The Affordable Fashion Scores Fashionable Professionals Swear By
It’s a weird time to be a professional person right now. Very few workplaces still adhere to the "office professional" attire of business suits and formal blouses. Add an ongoing pandemic that leaves many of us in some kind of ever-shifting WFH/hybrid set-up, and figuring out what to wear to work has only gotten more confusing. Finding clothes that are polished, fashionable, comfortable, and work-appropriate plagues many of us, even if we'd never go back to the panty-hose-and-heels days.
Looking for some inspiration, we asked over 40 professionals to dish on their favorite affordable fashion finds. The word “affordable” here is subjective, of course — we’ve got a whole gamut of participants with different style needs, from a CEO of a tech company to an on-set costumer for TV and film. To that end, the picks you’ll see vary tremendously, from budget-friendly gems to investment pieces that still offer great value for your dollar — and will last for years. And while the hands-down fave retailers are H&M, Uniqlo, Etsy, and Amazon, many of those we spoke to also cited resale sites like Poshmark, The RealReal, The Outnet, thredUP, and Depop as crucial shopping destinations for sourcing designer items for cheap. And, surprisingly (although, maybe not?), many of these fashion finds were discovered via Instagram ads.
In terms of the actual fashion pieces, the majority of the picks (which are a healthy mix of both neutral and statement) were chosen for their “business casual” versatility. Think: button-ups that can be dressed up or down, oversized blazers that can be thrown on for Zoom calls, plain tees and tanks that are perfect as base layers, and cute jumpsuits that take the guesswork out of getting dressed. However, we think the best affordable professional clothes would have to be the fashion styles that are so unicorn-perfect in price, quality, fit, and level of appropriate-ness that they’re copped in every single color. And, don’t you worry, you’ll see several of those picks up ahead, too.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Cute Tops For The Workplace
Big Dart Long-Sleeve Blouse
"My favorite workwear staple is my screaming loud blouse that I found on Amazon Fashion for $23. It is one of my best conversation starters. I hardly ever shop for fashion on Amazon, but one day I was shopping for household products and I was like, 'Let me tuck some other goodness in this shipment.' I searched for 'women blouses' and there it was. [It was a welcome change after] wearing the same blouses over and over again for Zoom meetings." — Sara, founder/CEO
Big Dart Casual Long Sleeve Button Down Shirt, $, available at Amazon
Wosalba Womens Long Sleeve Turtleneck
"I purchased a jersey turtleneck for myself several years ago, and I loved it so much I've since added it to my list of wardrobe essentials (from which numerous clients have purchased and loved). What I love most about this piece (other than the ah-mazing price point) is that it looks great with just about anything: jeans, pleated pants, skirts, boots, wide-leg pants, pumps, vests, flares, etc. And because it's so lightweight, it's a great layering piece that can be worn in the fall, winter, and spring." — Lana, personal stylist and personal shopper
Wosalba Womens Long Sleeve Mock Turtleneck, $, available at Amazon
Banana Republic Tailored Non-Iron Shirt
"I'm all for the current oversized shirt trend but there's really nothing quite like a classic fitted, crisp, white button-down — and for under $30, this one from Banana Republic is hard to beat! The 98% cotton, 2% spandex give you just the right amount of stretch and, best of all, it's machine washable! Last but not least, the length is perfect to tuck into jeans, pants, or skirts, OR to leave untucked — win-win-win." — Lana, personal stylist and personal shopper
Banana Republic Tailored Non-Iron Shirt, $, available at Banana Republic
Uniqlo x Marimekko Short-Sleeve Shirt
“As an interior designer, I always have to be fashion-forward — and with so many appointments on the books, I have to shop on-trend and affordably. Every New Yorker knows Uniqlo is a hidden gem for quality workwear pieces at great price points. They have great button-downs that can be paired with a pair of white jeans and cool heels.” — Sherica, interior designer
