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I need a capsule work wardrobe. Help!

15 replies

Limelight · 03/08/2012 22:32

I'm starting a new job in September which involves me working in a real life proper office with photocopiers and the like.

I work in the arts as a project manager and have spent the last 7 years freelancing. This has meant a lot of work at home (i.e. pyjamas are acceptable work wear), or on-site (i.e. anything that I don't mind getting dirty is acceptable work wear). I've got by with one or two reasonably smart outfits for the occasional meeting / interview etc.

But this is different. Still the arts (so suits are a no-no. Creativity and quirkiness are valued, as are good accessories), but more policy-. So I need to look like I'm a grown-up, not too formal but my usual stuff won't cut the mustard. I need the odd thing which will translate into being suitable for evening events.

Help! I'm slightly panicked!

So vital stats! I'm tall - 5'9''. I'm a size 16/18 (and getting smaller. I've lost 2 stone recently). I'm quite broad on top with boobs but not crazily unwieldy boobs. Good bum, very long legs, hips are ok. I carry most of my weight on my stomach so that and my arms are my problem areas.

I wear a lot of leggings with dresses and boots. I'm a habitual trouser/jean wearer of all shapes and sizes actually. Per-kids I wore lots of skirts which skimmed my hips and then flared out if you see what I mean. Can't find a skirt I like these days. I like scarves and good jewellery. I have short quite textured hair.

Shops I like are fatface, Great Plains, Gap, Monsoon (on occasion). Don't do fussy really but I like a nice and interesting print.

This is so long - sorry! But help!

OP posts:
Limelight · 03/08/2012 22:33

And i should have said I'm 34.

...and sorry about the typos! Blush

OP posts:
SundaeGirl · 03/08/2012 22:36

What's your budget? Do you already have shoes and bag?

Limelight · 03/08/2012 22:42

I don't know really. I'm probably ok for shoes - I wear pumps a lot and have a couple of great pairs of Ninewest boots (brown knee highs and black ankle boots). I'm obviously not against buying more. Grin

I've got a great tan Ted Baker bag which I'm happy with too.

I guess in terms of cost I'd look at a few more costly things (up to £150-ish) and then cheaper basics.

Thank you!!

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PetiteMum · 03/08/2012 23:05

I think flattering jersey dresses and a couple of blazers are a good starting point. You wont have to stress aboutmatching tops and bottoms that way?

SundaeGirl · 03/08/2012 23:08

Some cashmere is essential I think this is smart but not overly formal

(off to look some more)

SundaeGirl · 03/08/2012 23:14

This dress is gorgeous - cool colour and you can wear it out in the evening Here -sounds as though it would suit your figure

SundaeGirl · 03/08/2012 23:21

Another dress to wear with leggings or boots during the day and heels at night here

SundaeGirl · 03/08/2012 23:25

white shirt but hip

SundaeGirl · 03/08/2012 23:40

serious white shirt

Limelight · 04/08/2012 11:09

Oooh all nice. I'm having trouble with some of the links though.

Thanks so much for your help!

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SundaeGirl · 04/08/2012 11:26

Which ones and I'll try again. There was something odd going on on my wardrobe yesterday, kept diverting to the German site...

SundaeGirl · 04/08/2012 11:36

Ach. Doubled up.

dress

trousers

Now can't find the white shirt but will be back!

Limelight · 05/08/2012 10:27

Really love the trousers and the first dress. Not so keen on the second although I like the shape. I like the white shirt a lot too although I don't get on brilliantly with shirts if I'm honest - my boobs tend to get in the way.

I bought a black wrap dress in the Isabella Oliver sale last night. Feeling a bit pleased about that!

OP posts:
Limelight · 05/08/2012 10:38

Completely in love with your cashmere suggestion too. Glorious!

OP posts:
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