Wear to Work: 10 Under $50 Essentials for Women

A basic menswear shirt -- in flattering colors like blue, pink or white -- is the building block of any work wardrobe. The possibilities are endless for Old Navy's affordable version: wear this crisp shirt with black pants and matching blazer for a suit look. Or pop on a cardigan and skirt to give it a different twist. The menswear shirt also pulls double duty for the weekend with leggings and jeans.

Pumps, booties and platforms are all trendy, but it's a basic work-ready pump like this very well-priced Karen Scott style that will get you through the work week. Choose from black eel or plain black. We love this type of pump with everything from pencil skirts with bow blouses to black pants: it's timeless and classic (with an elegant pointy-toe touch that gives it a slight retro feel.)

The right print to wear to work? Try something strong and bold like a classic leopard print. This tie-neck blouse from Casual Freedom would look great under a jacket or vest or alone with a pair of black pants or a pencil skirt.

The best skirt to wear to work? A black pencil skirt. Wear it with a cardigan belted over the top or a jacket for a suit look. Or tuck in a pretty print blouse with heels. For a trendy work look add black ankle boots and a chunky cardigan.

Looking for a great knit dress you can throw on for work without thinking about? This Old Navy dress features a blousy top (great for days when you aren't feeling skinny) and comes in perfect work colors like red, navy and black. If the above-knee length is too short for you, simply add black tights for coverage. Very cute with ankle boots.

The perfect way to add a bit of fashion forwardness to your work look: a wider leg black pant. Keep your top sleek (a fitted jacket, tucked in or belted top or a cardigan) and add a bit of a heel for flattery.

This essential cardigan costs less than $30 and comes in a bunch of great colors: you'll need one of each to complete your wear to work wardrobe.

Add a classic menswear style watch to your work look for a polished appearance. This Anne Klein watch is under $40 and will complete your look.

Ever have one of those work days when you just want to wear flats instead of heels? These fun patent flats from Gap have a retro pointy toe and plenty of style to carry you to the office to spark up your basic black outfits. On the weekend reach for these red flats with leggings and skinny jeans.

Give all of your office looks a glamorous finish with these delicate freshwater pearls from Coldwater Creek. They look especially great with a sheath dress or cardigan. Or add them to basic black to give it an elegant spin. Clasic!