Work clothes help

[Whotouse]

I hope this is okay to ask here.

I'm returning to work after 10 years and have no idea what to wear! I had a quick look online and everything seems either too informal or way to fashionable for me. What do people wear to the office these days?

I'll be working in a school office, so need to be smart but not super formal (I assume, things could have changed in the last decade!).

My main concern is trousers. I need high waisted, am 5'9 and size 12. Trousers I've found seem to be either legging types or wide legged or ankle height, none of which I want.

Also shoes, I need something flat, comfortable, supportive but formal enough for an office.

Where should I start looking?

My budget is about £30 - £40 for trousers and up to £50 for shoes.

I usually live in jeans and t-shirts and am not remotely fashionable, I just want to not look ridiculous really!

M and S for shoes. Last time I was there there was some nice flat ballet pumps. It might be worth looking there for trousers too as well as the likes of H&M.

You know … if you shop at reasonably decent shops you can’t avoid looking ‘fashionable’, even without trying.

I’d say a school office shouldn’t be too challenging to dress for - though you may want to rearrange your budget a little. You’ll get proportionately more wear, and look much better, if you buy fewer clothes but spend a bit more per item.

Anyway - good, plain, simple clothes (with apparently flawless ethical credentials)? You want Community Clothing. I’ve linked to what looks like an excellent pair of trousers. (They don’t do sales, they aim to set fair prices from the start.) Have a look at the rest of the site, too.

If you want more quantity then Uniqlo might be your best bet. Reliable basics (though not always the best fabrics). Their clothes are quite ubiquitous so maybe steer away from any strong prints!

Boden Richmond Trousers are what you need. They are above your budget but they are worth it, and Boden are constantly having sales. I'm 5'8"/32" inside leg, and the "long" is a bit too long for me.

I too am 5'9 and a size 12. Trousers from M&S are so much better than they once were (I love their wide leg trousers), and also Cefinn (on sale via Next) works for me. Next itself can be good, but I find it hit and miss.
Shirts and cardi/knitted jacket/blazer, plain top and a well fitting cardigan, smart knitwear. I think on your budget M&S will be your friend, but you need to go in and try things on if you can.

Good luck with your return to work! I hope you enjoy it.