Ok, so it may not be too stylish, but help me spend M&S vouchers!

[twolittlemonkeys]

My dad and stepmum sent me some hideous delightful nightwear for my 30th birthday and as I knew I wouldn't wear it, I took it back, but as it was a gift receipt, I couldn't get a refund, just a credit note, so I have £40 to spend there.

I'm 5ft, size 8-10, red hair and tend to dress casually as am a SAHM. I feel like a deer in headlights in M&S - the layout makes no sense so thought I'd look online but am still none the wiser. I need some new clothes for the summer. When I looked at the website in the petite collections I just found loads of floral monstrosities which made me want to scratch my eyes out. There must be something there worth buying that won't make me look like my mother surely? Please help me find something!

marks place I have 50 to spend. Did get a autograph mac but tis slightly shiny.

I love M&S shoes, might be worth a look online? Often have nice sandals and flats. for instance , www.marksandspencer.com/Autograph-Suede-Snakeskin-Design-Sandals/dp/B004J1TEKS?ie=UTF8&ref=sr_1_33&nodeId=547470031&sr=1-33&qid=1305913024 or these , www.marksandspencer.com/Contemporary-Footglove-Leather-Strap-Sandals/dp/B004N31UYK?ie=UTF8&ref=sr_1_37&nodeId=547470031&sr=1-37&qid=1305913069 love these too

I buy lots of shoes there. Try swimwear or basics like t-shirts. All failing get yourself to the foodhall!

We get M&S vouchers every year at Christmas. I tend to go for homewear/flowers/food but if just for me I'd get underwear, sportswear, or jewellery and other accessories. For summer I'd get vest tops. Does it have to be an actual outfit or item of clothing?

How about some straight leg jeans here.

This sleeveless top might make a useful summer basic, or this one which has a nice print.

Also this isn't bad if you like checked shirts, because it's all cotton and the sleeves can be 3/4 length or rolled up.

Not in the petite range, so don't know if it would work, but I have this linen shirt which I think looks good with jeans for a warmer weather alternative to a Tshirt. 3/4 length sleeve nice and practical for a SAHM. I have it in white (so not completely practical!) as I found the stronger colours a bit much for my colouring. Have just seen the blue which wasn't in the shop though, am actually tempted.

PS M&S sizing is huge so size down by at least 1 size!

If you can't find any clothes you like, they do have some pretty underwear in at the moment, for a change.

I am the same height and size as you. Few suggestions here:

I have these slim leg trousers

These might be good too You could wear with flats for a more casual look

trench coat is always a good buy

Bag but you would need to put some money towards this

Nice T-shirt

I bought this recently www.marksandspencer.com/Limited-Collection-Pinafore-Ponte-Jersey/dp/B004L8HEJW?ie=UTF8&ref=sr_1_14&nodeId=629674031&sr=1-14&qid=1305937700 also with vouchers after making a return, as per OP's situation.

I don't think of myself as particularly mumsy, but I was really suprised at how nice a lot of the summer range was when I went in!

If all else fails, I end up buying OH work shirts with M&S vouchers when I'm stuck, but I do think they've got some lovely things in at the moment.