Oh dear, I've just realised who I dress like :(

[mumat39]

Just watching Miranda and I love the program and the character and of course Miranda Hart.

But I don't have a clue about how to dress and I've just realised that I actually dress like Miranda. There was the scene of her at Henly and al the other ladies were in dresses and hats and she was there in black trousers and a plain ish top. She's more 'adventurous' as I'd probably not have even gone to henly and if I did I'd have been so self concious. I wouldn't have worn any colour either, probably just black trousers and an ill fitting black top.

I really don't like the way I dress as I'm sure I'd have more confidence if I could get it right, but I've just turned 44 and am slowly thinking that I am beyond help.

I've asked for help on here, and have been to see a personal shopper both in a dept store and hired a lady to come shopping with me but I am still clueless. In both cases they couldn't help me with much as I'm actually a bit of an odd shape and clothes just don't fit me. I'm a sort of hourglass/pear shape. Big boods (34G) size 14/16. Huge 27" thighs and massive calves that don't fit in boots.

I asked on here the other day for help with tops and had some good suggestions, but when I went into John Lewis to have a look I felt totally bamboozled and like a deer in headlights. I didn't know where to start looking so I just aimlessly wondered around so that my ds could have a run around and then came home. I must have spent a fortune on parking costs the number of times I've done this. I don't actually venture into shops for clothes shopping anymore as it's too depressing as I don't really like how I look and always feel inferior to the many stylish women I see everyday. I don't read magazines or things like that as they generally make me feel even more frumpy than I do anyway.

I've asked for help maybe 2 or 3 times on here before and there have always been some really lovely helpful replies. But I just can't seem to put these ideas into practice.

I guess I feel worse as I have to leave the house every morning for the school run.

I've also ordered loads of clothes from online places and mostly send them all back.

If I look on something like Style Adviser on Boden, then I hate the shape I see that is my shape and hate all the recommended clothes.

If I see something/anything in a shop or online I might look at it but then actually question whether it's nice or not. Mostly I haven't got a clue what I like on me. I know what sort of style I think I like if I see it on others, but the fact that I couldn't get away with it is quite depressing.

How am I supposed to reconcile and accept the shape I am and then how do I go about getting help to find clothes that I feel good in and can start feeling more confident and better about myself in.

What is wrong with me? Am I beyond help? Will I forever feel inferior and never break out of this constant confusion about how to better myself. Maybe I should post this in Mental Health.

Sorry for my long post. Just needed to talk to someone about this and I don't really have anyone to talk to apart from a DP who doesn't understand. :(

Agree with cutesy - looking good takes time and effort. This time last year I was looking a mess, I had no idea what went with what, I kind of stumbled through shops, I had no idea how to dress me apart from my big boobs needing a scoop t shirt.
I have read this forum every day, I have absorbed the wise words these woman speak of and I now feel dressed when I go out, I have learned about what really suits me, I know which clothes I like from posts on here, from blogs and pinterest. I try on loads of stuff, especially new shapes - occasionally they work. I have also learned to accessorise with a nice scarf - it does wonders for the dullest outfits. I'm in my 40's now and it's taken this long for me to understand how to dress, rather than randomly throwing bits together.

Haven't read all the replies, so sorry if this has been mentioned, but in your OP you say that while out shopping you let your DS have a run around. If you're trying to keep an eye on him then no wonder you can't make decisions on clothes. This is making you feel low so its important enough for you to take some time to yourself to sort it out. Get your DP to look after DS for a whole day and plan your assault, including coffee and a cake/lunch to keep your energy levels up!

Or rather than going to the shops, go online. Expect to spend a lot as a lot of the stuff will need returned.

White stuff had a 20% off day but unfortunately that's finished but have a look out for discounts - I would never pay full price there as something always crops up.

I was looking at this should work well with leggings ( recommend Boden leggings)

My friend who is probably a 16-18 wore this in silver the other day from M&S www.marksandspencer.com/Front-Sequin-Boyfriend-Cardigan-Mohair/dp/B002U8F3Q6?ie=UTF8&ref=sr_1_30&nodeId=43083030&sr=1-30&qid=1348319481 it looks a thousand times better on her than it does on the model as it needs bosoms to carry it well, plus it skims nicely over your other clothes so even if you are in head to toe black then it will look colourful

Boden has a sale starting on Monday - just got my letter through, but I am struggling to find anything nice to link to for you.

