It’s difficult to find style icons who wear work-appropriate business suits.  When stylish people who aren’t lawyers or government staffers wear suits, they usually wear brightly colored or sparkly ones.  So when a bright start like Amal Clooney appears to make work clothes look chic, you embrace her fiercely.

The Suit // Banana Republic is a great place to buy a suit.  And Banana Republic Factory is a great place to buy a suit on a budget.  This sculpted blazer and bootcut trouser gives you a chic pinstripe suit for $178.  The sizes run 0-20, in misses, petite and tall.

Other spots to be affordable suits include NY & Co., for both stylish suits and work ones, JCPenney, for intern-wear that won’t break the bank, and Express.  For a mid-price suit that isn’t Ann Taylor or J.Crew, I like White House Black Market and Antonio Melani.

Prefer a splurge?  Scanlan Theodore’s crepe knit suiting is probably my next big purchase.  And, of course, Hugo Boss.

The Blouse // Mock neck blouses are very popular right now.  They have a little bit of 1940s drama.  Ann Taylor has several mock neck options.  If you need a v-neck (because mocks are not for every woman), this Vince Camuto blouse is a great place to start.  Or for an affordable option, try this twist-front top.  Plus-size? Try this mock neck with a subtle ruffle.

The Heels // I love the ruffle front on this Journey pump.  It takes a basic pump and makes it more dramatic.  The shoe comes in several colors, but I think this charcoal is sublime.

The Purse // This Tuscany Leather bag is a little smaller than your average work bag, but it is a fantastic basic. Did I mention that it’s also under-$125?  If you want a slightly larger size, try this one.

Earrings // These Bony Levy drop earrings are a great piece.  They have incredible workmanship, and they go beyond the basic.  For something under-$50, these Karine Sultan medallion earrings are great.

Lipstick // Every red lipstick I’ve worn recently seems to make my under-eye circles more prominent.  Luckily, Amazing Amal, a berry shade gives me the punch of a red without the sleepy eyes.

{this post contains affiliate links that may generate commission for the author}