Plus size work wear

[AlexaShutUp]

I have an interview next week and really need to look smart - a bit of a challenge after years of working in a very casual, dress-down environment, not least because I've put on loads of weight.

I'm a size 22 or 24, depending on the shop. Big tummy. Fairly short stumpy legs. I like a bit of colour but tend to prefer fairly classic, conventional clothes, nothing too wacky.

I have absolutely no idea what to wear or where to shop for it. How can I ensure that I look smart and professional? Budget is flexible.

Please help!

Anyone?

I find Sainsbury's, ASDA and even Tesco do a good range of work wear that's pretty cheap and looks stylish also. I'll have a look online for you if you like. Feel free to pass if my ideas are a bit out there though.

H&M do surprisingly good basic pieces. I picked up a plain black dress from there that was very good. Next has also been a lifesaver. I'm a Size 26 on top so I feel your pain!

If it is just basics you're looking for, those are the two I would recommend

ASOS is also good but very hit and miss at the moment. Yumi do lovely dresses if you like their particular style

What about something like this;

direct.asda.com/george/women/shirts-blouses/khaki-grid-check-wrap-blouse/GEM719611,default,pd.html?cgid=D1M1G20C4
With some smart black trousers?

Or the dress?
www.next.co.uk/g2336s1#922044?i=22

Age? Job? Last week in Evans they had two styles of leather jacket, both smart, and a lot of clothes that could be worn for work. I was only looking for black and didn’t find what I wanted there. I went to Yours, where I found four wearable tops - but whether they’d be workwear for you would depend on your job.

I'm mid forties. Don't really want to say the job as it's a bit niche and could be outing. It's a fairly senior role.

Thanks for all of the suggestions so far, will definitely check them out. When people are suggesting Next, H&M etc, do they mean in store or online? I always assume that the high street sizes don't go above around 20-22, am I wrong?

Dorothy perkins and asos for me .. good luck!

Thank you all.

Shopping on a rather tight timescale today due to unforeseen circumstances. Really want to try stuff on rather than shopping online, so if anyone can help with advice about which high street stores are likely to stock large sizes, I'd be really grateful so that I can focus my efforts!

I live in the sticks so shop online. I bought a beautiful black jacket blazer fron Marks and Spencer in size 24. It's super flattering and stylish and I always get good comments when I wear it. It wasnt cheap (around 80 quid) but looks and feels very expensive. I usually team it with a long black skirt and black top. I add eothdr a black and white scarf or a colourful scarf if I'm feeling in a creative mood! Good luck!

If you want to shop plus size work wear in person you will be limited to supermarkets, evans and yours. Some larger new look shops also stock their plus size range but its mostly casual.

Next carry a lot of lines up to a 22 too.

H&M are no good for larger sizes. Monsoon or Phase Eight are both generously sized and good for an office.

Thank you, all of these suggestions are helpful!

M&S for size22 I'd get a dress and jacket if the interview is soon as the weather is a bit unpredictable and you'll still look smart if you take it off.

Or a shirt, cigarette trousers and not matching jacket combo if you prefer trousers

I'd also recommend Boden or studio 8 (phase eight) online if budget allows and you don't find any today

Can also sometimes find stuff in Debenhams in 22 and sizing is generous

I'm size 22. I dress in Boden, Studio 8 and M&S. I get most of my clothes from eBay.