Uniqlo x Marimekko WOMEN COTTON OPEN COLLAR SHORT-SLEEVE SHIRT, $, available at Uniqlo
Banana Republic Factory Covered-Button Blouse
"I love buying tops, blazers, and pants on sale at the regular Banana Republic store or the Factory. Even if these particular pieces may be out of stock sometimes, they may have similar pieces across the whole collection to mix and match. The key, for me, is choosing classics! I love pieces that last for years, and I love purchasing them when there's a huge sale." — Karisa, certified personal trainer and certified nutrition coach
"The Wknd Nation Power Tee in pink and black are my workwear workhorses because the fit and style of this organic tee look good with everything from jeans to skirts and pants. I wear them both all the time and the colors never fade. These tees are some of the most flattering and comfortable pieces I own and I'm always feeling confident in them. I know I will wear these tees for seasons to come because they always make me look polished." — Melissa, communications entrepreneur
Wknd Nation Organic Cotton Power Tee, $, available at Wknd Nation
Geyoga Basic Racerback Crop Tank Top 4-Pack
"I would have to say my favorite workwear staples are my Amazon tank tops I wear under a blazer, cardigan, or small cropped jacket. I discovered these tank tops on an influencer’s Instagram story. I was so intrigued with the style I had to buy them immediately! They come in four different colors: white, black, brown, and dark green. I mainly wanted a simple style to go along with my other capsule wardrobe pieces." — Paige, real estate consultant
Geyoga Basic Racerback Crop Tank Top 4-Pack, $, available at Amazon
Bardot Senita Knit Top
“I discovered knit tops through shopping for various two-piece outfits. It makes such a great score because whether it is bought as a matching set or as a solo piece, it can be integrated with so many other pieces including skirts, pants, blazers, over a button-up, etc. And with many offices being chilly, it is great for keeping warm without having to wear long sleeves.” — Lesha, support specialist
“This is the perfect blouse for working from home or the office because it goes with everything, never wrinkles, and looks both laid-back and professional. If I have Zoom meetings with clients, I'm definitely wearing this in one of the four colors that I own.” — AJ, financial advisor
Uniqlo WOMEN RAYON LONG-SLEEVE BLOUSE, $, available at Uniqlo
Paloma Wool Ola Top
“I wear my Paloma Wool button-down like twice a week because it works for a professional setting, the fabric is always fun and lightweight, and it’s easy to dress up or down. Plus, the brand's crop is always the perfect cut for me.” — Jordan, podcast producer
Paloma Wool Paloma Wool Ola Top, $, available at Garmentory
Everlane The Square Air Shirt
“I know I’m not rocking anyone’s world by recommending Everlane, but I have an earlier edition of this shirt and I wear it all the time. It’s become the perfect Zoom piece because it looks cute over jean shorts in the summer so it doesn’t look like one of those newscaster memes we saw early in the pandemic of a suit and tie over basketball shorts. This top is also airy enough to throw on over yoga clothes if I have time for a midday workout but not enough time for a shower and a wardrobe change.” — Liza, psychotherapist
Everlane The Square Air Shirt, $, available at Everlane
Zara Oversized Striped Shirt
“My daily WFH uniform involves wearing a button-down! I love wearing Maryam Nassir Zadeh tops a lot, but they can be pricey. But you can also easily thrift one or get similar styles from Zara.” — Olivia, online merchandiser
Zara OVERSIZED STRIPED SHIRT, $, available at Zara
Cute Shoes For The Workplace
Marks and Spencer Wide Fit Leather Tassel Flatform Loafers
“I am a huge fan of loafers because they are versatile for the workplace and even for fun outings. That is why when I found these leather loafers from Marks and Spencer, I absolutely had to buy them as part of my workwear essentials. I wear them to work most days and they really have become a staple in my wardrobe! I discovered these shoes when I was out window-shopping. I’m a no-frills person so the plain black design of these shoes really appealed to me. Plus, the slight shine makes them perfect for a polished look and does not undermine the professional environment at all!” — Marilyn, founder of a tech company
