What basics do I need?

[Anotherdayanotherdollar]

Hi all,

I desperately need to update my wardrobe. I'm a size 12-14, pear shaped and feel frumpy and mumsy. I usually wear skinny jeans (I'm not skinny), and hoodies with trainers. But I never feel like I have the right kind iykwim? I have a uniform for work, but no smart/casual. Just casual casual! I'd love to start even with just a few outfits.
My self esteem and confidence is quite low, so i don't think i could wear the bright colours etc that i really long to. I also have sensory issues and feel the cold. I walk a lot, so comfy shoes are a must.

Can anybody help? I don't know where to start

you don’t have to do it all at once - just start somewhere and go from there - your confidence will soon come back! Maybe start by upgrading your current look a little - go and buy a looser-fit cropped jean and a chunky jumper in a flattering colour. Get a decent haircut and start using all the body and make-up products you probably already have.

Next treat yourself to a ‘smarter’ outfit depending on your style eg:
-a dress with chunky boots and thick tights
-smart wide-legged trousers and a silk shirt

In the meantime don’t forget to use what you already own and have perhaps forgotten about. It’s amazing what difference accessories can make - add a belt, a scarf, a more suitable handbag, sunglasses etc - it can change a boring jeans/jumper outfit into something much more interesting. It’ll build your confidence and you can go from there.

good luck!

Thanks for that. I'll start with the jeans. What sort of footwear do i wear with them? Trainers? Converse style? I've been googling and the models seem much younger than me. I'm late 30s.
Maybe i'll try to add some accessories too. Due to my sensory issues (ASD) my hair is always pulled back in a pony and I don't wear make up, so I feel I'm always on the back foot presentation wise.

Thanks for your help.

to be honest, anything goes footwear-wise with cropped jeans (except long fitted boots!). Depending on the rest of the outfit I wear trainers with mine, or chunky lace-up ankle boots, or block heel Chelsea boots, or flat sling backs. With boots/high tops you just need to be careful about the height of the boots/length of the jeans. The jeans either need to be high enough to sit above or long enough to go over the top. If you search on Pinterest for ‘footwear with cropped jeans’ you’ll get a load of images.