Where to shop?

[NumTumDeDum]

I'm 36, I feel unfashionable and frumpy. I just can't work out what to wear or where to buy clothes. I see women who look so groomed with good classic clothes but I can't find much on the high street. Where do you all shop? Can you suggest some good sites?

What is your favourite outfit at the moment?

Honestly, the only thing I don't mind wearing is a pair of skinnies, with a vest and an overshirt by wallis as it hides my bulges. I have parsnip leg so have to wear knee length boots to balance out. I think tbh bootleg suit me best but can't seem to find any. I sort of want to find a style and stick to it and buy better quality clothes.

Marks and Spencer do an awesome slim bootleg in their indigo range.

I think it is partly knowing what you are looking for in the first place. about a year ago I went through my wardrobe chucking anything I didn't truly love.. right now. That gave me the bare bones to work out what look I was aiming for and what was missing.

Then you can start looking for what you want. Personally for me it tends to be h&m for tops, moda/George at asda for dresses, marks and next for bottoms (I have hips and a bum), and primark for odd bits and pieces. Internet tends to be just for coats and shoes as I need to try most clothes on

What's your budget? I'm 37 and mostly buy in the sales at Banana Republic, White Company, Pure Colllection, Tommy Hilfiger (jeans etc), Mint Velvet and Gap. The odd bit from Boden.
A few years ago I realised I'd outgrown Dorothy Perkins and top shop. Having a bit more cash these days helps and I try to buy stuff that lasts

Quite a small budget but If I could find a brand that fits and suits I can alway hunt ebay.

Seriously don't think it's about the brand. Personally I think it's about knowing what you're aiming for in terms of personal style and working out what you're missing from your wardrobe to get there.

From what I've seen groomed is a good hair cut and make up, and clothes and shoes that meet the needs of what you are going to be doing on a day to day basis. If you're in a field you're not going to look groomed in high heels however classic they are, similarly wellies in the middle of a cinema.

Like notcontent I also think you need to look at what you really genuinely like in your wardrobe. It can be one thing and match everything to that. For me it's my necklaces and a specific pair of shoes I love. They give me the reference point for the feel I like my clothes to have.

Could you go to a big dept store like frazers that houses most brands from oasis, warehouse etc, to designer labels. That way you get to try on loads of different styles without having to walk to much. It will give you a chance to see each fashion store at a glance.
I like cos
Gap (for work trousers, basics)
Zara (at times)
Two small local boutiques that stock various small designers, more pricy but beautiful more original clothes.
seasalt