I have no clue how to dress for Autumn/Winter

[macnab]

HELP!

I'm 41, 5'2" and a size 8-10. I work full-time, so on weekdays I'm in 'work' clothes and that's ok. I don't go out at nights often, but when I do I'm ok for 'going out' outfits. Its casual weekend outfits I'm clueless about.

I have skinny jeans and like to wear them with my converse plimsoles at the moment but I'm a cold creature and I won't be able to wear them much longer or my feet will be blue and I'll be a grumpy cow because I'll be freezing

So I need boots. I have grey biker boots from last year, that are ok. I'm wondering should I buy a pair of tan chelsea boots? What would I wear on top? I like the idea of layering but I've no idea what to buy. Cardigans??

I just feel like I've no clue anymore, I'm a young-ish looking 41 but at the same time I don't want to look like I'm trying to look like a teenager if that makes sense. And I don't have a lot of money to spend on myself so it has to be high-street options.

Please please could someone direct me. I am feeling a bit hopeless today

I'd go and get a personal shopper day in John Lewis or (whisper) Debenhams. I found it really useful when I'd just completely run out of ideas of how to dress. Like you I was fine for work and proper going out, but I was very stuck in a rut about what I was wearing. A lot of black...which, I now realise, doesn't really suit me.

I found it really helpful just having someone to go and get loads of stuff for me to try on and feel under no pressure to buy anything - I ended up buying a pair of trousers and a couple of tops but also with lots of ideas.

but Nike has fur lined high tops?! Lots of great jackets , capes, ponchos, etc . Check pinterest for ideas before you go the shop. Have fun!

Basically, browse, browse, browse. Internet or in shops. You need to get ideas and to know what is available. No pressure to choose-browse outside your price range, anywhere you like. Just to find out what appeals to you. No need to be all inventive. Same basic thing with minor variations is fine.

Then go shopping with a friend or get a personal shopper as suggested.

There is some nice stuff on here.

And here.

Worth a look.

As is this site.

My problem is different. I know exactly what I want but no one stocks it.

I'm the same size as you though a fair bit older. In the winter I live in tube skirts, opaques, biker or flat ankle boots and a slouchy sweater either V or round neck. Or skinnies, chelsea boots, same slouchy sweater or sometimes a long (and I mean long - almost to the knee) cardi. It's hardly cutting edge but feels reasonably current plus it suits my shape (kind of petite hour glass) and lifestyle (casual).

At the moment, I shop mainly in TK Maxx, H&M (their basics are very wearable) Uniqlo and a the odd more expensive piece from somewhere like Whiistles, Baukjen or Me and Em (although I'm a bit off them right now). For ideas I second a personal shopper, Pinterest, magasines or just plain old people watching.

It is my personal opinion that most women worry far too much about looking age appropriate. I think it arises because many teenagers seem to dress so conservatively these days but I see that as their problem, not ours.