Nearly 50, short and stout - please help me find smart daywear!

[CQ]

I live in jeans and a variety of tops.

Daily life revolves around teenagers, dogs and various volunteer roles for which I do not need to dress up.

But I do occasionally have to look smart, for trustee lunches, work nights out with DH etc

Where should I look for nice stuff that is age appropriate, not too 'office wear' and provides sizes up to 18. I'm happiest in trousers but would wear skirts if I can be convinced they don't make my arse look the size of a planet.

I don't even know where to start or what I should think of buying

Any suggestions?

try pinterest first to get your eye in and find a look you can go for. I am short and plump[and older than you] and agree that skirts are not my best friend. I like tunics and pinafore style dresses that can go over leggings/ skinnies/ tights etc. Many of the well known stores like H&M .M&S, carry bigger sizes -just not in all the locations. I love Jaeger-they have larger sizes on line- but cannot justify the price as i am retired. Actually checking on line makes sense-as stores don't always have the same range. BTW H&M seem to be going into more expensive natural fibres while a lot of other stores seem to be going the other way. Good luck , have fun shopping and creating your new look!

just to add Dorothy Perkins and Monsoon also do plus sizes-not in all stores so check first.