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Definitely do able sub $1k, but don't cheap out either. Buy stuff you'll actually wear. Bulky gear you leave at home does you no good in a slide. Here's an example of a potential rundown of gear (some I own, some I don't. This isn't an endorsement, unless stated. It's just giving you an idea). All new prices, so with sales and checking deals at your local shops it could be less. Some stuff like helmets I say ALWAYS buy new. Other things like jackets are okay lightly used (and I do mean lightly, don't buy someone's gear they've worn for the last 20 years. Sun and age can make it less protective).

Helmets

• HJC CL-17 - $125 Link
  
  
• Bell Qualifier - $110 Link
  
  
• Icon Alliance - $150 Link
  
  Make sure you go into a store and try it on. Wear it for a few minutes. Here's a good guide on fit for helmets. DOT rated at a minimum. SNELL suggested. Some people say the SNELL rating is overkill and causes the helmet to be too rigid being worse in a crash. I've never given it a second thought. I own the HJC helmet. One thing I will say with pretty much any budget helmet is it will be louder. In town I don't think that's a problem but on the highway, especially for longer rides you'll want to get ear plugs. I suggest these. They're cheap enough, comfortable, and come with a nice carrying case.
  
  Jackets
  
  Regardless what you buy, again go into the store and try them on. They should fit snugly. In the $150-250 range should get you a good jacket with shoulder and elbow armor. Back armor is sometimes sold separately. When it is, D30 is my go to. I bought the Klim CE level 2 - $50 armor but there is also the Icon CE level 1 - $25 version. How expensive the jacket is isn't the determining factor for if it includes a back protector either. And one's that don't usually include a foam filler. Don't let that fool you, it's not meant to protect you in a slide.
  
  
• Icon Overlord - $150 Link Back protector included
  
  
• REV'IT! Eclipse - $180 Link Back protector extra
  
  
• Firstgear Mesh Tex - $180 Link Back protector extra
  
  Pants
  
  A lot of this will depend on the weather and the dress code at work. If its more strict (business casual - no jeans) spend the money on the Rev'it. They are absolutely amazing, and the first pants I've found that have flexible knee armor I can actually comfortably walk around in and sit at my desk with.
  
  
• REV'IT! Alpha RF Chinos - $200 Link
  
  
• AGV Sport Alloy Riding Jeans - $130 Link
  
  
  Gloves
  
  Can't forget gloves. I've found this is not a place to cheap out on. I have yet to find a sub $50 glove that is comfortable AND that I trust would protect me in a slide.
  
  
• Icon Pursuit - $75 Link
  
  
• REV'IT! Striker 2 - $90 Link
  
  
• REV'IT! Fly 2 - $90 Link
  
  Boots
  
  A lot of this comes down to personal preference and fit, but I really like the TCX boots.
  
  
• TCX X-Square - $100 Link
  
  
• Speed and Strength Black 9 - $100 Link
  
  
  
  Total
  
  So for in the area of $565 to $800 you have all the gear you need to get started. Also Revzilla has a rebates program so chances are you'd be able to save some money if you split it into two purchases.
  
  Hope this helps!

Thanks for your input! I gather the general feel is to keep the two separate if at all possible. But what about these security boots:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/G-Force-Hi-Leg-Combat-Boots-Protection/dp/B00LZSRY1Y/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1410877113&sr=8-3&keywords=security+boot

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnum-Panther-54274-069-01/dp/B003BFX6AC/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1410877126&sr=8-2&keywords=security+boot

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnum-Panther-54296-069-01/dp/B003OW62SU/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1410877126&sr=8-6&keywords=security+boot

Would they be a good medium?

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002L9AL84?pc_redir=1406882480&robot_redir=1

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003FBV8ZW?refRID=ZM1DNY1HK74B7YC78G0M&ref_=pd_ys_c_rfy_ci_cycling_low_3