SAHM - new wardrobe

[iheartshoes]

I'm now back to my pre baby size and have decided to treat myself to some nice quality outfits that I feel good in. I've been living in baggy leggings and loose tops and would love some pretty day dresses / nice jumpers / day tops. Got about £300 to spend in total. Anyone got any recommendations ? I'm 5'2" size 8-10 . Any help much appreciated - had a look round the shops today but didn't really know where to start. Used to love clothes shopping pre pregnancy but I feel as if I've lost my way and confidence a bit.

Why don't you go and see a personal shopper? They are great at spending other people's money :)

I'd love to hear people's thoughts as I'm in the same boat as you - also size 8 and 5'2. Hopefully somebody will be along soon.

As previous poster suggested I'm wondering whether to visit a personal shopper at John Lewis or Debenhams and see what they suggest. It'd be good to get an outsider's opinion.

I recently bought a great pair of biker boots and a lovely coat but it's day dresses/jumpers etc that I've struggled with too. Somebody mentioned the Joules Alexi for daywear so I'm going to order one of those when they have a code mid Nov (usually 25% off).

Anyone else?

I would make an appointment with a personal shopper too.. I use the Topshop service and love it.

I like the joules alexi dresses ! Personal shopping is a good idea, cheers bigbad but it may be a while before I'm able to arrange it and was hoping to be lazy and do the shopping from behind my computer screen, I don't find shopping with DD very therapeutic ! Any suggestions gratefully received

umiaisha - what happens at the topshop service? How long do they spend with you? Do you give them any details over the phone before the appointment so they can prepare some outfit ideas for you? I'm intrigued as I've bought a few bits and bobs in Topshop recently. Their petite range fits me really well.

Sotired - depends on how much you are intending to buy - normally 1-2 hours. When you book your first appointment they make a note of your height, dress size, age, rough likes/dislikes, budget etc. I tend to go each season, more if I need an outfit for an occasion.

Once the PS knows you it becomes so much easier - the lady I go to often emails me if something comes in she thinks I will like. There is no hard sell and makes shopping a real pleasure.

shoes I've been to both House of Fraser and Debenhams and it could not be more relaxed - sitting one a lovely sofa sipping tea while somebody brings you things they think might suit? How old is DD, can you occupy her with toys?

This Alexi dress. How low is it in the front? I like white stuff dresses but always have to wear something underneath and it annoys me enough that I won't shop there any more! Fat face also have a penchant for great low scoopy necks.

Do you have to pay for personal shopper?

No! I don't think they are on commission either, because I have never felt any pressure to buy.

Hi OP, someone on here told me about the website dressipi - think thats how you spell it, you enter all your details, shape size height etc and they come up with a whole wardrobe that will suit you, you go through different outfits to say whether you like them or not so they get an idea for your taste too.

I swear i didnt think it would work, but my credit card bill this month says otherwise. Lots of lovely suggestions of shops id never consider going to. Im 33 and bought my first top in a long time from topshop this week, always felt too old to go in there like you had to be under 18!

Anyway have a look, well worth it and congrats on the weight loss - not jealous in the slightest

Vix - that website sounds great! OP - should you go down the personal shopper route, I would be a bit wary of the JL personal shopper. I received JL vouchers for my 40th birthday from hubbie and arranged an appointment last summer. I went with my mum. The personal shopper was an older lady and I felt that 90% of what she brought me was just too old for me. Even my mum agreed. So it was a bit disappointing really.

To be fair, she did get me into a pair of Oasis skinny jeans (would never have tried them on otherwise) and a Whistles top. I also got a few other things but it was a bit of an underwhelming experience. I thought I was going to come out with a totally revamped wardrobe!

Can I ask what type of boot folks wear with a tunic dress at 5 ft as mine all seem too long ?

Just been on dressipi website, it's REALLY good! Lots of ideas.

It found me this www.tedbaker.com/uk/Womens/Clothing/Jackets-Coats/ALBINE-Wool-trench-coat-Red/p/105190-45-RED

and think I have fallen in love (just need to beg/borrow/steal to get it!!!)

I know I shouldn't (this will get removed I'm sure) but that is why I set up Avenue 57 - to help women find their style again.

There are LOTS of women posting daily and they inspire me every day to wear and buy new things.

You should have a look because I honestly believe it will help you.

www.avenue57.com

First what would you wear day in day out? Jeans, leggings, sweater dresses etc?

If you don't like or don't think it'll fit into your lifestyle then don't bother.

Also are there styles you like or don't like and colours?

I got a nice Zara red angora mix jumper at weekend but tried on twice in 2 shops and with my mum one time. She confirmed I needed medium and that red suited me!

Pointless buying trends you'd never wear