Help! Am petite and can't do winter dressing!

[funnyfoursome]

Just that really. I'm 5' 1" and a 10-12. Used to be a slim 8-10 pre-kids but not any more!
I lived in skinnies and manky tops when my 2 were babies and toddlers but now feel the need to revamp a bit. I'm not back at work yet and more of a casual dresser. I think I just generally feel swamped and bulky and overheated in winter clothes, especially jumpers and layers. As I have short legs boots don't look right either!
I remember being inspired by Mrs Brown in the first Paddington film in her bright funky ponchos and accessories but I don't know where to start!

Have a look at blogs by SusieSoSo and TheFashionlift - both petite and rocking a great casual vibe

Thank you SO much - I will do!!

I'm a shorty too.
Lucy Liu is 5' 3" and I always think she looks amazing in Elementary. Obviously she's very slim, but she really rocks a skirt and ankle boots, so it can be done if they hit the right bit of the leg. Although her legs don't look long, they do look good IYKWIM. I had to try on millions to get them to look ok, now I need new ones and am on the hunt again.