Help me be taken seriously

[BestestBrownies]

I have decided that updating/reinventing my wardrobe and general style will help me be taken seriously, but I have absolutely no idea what style to go for instead.

At the moment, everyone I meet treats me like a teenager, as do some of the people who know how old I am. I have very short hair and look a lot younger than my age (36). Before I get flamed for stealth boasting, I'm not. It frustrates the hell out of me that I am so often not treated like an adult.

I am a Nanny to a 6yo and 20mo, so the clothes have to be practical and easily washable IYSWIM.

I'm around 5'6" and I think a size 10 (ish), colour palette autumn.

Any ideas? Pretty please?

Jeans and trainers instantly convey a youthful look.

Try shoes and trousers. Blouses rather than Jersey or tshirt tops.

A structured bag rather than casual one.

Hi OP - does this happen all the time or only when you're with children? Sadly, think they are the fast route to not being taken seriously/being treated as invisible.

Quite hard to add gravitas whilst dressing practically for childcare duties, but what about darker colours, tailored shapes (but in comfortable fabrics, eg. a Gap jersey blazer), and a bag towards the business-like end of the spectrum? Not sure how you feel about make-up but a strong lip might be lovely with your hair?

That may be no use at all - but good luck!

Thanks Sunday & Cocoa. Yes,unfortunately it happens all the time, with or without kids in tow. I am always refused alcohol unless I show identification. I can't wear makeup as have sensitive skin.

I like the trousers/shoes with a blouse idea. And the jersey blazer idea. What about dresses with boots? Would that work do you think?

I'm planning to go shopping tomorrow and I absolutely hate the whole experience, so need as many suggestions as possible to try. Want to blitz this in a day if I can.

Personal shopper at John Lewis or debenhams. Free and they will sort you out in a trice. Can't recommend JL enough

Grooming. Grooming. Grooming.

Especially with not being able to wear make up. Eyebrows prefect, good hair cut, nails short and neat.

Thanks Curious. If I was in the UK I'd be there like a shot. The funny ridiculous thing is, I am a GREAT personal shopper for other people, but when it comes to myself I'm useless. I just can't be objective.

MrsLettuce, I'm ON the grooming thing. It's always been a high priority as I've never been able to wear makeup (or jewellery containing nickel). I try to accessorise with nice belts and scarves to make up for it though.

Shoes & handbag make the difference. Go for loafers or ballet flats. A messenger handbag style is easy whilst looking after kids.

On the grooming thing, a tip I picked from a stylist is never tie your hair back with an elasticated band. That is a quick route to looking like a school girl. Always use a barrette or one of those big clips a la Rachel from friends. Or just hair grips. Also, if you are the pretty and petite type, avoid round toed courts, especially with t-bars or ankle straps. She described it as 'the dolly look'. Sounds mad and over the top, but my friend changes her dress in line with this advice and I agree it helped.