What to wear at work?!?!

[Waffle]

Help?!

I've got a new job, I'm thrilled but I need to upgrade my wardrobe!

I have serious body confidence issues, well confidence issues in general. I pretty much lost my style when I had my daughter (pnd and huge weight gain). I used to be a size 8 and now im just not and I've no idea what to wear!

I need quite professional work wear, smart skirts and trousers, nice tops?

I'm 5ft 1 and size 14/16. All my weight is round my tummy. I hate it. Its all I see when I try on new clothes. What can I wear to minimise or at least just not look awful or pregnant!?!

O, and not too expensive... not asking much am I?! 😄

Make an appointment with a personal shopper at JL.

Or, go to a shop that has a decent petite range and try on clothes. Dresses are good as you only have to worry about 1 garment. Try on ones and see what you like and feel good in

New Look, H&M and Zara often have lovely things at budget prices.

I'd visit the shop not order online

I'd say don't go too cheap. For dresses you would maybe need to look for mini dresses or be prepared to have them shortened.
I am quite short and tend to wear ankle length trousers, smart but low heel shoes/boots and slightly loose but not huge tops. Fine merino or cashmere jumper, non frilly blouses etc. If you don't want to have things shortened then Next /M&S do petites.

Also a jacket looks much more professional than a cardigan even if it's a less structured one, like the soft blazers in Whistles.

Thank you both 😊

Good shout on the John Lewis appointment! I checked the store nearest me... one appointment tomorrow and then none till mid June! I'm taking it as a sign and have made the appointment! Pretty nervous, especially about standing in front of someone and talking about my body shape but hopefully I'll pick up some tips at least on how to dress!!

If you have the time, look at ebay and charity shops. With more people WFH, there's quite a bit of office wear of good quality around

That is great that you got a JL slot; they carry so many brands you should get a sense of which cater best for your size, shape and job requirements - as well as, hopefully, some items for right now. If you are tight on money do consider looking on Vinted once you have a better idea of what you are looking for. I’ve the impression it is particularly good for work wear right now as people adjust to fewer office days.