If this is my style then where do I shop?

[VerityClinch]

Over the last year or two, and definitely since the births of my DCs, 2 and 3.5 years ago, I've struggled quite a lot with my style. I guess the need for practicality (am SAHM), loss of need for work wardrobe, many less occasions requiring "dressing up", plus a figure I no really longer recognize as mine. I loved my pregnant figure and was so proud of my body then, and it's been a bit of a disappointment since.

The best compliments I've had this year - and the outfits I've liked best - have been when I was wearing clothes from Anthropologie and Toast with a bit of Phase Eight. If pushed to describe it, I guess I'd call it a Slightly Eccentric Art Teacher type look. Flares look good on me, my best jeans are flared and high waisted, long loose fitted tops, especially handkerchief hems, work well and I know what colours suit me best. I am a million miles away from actually being an eccentric art teacher but I am a little bit posh so I think I might be able to pull it off as a "look".

I'm short and dumpy but need long tops to hide my enormous arse. Trousers often don't fit properly at the waist.

If Anthropologie and Toast are the shops for me (and all my clothes from there were sale bargains, I can't afford to shop there otherwise) then where else should I look?

The Toast sale hasn't started yet and I haven't found anything I like in Anthropologie.

[pleasestoptalking]

Have you tried Noa Noa?

[happybubblebrain]

Ebay?

[VerityClinch]

Haven't tried Noa Noa, will have a look, thanks.

Where would I start on ebay? I don't want a load of patchwork swirly skirts and things made of cheesecloth.

[happybubblebrain]

On ebay just type in Anthropologie dress, or Toast dress or any other shop/item/size/colour then start bidding. I find it easier to find exactly what I want on ebay than I do in the shops and usually a lot cheaper. You won't win every bid but it's more fun than shopping on the high street. Noa Noa is lovely and there is usually some on ebay.

[SilverSixpence]

You could also try urban outfitters as its owned by same people as anthropologie and is a bit cheaper (although generally younger styles)

I like anthropologie and toast too, I have been looking at Nelly.com which has some good brands like Maison Scotch and Selected Femme. Basics from Zara Gap or great plains with one or two more unusual things works well

I have bought from anthropologie on American eBay successfully when I have liked something in store but it's too expensive.

[libertychick]

www.atterleyroad.com/ has a great selection of stuff from various brands and has a sale at the moment.

[WheresTheCat]

I love www.inisonline.com and //www.ness.co.uk , as well as Great Plains.

[WheresTheCat]

Oops, second link doesn't work - trying again: ness.co.uk/

[redexpat]

Have you thought about getting your style analyse? Costs a bit but is SUCH a good investment. It takes into account your personality and lifestyle. And they tell you which shops stock your style. Google house of colour.

[VerityClinch]

Oh, thank you, everyone! Some really interesting links, stuff I've never heard of before. One brand that keeps coming up again and again and which I'd never heard of before is Sandwich, anyone know what the quality is like?

I'm settling down with a glass of wine to have a proper browse now

[VerityClinch]

Look at this beauty!

Crochet and tassels.

What's not to like?

[DonaAna]

Plümo?

[Sleepwhenidie]

Odd Molly has some great things, look out for that on eBay too...

[Sleepwhenidie]

Odd Molly has some great things, look out for that on eBay too...

[GeorginaWorsley]

Sandwich good,as is Noa Noa,Nougat,Avoca,Crea Concept.
Ebay will give recommendtions for similar searches.

[Sleepwhenidie]

Oops

[kerstina]

I like the sound of your style Someone mentioned Plumo before I would agree with that also white stuff has a lot of quirky stuff that I like. Little details that appeal like mismatched buttons.

[kerstina]

Wow Verity was blown away by that site. I love everything on it !!!!

[VerityClinch]

The Toast sale has started! Lots of stuff half price now (ie gone from ridiculous to affordable).

[Mrsrudolphduvall]

I have a lovely Sandwich tunic (or should I say long line fitted top)
Fabulous quality, always looks good.
Bought mine in JL?

[VerityClinch]

So, this is what I have bought so far:

Toast wide leg jeans

Eccentric Art Teacher floppy dress

Stripey top

Layered thing

Hope this looks better in the flesh but it's got potential

And that scarf ^^

Now I need some ankle boots...

[Mrsrudolphduvall]

I've been on the gemini clothing site and put a few things in my basket.
You are evil

[VerityClinch]

I think these may be the ones