Urgently need new clothes but don't know where to start since having dc - any advice please

[Jemster]

I have hardly bought any clothes since having dc2 now 20 months. I really have lost my way when it comes to looking nice. I used to have lots of nice clothes but I've got rid of lots as my shape has changed and I just don't feel confident anymore in what suits me.

I desperately want a few new things for work as I only have one pair of black trousers which are on the way out, and a couple of dresses that have seen better days.

I have a little money to spend on myself in the sales but just don't know where to start. Should I buy up lots of cheap items from Sainsburys, H&M sales etc or buy much less but more expensive items? Which shops should I look at?
I am 38, 5'3" size 12, lots of curves, autumn colouring.

Like lots of us with small dc, I don't have loads of time to go trawling round the shops so want to have some sort of plan before I go. All too often I have had a day shopping and come back with nothing which is a waste of time and I get upset thinking I should have spent that time with my family.

I just don't seem to be able to visualise putting outfits together, either in terms of colour or style.

Any tips would be gratefully received as I'd like to make a fresh start in January.

I think you should focus on one item first of all. Whilst there will be bargains in the sale, you don't want to impulse buy.

Start with working out what you need and pick one item eg jeans and focus on buying a pair. Once the children are asleep, browse online if you can. Then, when the sales arrive, buy them if on offer.

Dressippi is a site where you input your stats and they recommend items based on your shape. You don't have to buy, but it will give you an idea as to what may suit you.

I don't know if it will help with the sales but I was in a similar situation but with DC2 just a baby, and booked a personal shopper at debenhams last month. I sat with a cup of tea and fed DS while the shopper ran around getting stuff for me to try, based on what I asked for. She did pick up sake items too, and i came away with some nice bits and ideas of what to look for elsewhere.

Hi... In same boat here. Will be interested to see what others suggest.
My thing is that I feel guilty about spending any money on clothes for me as the childcare leaves me with less than pocket money change after that been paid for so I'd be taking out of collective family finances to dress for work Much of my prebaby workwear doesn't fit now or is completely impractical for schlepping over to the CM before work, kids breakfasts etc. So I am existing in some faded old black trousers and skirts and tops from yesteryear at work. That's not even to mention the state of affairs in my 'home' wardrobe!
Try not to feel guilty about 'wasting' time away from the family though. You need time for you and that is OK. Also my next years resolution re clothes problem is going to be to not save stuff for best. I have a few things that would be smarter and suitable for work but never wear them as they would then need dry clean or hand wash or whatever. But it seems silly to give cupboard room to stuff that never gets worn.