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Create a Professional Outfit on the Cheap

By , About.com Guide

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Take your pieces home and launder them well.

This little black dress from Igigi can easily be dressed up with a formal blazer from the thrift store.

Igigi.com

It's time to mix-and-match!

  • Get Choosy About Color: Consider your image and select color accordingly. Black generally hints that you are chic but conservative, navy is usually seen as trustworthy, and gray is usually a "safe" conservative all-around choice.

  • Select Separates: Choose a single jacket and skirt or trouser if you don't have many matching suit sets. Better yet, you can also remove the jacket, switch into a sexy tee, and then move on to drinks after work.

  • Resurrect Your Little Black Dress: Do you have a favorite black dress? Try it with one of the blazers that you've collected at the thrift store, or pair it with a light cardigan for an easy office look.

  • Don't Forget a Mirror Check: Do a check for visible panty lines. Try lower-cut panties or a thong to avoid unsightly lines.

  • Go for Understated Touches: Check that your accessories blend with your professional office look. Avoid jangling earrings and overly long necklaces, and always wear a fresh pair of hose that's completely run-free.

  • Touch Up Your Shoes: Have your new thrift store shoes polished and the heel tips replaced if you need. Many people scan feet-first in a professional environment.

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