I need a new work wardrobe, please help!

[BornToYolk]

I've just been offered a job. It's office based, so I need to be fairly smart. My previous job was more casual and all my work clothes are looking a bit worn anyway so I need a new wardrobe.

Where's good for work clothes? I don't want to look too boring - I just need smart, comfortable, stylish things. I'm a 14/16, pear shape and I prefer trousers to skirts as I have horrible legs and don't like wearing tights.

bump.

Can anyone help?

lots of trousers and jackets in the DD sale

I know others don't, but I like Next for work clothes, they do nice tailored trousers and I like their fitted shirts. I suppose it depends how much you want to spend.

Did you get a good feel for the "dress Code" at your interview? Remember people often dress up to conduct interviews.

thanks!
Tea, I used to go to Next a lot but I put on some weight and now I don't fit into their 14 or their 16, which is very annoying!
Both interviewers were women. The more senior one wore a suit. Can't remember what the other one wore! It's definitely smarter than my previous employer, judging by the people coming and going as I waited in reception.

Febreeze, will check out that link, thanks!

What sort of budget?
H&M does decent work clothes(depending where you are, there are some H&M branches in London largely dedicated to work clothes), and sometimes Gap can be good for trousers, work tops etc. On the higher end you have Hobbs, Phase Eight and Reiss

I agree with Tea, wouldnt go to Next for out of work stuff, but for good value office wear its ideal. Id personally go for 2 pairs of tailored trousers (maybe black and grey), a selection of blouse/smart tops and one smart dress. Make sure each top you buy goes with both pairs of trousers.

Get a nice scarf in toning colours and a smart bag big enough for all your bits and pieces,

If you're feeling flush I think a trench coat is a brilliant buy, looks really smart for work and I also love it with nice jeans and a stripey top at the weekend.

Good luck

My budget could actually be quite big! I got a redundancy payout, which I've been hanging on to but now I've got a job, I feel entitled to spend a little bit! I was thinking if I could get a couple of pairs of really decent trousers (and maybe a new handbag...), I could get a load of cheaper tops.

Will check out Hobbs etc, thanks.

Banana Republic trousers are amazing, well worth a bit extra

Ooh I am going back to work post mat-leave soon and love some of the Damsel stuff on that link - are their sizes generous? Cuts flattering?
(sorry for thread hijack)