Capsule wardrobe

[StorminaBcup]

I've spent the past 3 years in maternity wear or shapeless tops and have no idea what I suit anymore. Where do I start? I'm 5"9, 10-12, fair and approaching 40. I'm also stuck in the mum-uniform of skinny jeans and striped tops (which is fine, but it's literally all I wear). I've got 3-4 pairs of jeans which fit nicely and a winter coat. Ideally I could do with classic styles as they'll have to see me through next autumn / winter too. Budget is approx. £350 Help!

[JamieVardysParty]

What sort of wardrobe are you looking for? Are you looking for a work wardrobe? If so, what environment do you work in - corporate/traditional/relaxed/smartcasual/cool?

Or is it for your casual, day-to-day wardrobe? If so, then what sort of style do you like? Anyone that you want to emulate? What body shape are you?

[StorminaBcup]

Should have said sorry - it's a casual wardrobe. I like plain and simple but I feel like I'm in a rut (striped top / jeans as above). Hmm, body shape.....athletic but wobbly (flat chest, not particularly curvy)

[JamieVardysParty]

I'm the same height and size as you. I also think we have similar style. I like quite simple lines but with a more interesting print or colour.

In A/W, I love shirts. So easy to layer over a vest with a jumper over the top.

I've got my eye on these:
animal
check
khaki
print

Jumpers like these:
print
tie front
animal print

Make sure that the jeans fit you well. I'd wear all of the above with skinny jeans. Other bottoms to consider are a ruched skirt or a denim/leather pencil skirt. If you like your legs, then dark denim shorts over opaques are another option.

Pinafore dresses over opaques are really in at the moment and seem to be everywhere. Leopard/animal print is also really in.

[StorminaBcup]

I completely forgot about topshop! Really like the shirts, don't think I could pull green off but I like the style. Think we have similar tastes - I'm not keen on really bold prints. I used to have the warehouse leopard print jumper a few years ago, tempted to buy it again.

So, shoes...do you wear boots or shoes or trainers? I can't find any that I like for winter.

Thanks for replying too!

[JamieVardysParty]

I have very few shoes in general. Currently I have a pair of Ecco black biker boots similar to this, a pair of burgundy Chelsea boots, a pair of black suede over the knee boots and a pair of tan brogues.

Currently looking to add a couple of pairs of loafers - have seen a leopard print pair in Topshop and a bright red pair in Next which I love.

Also wear a lot of trainers, normally Nike Air Force Ones in white with a black tick.

I think you need to look at your wardrobe, throw out what you don't like/what doesn't fit/what doesn't go with other stuff and then decide what gaps you have that you need to fill. Only keep stuff that you love, that suits you, in a flattering shape/colour and that is wearabe/fits in with your life.

I'm still going through that process. Currently live abroad so v hot here and have whittled down my summer wardrobe to 7 dresses, 1 playsuit, 3 pairs of shorts, 6 tshirts, 2 bikinis/swimsuits and 2 pairs of shoes. When I move back to the UK, I'll do the same with my A/W wardrobe and work wardrobes (if I go back to working in an office).

[StorminaBcup]

That's what I've slowly realised - I think I can safely get rid of the night out dresses!

Thanks for your suggestions - I have those trainers too and I really like the boots. Forgot about brogues too, I think they look really nice. I need to start thinking in the long term now, instead of season by season.