Smart summer work uniform

[redtreesummer]

Feel free to point me to an existing thread if this has been done to death already but I have NO IDEA how to dress for work in summer, I live in knee length jersey dresses, tights and boots in winter and am perfectly happy and never feel smart enough in the summer with dresses and bare legs, what to wear?

I am short, middle aged, size 16 and apple shaped and have NO waist and I want to look smart and well put together (I am very senior at work).

Suddenly had an epiphany that I need trousers but cannot think what shape (I look like a perfect square shape in wide leg). Can anyone take me in hand, I realised today I was somewhat dreading summer for this reason and that's not good!

Go and try lots of different trousers on! It’s the only way. I was a ‘dresses only’ person at work for years, but since I’ve found a few trousers that work for me (it took a while!) they’ve been such a good edition to my work wardrobe for days when it’s too hot for tights but I don’t want to go bare legged.

I wear tapered 7/8th trousers that are ‘flat fronted’ (holds my tum in) from M&S with a silk blouse (sleeveless in summer) and a light/unlined blazer on warm Spring days.

I can’t wear wide legged trousers either, for different reasons (I’m tall and I just feel there’s way too much fabric going on!). I had to try on lots of trouser styles to find one that worked.

I tend to wear cropped trousers, loafers and a silk shirt for summer.

Afraid I can't help on the trouser shape as I'm a different body shape to you.

These trousers are lightweight and very comfortable as well as being very flattering. Wear with a lightweight blouse or top tucked in https://www.mintvelvet.co.uk/products/navy-pleated-wide-leg-trousers-1

as for dresses, Hobbs have loads in at the moment that would be great for work, plus if you search for shirt dresses almost anywhere, they should be smart enough with a belt.

cropped trousers would also work

Thanks all, these are good suggestions.

I wonder if anyone who is the same-ish shape has any thoughts, I feel easily swamped with material being short which is why knee length dresses work so well in winter!

I think you are right, I need to try on a lot of trousers!