Or sticking to black but with a bit of shape from Phase Eight www.phase-eight.co.uk/fcp/product/phase-eight/Knitwear-&-Cardigans/Myleene-Jumper/401278050

Personal shopper sounds like a great idea - hope your appointment goes well.

I have a friend who was in a similar situation to yourself OP, and she spent a day (or some hours anyway, can't remember how much time) with a holistic stylist, who not only dressed her very well but went thru 'life stuff' with her, I'm not 100% sure what it entailed, bit it certainly did wonders for her, boosted her self confidence and self-esteem no end. It might be ideal for you.

Well I'm a size 14 with 34E boobs and 5'8". If you're anywhere near Cambridge, Westfield stratford or Bluewater I'd be delighted to go shopping with you!

Having had three kids and waited in vain for several years for my waist to reappear I finally found some jeans that fit in levi's about a year ago - the Demi curve slim leg ones. They actually measure you and decide what curve you are - Ie what the proportionate difference is between your natural waist and your hips. I love these jeans so much I have bought three pairs - all the same cut but different colours. it's made a world of difference to my confidence and actually meant that some clothes I had pushed to the back of the wardrobe can be worn again because I don't have a muffin top any more (haven't lost weight, just wearing the right shape now) I also found cos and bought a couple of really gorgeous tops in there. I don't have many clothes but what I do have now I really love. I have a wrap dress for smarter occasions and some dresses for the summer.

Firstly, ditch the kids when you go shopping!

Also, start small, just set out to find one piece, even if it is just a nice T. If you find none, buy a new eye liner or lipstick, and enjoy a bit f attention at the beauty counter.

I am an odd size and it can be disheartening when you feel you are just the wrong shape for the clothes.

Even though the problem s actualy that so many clothes are the wrong shape for me!

I have found a few shops that work for me, and habe also decided to buy an item in duplicate if it fits well.

Also, I have discovered that I just look rubbish in j eans and a top, and much much nicer in a dress with boots. I know which colours suit me, and to hell with fashion! I am now in a dress most days. Comfy too!

Don't give up!

Like you, I have also moved around a lot. I am a bit more proactive about socialising, I do a course or sport, also to meet people, an may even suggest to meet up for a coffee...without sounding too needy, haha, this takes practice.

As with the clothes, a little at a time. Say hi to your neighbours, have a chat over the fence/bins/road. See how you could get active in your local community. There are lots of friends out there you have not met yet, it takes time and patience ...and a bit of courage.

Hello again lovely ladies :)

I just wanted say I'm still here. I've been a bit of a zombie as DD didn't sleep until about 3.30 this morning. She's ok but still covered in a rash that makes her look like she's been scalded. I've been wanting to reply to you all all day but I've just been so so tired and fuzzy headed so apologies. I find the worry really takes its toll on me.

I'll try and pop back tomorrow to reply to you all properly, but can I just say that I think you're all truly wonderful and all the advice is great and that I can't believe that there are so many kind people all in one place.

Goodnight for now and I hope you've had a good Saturday and that Sunday is lovely too.

Lots of love. xxx

Bless you OP. Hope your DD gets well soon.

Hello mumat39 sorry to hear your dd is unwell - I would think that if you are worrying about her health this will add to your general unhappiness about yourself. I hope she feels better soon

I sometimes feel like you when I catch sight of myself in a shop window that I look a bit of a mess when I've just dragged on some jeans and a top which are not very flattering (I'm a pear shape but with a thickening waist, not very tall and fat legs) BUT I do have some clothes which I look so much better in and these are clothes which flatter my shape - generally dresses which fit at the top, skim over my stomach and flair out over my thighs; or a tunic to a similar shape with leggings and boots. I think that this shape would probably suit you too. Legroom at marisota do boots which come in different calf fittings, although I'm not sure of the quality. I have generally found Next wide fitting to be good.

If you find shopping stressful I would suggest that you order a selection of clothing from somewhere like Next on account or La redoute etc where you don't have to pay upfront and try on a few different styles in your home in front of a full length mirror to get an idea of what you feel suits you without feeling that assistants in a shop are judging you (how I feel anyway)

Hope you are feeling happier soon x

I'm a similar size and shape to you except I'm a few inches shorter and quite a few years older. My main tip would be to wear clothes that fit i.e. not baggy and not clinging. Tops, trousers, skirts or dresses that skim your body shape without showing lumps and bumps is the way to go.

