Bossin’ On a Budget: Back to the Basics

Timeless. Tasteful. Classic.

Some looks just never get out of style, including the white t-shirt, blue jeans, button-downs, blazers, and nude heels.

While these clothing items are a basic building block for any wardrobe, they certainly are not boring.

Each of these budget-friendly items can be used as the foundation of a casual look or as an important element of a more formal attire.

The White T-Shirt

The white t-shirt is an essential clothing item that should have a place in everyone’s closet — especially for people on a budget.

This versatile staple can be paired with almost anything. Throw it on with a pair of blue jeans for a casual look (as seen in the photo on the left), or pair it with a skirt and chic necklace for a more formal ensemble (as seen in the photo on the right).

Versatility is not the only aspect that makes this staple a win for budget-shoppers. The price tag is also a major factor.

Everlane’s tee on the left is priced at $18, while J. Crew Factory’s is currently 40% off for $14.50.

The Blue Jean

It’s uncommon to find someone in 2020 who doesn’t own at least one pair of blue jeans.

This is because blue jeans are a popular fashion staple that have been around for decades. And, like the white t-shirt, they’re incredibly versatile and can be highly affordable.

The Old Navy jeans in the left image are marked down to $30 from $34.99, and the Abercrombie & Fitch pair are on sale for $39 (they were originally priced at $78).

Both of these looks can be classified as semi-casual. While both are paired with heels, blue jeans look just as good with sporty sneakers or trendy thigh-high boots.

The possibilities are relatively endless.

The Button-Down

Button-downs are an essential aspect of any wardrobe.

Wear one to the office with a skirt or dress pants, or wear them at home with a pair of jeans. Either way, they add a simple yet chic element to any look.

J. Crew Factory’s button-down in the left photo is 60% off for $19.50, while Old Navy’s is $12.

The Blazer

Blazer’s are an excellent way to elevate almost any outfit.

A chic blazer looks great with a pair of jeans and heels, or with a matching pair of dress pants.

H&M’s blazer in the left image is priced at $34.99. Shein’s blazer in the right image costs only $18.

The Nude Heel

Nude heels are not only a key element to any wardrobe — they’re a killer one, too.

They’re cute, stylish, and go with just about anything. They can take a casual jeans and t-shirt look to the next level, or serve as a nice complement to any dress.

Both of these images show nude heels from Lulus. The pair on the left are priced at $38. The ones on the right cost $35.

Adding to the affordability, Lulus offers customers the option to pay in installments.

The heels on the left can be split into four payments of $10, while the pair on the right can be paid in four installments of $9.

Although this ends up adding $2 to the left heels and $1 on the right, it’s a good option.

Published by Mary Connelly

Hi, I'm Mary Connelly. I'm a junior at Rutgers University studying journalism and creative writing. I also write for The Rutgers Review and am a member of the National Society for Collegiate Scholars. I enjoy writing poetry and short stories in my free time. I have a strong interest in both writing and fashion. I have valued fashion since I was a small child. Growing up, I always cared deeply about my style. I began writing my own stories when I was a nine years old. I hope to be a magazine writer and an author once I graduate college.

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