I’ve no clue what would suit me!

[Tinseltower]

I’m mid thirties, size 14/16 and measure bust 37.5, waist 38, hips 40. So no a nice shape! I’ve always worn hand me downs and charity shop clothes due to lack of funds. So nothing I really like or suits me too well.

Now I have a job and some money to spend, I want to go shopping and buy some bits that will make me look better. It’s been about 15 years since I’ve gone round the high street and everything has changed so much I don’t know where to start!

Have you any pointers to get me going?

Thank you!

It sounds like it could be an exciting time for you Tinsel

A few questions to get you started:
What is your colouring - hair, eyes, skin tone and hair style?
Do you want work clothes (if so how smart) or something casual?
Do you prefer wearing skirts and dresses or trousers?
Any bits you particularly like to cover up?
What’s your favourite colour?

These days I tend to order lots of stuff online and then return what I don’t want.

Do you have a friend who might like to come out with you while you just try on loads of stuff?

John Lewis do free stylist things where you can go and they will find suitable clothes. I really enjoyed it when I went. Though obviously depends on how much you want to spend but they weren't pushy.

Thanks for replying. I’ve got grey/blue eyes and am white with a medium/fair skin tone. My hair is fine and shoulder length.

I work but wear casual clothes (except can’t wear jeans or sandals). So ideally I need both something I can wear for both.

I need to wear bras all the time so can’t have shoulderless or strappy tops or dresses.

I’d be tempted to put together the start of a capsule wardrobe so that everything you have goes with everything else, giving you as many options as possible. Have a look on Pinterest for suggestions of these. Pinterest is good generally to start getting an idea of looks that you like.

Uniqlo is good for basics. This dress is great as the cap sleeves draw attention to your top half.

For jeans, gap girlfriend jeans are good for a pear.

There’s also a pair of Boden trousers that people always recommend for pears but I can’t remember which they are.

If you’re looking to stretch you money a bit further, then Dorothy Perkins always has a good range of skater dresses. This one is nice but they’ve also got brighter prints and florals.

I suggest a shopping trip, start out by trying on different cuts until you find out what shapes suit you. then try colours.