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Expert Guide to Your First Day of Work: How to Build a Powerful Professional Look on a Budget
There is no doubt about it – the first day at work can feel both exciting and nerve-wracking. That said, one of the best ways to boost your confidence is by making sure you show up in style and dress the part. After all, first impressions are powerful, and coming to work on day one in polished, professional clothing shows that you take your new role seriously. But looking professional and put together doesn’t mean you need to spend a ton of money. With a few staple pieces and thoughtful choices, you can create a versatile, office-ready wardrobe that will impress your new coworkers without breaking your bank.
Why Professional Attire Matters (and How to Achieve It on a Budget)
Dressing professionally for your first day implicitly signals respect for the job and the role you were hired to do. It shows you are a serious adult, and are here to make an impact.
While work environments can vary, at ReysUp we believe that starting out with attire that leans more toward professional and less towards casual is the safest bet. It’s easier to adjust to a more casual style later if the company culture permits it than to start too casual and risk looking underdressed or unprepared.
And if you are someone who doesn’t want to drop your entire signing bonus on a new wardrobe, you are in luck! Budget–conscious professional dressing is all the rage these days, and there are so many options out there that you can choose from. In fact, many retail brands and second-hand stores are starting to offer more quality pieces at a fraction of what you would traditionally find. The key is to build a foundation of high-quality versatile staples that you can mix and match to create many different looks. Below, we’ll share some of our favorite pieces in each category of clothing to help guide you on your way.
1. Tops: Essential Layers to Build On
When it comes to tops, we recommend that you choose styles that can easily pair with multiple types of bottoms, blazers, and sweaters. A few classic, high-quality tops will get a lot of wear – they will serve as the base layer for many of your outfits so it’s important to choose them wisely.
Some recommendations:
- Button-Down Blouses: A crisp button-down blouse, ideally in white or soft pastels, is timeless and really versatile. It pairs well with virtually everything – from trousers to skirts and even jeans (if the office dress code allows for casual Fridays). Look for fabrics like cotton or a cotton-poly blend for ultra comfort and durability.
- Solid or Patterned Shell Tops: Shell tops, which are sleeveless or short-sleeve blouses, layer really nicely under blazers or cardigans. Solid colors in black, navy, or beige are ideal, but you could also have a little fun with a subtle pattern (like polka dots or stripes).
- Budget Option: Try Target’s A New Day collection for quality shell tops around $15-$20.
- Basic Knit Tops: For an office that’s a bit more relaxed, basic knit tops in neutral colors like gray, black, or cream are comfortable but still polished. They also pair well with more structured bottoms – it’s all about balancing the casual with the put together.
- Budget Option: Old Navy and Amazon Essentials have affordable, well-fitting options for around $10-$15.
2. Blazers and Sweaters: Polished Layers for Every Season
Blazers and sweaters are a great way to add more pizzazz to an outfit and are particularly useful when you need to layer due to cooler office temperatures or cold weather. It’s always a good idea to have a few of these in circulation that you can throw on top of most outfits.
Some recommendations:
- Structured Blazer: This one is obvious, but a blazer instantly elevates any outfit, giving it that sharp, professional edge. We recommend opting for a fitted, single-button blazer in a neutral shade like black, navy, or gray for the most versatility.
- Budget Option: Look for blazers at retailers like Zara or thrift stores. Zara pieces surprisingly tend to wear well for long periods of time, and thrift stores are a great place to find 2nd hand designer options that you know are made with the utmost quality.
- Cardigans: A cardigan is a softer, less formal layer than a blazer but still provides that put-together look. We recommend choosing lightweight cardigans for warmer months and chunkier knits for those colder seasons. Neutral shades (beige, navy, or gray) can complement most outfits, but you can also have a little fun with it and add a pop of color or even a pattern. Just keep in mind, the more color and pattern, the less versatile it is.
- Budget Option: Affordable and stylish cardigans are available at stores like Gap Factory and Target for around $20-$30.
