even a trending filter that highlights best-sellers, new arrivals, and top-rated items to keep your wardrobe current.
Online orders under $99 incur a $7 flat shipping fee, while orders $99 and above ship free. Returns are accepted within 30 days and can be made in-store for free or via mail with a prepaid label. Note that a $7.50 shipping fee is deducted from your refund.
Price Range: $10–$148 | Size Range: XXS–3X | Return Policy: 30-day window
IMAGE: LoftThe brand features a dedicated online section for professional attire.
The designs may lean toward simplicity.
Loft creates clothing that emphasizes elegance, comfort, and simplicity, making it a top choice for affordable, understated workwear. Its refined designs are timeless, suitable for job interviews, office meetings, work dinners, and beyond.
Whether you visit a Loft store or shop online, you’ll discover a wide array of professional attire to match various style preferences, including dressy cargo pants, chinos, tailored trousers, flowing blouses, button-down shirts, and more.
While Loft’s offerings are polished and office-appropriate, they may appear too subdued for those who prefer bold or vibrant styles. Shipping costs $9 for orders under $99 but is free for orders over $99.
If you’re unsatisfied with your purchase, you can return items within 30 days for a refund. If you choose to mail your return, a $9 shipping fee will be deducted from your refund.
Price Range: $20–$220 | Size Range: XXS–XXL; 00–26 | Return Policy: 30 days
IMAGE: GapThe store offers business casual attire that’s suitable for both office and remote work environments.
It could expand its size inclusivity.
Beyond its relaxed, casual collections, Gap features hundreds of clothing items designed to keep you stylish and confident during your workday. Both in-store and online, Gap offers trendy pieces such as coordinated sets, timeless button-downs, velvet and satin blouses, khakis, midi dresses, and more.
While the extensive range of items is ideal for building a professional wardrobe, the sizes only go up to XXL or 20, which may be limiting for plus-size shoppers.
If an item doesn’t fit or meet your expectations, you can return it to a Gap store or via mail with a free prepaid label within 30 days of purchase. Online orders have a flat $7 shipping fee, but members enjoy free shipping on orders over $50.
Price Range: $10–$120 | Size Range: XXS–XXL; 00-20 | Return Policy: 30 days
IMAGE: Banana Republic FactoryIt offers premium, luxury-brand pieces at discounted rates.
The website layout may be challenging for some users to navigate.
If you adore Banana Republic’s designs but find the prices steep, Banana Republic Factory is an excellent alternative. The retailer offers popular styles from Banana Republic at significantly reduced prices, allowing you to build a wardrobe of favorites without breaking the bank.
The brand features timeless, elegant, and modern styles with a trendy twist, such as tapered pants, tie-waist trousers, V-neck sweaters, linen skirts, and more. Additionally, it provides versatile mix-and-match options for personalized styling.
Banana Republic Factory operates both physical stores and an online shop, though the website can be tricky to navigate due to a somewhat hidden filter button and a grid-style display of clothing options.
Despite this, the filter feature is useful for refining your search based on material, color, wash, or silhouette. Note that the retailer charges a flat $7 shipping fee for orders under $50 and allows free returns either by mail or in-store.
Price Range: $20–$200 | Size Range: XXS–XXL; 00–20 | Return Policy: 30 days
The retailer offers runway-inspired pieces that can also serve as professional attire.
Some designs may be too bold for traditional office wear.
Zara is known for its bold, unique, and trendsetting styles, offering everything you need to stand out at work. With vibrant colors, sharp lines, and innovative patterns, the brand provides numerous options to elevate your work wardrobe affordably.
Whether you visit a physical store or shop online, you’ll discover a range of professional attire, including double-breasted blazers, belted dresses, midi and pencil skirts, textured cardigans, and more. However, you may need to sift through some bold styles to find simpler, more classic pieces.
When shopping online at Zara, a flat $7 shipping fee applies to orders under $70, with delivery typically taking two to four days. If you’re unhappy with your purchase, you can return items within 30 days either in-store or by mail. Note that a $5 shipping fee will be deducted from your refund.
Price Range: Starting at $20 | Size Range: XXS–XXL | Return Policy: 30 days
IMAGE: ExpressIt offers a wide range of basic, trendy, and bold pieces at affordable prices.
Its size range is limited.
