Please help a scruffy size 22 look lovely.

[chocolatespiders]

I wear uniform for NHS community job which consists of black trousers, polo and fleece.
Weekends I have one pair of jeans and a blouse I seem to wear all weekend.
Don't go out socially (does anyone??) so don't need dressy.
I love seeing people in leggings and boots but don't know if I am brave enough.
Would be worried the leggings would show bulges at top of thigh.
I really just don't know what to wear for my size and would love some help.
I don't have a bedroom so storage is an issue so only looking to buy a few bits for weekends.
Thankyou

Layering clothes can add interest. Duster coats, waistcoats, long cardigans, shackets, decent quality leggings in denim, ponte, cord, etc. Jersey midi dresses and funky trainers, biker boots, skinnies and cuddly jumpers. Accessories: a big cocktail ring, a quirky pair of sunglasses, a bright lipstick. Sure, you're big, but it doesn't mean you can't have fun with fashion or have to hide away in black sacks. Sod that. I'm envious of the 'biker boot' purchasing: so cool right now but I can't justify buying more shoes... lol

My friend is a similar size and shape to you. She wears this kind of thing (M&S £19.50) with a long cardigan, thick tights and boots. It looks lovely on her.

I find if I wash and blow dry my hair, put some earrings in and a bit of make up on I feel better.

Sounds like you’ve had a hideous year and deserve a bit of investment in yourself.

Also the ASOS curve range- £20 contour high waist leggings

OP, if you haven't done already have a look on plus size fashion blogs on things like Pinterest and Instagram. They are great because they are actually plus sized (unlike the models most shops use for their plus size ranges) and they have good advice about where to pick things up etc.

I'm an 18 and last year in lockdown sorted out my wardrobe once and for all. Got rid of everything that didn't fit, actually bought stuff in the size I am now and I actually better about myself than I ever did at a smaller size. I did a lot of looking round at capsule wardrobes, making sure everything goes with everything and it has helped me so much. I deserve to look and feel good about myself regardless of my size and you do too OP.

If you like leggings, definitely do not buy cheap. Good quality, thick ones are best. I actually wear gym ones because they're thicker and high waisted. I think buying better quality is actually best full stop. Fabrics tend to hang better, cut is better etc.

Don't be afraid of wearing fitted clothes. I like wearing skinny jeans with a long top that comes my bum. I also have lots of Jersey dresses that are fitted on the top half then flare out on the skirt (great for pear shape). Also don't be afraid of colour and patterns. Use them to draw attention to your good points. I'm also a pear and love colourful tops with dark jeans and trousers.

@chocolatespiders

WOW what a lovely website Seasalt is

eBay is good for Seasalt OP

Have a look at Emily Innes on Instagram. She’s a personal stylist but always looks great. Not sure what size she is maybe an 18.

Pears should wear darker colours on lower half’s, and brighter tops. Shirts and v-necks don’t suit as so much. Go for blouses, crew necks, higher tops etc. Chunkier shoes also. Skirts should be a-lined.

Jeans - high waisted

My go to outfit is a pair of good quality thick black leggings (M&S or next) with a long tunic top which covers hips coupled with it's a long straight cardigan and boots.

I wear this outfit in a variety of colours most days.

I wear long necklaces and earrings sometimes too

@chocolatespiders I'm a size 22 aswell, and I regularly wear leggings, and contrary to what other posters say,I think I look good. I usually wear them with close fitting vest tops and a big cardigan or jumper, or oversize tops from boohoo or asos. Imo, tunic tops can look a bit dated, especially if they have a pattern or are too fussy. I too want to lose weight, but more for my health than how I look. I think if you feel good in what you are wearing then go for it.

@shenanigans5

Also the ASOS curve range- £20 contour high waist leggings

ASOS Curve is a good range. I've had a few dresses come from there over the years. But beware, some items come up big. At least they're easy to return.