- Draped Open-Front Sweater: If your workplace is more business-casual, a draped sweater is another more modern alternative to the traditional structured blazer. Choose a neutral color for versatility or a jewel tone to add some vibrancy.
- Budget Option: You can find budget-friendly options from brands like Amazon Essentials typically priced around $25-$30.
3. Bottoms: The Foundation of a Professional Look
Investing in a few high-quality bottoms is key to building a mix-and-match wardrobe that lasts a long time. These days, you’ve got a lot of freedom to pick styles that not only flatter your shape but also feel comfortable. For some people, that means opting for a more fitted, hip hugging pair of slacks. For others, that means a more breathable, airy pant. There really isn’t one right answer when it comes to bottoms.
Some recommendations:
- Tailored Trousers: Tailored trousers are a classic option that always reads professional and put together. Black, navy, or gray pants in a straight-leg or ankle-cut are are our favorites.
- Pencil or A-Line Skirts:If skirts are more your style, a classic pencil or A-line skirt is a great choice—they’re flattering, professional, and super versatile. Knee-length skirts in neutral colors or classic patterns like plaid or houndstooth pair easily with blouses, sweaters, and blazers. And while a mini skirt can be fun, it’s best to save those for the weekend. Your first day at the office isn’t the time to test the dress code limits!
- Budget Option: Thrift stores are a goldmine for skirts, but you can also try Uniqlo for affordable, office-ready options starting around $25.
- Dark Wash Jeans (If Allowed): In workplaces with a relaxed dress code, darker-wash jeans are a great choice. Aim for a mid-rise, slim or straight-leg cut to keep the look professional and tight.
4. Shoes: Comfortable Yet Professional Footwear
Comfort is as important as style when it comes to work shoes, especially if you’re going to be on your feet for a long time or walking around a large office. We recommend styles that provide that all-day comfort but still look cute!
Some recommendations:
- Ballet Flats: Ballet flats are so in now, plus they are the ultimate show when it comes to comfort. Look for a simple style in black, beige, or navy for maximum versatility.
- Budget Option: Try DSW or Nordstrom Rack, where you can find ballet flats for around $20. Plus, these stores have GREAT return policies.
- Loafers: Loafers add a nice refined touch to any outfit and are often a bit sturdier than flats. A classic black or brown loafer with minimal details is perfect for an office look.
- Ankle Boots: In colder months, ankle boots are a great way to add a little personality to an otherwise really boring work outfit. We recommend sticking to neutral colors with minimal embellishment to keep the look work-appropriate, but you can definitely have fun with the heel.
- Budget Option: Consider Target’s Universal Thread line or outlets like Saks Off Fifth for ankle boots around $50.
5. Bags: Functional and Stylish Accessories
No work outfit is complete without a great bag! The ideal work bag is both functional and stylish—it should carry everything you need for the day without looking like you’re heading out on a hiking trip. Ideally, you want something roomy enough for essentials like your laptop, notebook, and lunch, but still structured to keep a polished, professional look.
Some recommendations:
- Tote Bag: A classic tote in black, brown, or gray can carry all your essentials in a put together way. We recommend looking for one with a structured silhouette to maintain a more polished look.
- Budget Option: Amazon’s line of structured totes and bags often starts at around $30-$40.
- Crossbody Bag: For days when you don’t need as much space, a crossbody bag is a convenient, hands-free option. Look for one in a neutral shade and a structured design to maintain a professional look.
- Backpack (If Needed): In more casual workplaces or for those who commute, a sleek, minimalist backpack could be a great option. Look for one in a neutral color with clean lines to keep it simple and professional.
Wrapping It Up
Dressing professionally doesn’t mean you have to spend a ton of money. By choosing versatile, neutral-colored pieces, you can create numerous combinations of outfits that look polished and suitable for your first day. Mix and match your tops, bottoms, and layers to create fresh looks without having to buy new clothes every week. We hope this article is helpful and that your first-day outfit (and every day after that) reflects the professionalism and confidence we know you will bring to your new job.
If you enjoyed this article, make sure to check out our other similar post on Expert Tips to Master Your Look in the Zoom Interview.
