If you needed a whole new wardrobe for work what would you buy?

[Needawholenewwardrobe]

I'm starting work next week in an office. Will be working in the NHS but not patient facing. I will need to visit the wards but only to collect paperwork so will need to dress smart ish but not business wear.

I have 2 pairs of trousers, 2 tops and one pair of brogues at the moment that I think are suitable. I haven't worked for 10 years (have been at home with dc) so I have no idea what to wear/buy. Went shopping yesterday but felt totally overwhelmed and came home with one pair of trousers so I seriously need some help and tips!

So if you were starting a whole new wardrobe for work what would you buy? I have a budget of around £250-£300 to start off with.
I also need boots, shoes and a new bag.

Help!

If I were you I would go to a good store and get a personal shopper. Tell them all you have written and they will sort you out. They won't mind the budget as they know if you are happy you will keep coming back. My friend did this for an event and now goes once a year to get sorted. They will also help you figure out the most important items and what you can save for later.

Get on Pinterest and look for capsule work wardrobe.

I have:
Grey skirt
Black trousers
Navy trousers
2/3 blouse type tops in block colours like red, green & white
Black dress
Navy dress

Shoes wise, I have black, red, grey and baby pink.

It all mix and matches more or less

I have suits and skirts - various colours about 10 of each. Then tops I have about 20 winter ones and 20 summer ones, various colours. I shop mainly at Zara and Karen Millen. Occasionally I shop in Ted Baker.

I have broadly two looks, navy trousers, smart loafers and shirts/ blouses in summer and dresses, tights and boots/ smart loafers in winter. That way in summer I only worry about nice blouses and in winter I only worry about nice dresses. Works for me!

I recently bought a new work wardrobe as I was starting a new job and wanted a fresh start.

Dresses - I really like dresses as you only have to make one outfit choice.

Separates - I have a range of trousers and jersey tops which I mix and match. I always go for black or dark trousers or skirts and so my tops can be more colourful.

I like Next for workwear, as they have lots of basics and prices are reasonable.

The main thing for me, is being comfortable, so I wear flats most of the time eg ballet flats.

You may also want to think about the temperature of your office, as many of the offices I have worked in are either too cold or too hot. I'm always cold, so keep a cardie on the back of my chair. An ex colleague was always hot, so would wear sleeveless tops in winter.