Work Wardrobe from Scratch

[RedCatBlueCat]

So, after 5 years at home, it looks like I'm employed again!
I have nothing to wear, and hate shopping!
Everyone I saw was wearing a dress, but ideally I'm after trousers (that deal with small waists and huge thighs) and tops, as about the only time I've been seen in a dress was my wedding day!
Where should I start looking, as a size 14/16, early 40s, unfashionable thing?

Next, I've just ordered some black trousers and animal print shirts.

Sainsbury's are quite good for workwear

What kind of work environment is it and what industry? Trendy, arty or formal, corporate?

Cant help you with the trousers but Hobbs is a good starting point.

And congratulations on the job!! My top tip: If you're going in to the office, keep a makeup bag of essentials in the office: some makeup, toothbrush and toothpaste, pain killers, sanpro, safety pin.

Thank you. Will go searching online. Would never have contemplated sainsburys!

I think it in some ways it is easier to start from scratch, although a lot of the clothes will wear out at the same time. They will also all be related to the season you bought them.
I recommend 1 pair of marks trousers in a dark colour (black/navy/charcoal). 3 tops 1 plain and neutral ( depends on your colouring), 2 patterned (for example one striped and one animal print). Buy things that can be washed and ironed easily or don’t need ironing. 1 jacket/cardigan that goes with the trousers. 1 dress that goes with the cardi. 1 pair of shoes that do with the dress and trousers.
That would see you through 6 months and review then.
There are lots of blogs about capsule wardrobes to look at. These give you an idea and you can narrow to colours and styles that suit you.