How to Dress for Career Success on a Budget
Neighborhood Clothing Swaps, Discount Retailers, Online Shopping
Apr 3, 2009
People have enough to worry about in today’s job market without having to think about how they are going to be able to afford the clothing they need to wear to work each day. Whether they are first-time job seekers looking to build the perfect work wardrobe, or those who have been on the job for a while and needs to keep their style hip and fresh, there are ways to shop inexpensively without blowing a month’s pay.
Organizing a Clothing Swap
One of the newest ideas that has spread throughout neighborhoods all around the country is the concept of swapping clothes with other hard working people. The idea is that participants get together and exchange their good, wearable, yet unwanted clothing, shoes and accessories. There are two ways to go about participating in a clothing swap: organize one or participate in one.
For those who are more interested in going than giving, check out clothingswaps.com. Clothing Swap® gathers swappers together in a “fun environment where they relax, mingle, get pampered and then exchange clothing, shoes and accessories.” It’s a wonderful opportunity to meet fellow swappers and get a great new wardrobe item.
Or for those who want to host their own clothing swap event, it’s merely a matter of throwing a party. Begin by inviting a small group of friends – maybe eight to ten to start – to see how it goes. Be sure to establish and communicate ground rules. These might include :
- Required condition of clothing: no holes, stains, or tears.
- The one in/one out rule: for every item someone brings, they can swap for one.
- Swapping doesn’t start until a predetermined time: this prevents swapping beforehand.
- Dispute arbitration: flip a coin if more than one person wants the same item.
Arrange separate areas for types of items such as accessories, dresses, tops and pants and ask guests to place their clothing contributions in the proper area. Once the swap is over, donate any remaining items to charity.
Online Shopping for Inexpensive New and Used Clothing
Another option for those who like the idea of swapping clothes, but prefer not to attend a gathering, is online swap meets. There are several websites designed to conduct online swaps by allowing members to post and exchange via the Internet. Check out whatsmineisyours.com, bigwarerobe.com and rehashclothes.com.
Or for those who prefer to build their work wardrobe with top brands at discount prices, there are websites such as HauteLook.com. It’s free to join and gives it members an exclusive opportunity to purchase premium brand names direct and at a big savings – up to 75 percent. Members receive invitations with a sale date. Those who sign up can view items from the comfort of their home.
But what about those shoppers who like the idea of buying at places like Macy’s, Nordstroms and Old Navy, but can’t afford the everyday prices? Check out 4clothingcoupons.com. They collect available coupon codes, discounts, promotions, clearance sales and other deals for the online version of prominent clothing stores and make them available for free.
Discount Brick and Mortar Clothing Stores
A lot of discount retailers are major players these days, offering a good source for quality, discount clothing items. Places like Marshalls, Ross Stores, Nordstroms Rack, and Burlington receive quality brand name clothing from major suppliers and then pass their savings along to the public.
For shoppers who have a green streak and a sustainability mindset, there are great brick and mortar options available for them, too. Thrift stores for such organizations as Goodwill, Salvation Army and American Red Cross can be a treasure trove of gently used clothing. Or consider hunting for work and play wardrobe items at local flea markets and garage sales.
Wherever the shopping bug leads, know that there are numerous possibilities to find a great looking wardrobe for a reasonable investment. That means anyone can dress for career success on a budget.
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