1. I've found V-neck t-shirts and tops are better than round or scoop necked.

1. 3/4 sleeve tops and dresses make your arms look longer.

1. Avoid shiny fabrics.

1. Wear colours that suit you and if there's a trend that you like make it work for you by just getting one item or accessory with it like a scarf, bag or shoes.

1. Don't be afraid to try on a style you've never worn before, sometimes it will look awful but not always.

1. Bootleg trousers will probably suit you as they will balance out your leg shape in a flattering way.

1. Avoid empire line and wear clothes that define your waist.

1. Don't rely on wearing black all the time!

1. It's easy to smarten up an outfit with nice jewellery, shoes and bag.

The ladies that 'swoosh' have spent at least 3 hours getting ready. I'm not one of them - I've been known to leave the house in a rush wearing odd shoes!

Hi mumat - how about you stick with your trousers/plain tops just now and get some lovely statement (hate that word but you know what I mean) necklaces or scarves? I find Warehouse great for big scarves, they're only about twenty quid but massive so you can do drapey, tied, whatever with them. In fact, if you PM me your address, I'll send you one - you sound a bit low, and so many of us have been there.

I've lost a bit of weight recently, so will happily send a few wrap dresses your way if you'd like - I'd say to try a 14 as they tend to look better if a bit tight.

Or you can just tell me to bugger off and stop being so patronising

What a lovely reply mumat. You sound like a really nice person. Try and remember that!

Mumat39 (by the way I was too - funny place sometimes as everyone around you has the benefit of a younger body and more energy so seem to do it all effortlessly when for slightly older birds its more 'uphill'. Trust me they're struggling too and they'll hit the who-am-I and what-do-I-wear-now 'crisis' once you've sorted it all out, if that makes sense). Anyway, you are so warm and witty, your posts are great. Loads of people out there would love to be friends with you. Don't lose heart.

mumat hope you're doing ok and dd is coming round.

Just to say if you want the name of the holistic stylist my friend used, feel free to pm me. I haven't met this woman but my friend says she's good, does a lot of looking and feeling good stuff. Might be a handy shortcut thru the maze for you.

Hello again lovely ladies :-)

I'm so so grateful to you all for your kindness, insight and advice. I'm getting bit teary eyed as I try to reply to you all.

My DD was covered last night in this really angry looking rash and it was still there in the middle of the night. When she woke up this morning, he skin was mostly clear which was a relief. I think the anti histamine sometimes takes a couple of days to kick in so I think we've got to that stage so hopefully it will keep it under control That's the first time she's had a reaction like that in the middle of the night. :( Just when I think she's doing really well at the moment and hasn't needed any meds she has a reaction and I always worry that I've somehow jinxed her. Anyway, she's fine in herself, I was just a bit horrified the other night by how covered she was and how red it looked. Thank you all for asking :)

QueenCadbury - hello. You weren't talking out of turn at all. In fact I'd say you've summed me up quite well. I've actually been on anti-depressants for about 18 months for anxiety. I think I probably am depressed too, except I've only really felt like that since being on the AD's - lol. I think I was in denial about it for a long time. I've always lacked confidence and have always had these insecurities I guess, but when DD's allergies first reared their ugly head she was only 6.5 months old and I've really struggled with keeping my worries at bay. I went from looking forward to weaning and cooking for her to fearing food just incase I poisoned her. The first reaction was a biggy and she was in hospital overnight and she reacted to wheat which is in everything, so for the last 4.5 years I've pretty much lived in fear, and I guess that has really had an effect on me. But the drugs do work and I'm slowly dealing with things and I think they're the reason I can actually face dealing with this whole 'silly' issue I have with how I look and clothes. You're right about doing some toning exercises so I will definitely try and dig out one of my many exercise dvds and have a go. :)

DolomitesDonkey "tits and arse bombshell" eh?? I now know how the ugly duckling felt when she (or was it a he?) was told he/she was a swan, 'aah go on!' :)

Thanks for the tip about John Rocha. I'll try and get to a Debenhams to have a look. :)

FellatioNelson, I'd love to be trinny and susannah'd but not be on the tv, if that makes sense. You're right though, it is an odd feeling putting on lovely clothes and never quite feeling like they're right or being told that something looks ok but only seeing that it doesn't when I look in the mirror. I like the idea of making small changes to start with as otherwise I think I probably would be very self concious.

