With the 'TODDLER UNIFORM' thread in mind, I've chucked out half my wardrobe. Need to start from scratch, tbh, so need help and ideas!!

[notnowbernard]

I've only left the stuff I really like. Things like dresses (not really day -to -day wear) and work wear (am not interested in buying new work clothes, the ones I have are sufficient)

There's 2 pairs of jeans left. A couple of tops.... but not enough

Tbh I am in a skinny jeans/boots/long-sleeve layered top rut. Don't mind that look sometimes but it's every day

So. Where shall I start? And where to shop for basics?

Budget is high street really... usually go to Gap, H&M etc

Size 12. Crap belly, good boobs, distinctly average legs (prefer a bit of a heel to elongate them - they're a bit footballer-ish)

Cheers!

Definitely NOT a fasionista

I think I just look a bit tired, tbh... same old same old

Yes maybe need to accessorise a bit more

Also need help with SHOES! Am in knee-high boots all winter and sandals in SUmmer... but get totally stuck inbetween (like now) as to what looks alright with, say, skinny jeans (like I said, I try to avoid flats)

I'm watching this with interest, I need a full wardrobe overhaul but don't really know where to start. If I have to spend another week seeing myself in the mirror again wearing skinny jeans, boots, layered tshirts and a gilet I think I will scream!!!

I was thinking the same. I made a thread but didnt get far with it so think i am going to just watch this one

I wear skinnies, boots and vest tops and getting bored of them now

I'm quite fond of a mary jane with jeans, got my eye on the ones I linked too as my cream ones from last year are bin-worthy I wore them so much.

I would suggest a long thick ( non acrylicy) cardigan/coat might work - great for hopping in and out of cars and easy to use with a scarf etc.
what boots do you use? I like this style with skinnies - they also have them reduced in NEw look and have jeans flopping jsut into them NOT over them

Another good look is a loose wide necked jumper - slightly boxy with a longer vest under it - but you MUST accessorise with earrings and OR a scarf

I cant get trenches to work for me, tbh. YOu might find a loose jersey jacket good in the spring.
KEep looking on websites at their "look books"

Re those Mary-Janes: I think they look good on other people, but they just aren't me, IYKWIM. Especially not for everyday wear

Like the look of those ankle boots but I always get a bit concerned that they 'cut me off' a bit and risk making my legs look stumpy... need to try on for sure, I guess. I generally go for below the knee boots (I like Rocket Dog - not the Ugg style though)

Have managed to avoid Mum Boots so far in life

Not sure about boxy jumpers... bought a slightly cropped one before Xmas and it's one of the items currently sitting in mahoosive charity bag. Don't think it particular flatters my shape, tbh

these are a great buy for in between seasons.

Agree that a blazer is a good way to smarten up jeans - Zara have an excellent selection every year.

This spring/summer coloured jeans are very popular, and GAP have some good colours that are not too 'out-there'.

Try wearing blouses as a change to t-shirts, white cotton with some embroidery always looks so fresh. Jigsaw often do something similar each year. Or something like this or this

You could also look for skinny cropped trousers instead of jeans for when its a bit warmer, something like these are very easy to wear.

Thanks, MIM, love everything you linked to there

So, payday this week. On a bit of a budget atm so can't go wild (alas) but can probably stretch to spending £100, perhaps a bit more if really necessary...

What should my list look like?

Can probably last another month or so in the jeans I have already at least until it's a bit warmer/next pay day

So should probably go for a pair of shoes, a blazer, a top and maybe a new scarf? (Got loads already but a bit crap at wearing them without looling like my MIL. Who is a wonderfully stylish woman but knocking 70)

I need to stick to a list else I wander aimlessly picking up 'bargains' that actually I hate once I try them on at home ad end up in charity bags

yes i have the ambush - but because of budget issues showed you the otehrs :)

Well, I get a blazer because you can layer underneath should the weather still be chilly.

Gap have 30% of denim at the moment, so maybe worth looking at the jeans for the discount?

I found these things for you on Warehouse, and I think there's a 20% off somewhere, I'll have a look:

pretty top

this top

very pretty scarf

Right 25MC will get you 25% off until Tuesday midnight.

Oh and delfeb for free P&P

Thankyou thankyou!

Got some good ideas now. Going to head to Zara to look for a blazer (I also love their jeans, always fit well, comfy and really reasonably priced)

Then going to look in Gap, Warehouse and Topshop for tops - the sort linked to on this thread

Need to think about shoes and accessories. Esp shoes. Am in danger of slipping into the wearing of battered old Vans every day until it's sandal time otherwise

I'd think about some ballet flats.

Topshop have some very cheap ones for £16 a pair, but they are very flimsy and will probably only last one season. They do have good colours though and might be worth trying with an inner sole for comfort.

You are The mumsnet style blogger ?

Oh Styleguile - what have you started - there'll be a S&B war with factions and all sorts

Lots of good advice notnow - I am loving blouses/shirts with skinnies (pretty coloured ones) at the moment with lightweight grey jumpers for warmth.

I have the KG sweep boots which are similar to ambush and love them.

notnow- am in a similar situation to you.

Have found a bnwt Warehouse blazer on ebay and paid £19.00 for it instead of RRP £89. (let's hope it fits)

I have checked out both School Gate Style and Style Guile's blogs in the last few days and they are fab! Loads of good ideas which is what I was lacking and the prices are reasonable too although I was jealous that she has a husband who whips up chocolate cakes whilst she goes out for a run

Am going to try some of the 'ambush' style boots - am doubtful but might as well try i suppose. Thanks for links

Very useful thread, thanks all!

Will aslo check out blogs when i have some more time.

Went shopping, stuck to list

Got: pair of blue denim skinny jeans from Gap

Bargain blazer from H&M for £20 (!)

And because of the bargain buy and the 30% off at Gap, splashed out on those ambush boots. I liked them and 2 girls also trying shoes on told me they looked good. Do I trust the opinion of 16yr old shoppers

Great news, good for you.

Yes, the Ambush will be fab and you'll wear them loads.

Thats the opinion of a 35 year old anyhow!

Agree I have mine on now.

Meant to say, thanks for the ideas!