If you have to buy work clothes it can cost a lot and be far from frugal living. That said, it is not impossible and by switching to a minimalistic wardrobe you can easily save money and live a frugal lifestyle whilst working in a professional role where you are expected to always look smart.
Clothes to choose for a minimalistic wardrobe
Avoid embellishments and clothes that have really unusual or distinctive features.
Focus on neutral and solid colours.
Choose classic traditional items such as black trousers/skirts, dark jackets and jumpers in neutral colours.
Avoid patterns that are hard to match other items with.
Creating the outfits
Start by looking at your current outfits and which of those can become staples for work.
Try on different combinations of what you have and list those matches that work well or take photos of them. This way you can see how many separate looks you have already or can make with what you have. You will also see what is missing, for example deciding that navy trousers would go well with a number of things but yours are falling apart.
Instead of buying special occasion outfits why not consider borrowing from a friend or accessorizing something you already own but wear less frequently.
Plan your outfits ahead of time so you can keep wearing a variety and don’t feel stressed in the morning when opening your wardrobe. Using the photos or list here is perfect so you do not get stuck in a rut wearing the same things again and again.
Shopping for clothes for your minimalistic wardrobe
If now you have decided you definitely need more items then these tips should help you to spend as frugally as possible.
Consider second hand shops when looking for new items. They do not need to be new, just new to you! This can save a lot of money on simple essentials that others no longer need with items usually from 50p or £1!
If you order a number of items online to try ensure you do send back any you decide against! Set yourself a rule before you even order them of how many you will keep.
Try shops you have not been to before, you never know what bargains you may find! Not forgetting supermarkets as they often have good quality budget clothing.
