By Sam Miller

By choosing to go into a professional field, one must know how to look the part.

Chances are if you’re reading this, you are no stranger to business causal. You know

that you have to present yourself in a way that classy, yet is able to show off your

personality a little. However, being a broke college student makes it a little difficult

to fulfill your fashion needs. Fret not! There are many ways to look super

professional without breaking the bank.

Goodwill should be your first stop

Thrift stores are probably not the first place you are thinking of when

looking for business causal, but they have amazing deals. I have found dress pants,

sweaters and dresses from top designers here for a fraction of the cost. You

won’t be able to find everything you need, but it’s great for the basics.

Consignment stores are also a great place to find very inexpensive pieces.

Side note: ALWAYS check condition before you buy it.
If it looks worn, don’t buy it.

Department stores are not just for your grandma

Stores such as JC Penney, Macy’s and Elder Beerman may seem a little dated, but

they are treasure troves for inexpensive steals. They are almost always having sales

where their merchandise is anyway from 40-80% off. They have amazing selections

and you can find great printed shirts, cute pencil skirts and great heels for a fraction

of the cost. Added bonus: their clothes are of great quality and last a while.

Off-price Retailers are where it’s at

I love T.J. Maxx and Marshall’s because they have many top-notch brands at

reasonable prices. These stores are where manufacturers often buy back merchandise

from department stores and sell it to off-price retailers all within the same season.

They have killer shoes, amazing blazers, and dreamy dresses from top brands, such as

Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren and Express.

Disclaimer: You should splurge on some things.

You should never skimp on some business causal musts. These items include blazers

and heels. Nothing looks worse than a blazer that looks cheap. Also, often heels that

are cheap kill your feet and fall apart quickly.

Business causal is great and can make anyone look good, but you shouldn’t have to

spend an arm and a leg to look that way. Revamping your closet can be easy if you

know how to find great steals.

Sam Miller is a Sophomore studying Strategic Communication, minor: Political Science, and Political Communication Certificate. Follow her on Twitter at @keepcalmsam14