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Anybody can look like a million bucks when they have a million bucks to spend on a work wardrobe.

Here's how to look polished and professional without spending a fortune:

Don't Pay Retail

There is never a reason to pay full retail price for work clothes, whether you're new to, or re-entering, the workforce.

• Buy high-quality clothes for a bargain on clearance or at stores like TJ Maxx and Marshall's.
• Sign up for email and text alerts at your favorite retailers, so you're in-the-know when they have their big sales.
• If you aren't a great bargain hunter, solicit help from a friend or relative with an eye for a deal.

Build From Basics

When you are just starting out or re-entering the workforce, a "capsule" wardrobe is essential. Choose basic foundation pieces that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of looks. Skip the trendy looks when it comes to your foundation pieces -- opt for classic, timeless wardrobe staples that will last for years.

For women, a capsule wardrobe should consist of:

• black tank top
• short- and long-sleeve T-shirts in black, white and beige
• crisp, white button-down blouse
• black, blue or charcoal turtleneck
• black crewneck sweater for layering
• a cardigan in black, white or beige
• black dress pants
• khakis
• black or navy pencil skirt
• simple, dark-colored dress
• solid, neutral-colored blazer
• black pumps and nude pumps

A man's capsule wardrobe should consist of:

• two suits
• three blazers
• four dress shirts (including at least one white and one blue)
• khakis or neutral chinos
• two belts
• classic-style watch
• V-neck sweater and cardigan in neutral colors
• dress shoes and loafers
• three versatile neckties

Don't forget to invest in comfortable undergarments, socks and hose, as well. And remember, while you can get away with buying bargain shirts and accessories, don't skimp on the capsule pieces. Invest in high-quality garments that will last, as you will be wearing them often.

Think Neutral Tones

Neutral tones go with everything. You can get five outfits a week out of a single pair of pants, a sweater, a shirt, and a jacket. However, if you purchase items in bright colors, your co-workers will begin to notice you're always wearing the same thing. As your budget grows, you can begin to incorporate colors, but as you build a work wardrobe from scratch, try to stick with colors that will mix and match like black, white, brown, charcoal, tan and navy.

Accessorize to Add Variety

You can instantly change an outfit's entire look and feel with accessories. For men, a shirt can be worn under a jacket with no tie, under a jacket with a tie, with no jacket and tie, etc. Women can change the look of a dress by wearing a sweater over top, a shirt underneath, draping a scarf, adding or subtracting a belt, and strategically placing statement jewelry.

Invest In a Great Coat

Even if you're wearing the most professional-looking outfit in the office, you won't be taken seriously if you walk in off the street in your weekend ski jacket. Invest in a professional-looking yet versatile coat. Consider a classic trench or pea coat, which can accommodate layers underneath and can be dressed up or down. To get a bargain, shop at the end of the season. You can get a great deal on a pea coat in late March, and you can score a raincoat or trench coat for a steal as winter approaches.

Be Patient, You'll Get There

It can take anywhere from a few months to two years to build a work wardrobe, so don't stress. Focus on finding great-fitting, solid foundation pieces to build from, and then add pieces as your budget allows. Over time, you'll develop a solid wardrobe that is professional, suits your personal taste and doesn't break the bank!