Going back to work wardrobe

[Igglybuff]

I'm going back to work mid October and since having DS my body shape has changed slightly. I've got a load of my clothes out and they just don't fit properly.

So great excuse to revamp my wardrobe for the office

Can you tell me what you consider the staples for a work wardrobe to be (I work in an office and am expected to dress professionally - so suits for client meetings and smart the rest of the time)?

I already have two trouser suits (one navy, another grey) but that's it.

Thanks!

I have gone for the boring, but practical (and cheap) approach.

I work 3 days a week so I went to Primark and bought 3 pairs of black trouser and 3 different pin-stripe blouses. And I have one suit jacket but don't really need it. Black flats or boots in winter.

I just accesorise with bangles / bracelets from Primark so it doesn't look too dull.

It's dull, but a no-brainer for juggling work with pre-school children. My out of work wardrobe is much better.

Cheap is good - I wont spend much on tops - I tend to spend a fair bit on suits and shoes though.

I really want a nice capsule style wardrobe where I have enough variety but not too many things that I get confused.

I went for dresses this time around. I have two heavy jersey dresses, one with print, one without. I work 2 days a week so alternate these with a pair of black trousers and various tops so it doesn't really feel like I wear the same thing all the time.

I can wear various things with the dresses (cardigans, jackets) so I do feel like I am getting some variety.

I saw a personal shopper at John Lewis before I went back from maternity and it was great. No pressure to buy and I got some great ideas for work wear.

Good idea on the personal shopper - I've always loved to do something like that.

I also like the idea of dresses but never can find the right one!

Ideally choose a variety of pieces all in colours that go with your existing navy and grey suits. I wouldn't introduce more than two new colours, make sure it all mixes together and stay with shapes that flatter your body

So for example if you were introducing cream and red:

A dress this could work for work
A skirt
at least one pretty blousethis is cute
as is this in red
A smart cardi, wrapover styles can look great in the office
a few pretty vest/camisoles (gap, M&S)
a couple of plainish tops that work under the suit jackets or on their own
a great bag mmm

I love red - lovely blouse! I've got something similar in black but colour is good.

Dress looks versatile - could wear with boots when cooler weather. And a nice colour again.