Read her full bio here.

luckily for you, we also believe that style doesn’t cost all that much.

Case in point: We’ve seen countless men fall victim to the heuristic that designer label = style. Wrong. If you’ve coughed up the bank for a designer suit but it fits like it’s off-the-rack, you’ve failed.  People’s impression of your style has more to do with how your wardrobe fits and flatters your body, how you combine things in unique, eye-pleasing ways and your overall taste level - that has little to do with the label sewn in on your blazer.

Step one involves identifying what industry you’re targeting. You may be stressed out by how much a new suit will run you, but if you’re looking at creative-type jobs, say, graphic design, a full-on suit isn’t required. Your better off crafting a “look” depending on the industry you’re in.

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Step two for dressing for an interview on a budget is to work with what you have. Pull out that navy two-button suit that’s a tad questionable, bring it to the tailor and beat the question mark out of it. Seriously, I bet you that a lot of what’s sitting in your closet doesn’t work because of fit – or lack thereof. You can transform a so-so suit with about $35 taking it in on the waist and about another $35 to nip those sleeves; suddenly, it’s been given a new life. (If you don’t have that suit in your closet to begin with, apply the same principle: Buy a mid-priced off-the-rack suit and send it to the tailor. You’ll look like a million bucks.)

Step three involves shopping for missing pieces. A white button-down, for example, is a job-interview-friendly option, regardless of industry. If your existing ones all have wine and mustard stains on them, don’t worry. Stores like Uniqlo and Gap offer options ranging from $20 to $40. Take advantage of sales because stores are trying to clear out space for their new merchandise.

Finally, when dressing for a job interview, stand out from the crowd by being more creative with your look – especially if you’re looking for creative work. Maybe it’s something subtle like a vintage briefcase; maybe it’s you wearing some bold-colored socks with a formal suit, like a rich purple. And these accessories, at least, will never break the bank.

Good luck.