Where to Find Cheap Professional Clothing

When I was a sophomore in college, I signed up for an event through the journalism school that required I dress business professional. At 19 years old, I didn't own anything within that dress code yet. My mom suggested I head to the mall and stop at a few stores to buy a blouse and a pencil skirt or a pair of slacks.

While I had fun shopping, I came to the sudden realization that just those two pieces of clothing were expensive--the top was $60 and the skirt was $80. For something I wouldn't be wearing very often yet, I felt like there would never be any way I could afford to buy multiple professional outfits.

Since then, I've learned where to look for deals on professional clothing that leave me feeling my best, both with my appearance and with my credit card. Here are a few of my favorite places to shop for professional clothing pieces.

H&M

Creped Blouse

H&M is filled with great basics, and it's easy to build a minimalist capsule work wardrobe from their pieces.

However, it's not only the basics that are great; there are plenty of eye-catching pieces you can mix-and-match with H&M's basics to add a splash of color or an interesting pattern to your outfit.

Most of the professional clothing pieces available here are under $50, although the majority are even cheaper than that.

Dressbarn

Button Pocket Sheath Dress

Although Dressbarn is known for its dresses (of course), there are also plenty of other separates options to add to your closet as well.

Dresses start at $29.95, and I absolutely adore their range of cute sheath dresses.

Zara

Pleated Pants with Buttons

I personally fell in love with Zara while studying abroad in Spain during one summer during college, although I didn't pay too much attention to their professional clothing line while shopping with my friends.

Zara has a wide range of blazers and dress pants that I'm obsessed with, and I'd definitely recommend checking them out.

Express

Mid Rise Barely Boot Columnist Pant

Express is probably one of the more expensive brands on my list, but it's still super affordable, and the quality of the clothing will let you wear it for years to come.

What I go to Express for are the pants--there are SO many options and fits that I think it's pretty much impossible to leave the store empty-handed.

Kohl's

Candie's Open-Front Blazer

Every time I walk into Kohl's, I'm immediately drawn to the adorable professional clothing options in the Juniors' section.

I especially love their blazers; not only are there typical colors like black, gray, and navy blue, but there are different styles and pastel colors for when you want to add a pop to your outfits.

J. Crew Factory

Cotton Blazer

If the term "factory" didn't clue you in to why this store is on my list, take a look at this: the blazer above usually sells for $118; at the J. Crew Factory, the price is cut down to $47.

Are there any stores I missed? Let me know below!

xoxo,

Rachel