How can I elevate my look?

[applespearsandraspberries]

40 years old, Live in skinny jeans, billowing top to hide the bulging tummy (half a stone overweight), a Cardigan and superga - feel really dowdy. school runs mean I have to wear a practical waterproof too! How can I elevate my look?

Some funky footwear? A brightly coloured/patterned waterproof jacket? Do you want to change your whole look or just add a few new pieces?

Something hair related eg a fab cut or colour, hair accessories or you tube tutorials for quick and easy hair styles.

Decent coat helps. Do you have a buggy to push too? I don’t any more and try to keep my (slightly dreadful) anorak to really wet and windy days as I can use an umbrella otherwise.
Even if you can’t use an umbrella, you could wear a more stylish coat on dry days.

Accessories.. a nice handbag/sunglasses/watch/scarf?
A nice perfume (always makes you feel better!) and glossy hair.
Nice nails if you can 😊
Oh and they say if you know you are wearing gorgeous underwear you feel and walk different! Worth a try! 😁

Goodness gracious! I live in skinny jeans and t-shirts. And I wear them to work in a serious profession, as a manager.

When I need to make it semi-acceptable: add smart trench coat and heels.

A tad more serious: white blouse and blazer with the above.

For actually 'business' business I'll default back to corporate drone uniform. That literally happens on about 2 days a year.

You could ask on the 'dress like a Parisian' thread for advice. Botemp on there is really helpful. Perhaps follow some Parisian bloggers. I bet they manage to look good on the school run and it seems to involve a capsule wardrobe of mainly neutrals, very little patterned fabrics, that all go together and looks effortless.

Accessories:
A silk scarf?
A decent leather cross body bag?
A trench coat or a waterproof?
A cashmere sweater?
A good haircut and colour?
A new lipstick?

Cardigans always make me feel frumpy - replace with khaki, biker denim jacket.
Change skinny jeans to boyfriend ones.
Good haircut and nails if funds allow.

There nothing wrong with your clothes. Grooming will elevate your look. Hair, nails, subtle make up and a some jewelry will make casual clothes look considered rather than thrown together.

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I think it's the cardigan. If its a thin knit style you're wearing just for extra warmth, I'd swap it for a sweatshirt, with or without a t-shirt under depending on temperature. Or a hoodie with a zip if you like wearing something open.

There's a whole range summer looks here (personally I think Hush is crap quality, many on MN will disagree, but their styling is great)

www.hush-uk.com/womenswear/basics_2/sweat_tops