How to dress in a classic style without looking frumpy?

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I'm 32 and ever since the age of about 15 I've tried to dress on a classic style, looking back at photos last night I can see sometimes I look great (evening wear) but slot of my casual clothes look so frumpy! I do jeans and a v-neck or polo neck for casual. Now I have a baby bulge from c section I look like a total frump. I have bought a few more fashionable items which look slightly better and make me look younger, but I really prefer a classic look. Help!

Finding some bloggers who do your version of classic is super helpful. I like The Northern Light, Le Catch and Garance Dore. All of them combine classic items with what is current and in fashion. Almost everyone is dressing more casually these days, so what looked right 10-15 years ago might be a tad too formal these days.

If I'm after something classic, I always shop in places that will give it a modern twist e.g. H&M if I'm on a budget or Whistles if I'm splashing out.

Accessories can make a big difference too - a clutch/bag, statement necklace or pendant, a scarf, bracelets and a chunky watch showing with a white shirt, cuffs turned back under a jumper. Something in your outfit of classic items should nod to current trends. I also think at least one part should be fitted well - eg have a chunky jumper but wear with skinny jeans. Or if straight leg jeans are more your thing then wear chanel style cardigans/jackets, close fitting polo, neat short. Baggy all over can look frumpy (though I hate the term) and unflattering.

not neat short - neat shirt!

That's a good idea so maybe instead of going to next or marks and spencer I should try looking in top shop, H&M?

Yes I think I need to change to skinny jeans with a looser top, tight tops do not do anything for me now I have a pot belly!!!!

It's so hard as my previous style does not go with my post children figure!

You can hide a multitude of sins with skinny jeans and a chunky jumper or longline cardigan, or a losse-ish t-shirt with blazer or fitted cardigan

It's normal to have to find a new style post DC's too backto. Pinterest is a great place to start putting together a board of looks you like so that you can create some kind of wish list of things that will work for you and go together, mix and match .

My previous style was black suits, black fitted dresses (for work), wrap dresses and little black dresses for evenings, jeans and cashmere v necks and polo necks and plain white t shirts twinset cardigans for casual. Now I just look old and fat in them! Im only a size 12 but used to be a size 6. I am also short 5 foot. I think you are right it is time to find a new style!

so maybe instead of going to next or marks and spencer I should try looking in top shop, H&M?
Yes, that's what I do. Once you're past all the catwalk knock-offs, I find H&M very good for basics.

Are you going back to work soon Backto?

Probably not for another 2 years! I've always struggled with casual clothes and used to prefer office wear which doesn't help

Then if you want to base your wardrobe around jeans, I'd invest in some really nice premium denim and go from there. If you are able to, get to a Selfridges Denim Bar and try on loads of pairs of jeans to find your perfect ones (staff are great). If you want to save cash then hold out for sales or look at websites such as Shopbop or Revolve that usually do them significantly cheaper (watch out for US import duties though).

Shoes can make a huge difference too - a classic outfit can look much more up to date with some cool shoes - at the moment (assuming you want flats) I would look at sneakers (Adidas Stan Smiths are very OTM) or brogues for example - rather than ballet flats which can look lovely but too classic if the rest of your clothes lean that way . I'd also highly recommend Pistol or Ash (Jess/Jalouse) style boots - it's surprising how much a small heel can make you look/feel slimmer.

I just had a look at those trainers, thanks they look great! I think I will get a pair of those and some new jeans! What sort of boots would you suggest for the colder weather?