Business on a budget — thrifted work wear

Written by: Candace Wu

Creative Direction: Piper Goff & Candace Wu

Photos & Edits by: Candace Wu

Models: Grace Mason, Carlea Badolian, Piper Goff

Whether you are a history or arts major, there is one thing all of us have in common: a need for professional wear.  If you’ve ever shopped for business attire, you know how expensive it can get. But entering your professional career doesn’t have to cost hundreds of dollars.  

You can style closet basics with second hand pieces for a completed look that won’t break the bank.

Cover:  Piper is wearing a basic black bodysuit layered with a blazer, charcoal-washed high-waisted pants, cinched with a basic brown belt, and completed with basic black combat boots. 

2: Carlea pairs a short-sleeve black button-up (secondhand $1) tucked into a subtle colorful tweed skirt (secondhand $11). Finish the look by throwing on a pair of nude heels.

3: Looking for a pop of color? Grace styled a basic white bodysuit tucked into charcoal-colored pants. Pair it with a colored belt and heels to match. 

4: Want something different from the typical blazers and slacks? Carlea puts her spin on workwear by wearing a striped vest with a flowing wrap skirt.  

5: Feeling trendy? Piper is wearing a pink button-up tucked into a houndstooth print pant. Throw on your favorite black boots and you’re out the door. 

6: Carlea takes on a classic business look. She styles a blue button-up tucked into a pencil skirt with a wide black belt for a cinched-in look. 

7: Grace styles a white blazer with a neutral tri-colored top, a black skirt, and black heels. 

8: Grace wears a floral flowing skirt paired with a basic black turtleneck.  To match the red florals, pair it with a red blazer and comeplete with a gold chain necklace and a simple black heel.