18 Work-Appropriate Pieces Under $130

Your work tops collection doesn't have to be all starchy white-button downs. Break up the monotony in your wardrobe with this peplum blouse. The soft dotted print adds something to catch your coworkers' eyes. 

Your very corporate job might limit what you can and can't wear, but you can always add color and personality with your accessories. This pair of tortoise and pink colored earrings will provide an artsy contrast to your white button-down shirts or liven up a black suit set. They're interesting, but not overly flashy. 

Your hunt for an affordable blazer that looks expensive is over; this fringe lapel blazer checks off both boxes. It's a noticeable upgrade from cardigans, but not too stuffy that you can't wear it with jeans on the weekends. We'll be scooping up this work-to-weekend jacket in a second color too.

You never leave the house without your rings. Add this thin gold signet option to your stack. It's effortless to throw on and even easier to style with larger statement pieces.

If you're the type to commute to and from work in sneakers, find a pair that doesn't warrant a quick shoe change under the desk. This low-top option is the versatile pick you need for Monday to Fridays. Actually, toss in a Saturday or Sunday too because they're just that wearable.

You might not be able to get away with wearing cowboy boots at the office, but these western-inspired sleek black booties will pass by HR's eyes without a problem. They look cooler than Chelsea boots and less painful to wear than heels, which means these shoes might just be the one thing I wear to death this season.   

Dresses are my year-round staples for the office. I love this one because of the color and print. The dress looks summery, but you can wear it in the winter with combat boots and a shearling jacket. Should this dress feel a little too fancy for your workplace, dress it down with a slouchy cardigan and belt it. 

Survive the never-ending ordeal of dealing with fluctuating office temperatures with a trusty cardigan. This varying shades of blue in this COS option is cute and cozy. Layer a turtleneck underneath for the perfect work-appropriate attire.

Along with florals and polka dots, houndstooth is one of the most office-appropriate prints. Give this design a try in the form of a pleated skirt, which is easily wearable with every shoe from loafers to knee-high boots.

Lately, I've been into leathery pieces and have already acquired a top and pants in said material. Next on my list to buy is this faux leather jumpsuit. If your office's dress code is lax, scoop up this elevated one-piece for your own wardrobe.

When you need a little bit of Blair Waldorf's can-do attitude in that meeting or presentation, slip on this headband. Plus, the accessory has made a comeback in fashion and is great at hiding a bad hair day. Everyone will be focused on complimenting the polka dot, leaf-embroidered design on this headpiece.

Marie Kondo your tights drawer and toss out the old ones that don't spark joy. Then, replace with this under-$20 pair from J.Crew that promises sleek style and a comfortable fit. And if you're interested in the manufacturing backstory, these tights are made in the USA at a century-old mill in North Carolina. 

A leather skirt will make you look put together even if you don't feel like it. This classic, structured piece works well with everything from pumps to white sneakers. And, it says you mean business. Don't be afraid to voice your opinions at that big meeting—you're wearing the pants skirt after all. 

For the past few years, I've used this tote as a carryall for my laptop, water bottle, lunch, and sneakers. It served me well, and I beat it up. But at an affordable $49, I didn't hesitate to invest in a second one—especially now that I know it'll last me until 2025.

This is one of Everlane's most popular items on its website. It has a cool rib pattern, a crew neckline, and a soft, plushy—almost airy—feel. You can layer it over another top or wear it with slacks for a casual-meets-business look. 

One of the most basic, versatile pieces is the camisole. This one strikes the right balance between modesty and femininity with sheer paneling and delicate spaghetti straps. Layer under a blazer or cardigan or over a long-sleeve tee. If you're not a fan of the pastel pink, it comes in five other colors.

Whatever industry you work in, it never hurts to own at least one pair of menswear-inspired trousers. This one from Banana Republic is formulated with extra stretch (for days you had a heavy lunch) and is machine washable, so you can quickly wear them again. Bring on the meetings and presentations—you and your pants got this.

These classic spotted loafers come in a ladylike silhouette with a pointed toe and tiny heel. They can be dressed up with a leather skirt or dressed down with jeans. Play it safe and order two of these babies just in case—you're going to wear them...a lot.

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