Lost my way. Please help.

[newmumfeb21]

Hi All. I’d be so grateful for some casual style help as I have totally lost my way since lockdown pregnancy and need to get out of my “uniform” - old skinny jeans / leggings, maternity tshirts and DH’s jumpers 😳 I’m 35, tall and curvy size 10/12 and a SAHM to a toddler for the foreseeable - spend a lot of time at home, playgroup and in the park. I quite like Joules so will probably get a few tops from there, are there any other pieces I should get / brands I should try?
Any recommendations gratefully accepted!!

I think a wise move is to wear "better" versions of what you like rather than aiming to change style completely.
For example, you could get some wool trousers in dark grey/navy instead of jeans and buy a couple of new jumpers that are similar your DH's but in flattering shapes and colours.
You probably need some new underwear a) because your body has changed shape and b) to make you feel more elegant/as if you are getting dressed rather than just covering your body with clothes.

I like Vera Moda for every day clothes.

You could try something like Stitch Fix to get you out of a rut?

Once you put on well fitting, fresh underwear, you won't feel like dragging on a maternity T-short over the top.

I imagine you don't have much time to shop, but it is better to go slowly and just get a couple of new pieces, see how you go, then buy a couple more.

Also uniqlo is great for staples like long sleeve tops and vests

Also little grooming/self-care things can get you back on track. Have your skincare/make-up (whatever you prefer), hand cream, earrings, watch and perfume all laid out ready and convenient to put on in a 2 minute routine each morning.
And you might want to buy a smarter bag and coat or dry clean the one(s) you have..they're the things you go out with/in every day and are what you catch sight of in shop windows etc.

Another vote for Uniqlo!

Thank you so much @Happy36 and @doadeer, great advice so far!!
Checking out Vera Moda and Uniqlo now, as DS sleeps...
You are absolutely right @Happy36 I have completely lost my way - I didn't post about my underwear / routine / accessories earlier but all are in need of a total rehaul...

@Happy36

I think a wise move is to wear "better" versions of what you like rather than aiming to change style completely. For example, you could get some wool trousers in dark grey/navy instead of jeans and buy a couple of new jumpers that are similar your DH's but in flattering shapes and colours. You probably need some new underwear a) because your body has changed shape and b) to make you feel more elegant/as if you are getting dressed rather than just covering your body with clothes.

Just be careful with wool trousers! Unless they're machine washable (unlikely) they'll be decidedly not toddler/park friendly. I know from bitter experience what they get covered in 😜

If you can find time maybe as a treat you could go for a personal shopping experience somewhere like John Lewis? Just for inspiration and to open you up to new ideas? It's so hard to find headspace to think about this stuff.

Also if you wear make up could you get a massively simplified routine/set of products going that wouldn't be too difficult to put on every morning to help you feel more groomed.

Have a look at hush for pictures/ideas -

Maybe just change one thing - so new white trainers with your jeans as a first change -

Change t-shirt to denim shirt or shirt & jumper or when warmer shirt & blazer, jeans & trainers.

Or if you want upgrade jeans try a Pleated skirt, t-shirt/shirt & jumper/blazer & white trainers.

Having a good sort out - like all clothes on bed & putting away maternity & things that don't fit - chucking out - stained/old/etc & only keeping clothes you want -

Shop/site ideas:

M&S do good value open blazers that look good with most things & change an outfit -

White trainers - hundreds of styles depending on price point.

Zara - good for shirts

Hush - good for heaps of casual outfits & skirts/dresses

Boden - good fake collar jumpers that make an outfit smarter -

The blog/website - littlespree has heaps of ideas and a weekly newsletter on a Sunday morning.

Fabulous, thank you @Kdubs1981 (might give wool trousers a swerve in that case!) & @windowstothesoul. I'm going to start clearing out some stuff over the next few weeks - if I dont have the rubbish pants and holey leggings to hand I can't wear them and I will also have space for some new things! DH is very happy for me to get a personal shopper / Stitch Fix as a birthday treat, so will look into those too.

If you want to try stitch fix I think this gives you (and me) a discount

www.stitchfix.co.uk/invite/r22gz5vh2x?sod=i&som=c