To ask if I look frumpy

[keepcalmanddance]

Do I look frumpy in this outfit? I’m early 40s. Also do I look like I’m slightly pregnant?

This is an outfit I wore recently, I don’t have a picture of me wearing it I’m afraid.

skirt - stretchy so good for over bellies! https://www.newlook.com/uk/womens/clothing/skirts/brown-leopard-print-mini-tube-skirt/p/931545229?extcam=UK_PPC_PLA_Designer_Core__Google_MT__DV_m&ppccam=PLA_NW_g_CID_1930161284_AGID_126584461436_LOC_9192520_DM__TID_aud-1398263366061:pla-2439500687440&ppcfeed=FIID_&_cclid=Google_CjwKCAjwmNLHBhA4EiwA3ts3mRJDRI1SPWUUb1qlwxU6mfddX6FdRsfsZoh8BhBAuLafODm4Qf7ajxoCh70QAvD_BwE&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=1930161284&gbraid=0AAAAAD2UatMA3XFLx_T70G0IiVa6eb19j&gclid=CjwKCAjwmNLHBhA4EiwA3ts3mRJDRI1SPWUUb1qlwxU6mfddX6FdRsfsZoh8BhBAuLafODm4Qf7ajxoCh70QAvD_BwE

Top - yes it’s maternity but it’s a lovely fine knit type material and can be worn loose or tucked in. I tucked it into the leopard skirt -
http://api-shein.shein.com/h5/sharejump/appjump?link=l6txkMT1H7P_8&localcountry=GB&url_from=GM790444460

I paired with tights, long flat suede boots and a black loose blazer over the top to so stomach and arms weren’t on show

To update this look I’d wear the same top and skirt but pair with brown 15 denier tights, long black boots and the Zara viral bomber jacket - https://www.zara.com/uk/en/soft-bomber-jacket-p03046264.html?v1=485837058&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=11369331984&gbraid=0AAAAADqbk7Zrhk6-8rAeAyUXc8k4N7ZZW&gclid=CjwKCAjwmNLHBhA4EiwA3ts3mZy60gLtIYBFv2LWy5fLQmWNEkUuJslSMV24lP_8K8OLxJQK2Em2ZRoCW7YQAvD_BwE

You would look different with some colour.
You say you have nice legs, so why are you wearing 100 den opaques?
Maybe not Spanx but have you tried allday shapewear?

Skirt needs to be above the knee and jumper more fitted! I’m in my 50s and wouldn’t wear that, sorry.

@ if you like the jumper, how about a new supportive bra and a plain white long sleeve top underneath peeping out the top? Jumper sleeves rolled up a little to expose white sleeves. Jeans or leggings in the same shade with navy Sambas or Chelsea boots? Maybe a silky scarf in a nice print? The skirt and tights look more like (dated) workwear rather than lazy Sunday afternoon attire x

It's not a good look OP.
You have a small waist so can wear high waisted barrel legs or pleats at the waist to soften your rounded belly. Try M&S, Fatface. Also, Beyond Nine, Hush, but they are pricey.
The top has seen better days and should be recycled. Go for a raglan sleeve three- quarter length. If you want a thick knitted jumper go for one that is shorter and wear it with the sleeves pushed up.
Is the skirt knitted? It's an unflattering length for you. It's a wrong 'un. Go for above the knee and show off those lovely legs. Treat yourself to a new bra.

I'm in my late 60s and would only dress like that if I was staying at home all day and not expecting any visitors.

I’m mid 50s so not in an age bracket that has been referenced on this thread yet but close enough! agree with @PadamPadamPDoom . No one ever says “it looks like an outfit for someone in their 20s/ 30s, / 40s” meaning clothes that are way too tight (‘sculpted’ leggings), or see through leggings, shapeless oversized trousers, fleeces, sleeveless coats, etc yet these are all everyday outfits common among those cohorts. People I know in their 60s, 70s, 80s wear clothes that suit them, clothes that work for them , often have great accessories, and wear clothes that are not that different to a well dressed 30 year old.

Have you looked at MM Personal Styling on YouTube? She does outfits and how to style for all different body shapes.

You do look frumpy sorry! I am 45 and it wouldn’t be something I would wear. You are hiding your figure And that jumper is very unflattering

This is a good account on Instagram for illustrating how to style things a bit differently mylifeafter_50. I mean all the posing around gets a bit annoying but sone useful ideas

I worked as a stylist for years and also have a similar figure.

As you have great legs, keep skirts / dresses short and wear with thick tights or leggings if you don't want to show too much.

Long sweaters are fine but no high necks only deep V or scoops.

Alternatively wear a cardi over a deep V dress or tunic - darker colours on top.

If you are shy about deep V necklines wear a vest in contrasting colour underneath.

A statement necklace brings the eye up and lifts the outfit.

Have fun xx

The jumper is too big for you. I empathise that you’re trying to hide your tummy but it’s actually having the opposite effect and making you look larger than you actually are. The eyes are drawn to this enormous square shapeless jumper. Rather than hiding your tummy, wear tops in your size that actually fit and everything will look in proportion. A general rule for balance is baggy one half, fitted the other. Baggy jumper with leggings/skinny jeans or wide fit jeans with a tighter top. Your outfit would instantly be improved with a slightly more fitted jumper tucked into the skirt

Yes. She shows how simple changes can quickly update a look, even with the same basic clothes.

I’m afraid I have to disagree with much of what @Starling7 suggests.

Just because you like your legs does not mean you’re going to look anything approaching stylish in a short dress and thick leggings.

Nor is wearing a deep V neckline if you’re so nervous you need to add a contrasting vest beneath.

And seriously, do not add a ‘statement necklace’. Just don’t.

A crispy ironed t shirt with a cardigan or blazer would be fine with the skirt you're wearing. With your DM boots. Wear what is comfy, ultimately.

^^ crisply, not crispy 🤣

But all of that would at least be an improvement on the current look. What would you suggest?

You could scroll back to my first post, @thecatneuterer…

The sweater, too big, stretched out, arms too long and balloony, and you need a good bra. That does nothing for you.

With that skirt, hem it shorter, a tighter top, and tights and boots. If you're worried about your belly, buy some shape wear.

That silhouette, the oversized sweater and midi length skirt, isn't flattering on you. Try fitted tops and straight pants.

If you have an alterations place near you, take some pants and get them tailored to you. They're more comfortable and look so much better. Your tops, get your sleeves tailored as to volume and length.

You have a lovely figure, but I don't think this outfit does you any favours. Maybe a different, shorter, more fitted top?

Very frumpy. That jumper is awful, please bin it! I think you have a nice figure under that.

and perhaps get a bra fitting? They need lifting. It will do wonders to the figure

The jumper would be nice with some jeans or thick leggings, and the skirt would be nice with a pretty top/blouse, but together they don't really work. The jumper is drowning the skirt and has completely removed any waist or boobs you might have. That's totally cool if you're doing a casual Autumnal look - baggy jumpers are popular. But as workwear it doesn't work.

Ok so where can I buy non iron ladies shirts? Also thanks for all advice. I’m gonna try on a different top later, tuck it in and post a pic once I’m back home

Tried and tested for this type of figure for over 20 years darling.

Definitely the most flattering casual shapes for someone with good legs, a larger bust and a bit of a tummy.

A deep V with a contrasting layer underneath always looks good, as do shorter lengths with tights or leggings or boots.

Statement necklaces change every season but are always good to lift the eye with a casual outfit.

Bravissimo originally made for big boobs is good cause you can choose bra size and then body type as well eg curvy / super curvy which is helpful. Not sure about non iron though