At 39 where am I supposed to shop?

[Starsandstara]

(Semi light hearted!) I’m really struggling with casual clothes. I’m not ready for the full per una (they have some nice bits) but I feel way past a lot of high street stores.

I’m not a Jules etc kid of person. Probably something a bit funkier would be my bag, but I’m not sure what... I find the odd cuts at Toast a bit bleugh and unflattering.

I just want some comfortable and stylish jeans that cover my ankles, so I’m not freezing in Winter. Skinnies are out, right? Stone washer mom cuts make by arse look mahoosive.

I’m a tall 12 on top, 12/14 hips so I’d love some flattering looks.

Any suggestions? Do I just hit up Fat Face and accept my fate?

I love Jigsaw. Decent quality. Couldn’t get my whole wardrobe there but for some things, they are excellent.

I'm 40

Most of my stuff is Boden.

I also shop at H&M, M&S, Seasalt, Joanie Clothing, Monsoon, Phase Eight and LK Bennett

What style of clothing do you like? Do you like classic clothing? Boho? Retro? Etc. Nothing wrong with Fatface, Seasalt, Joules etc if they’re the style of clothing you like.

Find what style/personality of clothing you like, then look around. I did a Styled by Suzie analysis a year ago, and consequently new and different styles and colours. My most complimented dress was from Topshop. I’m in my fifties! I haven’t shopped at Topshop for years (decades!). Another favourite top came from M and S.

Don’t rule out any shop.

@MabelMoo23 thanks for the info on Oasis and Warehouse. Hmm, that is irritating as on the one hand I'm happy to hear the stuff is still available, but on the other it doesn't sound like a good company to be involved with. Oh well, I have managed without them so far this year so will see how I go!

I love Oliver bonas for their clothes and jewellery.

I thought oasis and warehouse had gone out of business?

@Hawkins001 - I really like Jigsaw (especially their knitwear and jeans). However I find their dresses too long (which is odd as I don’t have the same problem with their trousers). I used to like their footwear - but they’ve gone all pointy-toed of late which doesn’t work for me at all.

@neverenoughchelseaboots

I was in the exact same situation and got a stitch fix box where they pick the items based on your size and style. I loved what they picked and kept the lot.

Ooh interested in this. How expensive were the items if you don’t mind me asking?

Sometimes just having a healthy glow is enough. You sound lovely so I'm sure you look great in anything. I've found that investing in great jeans (TKMaxx often have a variety) and then adding shape and colour with tops is a staple that works and looks like you've taken ages to get ready. As a size 12, you can wear anything. Never fear colour; it benefits your mood and that of others. And that's particularly pertinent now that lippy is a fail behind a mask!

I've just discovered Wear The Stars. She gives fab style advice for chic casual wear and I've just bought my first hoody and I'm living in it.

www.wearthestars.co.uk/

Is this a joke? I seriously hope 39 isn't an age you should be changing your style simply because of your age. I am 42 and still wear skinnies. I have shopped mainly at Warehouse until it went bust but also like Gap, Uniqlo, the odd smart thing from Hobbs, Hush & Whistles.

I’m a similar age to you and I shop at All Saints, ASOS (lots of different brands for variety), Whistles, Levi’s, Free People, Urban Outfitters and surf brands in summer.
I like Topshop too but in recent years find it a bit too much aimed at teens. Too many cropped tops. Denim good though.
With regards to Fat Face, I can see that some might find it a bit ‘middle of the road’ shall we say! BUT it does have the odd gem too.
Their dungarees, knitwear and pjs are great imho.

@Sunshiney1981 which ASOS brands would you recommend? I got a bit lost on their website due to how much stuff is on there!

@WhatKatyDidNxt
It’s hard to say specific brands because there’s so much but just had a quick look through their a- z of brands and these stood out to me as ones I’m drawn to;
All Saints, Free People, &other stories, ASOS own brand, French Connection, surf brands like Billabong, Rhythm and Rip Curl have some surprisingly good stuff(especially in summer), Monki, Levi’s, People Tree, Pepe, Whistles.

They also do some good cosmetics.

I find it useful as well to search very specifically on an item I’m after say ‘longline grey cardigan’. You’ll still get a load but you can then always filter the results by ‘body type’ ie petite, plus size, maternity, main collection, tall etc.

Hope this helps!

@Sunshiney1981 that does help thanks. I get a bit blinded by the sheer amount of stuff on there. The brands and search tips are helpful