Phew re Evans. I always walk past thinking please no, but I will check them out for the wide calved boots mentioned upthread. :)

johnnycomelurky, I'm the same with a waist belt as you. It just never looks right. I have tried in the past to follow the 'rules' but they really don't work for me. Or at least I don't know how to put them into practice. My biggest thing is actually finding something in a shop that looks nice. Most of my clothes are 'they'll do' bits from convenient shops.

I don't think empire line stuff works on me. It always makes me look pregnant. also the line usually cuts me across the widest part of my boobs and then hangs from there as there's never enough material about the empire line bit to cover them. Thanks for that link. I think I'm a cello too. :)

I'd love to be able to alter clothes or make my own, but it'd be good just to figure out what I should be wearing in the first place. Also, I've recently discovered how rubbish I am at sewing labels on DD's school clothes so not sure how good a seamstress I'd be

MorrisZapp I like the way say Jennifer Aniston looks, but other than that I don't really know about clothes, for example, I don't know what mixed up vintage is. I like jeans but not the ones that give me a builders bum, which my current pair do. I've never even thought if M&S for jeans but will check them out. I did try their jeggings on once but it was too depressing. And I'll have a look in Primark for the t shirts. If I was to wear a vest underneat would I go 1 or 2 sizes up on the t shirt?

Born2bemild I think I'd like to wear dresses, but haven't found any that have been ok. I've tried a few jersey ish ones, but they always cling in the wrong place and make me look like I have a triangular shaped bottom

mirpuppet that dress sounds lovely. I think I might ask the JL shopper to help me with a pair of jeans and some tops to get me started. Then I'll definitely move onto dresses. But then I'd need to know what to wear on top so a cardi, jacket, etc etc and then my mind boggles. I'm glad it's ok to wear the same thing over and over. That means less shopping which has got to be a good thing.

AitchTwoOhOneTwo I like the idea of a signature style. :)

HairExtensions that's a cool look I think. And you're right the S&B lot are really lovely!:)

Mymumsdaughter I actually filled in the boden style adviser which I think is the same a dressipi and when I looked at the recommended outfits I was a bit surprised that I didn't like the look of most of the suggestions. They all looked a bit too nothingy, although more stylish than I am at the moment. I think my problem is I know what I don't like, but have no clue what I do.

Whoknowwherethetimegoes I'll have a look in M&S for boots. I tend to wear bootcut jeans as I actually think they look better on me than the other styles. I love the boots with tucked in jeans but have never found boots that were wide enough for my calves so trying to tuck jeans in was always a bit of a disaster. I think your wardrobe sounds lovely. It's great that you're sorted now so I hope I can get there one day too. I don't have any problem with being tagged as mumsy at all as long as I'm happy in what I'm wearing and at the moment I'm not.

I have 'analysed' what other people wear but I tend to get fixated on maybe one thing I see and then I trawl the shops (not very often) or online shops to see if I can find it. Usually the thing I think is lovely is on someone who is a completely different shape or colouring to me but the fact that they're wearing it and look nice is almost like validation that it must be ok, even though in reality it wouldn't work with the other stuff I have.

Another confession time now. I've even bought clothes from QVC! The SHAME!!! I have been so desparate and I hear them say things are flying out the door and then I think they must be great so I get them, they arrive, I get embarrased at what the Hermes delivery people must think of me, and then I can't bring myself to open the parcel. I usually do within the 30 days and then send them back. I have a few things lurking in my cupboard that I thought I'd wear but never have.

IShakkPracticeMyCurtsey, thanks for your post too. I really think your steps are a really good idea. Esp the capsule wardrobe and the idea of scheduling what to wear. I think if I think of what I have to wear in that way then it would make it easier. I just have to find some clothes to do that with but it's definitely a really helpful idea.

Don't apologise. It wasn't an essay at all. That's the sort of plan I need to deal with all this silliness that I've been giving in to for far too long. I'm really hoping the JL personal shopper can help me to get that effortlessly swooshy look.

racingheart I've never shopped in the White Stuff but will take a look. Thanks for the tip. That top you linked to looks really nice, but the empire lie wouldn't fit me well but I will go and have a look and maybe try some stuff on. Thanks for the tips re the boots too. :)

AgathaFusty Honestly if I cleared out my wardrobe with that matra in mind, I'd have an empty wardrobe. :( I'm really pleased that you managed to end up with stuf you love. Maybe I'll do that after my personal shopper session, but not before as I really wouldn't have anything else to wear. I also don't have things that necessarily go with anything else so it sounds like you're a million times better at shopping than I am.

