Workwear capsule wardrobe?

[nomoreminibreaks]

I'm due to return to work after maternity leave in the next couple of months but I need to start again with my work clothes as I've recently lost 2.5 stone going from a 14/16 to a 10/12. I'm 5'9" and 33.

I used to only wear jersey dresses as I found they were most flattering but now I feel happy with my figure I should be able to wear most things - but don't know where to start!

The office I work in is formal but not suits - women wear lots of dresses, trousers and smart tops but not many shirts or jackets. There is a new generation of trendy 20 somethings who are quite brave but I don't want everyone to think that I think I'm one of them!

I like the idea of some slim fitting trousers to wear with heels, probably some dresses... What else? Budget is next, DP, eBay for now but once I'm back at work I'll have the money to top up with slightly higher end stuff.

Thanks in advance!

There is a workwear thread on here run by a lady called Belinda who has a blog called 'The Workwear Edit' - she is on Pinterest too. Her blog has a suggested capsule wardrobe.

Baukjen sale on - started today- gorgeous dresses.

I got a lovely skirt from M and S last week, wide knife pleats at front and plain at the back in black- really love it. I also got some Autograph crepe black trousers in the sale for £32.00 they have a little tuck in the front so they narrow at the ankle.

I got a couple of fine knit merino jumpers ( Fenn Wright Manson) at Tk Maxx a few weeks ago.

So I am making good progress on the winter wardrobe!

Thanks! Have checked out the workwear edit and really like it. Following on Pinterest now and it confirms I should be looking for slim trousers. I hadn't thought of slim fitting jumpers - I could have never got away with them before without looking matronly but bought one yesterday and I like the way it looks.

I'm determined to be strict and build a real capsule set like a grown up!

I wear shift dresses a lot. Easier than worrying what top to wear with pants and all that ironing. Check m&s for them

Thats really nice to read, nomore. I hope you enjoy building up a workwear wardrobe, and you might even decide to go beyond just a capsule wardrobe. Either way, good luck and I hope you find some things you are really happy with and work well for you.