I'm clueless -- help me, please!

[EsioTrot]

Hi,

I'm 33-years-old and recently got a new job after being a SAHM for years. There isn't really anyone else of my age group in the office and I just don't know what to wear.

My lovely husband has given me a surprise £200 to buy some work clothes, but I don't know where to start.

I don't need to wear a suit but I have to be smartly dressed. I'd love to try to be a bit trendy if possible (never been particularly trendy before).

I'm 5'8" and a size 10, but am a bit pear shaped (in more ways than one!).

Any advice would be hugely appreciated and I'd love to get as much bang for my buck as possible.

Thank you.

hmm, nicely fitted trousers, some blouses/shirts, pencil skirt, flat shoes - maybe the brogue style to wear with trousers, some comfy heels and a nice handbag are a must. Also some summer dresses, but not sleeveless - think that is a no no in lots of offices.

Trying to 'dress' you is tricky, until we know what sort of things you like to wear.

how about this sort of style? <a class="break-all" href="http://www.google.co.uk/imgres?imgurl=www.bridgettegray.com/files/2011/11/Officewear.jpg&imgrefurl=www.bridgettegray.com/autumnwinter-work-wear.html&h=483&w=500&sz=73&tbnid=RKpuEtSAiiV1HM:&tbnh=90&tbnw=93&zoom=1&usg=__aUs5Pw-jQUnEIIdQkoDistDfOsA=&docid=U33_3L-8f5lthM&sa=X&ei=mwNrUayrA6Wm0QXXl4DQDQ&ved=0CG4Q9QEwBQ&dur=368" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">quite formal I think

Ooh, thanks for replying! Good suggestions, thanks.

I usually wear jeans and converse/ballet pumps/biker boots depending on weather. With a jumper or t-shirt and cardigan on top. V boring and not at all elegant. Haven't had any money to spend on clothes for so long.

Have a look at Zara - they have younger office type clothes

yes, Zara, River Island (not the clubbing gear though) and Mango all have decent office stuff, so Ive read.

Top tips, thanks everyone.