Can you help me find an 'every day' outfit or 2 on a budget?

[CountingPennies]

I have rather specific requirements I'm a fussy old cow and next to no money. Anyone up for a challenge?

I work in a creative environment, so there's no dress code. I'm currently down to a couple of pairs of skinny jeans & jumpers and 1 dress, am feeling rather dowdy so desperately need some new clothes.

I'm in my 40s, long limbed (so sleeves and legs are usually just an inch too short) and a size 10. As for the fussy bit, I suppose I've had a few years to find out what fits/suits me - it needs to be toddler friendly, not frumpy (White Stuff A-line skirts/fussy tunic tops would send me over the edge - sorry if that's what you are currently wearing!), flat weatherproof shoes (walk to work). No black, white or teal (drains me of colour). I'd normally wear White Company, Jigsaw, Cyrillus, the less gaudy/boxy stuff from Boden - I suppose I'd describe my style as understated classics with a twist not very exciting, but my budget won't stretch to these at the moment.

I've put off shopping at Primark as it just makes me feel ancient. Do I just need to get over it?!

What do you S&B experts suggest, can you suggest a few budget outfits for inspiration?

TIA

TKMaxx - I often look in there, but isn't there always something just well, 'not quite right' with most things they sell? Not faulty, but, I don't know, the colours aren't quite right (don't match anything), or the cut not quite as flattering as it should be, or the buttons look really cheap, or something just a bit naff about them which is why I guess they are so cheap. It might seem like detail, but I think it's quite important. Maybe I've just been unlucky.

Unfortunately our charity shops seem to just have tat. I think they cream off the nicer pieces to flog on eBay or sell in their London shops.

Right, might take a deep breath and battle the teenagers in Primark ...

Hi there
Watching with interest.
I 2nd loving to look in a charity shop. You have to look through nearly everything but I often find Whistles or other higher end high street (though whether it then fits etc is a gamble...)

Sorry, behind on charity shop bit.

I love TK Maxx but agree that things aren't always as bargainous as they seem. But, if you ignore the label and the so-called original price and focus on whether you actually like the item, you can get great buys.

I'm less convinced by charity shops. They're good fun and it's great if you do find something but unless you're in a very affluent area, most of it, in my experience, is tat. I prefer dress agencies; their prices might be higher but I'm more likely to find something I like.