Help - no idea where to shop.....

[thinkofablinkingnamewoman]

I've lost a lot of weight recently and have ended up a size 12-14. I'm very happy but it means I've got no clothes which fit.

I know this will sound pathetic but I've got no idea where to start. I've been so depressed about being fat that I've only bought things from charity shops and supermarkets for ages.
I'm in my mid 40s and I think I can sort out work stuff. So where do I go for everything else? I don't want to look too smart (not sure I could!!), too old or too young. Any ideas for somewhere mid-priced where the shop assistants won't scare me?!

Well done on the weight loss. Am on week two of a diet and know just how HARD it is. Was just going to say Zara too. I'm 51 and really like their tops, shirts, coats and jackets. I can't do their trousers as I'm only 5'1 and everything is immensely long on me. I like River Island and GAP for jeans/casual trousers. Mango has some nice stuff and Oasis too.

Congrats on the weight loss. Zara has some lovely stuff but don't let the bonkers sizing put you off - I'm a 12 and at least a large there most of the time.

Could you spend some time just having a look round a big department store where there's lots of different brands?

John Lewis has lots of choice, stuff from Great Plains, Mango, Oasis, Warehouse, Whistles etc

White Company lovely too.

Yes, sorry I forgot the mad Zara sizing so agree don't worry if you need large or XL. They are probably nearest to 12-14 in a lot of other stores.

Thanks very much everyone! Think I'll take myself off for an afternoon of wandering around. And I won't cry if I'm an L or XL in Zara

White Stuff is awesome, a little expensive.. but proper nice clothes