Clueless academic needs style tips

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I'm about to return to work and have no idea what to wear. I'm a size 12 but with a flabby tummy. I've found a few skimming tops but would normally wear them with skinny jeans, I could just about get away with that at work but could do with being a bit smarter - especially when teaching.

So any ideas for smarter (but not too smart) trousers - maybe chinos? Where would be a good place to look?

Any ideas in general about how to master the elusive "smart casual" look?

Thanks!

Thanks for replying, you are right accessoring might be the best way to go, I will have a look for some nice blazers and necklaces. I do have some dresses but I have quite a lot of laboratory time where legs really need to be covered.

I've just been shopping in a couple of department stores and have found no suitable trousers. I must be completely out of touch because I am thoroughly baffled at the concept of wide bottomed trousers that taper to the calf and "formal" tracksuit bottoms! jeans it is!

Does anyone know of non high street shops that might have anything?

I bought a pair of these the other year. They have worn well and can be worn with smarter or more casual tops/jackets etc. They come in various colours.

www.debenhams.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prod_10701_10001_120010681295_-1

Thanks, that looks like a good option

Ness do some great blazers
www.ness.co.uk/coats-jackets.html

Thanks I've never heard of them, they have some lovely stuff

Zara are great for cheap, basic smart jackets

Wear with dark jeans and a big necklace or scarf

Nice shoes would help too - though I'm clueless about where to find good quality shoes that don't cost a bomb

Gap bi-stretch trousers are amazing, flattering thick cotton and a nice length. size up though, they are a full size too small

LadyMetroland try eBay, you can get some great bargains.
Also Raw shoes and TKMaxx

Pure Collection do nice quality smart/casual trousers.

Another vote for gap bi stretch trousers! Gap is also good for "preppy" style basics such as chinos and white shirts.

www.uniqlo.com/uk/store/feature_mb/uq/list_s/women/

www.bananarepublic.co.uk/products/womens-work-clothes.jsp

Try uniqlo and banana republic for casual smart workwear. Dorothy Perkins is good for affordable basics aswell as H&M and New Look.

I feel like I'm recommending the same shops on every thread. Try 7/8th slim trousers - Boden do the Bistro crop which sits on the ankle ( I don't wear Boden myself but they look pretty good) - you can wear this length with an ankle boot or sandal etc. Nice, fitted T shirt and smart jacket would work for me. Shops to check out for shoes & handbags = & Other Stories. Cool scandi style clothes try Cos and general all round stylishness try Finery. ( all of these brands online)

Thanks for all the ideas everyone, lots of places I hadn't thought of!