Marks and Spencer Wide Fit Leather Tassel Flatform Loafers, $, available at Marks and Spencer
Aerosoles Emon
"I never was a heels person, but these clogs have turned things around for me. They're mad comfy, give me a very generous boost, and don't slip off my feet like most mules. They're the actual ideal shoes for the professional woman that I am. And, because these are Aerosoles, you best believe they're lightweight, have grippy soles, and have squishy footbeds that save me from blisters." — Jinnie, writer
"When I was pregnant four years ago, I dropped $130 on a pair of brown leather Dansko clogs because I was completely uncomfortable in anything else. Turns out they’re not only incredibly comfortable, but they also dress up casual outfits. Score!" — Jenny, pregnancy and parenting columnist and author
Dansko Professional Antique Brown/Blk, $, available at Dansko
QipaoMood Chinese Embroidery Slipper
"My ABSOLUTE favorite back-to-work fashion piece are these slippers I bought on Etsy. They were an impulse buy to cheer myself up for returning to full-time work and travel. They were also a much-needed solution to the comfy slipper habit I formed while at home during lockdown. I don't even remember how I happened upon this exact pair, but they are a stunning, comfortable, affordable godsend. I get compliments on them everywhere I go, and I struggle with whether I should admit they're slippers or not. They feel like a glove, literally. They are also slides, so I can kick them off under my desk if no one is looking and shuffle back into them as I rise to greet a client." — Kathy, founder/CEO
QipaoMood Chinese Embroidery Slipper, $, available at Etsy
Cole Haan Grandpro Spectator 2.0 Slip-On Sneaker
"We got a puppy during the pandemic, so easy-on, easy-off slip-ons have been a lifesaver for training and emergency walks between Zoom calls. I like this pair from Cole Haan as a dressier option — it feels profesh and can also be worn to in-person meetings. And these Vans are great for everyday use." — Laura, senior design and technology editor
Cole Haan Women's Grandpro Spectator 2.0 Slip-On Sneaker, $, available at Amazon
Cute Dresses For The Workplace
SheIn Knot Front Button Up Shirt Dress
"SheIn is a great, affordable source for cute work dresses. What I love most about the reviews is that you can see real photos from other buyers so you can really get a feel for what the pieces look like on real bodies without worrying about the pics being photoshopped or retouched!!" — Sherica, interior designer
SheIn Knot Front Button Up Shirt Dress, $, available at SheIn
Laws of Motion Quint Dress
“This reversible dress is my professional (and personal) go-to. I'm big on investment pieces and this machine-washable and sustainable dress fits the bill. The versatility is what sold me. There are long straps at the neck that allow you to style the dress as a mock neck or tied as a bow in the front. It's my favorite day-to-night piece because I can wear it with the bow with a kitten heel for work, then reverse it as a mock neck and throw on a sneaker before I leave for happy hour.” — Sara, senior client partnership coordinator at Refinery29
Laws of Motion The Quint Dress, $, available at Laws of Motion
Uniqlo x Marimekko Sleeveless A-Line Dress
“I'm so obsessed with the Uniqlo x Marimekko collaboration. As an art and design publicist, I always get compliments when I’m wearing it on the job. I love everything I’ve gotten from the collection — it’s so cute and comfortable.” — Elisa, publicist
Uniqlo x Marimekko WOMEN SLEEVELESS A-LINE DRESS, $, available at Uniqlo
Mordenmiss Tunic Dress
