What You Can Splurge vs. Save On When it Comes to Your Work Wardrobe

We wear white T-shirts at least once a week for a simple outfit paired with trousers or layered under just about everything. Because our go-to tee is always in the wash, this is an important splurge. You’ll want one that’ll hold up after multiple washes, and this one from Leset is one of our favorites. It has a not-too-boxy cut and hits a little above the waist. ($68, Shopbop)

After trying a ton of different blazers, we can unfortunately and confidently say that we tend to see a better fit and higher quality with the pricier options on the market. This one from Reformation is priced at $298 (we’ve seen worse), but you won’t have to wonder if there are better options out there, which we tend to do in moments where we try to grab the cheapest option. It’s the perfect balance of structured and relaxed, so it looks trendy and cool just by throwing it on. ($298, Reformation)

Carrying your precious work essentials securely and comfortably is a must for long, busy days at the office — and investing in a high-quality bag ensures you won’t deal with early wear or breakage. This Daily Tote from Dagne Dover has a slot for your laptop and ample room for your water bottle, portable charger, planner, and any other must-haves you need to get you through the day. It also comes in two versions depending on your laptop size. Carry it in the crook of your arm or wear it crossbody. ($275+, Dagne Dover)

Pants are another item we tend to see a huge difference in fit, sizing, cut, and material depending on the price. This pair from Sezane is an editor-favorite because it’s pretty much a glorified legging, but with a smart-looking kick-flare ankle. The brand suggests sizing down if you’re in between sizes. We’ve worn these every season because of how versatile the material is. ($125, Sezane)

One of our go-to hacks: picking jeans that don’t look like jeans. This pair from Favorite Daughter is made of an ultra-dark denim and cut just like a wide-leg trouser. When it comes to denim we wear to the office, we spend more to ensure that pairs look dressed-up enough. This one would look great paired with sweaters, button-downs, and blazers. ($218, Shopbop)

Shoe trends tend to be fleeting, which is why we prefer to save on shoes when testing out a new style. This pair of Mary Janes is just under $60 and have gone viral for how comfortable they are. Pick from 19 colors. ($59, Zappos)

Dresses are known to be unnecessarily expensive these days, which is why we’re firm believers that you can find plenty of solid dress options without having to spend $500. Some of our repeat dress spots include Quince, Target, and Abercrombie & Fitch. We’re highlighting this one from Quince for being simple and design-forward at under $80. ($79.90, Quince)

Even if you have sensitive ears, there are so many affordable options for everyday earrings. We’re obsessed with Mon Été for their unique designs, but we also love BaubleBar, Mejuri, and AdornMonde for their takes on modern trends. This pair of knotted earrings from Mon Été is our new favorite way to wear pearls. ($70, Mon Été)

You definitely don’t have to spend a lot on glasses (let alone bluelight ones) for them to be cute — especially if you’re worried about losing or breaking them. Anthropologie is one of the best places to buy budget-friendly accessories — especially blue light glasses and sunglasses. We love this square silhouette that comes in both pink and clear colorways. PS: Zenni is another retailer we love for inexpensive frames. ($35, Anthropologie)

Investing in a fancy new sweater is a luxurious treat, but you can always find similar versions at a fraction of the cost. Abercrombie & Fitch always has fantastic dupes for the popular, more expensive ones so we’re stocking up on this sweater tee ahead of fall. It’s only $50 and is perfect for the days when it’s chilly in the mornings, but a little too warm in the afternoons. ($50, Abercrombie & Fitch)

Madewell is doing a stellar job creating attainable versions of many trending designer pieces. And you really don’t need to spend $400 on a belt or thousands of dollars on a popular cuff to get the look. This Chunky Dome Cuff looks just like the original (IYKYK), but it’s only $58. ($58, Madewell)