The Oklahoman

Where young profession­als can find workplace clothing in OKC

- Aspen Ford

Many young profession­als are familiar with the difficulty of adjusting their wardrobe to fit their workplaces. Often, the need for profession­al clothing doesn’t align with the salary of someone just starting their career. And while online shopping can provide cheaper alternativ­es, many consumers can end up with low-quality pieces that don’t fit quite right. Oklahoma City has plenty to offer for young profession­als just starting in a career, or for those switching career paths entirely, who are searching for new ‘fits for the workplace. Prices, styles and selections vary from store to store, but here are nine local stores young profession­als should consider when shopping for workplace clothing.

1. Nordstrom Rack

Pros: Features many contempora­ry styles perfect for workplace attire. Easily find brands like Steve Madden, Free People, Madewell and more on clearance or at a heavily discounted price. Cons: Although many items are discounted, some single items, like coats, can still be priced well over $100. Location: 1741 Belle Isle Blvd., Oklahoma City

2. Dig It

What is it? A vintage clothing store that also sells art, jewelry and collectibl­es.

Pros: It’s a fun place to visit. Great for finding that one unique item to pull together an outfit.

Cons: It is more casual.

Location: 1739 NW 16, Oklahoma City

3. Target

Pros: Reliable for finding basic pieces at a reasonable price. Good for nice work pants or jeans if your workplace allows for them.

Cons: Each Target carries different merchandis­e because each store is tailored specifical­ly for the neighborho­od in which it is located. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, try looking at different locations.

Locations:

• 5400 N May Ave., Oklahoma City

• 13924 N Pennsylvan­ia Ave., Oklahoma City

• 7305 SE 29, Midwest City

4. 1/2 of 1/2 Name Brand Clothing

What is it? A consignmen­t store that buys thousands of clothing items from high-quality name brands and resells them at up to 75% off their original price.

Pros: The store features a nice range of jackets/outwear, dresses and shoes from reputable brands.

Cons: The jewelry selection is lower in quality than some of the other stores on this list.

Note: 1/2 of 1/2 is closed on Tuesdays to restock their racks with new liquidated merchandis­e. Try going on a Wednesday to get the best items before they are picked through.

Locations: h Northside: 2111 W Britton Road, Oklahoma City h Southside: 405 SW 74 W I240 Service Road, Oklahoma City

5. Library: A Modern Clothing Store

What is it? A subscripti­on-based clothing store where customers can rent up to four items a month. They offer unlimited swapping and free cleaning for the pieces.

Pros: There is a wide variety of pieces to pick from and flexibilit­y in swapping items.

Cons: There is a minimum $16 monthly subscripti­on fee and not all pieces are the same quality.

Location: 2807 N Walker Ave. 5, Oklahoma City

6. Plato’s Closet

What is it? A secondhand clothing store primarily for people in their teens and 20s. Plato’s Closet offers name brand clothing up to 70% off retail price.

Pros: Can easily find brands like American Eagle, Free People and Nike.

Cons: The store brings in many donated items each week. It may take a while to sort through all the clothing racks and find exactly what you are looking for.

Locations:

• North: 13850 N Pennsylvan­ia Ave., Oklahoma City

• South: 10400 S Western Ave. #3, Oklahoma City

• West: 6300 W Reno Ave., Oklahoma City

7. The Wardrobe Modern Mens Wear

What is it? A menswear boutique that specialize­s in tailoring suits at an affordable price.

Pros: Can easily find business profession­al and business formal attire, often at lower prices than traditiona­l department stores.

Cons: Doesn’t offer rental suits.

Location: 2229 NW 140, Oklahoma City

8. Express Factory Outlet at OKC Outlets

Pros: Known for stylish business casual clothing for younger people. Look for sales on the OKC Outlets website. Cons: Because it’s an outlet, it doesn’t carry the newest collection of Express Factory clothing.

Location: 7628 W Reno Ave., Oklahoma City

9. J. Crew Factory at OKC Outlets

Pros: They carry classy elegant pieces that can go with a variety of outfits. You can often find coupons on the OKC Outlets website.

Cons: The selection varies throughout the year. During busy times like Aug. or Dec., items may be heavily picked over. Location: 7634 W Reno Ave. Suite 650, Oklahoma City

 ?? GETTY IMAGES ?? It can be difficult to find affordable, trendy clothing in the Oklahoma City area.
GETTY IMAGES It can be difficult to find affordable, trendy clothing in the Oklahoma City area.

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