My third trouser related post - I have found something reasonable!
After not getting on with the uniqlo smart ankle length trousers, I have got some high waisted cigarettes trousers from the petite range as ASOS. They are:
The right length
Skimming not clinging
No camel toe
Good enough around the tummy that I can tuck in (can't make a silk purse out of a sows ear here)
Machine washable
Smart enough for work
One pair even has a size zip!
For a short dumpy hourglass with a post c section apron and a generous thigh, I think these are a pretty good fit. They make me look curvy from the front but manageable from the side AND there is no massive gap at the back of the waist - it's a bit loose but not awful.
I sized up to the 14 as I am a few lbs over my fighting weight atm and I haven't found ASOS overly generous in the past. They are fine - the uniqlo larges were too big.
The only down side is the fabric - they are polyester (with a bit of viscose) so I fear they will be a touch sweaty but they drape well enough and it's not that awful polyester so I'm going to compromise here.
So hopefully this may help a short curvy person who needs practical work trousers. I've tried on every frickin pair in the universe.......