With all the different levels of formality of interview attire, it can be overwhelming trying to figure out where to find these different items for an affordable price. Having an interview outfit that you feel good in will boost your confidence and make you feel like a real professional, so its essential to find pieces you love! We've compiled a short list of different affordable options both online and in-person in the Philadelphia area.
Online Shopping
Online shopping can sometimes feel overwhelming, but you can find some good, affordable basics. While some items will be overpriced, we think these websites provide solid basics that can work for virtually any professional setting.
1. H&M
H&M has a great selection of quality affordable basics. While they aren't currently open for in-store shopping, they are available online!
Some items that we like are these plain button downs and these plain black fitted slacks! They come in a range of sizes and are extremely versatile! A simple button down and black slacks are appropriate for virtually every professional setting.
2. Uniqlo
Uniqlo is another great place to find high quality basics! While they can be more expensive than H&M, the quality means that they'll last for a long time, making your professional attire a good investment.
Some items that we like are this light, sleeveless blouse and this classic cardigan. These are great staple pieces that you can use for years!
Chain Stores (in Philly!)
1. Marshalls
The best part about Marshalls is its a huge selection and consistently low prices! You're always able to find brand name items for much lower prices! Plus, they tend to have more trendy items than consignment and thrift shops.
Great for items like shoes, blazers, and blouses that tend to be on the more expensive side.
Many locations in and around Philadelphia!
2. T.J Maxx
T.J. Maxx is similar to Marshalls with its huge selection, lower prices, and consistency.
Also has many locations in and around Philadelphia that are open for in-person shopping.
Consignment and Thrift Shops
1. Circle Thrift -- 1125 S Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Circle thrift is a thrift shop that offers a big selection of both men's and women's clothing; they have a good selection of button downs, blazers, and shoes!
They have weekly sales too!
2. Philly Aids Thrift -- 710 S 5th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Philly Aids Thrift is a thrift shop that offers a large selection of clothing, books, and household items.
The proceeds go to local AIDS organizations, so they're a great business to support!
3. Second Mile Center -- 214 S 45th St, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Second Mile Center is another thrift shop offering a big selection of clothes and shoes!
Their other locations have been closing in past years, so it’s great to support a local non-profit thrift shop!
4. Sophisticated Seconds -- 2204 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19146
Sophisticated Seconds is a consignment shop, so they buy items second-hand and resell them in store. They have one location on South St.
We think this is a good option for items like a cardigan or blazer with more personality than the basics available online!
5. Buffalo Exchange -- 1520 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19102
Buffalo Exchange is also a consignment shop. They're a national chain and their clothes tend to be on the pricier side. However, they tend to have a trendier selection of both clothes and shoes!
If you also have old clothes that you think are in good condition and are somewhat in style, you can bring them and they may buy them off of you! You can get cash or a credit to the store, so its an easy way to make a little money if you're already planning to go!
We hope that these recommendations are helpful! For more information on types of interview attire, click here.
Photo Credit: Photo by Orna Wachman via Pixabay