start my new job in two weeks. I need to find some clothes (functional, working wardrobe)- can you help?

[tiredOFTHEDMemma]

I need some basics (trousers, tops etc) to wear for work. Dont want to spend a fortune but equally dont want to look like a peasant.

Also, I am vertically challenged (5'0) and so need to be careful that I dont look ridiculous or that I am weraing my moms clothes.

I dont know where to start.

[llareggub]

A lot depends on the culture where you work Is it v smart? Are suits expected? Or is it casual? What is your budget?

[tiredOFTHEDMemma]

Its smart casual (Staff nurse on a Psychiatric ward). I dont have to wear really smart stuff, and it has to be 'practical' really (its quite an intense, challenging environment and clothes can and do get damaged by clients.)

I dont really want to spend over £200 if I can help it.

[Sidge]

I know they're not exactly top notch but I bought quite a lot of my work stuff (school nurse so similar requirements to you) from George at Asda online.

Really good prices, some nice stuff and they also do petite clothing (I'm only 5 foot 1 too). Delivery charge is reasonable and it came within 48 hours of placing my order. Any returns can be made to a store as well.

[janeite]

Much as I hate the shop, I find Next do pretty good work trousers for teenies and they are reasonably priced. Also, I've found occasional nice pairs in Linea in House of Fraser.

Principles used to be great but of course is no more. Wallis do Petite but I find that they are still huge, too wide and droopy everywhere.

Tops - I wish I knew the answer to this! I tend to wear silk camisoles or little vests with a short sleeved cardigan in summer and a long sleeved one in winter - camis mainly from Warehouse and Gap, cardigans mainly from M&S or Gap.

[MarthaFarquhar]

Esprit has lovely, good quality mental health professional wear - lots of nice, slightly fitted t shirts, and good knitwear.

Also TU at Sainsburys seems vg this season - very FatFace but at half the price.

[MarthaFarquhar]

nice tops, weirdy models

[tiredOFTHEDMemma]

many thanks for help and advice x