If you had £500 to spend...

[DragonboysMum]

On a couple of good quality items of clothing that could be used for funerals, interviews etc, what would you choose?

For context, I usually live in cheap high street/supermarket clothes. I am a carer so no need for anything formal usually and have absolutely no idea! I've been caught out by a couple of occasions recently and have bought outfits in a panic that didn't end up suiting, or items that didn't really go with anything else I own.
I'd rather buy good quality that will last and be able to be used for events as they come up. I'd really like to be able to pull out a smart outfit without having to worry about it!
I'm 5' 8 and a size 14 with a tummy and small bust.

Any help greatly appreciated!

In all honesty I wouldn't spend that much. For interviews and funerals polyester is absolutely fine, the clothes don't get worn that often (if you're lucky) so they last. My interview/funeral dress is from ASOS and I've had it for about 7 years. I have a black coat from M&S similar to this one that comes in handy. With your shape I'd get a couple of dresses like this, and you're sorted. And then you have £300+ to spend on something more enjoyable!

I have a cap sleeved stretchy wool shift dress that comes below the knee. It was expensive. I’ve had it for over 10 years. With heels it does a posh restaurant meal. With boots it does a casual meal. With a black coat over it it does funerals. That’s what I would spend my money on. It doesn’t have to be a shift dress if that’s not what suits you obviously. I have a plain single breasted black wool coat with a detachable fur collar which is also useful for any church service too.

This is a similar dress with regard to shape. Those boots aren’t doing it any favours imho
https://www.theoutnet.com/en-gb/shop/product/sandro/dresses/midi-dress/kiera-topstitched-cotton-jersey-midi-dress/1647597306295882

Do you have £500 to treat yourself? Like PP have said, you don't need anything super-fancy for interviews or funerals. I'd treat myself to a good bag!

Don’t tie up value in stuff you only wear for best.

High street is more than good enough for smart. Occasionally worn cheaper outfits won’t wear out and look sad.

Everything dates, whatever it costs. Bear this in mind if you want to find foundation pieces - they’re a great idea but nothing will look right forever and ever.

I don’t like being reminded of funerals, so
as it happens I can remember binning stuff I wore.

Get a decent bag you love for £300 odd and use it daily. £200 on boots, ditto.

@ALittleBitAlexa Unfortunately I don't do well with polyester, natural materials are better for me although I do like the shape of that dress. I have a long coat similar to the one you posted so I'm covered in that area, thank you.

@notanicepersonapparently Yes, that's what I was hoping. Maybe an outfit or two just to multi task the (usually) rare outing, be it a meal or funeral. I like the dress but agree with you re the boots!

@CinnamonJellyBeans There was a time when I'd have spent it on shoes! I had so many beautiful shoes... Now though, I just feel frumpy and never feel well dressed. I'm mid 40's and suddenly look my age after years of being told I look much younger.
I do love bags, but never use a handbag anymore. Usually have a massive bag full of medical supplies and changes of clothes etc!

Get a cheaper dress and then get it tailored. A few nips, tucks and the hem, will make it look elegant and cost 10s rather than 100s. Many of the fabrics on the high street or with major online retailers (not fast fashion) will be much more hard wearing than those used in designer pieces. Look at People Tree for black dresses - nice fabric and ethical.

Now though, I just feel frumpy and never feel well dressed. I'm mid 40's

Sounds as if you’re starved of stimulating style chat? If you can find a spare couple of hours you’d probably enjoy this (now full) thread. Wonderful, wide ranging conversation on pleasurable, grown up dressing. And a huge list of brands you may not have come across.