Help me prepare for returning to work!

[ewchoc]

After 4 years as a SAHM, I've just been offered a full time job which starts in a week and a half. It's an office job, reasonably senior, for my old company but in a different role and in an industry that's changed a lot since I worked there. They're also in a new office and I only know one or two people still working there.
I'm massively panicking and I need help figuring out everything I need to figure out... what do I need to buy? What do I need to prepare? What have I forgotten??
I'm in the process of sorting out childcare so fingers crossed that will be sorted. I need an entire new wardrobe plus shoes, bags, coats, makeup etc. But I only have one free day, to go shopping without children! The rest while have to be online.
I haven't touched a laptop in 4 years and I'm horribly out of date with...everything! What do I need to know? Please help!

I think you need to not panic!

I'd spend the evenings on your laptop brushing up.

If you have a big sainsbury, they're clothes are fab. You'd get everything you needed in one fell swoop. You can upgrade as you start earning.

I'd go for mix and match clothes. Snag rights if you're into dresses and skirts.

Make sure the kids have 5 definite outfits for each day your at work.

Get as ready as possible each night, so the mornings are smoother.

Makeup, I would go to revolution, usually in super drug. So cheap and actually brilliant.

Terrible typing. Sorry. Snag tights.

Online shopping for clothes. Make sure you feel confident and comfortable in what you're wearing.

And a good notebook to write everything done in so you don't forget anything!!

On your one day to go shopping I’d concentrate on a basic wardrobe to build on; 2-3 trousers or skirts and a load of tops/smart jumpers. Look online first so you know what shops sell what you’re hoping to get.
Go easy on yourself the first few weeks as you’ll be tired; cook what’s easy and make sure you’re not still doing all the jobs at home you used to do while still working full time.

I'm also starting back to work full time in December after 4 year break. I don't think you've forgotten anything off your list. We

Maybe get a haircut and your nails done on weekend while DH has kids? Also, do some meal planning and grocery shopping for the week you start so there is food in and dinners will be available.

I've also taken all my old work dresses and sent them to cleaners. A few have also gone out for repair and alterations so they fit better.

Good luck and don't worry! It will all come back. Many mums go back to work after extended breaks.

One other thing I'd suggest, depending on your budget for work wardrobe, is to use the personal shopping service at a larger department store. It's often free of you are purchasing a number of items and you will achieve their minimum spend.

I did this once when I returned after my first child. I recommend it if it's in budget.