Interview outfit on a budget - size 16-18

[Rocketearth]

I’ve got an interview next week (school office role) and I need an outfit after being a SAHM for years, so I don’t have anything other than black work trousers.

Can anyone suggest an outfit or shop please that won’t cost the earth? I have my old work shoes and handbags already.

I’ve never been a dress person even when I was slim, so at a size 16-18 (carry it mostly around tum/hips/bottom) I definitely won’t wear a dress. Skirts I’m not sure about so I think I’d prefer to wear trousers with a smart workwear too/shirt. Do I need a matching jacket?

Sorry but I’m clueless after 6 years at home!

Also a SAHM for the past 6 years, so I'm no help on specifics.

However, I've had budget friendly work clothes from H&M and Dorothy Perkins in the past. So maybe worth a look.

Also M&S seems to have some nice blazers at the moment. Not too pricey.

I'm a similar size and skirts look so much better, trousers are really dated IMO. What's your budget?

I haven't worn a suit jacket since 2006 for an interview. Smart blouse or top will be fine. No cold shoulder tops or vest tops. Cardigan is ok if smart looking. Tidy appearance (nice nails, hair brushed etc) a bag is fine too. I like a shoulder bag decent size to you can carry everything.

Depending on your shape, I have had great success with pure cotton work shirts from the men’s sale section at M&S - £5 each! I do have gorilla arms though 😂

I’ve had decent polyester-y work tunics and blouses from Sainsbury’s that have worn and washed well and not needed ironing. I tend to go for bright colours/patterns so I can have multiple pairs of the same black trousers and one black jacket and still look like my outfits vary.

I prefer to wear cardigans or fine jumpers (with shirt collar visible) day to day and leave my single jacket at the office for meetings.

Matalan always have great work clothes in!
Plenty trousers to choose from and some lovely blouses/jumpers/cardys!
No need for a blazer, a nice small smart jacket on top will be fine.
Good luck!