Nice tops but not too dressy

[Andrelax3]

Hi all,

I’m hoping you can help. After lockdowns, WFH, then pregnancy and having a baby at the beginning of the year I’ve realised I’ve got no nice clothes. Whenever I go for a meal with friends I’ve got nothing to wear and always end up feeling not great about myself.

Meals out are usually at a local pub so nothing too fancy but I would like to feel nice. Can anyone recommend anywhere to shop for nice tops to go with trousers (probably jeans). Willing to spend up to £40ish per top. I like quite simple pieces and would prefer nothing cropped. I’m 5’3 and size 12 if that’s needed.

Thank you 🙂

I understand the problem, for other reasons than pregnancy.
DH also fed up with wearing the same clothes. Hot weather and shorts, mine quite short has been a change. More confidence
This weather and legs show has helped me get back to dresses more. I feel much better than in jeans.
I sew so searched through my patterns for what I have made before. Ideas from Joe Brown catalogue. Many tops and shirts there as well.

I buy lots of the Made in Italy clothes, that are generally one size, so as a 12 they'll be great on you.

I've bought these tops recently that I wear with jeans.....they all come in various colours.

Have you thought about getting a soft blazer or kimono to wear over camisoles? Or a shirt dress to wear open over a vest /cami and your jeans?