How are you supposed to come up with a work wardrobe when the only things in your closet are jeans and sweats? Many people don't exactly have business clothing on hand for the interview process, and money is tight. In today's economy, is it even possible to take $100 and turn it into outfits that make you look good on the job?

Below, we'll tell you our secrets for buying cheap clothes. But let's begin by finding out what pieces to purchase.

  • Start with a suit. A jacket and pants or skirt in a neutral color (gray, brown, black or navy) will anchor your new wardrobe. Avoid gaudy colors and extreme styles. You're looking for a classic that you can wear for years.

  • Add separates. Now you can go after tops and bottoms to mix and match. In general, limit bold patterns and loud color to blouses and search out more neutrals for your trousers and skirts. Sweaters can be a good alternative to more jackets, depending on how dressy you need to be.

  • Check the Web for tips on how to dress your particular figure. Bring a friend along when you're shopping so you can get a second opinion.

  • Wheelchair fashion. Look for easy in/easy out clothing but with a business twist: pinstripe or solid jackets and bottoms, tops that are opaque and not low-cut, and sensible shoes.

Now, let's go shopping!

  • Dress For Success and Career Gear. The first organization is for women, the latter for men. Both provide career counseling, interview coaching, business clothing and follow-up job support to disadvantaged people who are seeking employment. The only catch is that you have to have a referral, which can be from a job training program such as vocational rehabilitation, and a scheduled interview. If you qualify, this is a spectacular program that provides much more than clothes.

  • Goodwill Industries. This is our first stop for purchases, since it's where you can make awesome cheap clothing finds. If you have a choice, head for the Goodwill in the nicest part of town, because it usually has the best goods. The clothing is used, so check for rips, holes and stains. Don't neglect to peruse jewelry and shoes, and definitely ask where the sale items are.

    If you're in a cold climate, I'd suggest you search here for a winter coat. At my Goodwill, a beautiful, knee-length wool number can be had for $35. Check what color the tag is and come back on the half-price day for a super steal! Besides, you never know what might have come in since your last visit.

  • Shopgoodwill.com. The online brother of Goodwill stores, this is where you can bid on items from Goodwills across America. Pick up that perfect purse, or find the bracelet that matches your shoes. They have some mighty tempting clothing … but it's really tough to judge how something's going to fit by a photo, so use your money here on great accessories.

  • Salvation Army. This is another used clothing store, so follow the tips for Goodwill, above. You might even find new merchandise from time to time.

  • Savers. Yep, another used clothing store chain where you can find a $7 suit or lovely gabardine pants for $4. You just never know. Allow a couple of hours, since this is a hunt-and-peck expedition.

  • Garage Sales. It doesn't matter where YOU live; travel to the garage sales in the best part of town for the nicest clothing and accessories. Often, the person holding the sale is willing to give away items that didn't sell by Sunday afternoon. There is a garage sale category on craigslist to help map out your day.

  • Craigslist. Check the "free" section of Craigslist in your city to find clothing, and post your size and what you're looking for in the "wanted" section as well. Before you go halfway across town for a miniskirt and sparkly top, remember to mention that you are looking for business attire.

  • Religious Organizations and Social Service Agencies. Contact your local church, synagogue, mosque or temple to see if they can help. United Way, Volunteers of America and other agencies may also be able to assist with clothing or a referral.

  • Consignment Shops. These have an advantage in that the clothing has had to undergo approval before it's put on sale. Watch the prices, though. Good buys can certainly be had, but paying $25 for that smashing top is also going to crush your budget.

  • Naked Lady Parties. It's not what you think! These are get-togethers where friends exchange clothing that no longer fits, that they're tired of wearing, or  doesn't go with anything else they own. You know that pair of pants that are too baggy? Bring them here and walk away with a great dress that fits you just right!

  • Target. You know where to go … straight to the sales rack topped by the "50-75 percent off" sign! You can sometimes find a great dress for $9, new pants for $5. And when you're finished in the clothing area, make a stop at the shoe department and comb the clearance rack.


    It's worth paying $7 for winter boots in February, or $5 for summer slings in July. Wear them for a month, then put them away for next year. And if you're lucky, you can score a pair of practical pumps to wear all year ‘round.

  • Designer Sample Sales. The Big Apple is loaded with goods if your body happens to have the same proportions as Paris Hilton's. The rest of us can take solace in a purse or earrings, especially if there's a flaw that doesn't affect wearability but does lower the price. Search the internet for sample sales where you live, or cyber sales.

Happy hunting!