“I get all of my clothes from a store called Mordenmiss on Amazon. I have this tunic dress in every color and I wear leggings under it. I found this by pure luck! I was searching for Lagenlook clothes, which is essentially a whimsical European look that is really fashionable at the moment. I came across Mordenmiss and have never looked back! This clothing line is very European, really trendy, and eclectic; most importantly, it is forgiving. Most dresses have an empire line that gives you a natural hourglass, and the tops gather at the sides in a way that enhances your natural curves! Lastly, they’re true to size. I get asked about my clothing ALL the time.” — Nikki, travel writer
Mordenmiss Women's Long Sleeve Tunic Dress with Pockets, $, available at Amazon
AngieandWes Dark Navy Organic Cotton Swing Dress
"My favorite work staples come from this little gem of a store on Etsy called AngieandWes. The clothes are affordable, extremely great quality, and made right here in America. The dresses are easy to dress up or down." — Kirby, PR strategist
AngieandWes Dark Navy Organic Cotton Swing Dress, $, available at Etsy
Cute Accessories For The Workplace
Mejuri Duet Ear Cuff
"The ear cuff is my go-to staple accessory. It is the only thing in my wardrobe that I wear every day. It goes with everything and it adds a touch of luxury to whatever I’m wearing, no matter if I am dressed up or down. It is so comfortable, I can't even feel it." — Olga, gemologist
"I love a simple and timeless wristwatch! This accessory really polishes off any outfit and I love not having to look at my phone for the time. I currently love the Skagen Ancher Chronograph Black Eco Leather Watch." — Tara, fashion stylist
Skagen Ancher Chronograph Black Eco Leather Watch, $, available at Skagen
Warby Parker Percey
“I flit around the office and warehouse all day, checking on products and auditing processes, so I need to look professional but feel swift and light as mercury. One of my go-to’s are my Percey glasses by Warby Parker — I have every shade and pattern. I interchange them daily and sometimes even throughout my day. I'm a free-wheeling, spunky woman in my late 50s, but I have to play an austere role at work. These glasses do it all for me!” — Amy, financial controller
“By far my fave post-Covid ‘back to work’ find is my Lululemon vinyasa scarf. It was my fashionable security blanket when I emerged from my zen home and returned to a sterile office. During the lockdown, I depended on yoga breaks a couple of times a day which gave my life some sort of rhythm during Covid. My vinyasa scarf has been a flexible staple of my work/life wardrobe ever since. I've also used it as a layering piece, as a beach coverup, and as a cute accessory for happy hours or dates.” — Nadia, health advisor and registered dietitian
Lululemon Customizable Snap Scarf, $, available at Lululemon
Olo Dark Wave
“I recently found an affordable perfume I am obsessed with that reminds me of my way more expensive Le Labo scent Vetiver. I can roll it on multiple times a day without worrying about the cost per wear. I've been going back on set for photoshoots since Covid restrictions loosened up and wearing perfume feels like putting a bow on an outfit, you know what I'm saying?” — Isabelle, creative director
“My favorite WFH wardrobe purchase has been thick hoops. I wear them all the time during Zoom meetings with a simple T-shirt or top. I like them because it helps any outfit feel more put together without feeling too dressed up. The earrings also look great with basically any outfit for day or night.” — Dianne, project manager
“My mom knows that I work on a computer basically eight hours a day. And, when I'm not on a laptop, I'm on my phone. She discovered these stylish glasses on the Wendy Williams Show and got them for me to protect my eyes from everyday screen use. They come in so many cute colors and she knew the styles fit my personality perfectly.” — Breanna, associate social media editor at Refinery29
Gabriel Simone Blue-Light Sy Matte Clear Yellow, $, available at Gabriel Simone
PalidouCreation Silver Hair Pin
“My pick is this solid silver hair pin — there are so many different versions on Etsy at varying price points. I love it because it’s small enough to stash in my pencil cup, my purse, and even my wallet. These pins just work better on curly hair like mine in comparison to the ever-popular banana clip, and they produce a sleeker look with more hold. It looks really nice for a dinner out after work!” — Sara, digital designer
