Where to shop.....? Size 18, 41yrs old....totally lost my way!

[CantWont]

I've been plus size (28/30) for the last 18 years and now I'm not :) I'm hourglass shape, 5'4", size 34G/H bust but pretty average 18 everywhere else, the odd 16 top. Shapely calves, ok knees, tummy needs camouflage due to skin issues at moment (altho giant knickers are a godsend!) but otherwise I've been very lucky in that respect.

I'd like to look casual but smartish, I'm not good in much above kitten height heels. I currently own:
One pair jeans
A few ls tshirts
A couple of fitted shirts
Loads of roll necks .... was feeling the cold!
A tunic or two

And that's about it other than the usual work wear drabbery.

Funds are not unlimited and I'm still dropping a size every couple of months, but where to start??

Thanks in anticipation!

[DrSeuss]

I like Simply Be, which you can get on ebay. Or just get the stuff cheaply on ebay and sell it when you're done. Congratulations on your success!

[Carrotsandcelery]

Mantaray in Debenhams, John Rocha in Debenhams, Monsoon...experiment!

Well done - sounds like you deserve a shopping spree

[Carrotsandcelery]

Oh and Fat Face and The White Stuff are classics too.

[AlpinePony]

John Rocha is awesome for hourglasses!

[CantWont]

Thank you all! Have been browsing Ebay and not v inspired - I have no idea what suits me really, which doesn't help! I think I need to wait til I can get out and have a huge try on and then take it from there - like the shape/style of lots of the brands you have mentioned above, but so much BIG pattern which is something I not used to!

[Carrotsandcelery]

I had this problem when I lost a lot of weight CantWont it is very tricky - you don't realise how used to wearing the same shapes you get.

I had a massive try on. I did it in bursts and took my Mum or SIL or dh with me as I trusted them to be honest with me.

With an hourglass I found the best things were things which showed off my little waist. I like the John Rocha stuff as it often has ties at the back so you can pinch in the waist but there is still room for boobs and hips.

I also find v necks are flattering on the boobs, although it can be tricky to find ones that aren't too low cut.

3/4 sleeves are also flattering that way - I have no idea why but they seem better than full length or short sleeves.

[AlpinePony]

I buy stuff from John Rocha in the Debenhams sale, managed to get some trousers this time which also fit my hourglass! Very, very happy - often find for trousers that only American "urbanwear" designs fit.