What You Can Splurge vs. Save on When it Comes to Your Work Wardrobe

You might scoff at Dagne Dover’s backpack price, but our Commerce Director swears by hers. The brand’s cult-favorite neoprene material is durable (and comfortable to wear) without adding weight. Pick from three sizes, though we’d suggest the medium size for a standard 13-inch laptop. ($210, Nordstrom)

If you’re looking for an elevated coat that isn’t a puffer, this single-breasted option from Coach Outlet is a solid option. You can’t go wrong between the chestnut brown or black shades, neutrals you’ll find yourself reaching for more than you think. It even makes the most basic sweater look chic. ($278, Coach Outlet)

I’ve had my original La Ligne sweater for seven years and it still looks brand new. I can attest that the quality of these sweaters is unmatched. They’re soft without feeling itchy, they’re thick and substantial (but still thin enough you can layer them), and you can pick from countless styles and colors. I’m currently eyeing this textured neutral one. ($225, La Ligne)

These Favorite Pants from Favorite Daughter are the ideal option for taking your Abercrombie Sloane trouser-obsession up a notch. If you’ve tried them out and are looking for a more expensive option, these are luxe and even come in a short length. They’re constantly going in and out of stock thanks to their popularity, so keep an eye out. The endless positive reviews say it all. ($218, Revolve)

These Jenny Bird earrings have been a holy grail for me. Every time I wear them, my outfits always look infinitely better — I usually receive at least one compliment. The chunky double-hooped design adds the perfect amount of sparkle and they have yet to irritate my sensitive ears. ($128, Jenny Bird)

A spacious work bag is always going to be worth the splurge as it's one purchase you won’t have to think about for a decade. We love this one from Leatherology for its vertical shape and secure zippered closure. It’ll fit up to a 16-inch laptop and has internal pockets and compartments for added organization. Add your monogram for a personalized touch. ($310, Leatherology)

These Quince loafers look nearly identical to Gucci’s popular horsebit loafers. They have a cushioned, ortholite insole for added padding and are made of Italian leather. No one will ever know you paid just under $80 for these. ($79.90, Quince)

After testing Old Navy’s latest line-up of denim, our editors are firm believers that you don’t need to spend a lot on the trendy styles. A standout: These barrel jeans. After swearing off the style, they’re the only ones our 5’1” editor claims don’t make her look like a clown. Pick from petite, regular, or tall length. ($39.99, Old Navy)

These days, it actually isn’t hard to find a basic blazer at an affordable price point. That’s why we feel like it’s something you don’t actually have to splurge on (especially if you work in a more casual office environment and only need one every once in a while). This one from Quince is made from a comfortable stretch crepe, and its double-breasted detailing makes it look more expensive than it is. ($80, Quince)

Many brands are upping their T-shirt game, which is why it feels painful to spend more than $20 on a tee (even though we’ve done it before). This linen-blend crewneck from Banana Republic reminds us of the ones from Mother Denim, at a fraction of the cost. If you run hot, they’re a fantastic layering option, too. ($16+, Banana Republic Factory)

Accessories are by no means a must when it comes to building an arsenal of dependable work staples. But if you are looking for some to enhance your rotation, you definitely don’t want to spend a ton. We’re currently eyeing these clear blue light glasses from Peepers and Madewell’s jewelry section for designer dupes.

Khaite’s Benny belt is so chic it reads like a piece of jewelry. But at $640, we can’t stomach the price. Madewell makes a version that’s pretty much the same. When we put this on, it makes every outfit look like it's been professionally styled. Jeans have never looked so good. ($98, Madewell)

Yes, you can get a cute pair of work shoes in two days or less. Our VP of Commerce swears by these Amazon slingbacks. The pointed silhouette makes basic black pants look more dressed-up, but they’re under $40. No need to spend hundreds of dollars on shoes for that random conference you have to go to twice a year. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)

I wrote about these Amazon earrings in both Skimm Shopping and a summer jewelry line-up from a couple months ago. These are one of those Amazon finds that are too good to pass up. The hammered style looks so expensive, the earrings are weighty, and they’re hypoallergenic. What more could you ask for? Get both the silver and gold and you’ll spend under $20. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)