Office style in the UAE without the splurge: 7 tips to look polished on a budget

You don’t need to be Anne Hathaway to look fabulous on a budget—though let’s be honest, most of us would probably rush to snag her Devil Wears Prada outfits if they went on sale.

From our conversations with professionals and experts, one thing is clear: looking polished doesn’t have to mean splurging on a designer wardrobe. It’s about making smart choices, using a dash of common sense, and tapping into a few insider tips and crowd-sourced wisdom. With that, you can project confidence and style without breaking the bank.

Read more from our experts here.

So, here’s your guide to building a budget-friendly professional look.

Build your wardrobe around the best basics

• Start with classic pieces that never go out of style and can be mixed and matched effortlessly.

• A crisp white button-down shirt, wrinkle-resistant for all-day sharpness.

• Tailored black or navy trousers with a flattering fit.

• A structured blazer to instantly elevate any outfit.

• A neutral pencil or A-line skirt

As one Reddit user put it, “Ignore trends. Buy what looks good and timeless on you for your style. Pick a couple of ‘trend’ pieces each year at most.” The secret: Investing in pieces that last years, not seasons.

Focus on the material

It’s not just about the style; the material and construction make the difference between looking cheap or polished. Real silk, Merino wool, linen, and cashmere create a luxe look and feel that synthetics can’t match. Also, upgrade details where you can, swapping plastic buttons for shell or glass ones, for example, can add some finesse.

Tailoring well

Even the best bargain can look sloppy without proper fit. Find an inexpensive tailor, or learn to do the least expensive tailoring yourself.  Simple alterations like hemming pants or taking in a waistline instantly boost your outfit’s polish.

Remember, a well-fit garment does wonders.

Grooming: The foundation of polished style

Clothes aren’t everything. Good grooming is essential. Washed, styled hair, well-groomed nails, and a clean, fresh face with minimal makeup make a huge difference.

Shoes and accessories matter

Invest in one or two pairs of quality leather shoes, they last longer, breathe better, and look more sophisticated than faux leather. A classic pair of loafers or nude pumps works with almost any outfit and speaks volumes about your attention to detail.

Keep accessories simple but elegant, a watch, small earrings, or a subtle leather belt adds polish without distraction.

Belts

Nothing spells a polished look like a belt. A belt can pull your entire outfit together, regardless of whether you’re wearing simple jeans or black slacks and a blouse for work. Expensive belts elevate a modestly priced dress or pants, a Reddit user’s solemn advice. This small accessory can be a style multiplier without burning your wallet.