Businesswomen who have fallen victim to the credit crunch can arm themselves for job hunting with a new suit costing just £20.

Asda is launching its "City suit", designed for the businesswoman who wants to dress to impress – even on a tight budget.

The design is available in sizes eight to 22, and includes a black, single-breasted jacket, trousers or skirt, which the manufacturers boast is chic enough for any workplace.

Asda said it is trying to create a range of wardrobe essentials to take young women from day to night without having to buy separate outfits in difficult economic times.

Anthony Thompson, of George at Asda, said: "In 2009, women will need to make very considered decisions when they shop for clothes. In some cases they can't afford to get anything new at all.

"Classic items like the £20 suit are offering customers real value for money on what they consider as absolute wardrobe essentials."

The suit is made of 64 per cent polyester, 32 per cent viscose and four per cent elastane, and it is machine washable.

Fashion expert Claire Coleman said: "The design is good – the jacket has some nice stitching detail around the waist that is also echoed at the top of the trousers.

"However, the finishing leaves a lot to be desired, resulting in a crumpled lining and slightly lumpy seams in several areas.

"When it came to trying on the suit, however, I was very pleasantly surprised. Both the jacket and the trousers fitted quite well.

"The proportions were flattering – although large-chested women might have problems with the jacket's small cut – and the trousers hung nicely.

"Seeing as they are not lined, however, a pair of long johns might be advisable in this cold weather.

"But my main concern centred around how well the suit would actually wear.

"It might look chic during the first wear, but I couldn't help but think that after a go in the average washing machine, it's not going to come out looking quite so smart.

"And if you are forced into buying one every other week, where's the economy in that?"

An "Office Chic" outfit, a £10 pair of trousers that comes with a free blouse (worth £2.50) will also be available from January 21.

Mr Thompson added: "With hundreds of thousands of jobs being lost last year, people who want to smarten up often can't afford to.

"Having a workwear range in store that will suit everybody, no matter what your profession, is key to helping our customers get through what is going to be a very tough year."