Workwear help

[DottyDetective]

Starting a new job in a few months where I’ll be expected to dress well. Healthcare, not quite corporate but smart dress/trouser shirt combo type thing. Shops are currently full of casual and elasticated waists. I’m 5ft 4, 40, size 14-16 hourglass with a good waist but everything else is flabby. Looking to create a work uniform of sorts and willing to spend some money if the clothes are right. Have invested in some black block heeled loafers and flat tan brogues.

Where is doing good workwear currently? Ideally somewhere with a shop I can visit to try things on first! I’m in London.

Congratulations on new job. You should check winser... the fold..and maybe finery

Hobbs is a really good place to start for workwear.

Congrats on the new job!

I’ve been looking at Winser- what is the sizing like?

Congratulations! I think Hobbs and Winser might be a little formal still but it depends what you choose! Think sizing in Winser is generous. I think there is some nice stuff in Whistles (dresses with waists, high waisted trousers and a blouse/shirt (not high neck if you are blessed with boobs - am jealous) etc.). I'd mix and match though - maybe quite relaxed trousers with a light blazer or low heeled/flat smarter shoes - loafers, slightly more substantial 'ballet flats' (try Dune?). Re blazers - again, try whistles. They have fitted jersey styles that look smarter than a cardigan but are still comfortable and are short so will nip in at your waist.

Jigsaw?
Boden Richmond trousers and Ravello tops? Their Ponte work jackets are nice too - not too stiff.

A ravello top is a bit casual for what I’m looking for though they are nice. Blazers generally too warm in clinical environments and infection control tend to take issue with them! Will try the Richmond trousers- find trousers a nightmare as I’ve got a very big waist to hip difference (waist hip ratio is 0.65).

I know people on MN don't like M&S but I have lovely workwear from there. Smart black dresses, midi pencil skirts etc.

I’ve had a look in my local whistles and not found much work wear but off to look online now! Have ordered the Grace dress from Winser to try. I love it on the model but suspect it will be awful on me.

The plain Ravello tops actually look pretty smart tucked into a pencil skirt or smart trousers. The silk lifts them imo.