Please help me find my style

[LizzieWallace]

So, I've just been offered a new job, and for the first time ever I just need to wear smart/casual clothes.
My issue? I don't do smart/casual! Help!!
I've always been terrible when it comes to fashion. I want to look nice but I very much dress for comfort, and since becoming a mum 4 years ago and bring a bit heavier than I used to be I just don't know what is in fashion or what suits me.
I live in jeans/tshirts/hoodies/workout clothes (or my work uniform). I have formal clothes for weddings etc but very little in between.

I'm 5 foot 5, size 14-16. Most of my weight is in my tummy but I have long legs. I'll need to be on my feet all day so I'll want flats. I have no idea what's in fashion and what is flattering.
I also live relatively rurally, the closest shopping centre is an hours drive (or 2 hours for a good one) so online would be the best.

Thank you!!

A nice top or blouse, cardigan and trousers will be great! Or a longish dress - wearing with flats is highly acceptable nowadays!
Work smart casual basically means don't wear tracksuits, leggings, jeans or trainers!

I'm a similar shape to you and wear flats for work.
This week I've worn:
Blue mom jeans with a scoop neck tshirt, bright block colour blazer, trainers
Bias cut maxi with a fine-knit jumper and DM style boots
Mid-length dress with slouchy knee high boots
Skinny black jeans with DM-style boots, oversized blazer, v neck white tshirt
Tomorrow: mom jeans, chunky knit, trainers

Do you know what colour suits you?

Thank you both.
Do you have any photos of the type of dresses you mean (I love wearing dresses) and also any brands or stores you have used?
Colours...I'm a bit hopeless. I'd love to get my colours done if I'm honest. I do like colour though.

My advice would be don’t rush in. Go with plain clothes, just go with a straightforward smart work trouser that you like and a plain smart top in colours that you like. I’ve got some smart comfy work trousers from M&S in grey and black and I’ve got a range of smart plain tops from Next and then I add a matching nice cardi or jacket if needed and / or some nice jewellery to liven it up. If you start simple then you can always jazz up and make it more interesting later. It hurts to think how much money I’ve wasted on patterned clothes that are hard to match or I go off and also styles that I realise I’m not comfortable in like certain dresses.

I don't recommend splashing out on stuff you don't love.

I think you want at least one new thing that you love to give you confidence. My bright blazer feels like that to me.

Important to know whether jeans are ok. Jeans with blazer is a staple for the men (and me!) in my business casual workplace. Like a uniform, makes life easier.

Dress example - search cord dress uk

www.albaray.co.uk/products/cord_belted_midi_dress?variant=43314990317805&currency=GBP&utm_medium=product_sync&utm_source=google&utm_content=sag_organic&utm_campaign=sag_organic&utm_source=google&utm_medium=surfaces&utm_campaign=free%20listings&gclid=Cj0KCQiAutyfBhCMARIsAMgcRJRnElLFIL-kiiGsOqeRzmp0ZzozTKTYxIuL8kACiwNayfD2wiijqNkaAq_IEALw_wcB

You can look up how to choose your colours online - basically the right ones for you will make your face look healthier and glowy. Try on different colours - the trick is to look at how it makes your face look, not look at the colour itself.

This is great, thank you