In the last of my four part series about dressing professionally on a budget, I’m showcasing an effortless casual dress with neutral designer accessories. The whole look is under $20!
The A-line, ¾ sleeve dress has been in regular rotation in my summer wardrobe. 
The simple shape is loose and flowing on these hot summer days. The pockets make it fun and functional. Dresses are an integral part of my wardrobe. They don’t require mixing and matching like separates such as blouses, pants or skirts. One piece, a few accessories and you are out the door!
The bag and the shoes are the designer stars of this outfit. I picked up the leopard print leather satchel by Cynthia Rowley for only $4.97. 
Retail on this bag is about $250. The gold chain accents and the embossed python print in the leopard pattern are high quality details. When looking for a designer bag, be sure to look at the finishes of the metal and leather and check the liner for rips or stains. Some things can be repaired or cleaned, others can’t.
This brand of shoes has been on my wish list. I was hoping to find sandals, but thrifters can’t be choosers! These brown Jack Rogers ballet flats are perfect for summer. 
The iconic detailing on a Jack Rogers shoe is the lacing. They would have retailed for about $150 when new, but I paid only $4.97. Lastly I layered on a Target necklace, which I picked up new with tags for $3.97.
This neutral color scheme of denim and browns is perfect for a casual office look. You could upgrade this to an evening look with black heels and a statement necklace and colorful clutch. Or to adapt this look for winter, adding tights, boots and a scarf will add some extra warmth against the chill. A denim dress has many possibilities!
I hope I have showed you four different looks for different professional environments. Even if you don’t work in an office, having a dress, blouse and trousers ready for interviews or meetings is affordable with pieces from Goodwill Keystone Area stores!
Dress: $5.50
Shoes: $4.97
Bag: $4.97
Necklace: $3.97
Total: $19.41
From my closet to yours,
Kirsten
About The Blogger
Kirsten is a 40-something mom, wife and marketing professional. She loves all things crafty, tasty and fashionable, especially while being frugal. She enjoys hunting for treasures at her local Goodwill Keystone Area stores to decorate her home and wardrobe. Meet up with her at one of Goodwill’s shopping events! Check the event pages for details.