Help with work wardrobe

[backinaminute]

I'm trawling through threads and websites but really struggling.

I've got a new job which requires a smarter wardrobe than my current one. I've been in role where the dress code was super casual but now I'm in an office and would like to be smarter without feeling like I'm trussed up like a Christmas turkey.

To throw into the mix, I've lost 3 stone since Xmas so none of my usual/old clothes fit and I'm struggling with my 'style'. Last week I wore some slim navy trousers with a blouse (that is too big) tucked in. I've had a few days in a pencil skirt with a similar shirt/blouse tucked in. I like both these outfits but need some more.

Shoe wise I've worn some nude patent court shoes but they seem a bit high and a bit too 'much' for the environment.

I'm on a really tight budget but I'm just wondering what other people wear to an office and look like they can hold their own in meetings with senior management whilst not looking too 'done up'. It's not a corporate environment, more civil service/local gov etc.

Any suggestions/ideas and links would be greatly appreciated.

Shoe wise, I would like my toes covered with a mid-heel that are super comfy and I don't clomp about in. I've not worn heels for a very long time but as it's with new people it seems like a good time to get back into them.

Thanks in advance

Pinterest is a great place for inspiration. Search on smart work outfits to start with. I find h&m good for work wear, skinny 3/4 length trousers with a nice fitted top or blouse. They also have some nice dresses. New Look for budget shoes. Congratulations on the new job.

My entire work style sounds very similar:

Slim fit high waisted trousers (Warehouse/Zara best for hourglass shape) with shirt or v neck top tucked in (Hobbs Aimee tops are brilliant).
Pencil skirt in summer (Hobbs sale or ASOS for £25) or A line mini skirt in winter with tights and one of the tops above.
Shirt or shift dress (Next mainly over the years or Boden have some nice ones).

With all of the above, I normally have a tailored blazer in either black, navy, blush pink or copper if I need to feel extra smart.

I can't wear heels, but tend to wear either black or leopard print loafers.

And if you're on a tight budget, then work out what suits you and then eBay is your friend.

Thank you, I never even thought about Pinterest a- I used it for lots of things but not really clothes.

Since I've lost the weight I've lost my way a bit. I tend to wear lots of dresses with black tights in winter but this time of year has thrown me. Don't get me wrong, I'm not skinny but now a comfy size 14 which opens up a whole new raft of shops and I don't know where to start. Never would have thought of H&M. I live in the back of beyond so tend to rely online shopping and going to the same old places/websites.

I might have to have a proper day of trying on different stuff and see what looks ok. I've tried on loads but I'm so used to grabbing what fits or looks 'ok' or usual style of skinny trousers with a baggy top or dress, now more options have opened up, it's pretty overwhelming. Worse problems to have , just wish that we hadn't had so much car drama and I would go and have a decent spend up.

Have a look in H&M, Uniqlo, Zara and New Look for inexpensive basics.

Since you've lost a lot of weight it would be worth booking a stylist session with John Lewis or a department store. They'll suggest styles that will suit your new body shape & there's no obligation to buy. It'll save you money in the future as you won't make so many expensive mistakes.

www.johnlewis.com/our-services/personal-styling