I don’t own a single blouse. Which gets ridiculous if I have to dress professionally, have some occasion to attend, or an interview. I have tons of clothes, but not one nice looking–or even passable shirt.
The big-boss at work said he gets all his professional wear from this thrift store near my apartment. Since I hate spending money on clothes I don’t even really want or wear often, I thought that was genious. And my mom attributed my success (that comes later in the post) to my petite size. Which I concur is an advantage. Buying professional wear thrift had never occurred to me before, and I had been cheaping-out best I could at WalMart.
Once I got to the store, I really liked it. It was clean and they had hung everything up, rather then stuffing a mish-mash of stuff as thrift stores usually do. The only thing I hate more then shopping, is rifling through a random, disorganized pile. And trying on clothes AT the store.
But being motivated to spend less, I put on my big-girl panties and looked for blouses. Turns out I don’t own any blouses, because I’m just not a blouse person. They are non-breathable fabrics, too tight, too low, or too froo-froo for me. I want a modestly cut, comfortable, breathable shirt that doesn’t showcase any of my pieces. Apparently, that’s not a thing. I really didn’t like any of the blouse options.
But I did see a lot of sweaters. And They are professional (enough) and warmer. Also, they tend to cover more skin and not be as tight-tight-tight. So I bought a LandsEnd power-yellow, Charter Club sparkle-plum, Croft & Barrow forest, Eddie Bauer ocean-blue, Polo Jeans Company chocolate brown, and North Crest lavender. Make no mistake, I could care LESS about brand names. I actually loathe the practice of paying more for a similar product just because it features some designer name. I bought these sweaters primarily for the colors. And they weren’t allowed to be low-cut or too tight. Anyway, I scored! They were all for under $20! SIX name-brand, perfectly new-looking sweaters, with no stains, tears, or problems. Which if you’ve ever looked at department store sweater prices–you know is amazing. One sweater could easily cost $30–and usually they’re more. So now I have a week’s worth of professional attire that I can wear to class and in my career. That is–if I am accepted to school (small details).
I have no idea what I’ll wear in hot weather–is there a blouse-alternative?! But I’m set for winter and air conditioning. Next–pants. I’ll go back after a couple of paychecks to get some professional-looking pants for school, clinics, my externship, and eventual work. Again, IF I’m accepted to my audiology program. . .
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