Stepping into an Express store, you’re immediately greeted by upbeat music, bright lighting, and a collection of polished, professional styles that exude confidence. Similarly, the retailer’s online catalog offers a variety of clothing options designed to empower and help you embrace your inner executive.
The collection includes fitted dresses, stylish work jumpsuits, tailored trousers, pencil skirts, shoes, jewelry, and more. However, Express falls short in size inclusivity, offering sizes only up to XL, which excludes plus-size shoppers.
Express stands out for its affordability, with most items starting at just $17 and discounted pieces dropping to $10 or less during frequent online sales. Shipping is free for orders over $75, while orders under $75 incur an $8 flat fee. Returns are accepted within 30 days and can be made in-store or by mail, with a $7 shipping fee deducted from your refund.
Price Range: Starting at $17 | Size Range: XXS-XL | Return Policy: 30 days
How to Shop for Affordable Work Clothes Like a Pro
Price Range
Whether you’re searching for budget-friendly blazers or high-end blouses for the office, keeping your budget in mind is crucial. Workwear prices can vary widely, from as low as $5 or $10 to several hundred dollars, depending on the brand and type of clothing.
At most mass retailers, you can typically find quality pieces priced between $20 and $60. Shopping clearance or sale sections can help you save even more. Additionally, Scherer and Carreiro recommend considering the “cost-per-wear” factor when purchasing work attire.
“Regardless of how inexpensive an item is, the fewer times it’s worn, the less value it holds,” Carreiro explains. “For example, a $500 Zara blazer worn 10 times costs $50 per wear, but if worn 100 times, it drops to $5 per wear and can even be resold.”
Clothing Selection
A retailer’s clothing selection is another key factor to consider. While ‘work clothes’ can vary, both Scherer and Carreiro agree that a foundational work wardrobe should include essentials like well-tailored pants, blazers, skirts, tops, and jackets. These pieces are not only versatile but also often come in inclusive sizes.
“Relaxed-fit trousers paired with a button-down shirt suit any work environment and can be found at any retailer, in any size,” Carreiro notes. “This outfit formula is also ideal for thrifting, so don’t hesitate to explore the men’s section and use a tailor to achieve the perfect fit.”
Size Range
With sizing standards varying across brands, finding work clothes that fit and flatter your body type can be challenging. Always review a retailer’s sizing charts to ensure proper fit and check their size range to gauge how inclusive their collection is.
“As a general guideline, aim for a balance between shoulders and hips, with emphasis on the waist to create flattering proportions. Also, pay attention to vertical proportions to avoid unnecessary shortening or elongation,” Scherer advises.
Return Policy
Return policies differ by brand, so it’s essential to understand a retailer’s policy before purchasing. While most retailers allow returns within 30 days, some, like Target, extend this period up to a year for certain items. Scherer also recommends noting the condition required for returns and the accepted return methods (e.g., mail-in, in-store).
Questions You Might Ask
How do you afford work clothes when on a budget?
Building a professional wardrobe doesn’t require a large upfront investment or numerous purchases. Start with a few versatile core pieces that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits.
“Begin by assembling your ideal ‘uniform’ outfit, one piece at a time,” Carreiro suggests. “Focus first on items you can wear multiple times a week, such as tailored trousers, jeans, quality shoes, or a stylish coat.” From there, gradually add complementary pieces to expand your wardrobe.
How much should you spend on work clothes?
Setting a clear budget before shopping helps avoid overspending. Determine your total budget for workwear and allocate portions to categories like core pieces, accessories, and shoes to stay organized.
That said, Carreiro advises spending no more than 3% of your annual income on clothing. However, this percentage and total spending can vary significantly based on your personal budget and shopping habits.
How many pieces do you need for a capsule work wardrobe?
A capsule wardrobe can be built with just 10 to 15 versatile pieces, allowing for endless mix-and-match possibilities. For example, this might include four pairs of pants, six tops, three jackets, and two dresses. With these neutral-colored staples, you can create nearly 100 unique outfits by layering different combinations.
Take Our Word for It
This article was written by Alicia Geigel, a contributing writer for Mytour. To identify the best places for affordable workwear, she evaluated factors like price range, clothing selection, size inclusivity, and return policies. She also considered popular retailers based on customer reviews and ratings. For expert insights, Alicia consulted Dina Scherer, a personal stylist, color analysis expert, and owner of Modnitsa Styling, and Katie Carreiro, a personal stylist.
