The New Job Wardrobe
What are the Foundations of a New Job Wardrobe?
Think of your wardrobe as a toolkit. You don’t need dozens of suits to look the part; you just need the right building blocks.
That's why for a new job we recommend keeping it simple:
- Two Suits: One in a classic dark tone such as navy or charcoal, and one in a lighter or alternative shade like mid-grey or a subtle check. Rotate them during the week and you’ll always look fresh.
- Five Shirts: Stick to the essentials — crisp white, pale blue, and one or two subtle patterns (like stripes or fine checks). That’s enough variety to get you through a full week without daily washing.
Add a couple of ties, a good leather belt, and a pair of smart shoes, and you’ve got the foundation of a professional wardrobe.
Choose Timeless Neutrals
When you’re building from scratch, versatility is everything. Start with neutral shades that can mix and match easily:
- Navy or charcoal suits for maximum wear.
- Shirts in white, light blue, and soft stripes or checks.
- Chinos in neutral tones for more relaxed office days.
Neutrals create countless combinations without ever feeling repetitive.
Quality Over Quantity
It’s tempting to buy cheaper pieces when you’re on a budget, but investing in quality fabrics and fits will save you money long term.
- Fabric: Wool for suits, cotton poplin or twill for shirts. Non-iron finishes help with everyday convenience.
- Fit: A properly fitted shirt or suit instantly looks more expensive. At T.M. Lewin, you’ll find a range of fits from regular to super fitted, so you can find what suits you best.
- Construction: Pay attention to linings, stitching, and collars. These details separate shirts and suits that last from those that don’t.
Smart Buying Strategies
- Shop Multi-Buys & Sales: T.M. Lewin’s multibuy offers on shirts, polos, knitwear, chinos, and more make it easier to stock up without overspending.
- Start Small, Add Later: Begin with the essentials, then add layers or accessories once you understand your office’s dress code.
- Mix Investment with Value: Spend more on the suit and shirts you’ll wear most often, and look for savings on more seasonal pieces.
- Care Matters: Hang your suits properly, follow washing instructions, and rotate pieces to extend their life.
Stretching Your Wardrobe
Once you’ve got your basics, a little creativity goes a long way:
- Swap suit jackets and trousers (if fabrics complement each other).
- Add smart-casual pieces like chinos, knits, or blazers when dress codes allow.
- Use accessories. Ties, pocket squares, belts, socks refresh your look without needing new suits.
- Layer up with jumpers in colder months for extra variety.
Budgeting for Success
Even on a modest budget, you can build a wardrobe that looks polished and professional:
- Entry Level: Around £600–£900 for two suits and four shirts.
- Mid Range: £900–£1,400 for higher-quality fabrics and more versatile pieces.
- Premium: £1,400+ for investment suits, premium shirts, and tailored adjustments.
Suggested Starter List: What to Buy First
Here’s a realistic starter list you can aim for. Prices are illustrative (you’ll find lower/higher depending on deals):
| Item | Description | Expect to Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Suit 1 (Navy) | Wool or wool‑blend, two‑button, modern/slim cut | £300‑£500 |
| Suit 2 (Grey or light patterned) | Similar quality, gives contrast | £300‑£500 |
| Shirt 1 (White, classic, non‑iron if possible) | Perfect with both suits | £40 (multibuy) |
| Shirt 2 (Light Blue, same style) | Adds variety | £40 (multibuy) |
| Shirt 3 (Stripe or check) | For less formal days or slight variation | £40 (multibuy) |
| Shirt 4 & 5 (extras) | Perhaps another pattern, and one more white or pastel depending on your style | £40 (multibuy) |
| Tie / Belt / Shoes | One or two ties (one conservative stripe or solid, one with more personality), one good leather belt, one pair of dress shoes (black or dark brown) | Ranges depending on quality |
Avoid These Common Mistakes
- Buying too many colours or flashy patterns up front.
- Settling for poor fit, especially around collars, shoulders, and sleeves.
- Cutting corners on shoes or belts (they reveal quality instantly).
- Skipping tailoring, small adjustments make a big difference.
Your First-Week Strategy
Before you start shopping:
- Check what you already own.
- Set a budget.
- Make a priority list. One suit and four shirts can get you started.
- Add your second suit and extra shirts or layering pieces once you’ve settled into the office routine.
- Take advantage of T.M. Lewin’s multi-buy offers to build your range.
FAQs: Building a Workwear Wardrobe on a Budget
How many suits do I need for my first job?
Two suits are usually enough to start with. One in a dark classic tone (navy or charcoal) and one in a lighter shade (mid-grey or subtle check). Rotate them through the week to keep your look fresh.
How many shirts should I own for work?
Five shirts is the ideal starting point. That gives you one for each day of the week without constant laundry, plus enough variety to adapt for formal meetings or more relaxed days.
Should I buy cheap workwear to save money?
Not necessarily. Cheaper suits and shirts often wear out quickly, meaning you’ll replace them sooner. It’s better to invest in quality fabrics and fits that will last and shop multibuy deals to maximise value.
What colours are best for a starter wardrobe?
Stick with neutrals like navy, grey, white, and light blue. These colours mix and match easily, creating multiple outfit combinations without needing a large wardrobe.
The Takeaway
You don’t need a huge wardrobe to make a strong impression in your new role. Start with two versatile suits, four or five well-chosen shirts, and a few smart accessories.
Focus on timeless colours, quality fabrics, and good fits, then build from there. With T.M. Lewin’s collections and multibuy offers, you can create a workwear wardrobe that looks sharp, lasts longer, and doesn’t break the bank.
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Read more: The Ultimate Shirt & Formalwear Guide