Mid 30s and lack of style

[Bloome22]

Hi, I was wondering if anyone feels like they are in the same boat or have any tips - I am mid 30s mum of 1 and just don’t know what to wear anymore! I’m more drawn to classic styles or country-ish styles like Barbour, joules, kate Middleton off duty etc but when I am out and about I just feel so frumpy in them. But I don’t really want to dress super trendy /sports luxe etc because money-wise I’m not prioritising fashion and I feel like I would have to shop very regularly to keep up with the look. I’m happy to spend money if it is good quality and will last. But equally don’t mind shipping in E.g. H&M. Does anyone have any tips / inspiration or websites they could recommend? Thanks!

I think Joules etc is quite frumpy, sorry. I’m late 40s and hopefully don’t dress frumpy.. I tend to favour classics and really good knitwear. I shop at Whistles, Jigsaw, Sezane, some M&S Autograph and the occasional thing from Mint Velvet

money-wise I’m not prioritising fashion

Aha … Have you looked at Community Clothing? Excellent ethics and good plain clothes that are not intended to fall out of fashion next week. Good (as opposed to cheap) prices, natural fabrics. Will easily work with fancier items.

https://communityclothing.co.uk/

(Apologies if link doesn’t work - my phone is poorly!)

Hi OP,

Late 30s here, might be worth taking a look in:

& Other Stories
Cos
Arket
Reformation
Abercrombie

I think the first three are part of the H&M group.

I'd also recommend checking out Vinted.

I literally could have written this post myself. I used the free stylist service at Whistles - no obligation to buy.
I ended up buying a couple of core wardrobe pieces that I mix up and wear with lots of different things, mainly for work. They actually weren't items that I would have picked out for myself but I absolutely loved them. I then went out and found cheaper versions elsewhere of some of the items that the stylist recommended (Debenhams and H&M) which were out of my budget. I feel like Whistles are really nailing it at the moment for stylish clothes for mid 30s/40s women who tend to prefer a classic look like the one you describe.

Have you looked at Uniqlo? Very reasonable prices and normally very good quality. They make really good basics, like t shirts, knitwear, smart trousers, down jackets and amazing thermals!
I don’t think you can go wrong with classic styles as they never go out of fashion. Build up a basic wardrobe in neutrals where each item can be worn interchangeably, then you can buy a few more interesting or trendy items to add interest as and when you come across them.

Thanks so much for all the advice and links everyone! Really appreciate it 💛