I Cannot Afford To Buy New Clothes and Shoes for the Interview
Not everybody has the same money as Bill Gates or Warren Buffett. However, most of us can still dress well for an interview on a frugal budget. Many of us remember trying to figure out how we were going to afford a new suit and shoes for our first interview. Not to mention accessories such as a tie, portfolio, and a nice pen. This is especially true if one is collecting Social Security or other government assistance and can barely pay the bills.
What can someone in this situation do? Like many people in today’s economy we have to think outside the box. This does not mean going to the nearest department store or mall. It means being creative and using resources readily available to us.

Mix and Match
Many of us overlook the fact that we already own clothing items that can be mixed and matched to form a perfect outfit. For a great “no cost” suit, try this exercise. Look in your existing wardrobe for a jacket, white shirt, and tie that match. Then find dark slacks that are in relatively good condition. Ladies, find a white blouse, jacket, and dark colored skirt. Dark colored shoes and socks are the best choice whenever possible. Bring old shoes new life by having them cleaned or shined. And remember, keep things simple. Conservative colors – YES. Loud prints on ties or shirts - NO. Note: Attire should be weather appropriate No wool garments in the summer or light linen garments in the winter.

Borrow It
That’s right! Many of us know other people that may be close to our body type and size. If you’re fortunate enough to have a friend or family member that fits the bill, ask them if they can lend you the attire you need. Who better to help you with an employment situation than a family member or close friend? Even if one person does not have every item that you need, ask two. You’ll be surprised how many people are willing to help you help yourself!

Buy It at a Secondhand Store
There was a time when many of us would not be caught dead in the second store-but today’s secondhand stores are not what they used to be. . In fact, many of them are multimillion dollar businesses that exist to help people find reasonable clothing and other items at an affordable price. Even the well to do can be found seeking vintage treasures or rare T-shirts and clothing in second hand stores. Believe me. If you’re seeking that perfect interview outfit at a reasonable price, a secondhand store is the first place you want to visit.

The stores offer a multitude of clothing options, shoes and accessories. Some of the clothing has never even been worn and still has the original sales tag. Big outfits, like Goodwill, receive donations from businesses and other commercial establishments that may be closing or restocking their products. The best time to shop these establishments are the weekends and beginning of the week when they are restocked. The best time of the year to shop is right after Christmas and New Year’s. People who do not want to go through the trouble of returning or exchanging gifts will usually donate them to one of the stores.

Remember, you don’t need a million dollars to look like a winner. There are plenty of affordable options to insure you are dressed to impress. Store Links

Store Links:

Salvation Army Stores
http://www.satruck.com/FindStore.asp

Goodwill Industries
http://www.goodwill.org/page/guest/about

Dress for Success
http://www.dressforsuccess.org/dfs_affiliates.aspx

The Woman’s Alliance
http://www.thewomensalliance.org

Web Based Resources
Ebay
www.ebay.com

FreeCycle
http://my.freecycle.org/

*Feel free to let us know if we missed any websites or stores.