I've had a look at the does my bum look 40 in this, and I quite liked it to start with but that woman looks like she lives in a mansion and must shop all the time. And she's so slim and lovely and probably has no issues with her bum at all, so I still occasionally glance at it but the clothes that work for her wouldn't for me as we're really different sizes. sorry if I sounds a bit bitter and twisted. I think I'm just jealous!

LtheWife, Thank you for the lovely hug :) and I'm sending one back to you (). I couldn't work in Fashion Week, unless I could be invisible. I'd love to see what goes on it must be quite a buzzy environment! I can't believe those people at the fashion event though. GULP!! How rude! But I guess all their hunger makes them not so nice people sometimes.
Alot of your post makes sense to me as I am the same. I worry too much about what others think of me and as I've lost contact with people over the years I think it's made me feel like maybe I'm not worth it, if that make sense. I used to be the one to make contact and stay in touch and then one day just thought hang on a second. SO I stopped and so did they, so there must be something not quite right with me. I must give off an air of not needing anyone maybe.

You're probably right about getting out more. I will try and do that soon. And I picked up an adult education booklet the other day but couldn't decide what I'd like to try so maybe the dressmaking alterations classes would be perfect. Thank you :)

TellMeLater Mumsnet is indeed a place full of very wise people. :) I'm the same I know that a scoop neck is best on me but then what??? I like the idea of scarves. WHat sort of things do you wear them with? Trying on new shapes. hmmm. OK, I'll see if I can find some skinny jeans. eeek.

DoingItForMyself, I do sometimes get out by myself and then after about an hour of wondering around aimlessly, I find myself wishing I had my DD and DS with me as that would be a good fun distraction. I like the idea of the cake and coffee though

theoriginalandbestrookie That's interesting about that jumper. I'm sure I saw that on the website the other day but didn't really even bother to look at it. I suppose I discount alot of stuff based on how it looks on the online shop sites. That Phase 8 top looks nice. The appt is at the beginning of October so fingers crossed :)

lurkingaround ooh a holistic stylist sounds interesting. I think I might have to google that to find out what that means. I'll pm you in a bit as I think I'd be interested in maybe just having a phone conversation with her to see what she says. Thanks so much for your kind offer. :)

Brandnewbrighttomorrow, the Demi Curve jeans sound like a good idea. Where did you go to be measured? Did you have to go to a dedicated Levi's store? That's brilliant that just finding the right fitting jeans means other clothes fit better. They sound brilliant! I've never been in COS before. Infact I hadn't heard of it before I read about it on a thread on MN. I have looked at their website but think I'd have to find a store to get a better idea of what their clothes are like although I'm sure they're lovely as lots of MN'ers seem to speak highly about them.

Thanks so much for the offer of coming shopping with me that's really kind of you. I might take you up on that offer at some point. I'm going to do the JL session and then will have to see how the finances are after that. Is it okay if I pm you at a later date?

Chandon, I won't give up, although when I started this thread I probably had a little bit already. Thanks for your kind words. I'm definitely going to try and do a course and probably in dressmaking/alterations.

applepudding Thanks for the tip about Marisota. I've never looked on their before. And I'll have a look at Next and order some stuff, although I've been really surprised by just how poor the quality of their stuff is recently. It seems great for kids stuff but I bought some tops at the start of the summer that are falling apart.

mouldyironingboard thanks for your tips. I've also been known to leave the house (often) without brushing my hair! It's good to know that it is possible to have a speedy but effective plan for looking good without spending too long getting there.

twirlyagogo congrats on your weightloss. Thanks so much for your offer and I didn't find it patronising at all. Just really kind actually. I've never thought to look in Warehouse for scarves so will have a look. I may take you up on your offer but only if I could give you something for the scarf or better still maybe you could link me to the ones you have and I'll get those and think of you when I wear them?

Sonotkylie wow another mum at 39. It was definitely uphill compared to the other much younger mums in my antenatal group. But I'm obviously in good company. The thought that anyone has to go through this is a bit sad. On the one hand it's only clothes and hardly that serious, but on the other hand it such a big deal. I felt awful the other night when my DD was in bed all rashy and I was on here going on about clothes of all things. Anyway, she is better so I am back again.