PalidouCreation Silver hair pin, $, available at Etsy
Cute Blazers For The Workplace
One/Third Jacket 06 Blazer
"My fashion score is this One/Third double-breasted blazer. It is so versatile — I can dress it up for the office or dress it down on the weekends with jeans and a tee. The price point is attainable and the quality is superb." — Coabi, COO
“My company was fully remote even pre-COVID and I work a flexible schedule, so I need to be able to look meeting-ready on short notice. My go-to is a buttonless black blazer from H&M. I can throw it over any top and feel like a boss.” — Kathryn, managing editor
“With my narrow shoulders, blazers from French brands tend to fit me better. I like to troll sales and resale sites like The Outnet and The RealReal to snag good deals on my favorite brands like Maje, ba&sh, and Comptoir des Cotonniers. In the Before Times, I could wear these blazers with a full business professional look, or more casually with jeans. Now with WFH, these blazers work for remote depositions and important Zoom meetings.” — Meghan, lawyer
Maje BLAZER-STYLE DOUBLE FACE COAT, $, available at Maje
Cute Jumpsuits For The Workplace
Madewell Square-Neck Bubble-Sleeve Jumpsuit
“I will wear literally any Madewell jumpsuit. They're incredibly affordable, conservative in terms of colors/prints, good-looking, and oh so comfortable! I'll never go back to building an outfit again. I mean, why bother when you can buy an easy-breezy yet professional jumper instead of separates? Plus, it’s less decision-making and more coffee time in the morning.” — Amy, financial controller
Madewell Square-Neck Bubble-Sleeve Jumpsuit in Spring Fling, $, available at Madewell
Big Bud Press Short Sleeve Jumpsuit
“When I'm working 12- to 16-hour days I have very little energy to think about my own outfit — but this jumpsuit is easy to wear, makes me feel cute and confident, and is practical (except when I have to pee).” — Katie, film/TV set costumer
Big Bud Press Short Sleeve Jumpsuit, $, available at Big Bud Press
Cute Bags For The Workplace
Amazon Essentials Tote Bag
"As a business owner, a large bag is essential as I have to be ready to do work at a moment's notice. I can't tell you how important it is for my bag to fit my 14" laptop along with my makeup, chargers, notebooks, and other accessories. Thankfully, I came across an ad on Amazon for a large faux leather tote bag for just $33. This bag also includes an extra clutch and metal feet so I can place it on the ground while waiting for my Uber or bus. This bag is also reversible and transforms from a black pebbled leather design to a flamboyant cheetah print for when you want to dress more casually." — Jessica, founder and CTO
Amazon Essentials Tote Bag, $, available at Amazon
Telfar Medium Shopping Bag
"The multi-hyphenate power player in my work wardrobe is definitely my Medium Telfar Shopping Bag. I've schlepped my laptop (it fits a 13" MacBook Pro perfectly), chargers, my phone, snacks, a water bottle, and a change of clothes in this handy carry-all all over the city. Made of sturdy vegan leather and available in a rainbow range of colors, it's the perfect bag for not only my commute but a busy day (and night) out in the city." — Cady, staff writer
Telfar Medium Shopping Bag, $, available at Telfar
Prime Original Cloud-Shaped Dumpling Clutch Purse
"I saw this bag a handful of times on TikTok and I just thought it was so cute and plush. This Cloud Shoulder Bag looks identical to the Bottega Veneta pouch bag that costs almost $3,000 — but you can get this version on Amazon for literally $40. Very much a steal and it fits everything. I could literally put a whole change of clothes in it." — Tristen, social editor at Refinery29
Prime Original Cloud-Shaped Dumpling Clutch Purse, $, available at Amazon
Montbell U.L. MONO Pouch S
“Working hybrid, I'm always running in and out of wherever, so this bag is always on me. It fits my phone, wallet, and exactly one chapstick, plus my mask and keys that I hang from the strap using a tiny S-carabiner. In the past five years, this bag has survived endless subway commutes, on-location shoots, early motherhood, winter weather, a global pandemic, you name it. It is indestructible...and cute!” — Alex, art director
Montbell U.L. MONO Pouch S, $, available at Montbell
Cute Pants For The Workplace
The Reset Skinny Side Zip Pant
"I scored these pants on sale for $29! Couldn't believe it, as they are originally priced at $160. These pants are super chic and comfy and hold you in all the right places. I can easily dress them up with a sleek pair of heels and silk blouse. They truly are the perfect cross between sport leggings and office-ready trousers. I first discovered them scrolling through Instagram. I loved the brand's look and feel and its agenda: ‘Each piece in the collection is a highly versatile essential that's meant to be a starting point, handpicked to inspire you and open up a world of possibilities, outfit-wise and beyond.’ It's a great brand that I recommend checking out." — Kelly, CEO/co-founder
The Reset Skinny Side Zip Pant, $, available at The Reset
Roucha Panch Corduroy Curved Inseam Pant
“I could say that I finally found the perfect pants for petite ladies, but the truth is, they found me — somehow they started advertising to me on Instagram. Anyway, they have a sizing chart for people under and over 5’4”. These pants are super comfortable and have an elastic waistband which actually permitted me to wear them through most of my pregnancy, just with the waistband lower and lower. The curved leg is super flattering and it allows me to actually pull off a baggy look without me looking silly. I often have to tell myself that we can’t all dress like an Olsen!” — Liza, psychotherapist
Roucha Panch Corduroy Curved Inseam Pant, $, available at Roucha
Tronjori Women High Waist Wide Leg Palazzo Pants
“I’ve always been a pants gal and I fell in love with these neutral trousers. These pants make it easy for me to pair with any top that I have in my closet. Another thing that I really love is the material, which I find very comfortable especially when you’re sitting in a meeting all day. I found it on Amazon and it’s just the right price.” — Emily, writer
Tronjori Women High Waist Wide Leg Palazzo Pants, $, available at Amazon
H&M Skinny Fit Pants with Stretch
“I absolutely love these pants from H&M. They are the most comfortable professional work pants I have found in years! I found them shopping in the workwear section at H&M a few weeks ago. They look very professional, are a perfect fit since they have stretch, and have a great zipper detail which makes the pants look great with a tucked-in shirt. The best part is they’re only $34.99!” — Brooke, social media manager
H&M Skinny Fit Pants with Stretch, $, available at H&M
Cute Sweaters For The Workplace
Uniqlo Extra Fine Merino V-Neck Cardigan
“I live in Uniqlo sweaters for work. Specifically, their v-neck lambswool or cashmere sweaters and cardigans. They’re so comfy and look professional for work. You can dress them up or down and they’re great for Zoom calls.” — Ilana, TV producer
Uniqlo WOMEN EXTRA FINE MERINO V-NECK CARDIGAN, $, available at Uniqlo
Uniqlo Supima Cotton Crew Neck Cardigan
“As someone who LOVES a weird, fun pant, I find tops to be frustrating. I used to default to a plain white tee or black turtleneck, but these Uniqlo cardigans have really changed things for me. I wear them buttoned all the way up and tucked in like a shirt, backwards, with just the top buttoned and a vintage tee underneath. I have these in nearly every single color it comes in, and some in multiple sizes (to achieve different shapes!). I've bought them during sales, but the quality is so good that I haven't ever had to replace one.” — Connie, executive editor at Refinery29
Uniqlo WOMEN UV PROTECTION SUPIMA COTTON CREW NECK CARDIGAN, $, available at Uniqlo
prAna Sukie Sweater
"I always buy a new work sweater every fall. It's usually a cardigan, since it’s an easy on-off piece for home, on commutes, at lunch meetings, or while buzzing around the office. I just bought a prAna Sukie sweater from Backcountry (I'm such a Backcountry fan!). It’s comfy, charming, elegant, sweet, loungey, muted, and has a sophisticated weave. It also happened to be massively on sale, so I bought it in a few different colors — each for 60% off." — Michelle, travel website founder/CEO
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