I think I've replied to everyone, so thank you once again lovely ladies and I'm really sorry if I've missed anyone. You really have been brilliant and although I haven't met you all I'd love to know you all in RL as you have been good for me by being so lovely and by being there for me. I actually feel much better which is a really nice surprise. My style anxieties have slightly eased and I am looking forward to the JL session, which I was dreading before.

I'm so so sorry for my essay but I really wanted to thank you all.

Lots of love and I hope if it's wet where you are, that you're all dry and cosy and that there are no rain related problems tonight or tomorrow.

xxxxxx

Glad you feel a bit listened to. I've been where yiu are with the anxiety and depression. It takes time, proper time, to deal with that, so don't be hard on yourself.
Clothes wise, maybe start with a nice dark pair of bootcut jeans?

Would this sort of fit and flare shape dress suit you [[http://www.shopstyle.co.uk/browse?fts=fit+and+flare+dress#12_0
here]]? Maybe the ones with the lower neck and no gathering/pleating anywhere.

The one in this blog looks nice with ankle/shoe boots, and you could add thick black tights for autumn/winter.

Have you seen this blog?

If you're near Bristol give me a shout. I love shopping ad will happily help you x

Wow, what a fab respsonse to all the posters, must have taken you hours mummat! Yes, I was measured at levi's in Cambridge. They stock a limited selection within jl too but I don't think they are trained in the same way. I still tried on lots of different styles but having someone there who knew the cuts and could recommend what to go for made all the difference - left to my own devices I would not have even tried on my very favourite new jeans - they are a size smaller than I had been wearing but because they are cut higher on the waist are SO much more flattering than any of the jeans I've had for years. I hope your JL session goes really well, let us know how you get on!

Always happy to shop, especially for others, much more fun than shopping for myself

I'm glad you've had so many helpful suggestions Mumat, thank you for your detailed reply, it's nice when you know someone is really taking on board all the suggestions people have been making.

I struggled to find wide calf boots for yesrs BTW, but having done so I would say that they are the single thing that's made the biggest difference to me so well worth the effort. I have bought two pairs each of my two favourite styles so that they last a few years.

Thanks for the reply. What an epic! When's the shopping? Its supposed to be fun so try and enjoy it - thinking dressing up not ticking off chore from list! You'll be fine. Also happy to shop near Bristol or Bath ... Although if I shop with other people, I end up spending far too much!
Oh and don't worry about going on about clothes. Fashion -y stuff is a hobby that fits round kids very well, better than football and no one knocks fathers who keep up their interest in sport. And I'm glad DD is better.

Mumat - you sound like such a lovely person, so I really wanted to drop you a line.

My DS was diagnosed with allergies at 6 months too. I totally get the disappointment about preparing foods for him, and how it turned into one massive headache. Very stressful, and I too feel that it contributed to a bout of depression I had during that time. I'm probably teaching you to suck eggs, but the reaction she had the other night, could it have been a contaminate from something. DS had a dreadful reaction to sesame once, just because I had eaten some and then tucked him in bed later.

I have been in your place, post DC's and not knowing what to wear, totally confused etc. The important thing to remember is that no-one gets in right all the time, and sometimes we have to tweak things to make it right for our lives. So, me today I am in skinnies and a breton sweater. I should have heeled ankle boots on, but I need to do lots of running/walking today. So, my compromise are grey leather look trainers from H&M. They are practical, but still fairly stylish.

Oh, there is a breton top from H&M featured on 40bum blog. It's blue and white, with a zip detail at the back and is £12.99. Something like this is a great every day top. I was reading about it last night and thought of you.

By the way, I am south-west Surrey. I'd be happy to help if local too!

I'm SE London I'd be happy to go shopping with you and try to help.

Hello again lovely ladies.

I have been here quietly following this thread but haven't had a chance to reply. This is a quick reply just to say you're all so sweet!!!

I tried on a pair of the wide fitting boots in Next and they fit, so thank you for that suggestion. The boots are a bit plastic-y but they fit so that's brilliant. I was actually in shock when I first put the on and the zipped up.

I also decided to just order a load of stuff from Boden and Next and just try things on at home with you all there with me (in my head anyway). That wasn't so good. All the boden items (23of them) went back and I don't know what went wrong with my order with Next but I somehow managed to order things I didn't really mean to so they'll be going back. A bit depressing but hey no.

Midnight, I'm going to go to H&M tomorrow to check out that top and Agatha, I hadn't seen that blog. It's brilliant so thanks for that.

Everyone else, thank you too.

Hope you're all well and that you all have a good weekend.

Lots of love. xxx