I am a large mid-50's woman, approx size 22-24, about 5 foot, 5 inches, desperately seeking stylish, well made clothes for work and leisure. I've been checking out the Style and Beauty thread for ages and there are such fabulous knowledgeable and helpful posters here that I thought it might be worth asking advice.
I need to spruce up my wardrobe and am fortunate in that I have a little more disposable income at the moment so don't have to go bargain basement. But in saying that I'd be uncomfortable paying more than €250 for a piece. So I'm thinking mid-range. Can you recommend any brands / boutiques / online sites that I could check out?
My style tends to be slightly arty/boho. I like loose comfortable pieces but am well aware of the perils of over-flow on a larger frame.
Legs aren't great, boobs are okay and in proportion with the rest of me and tummy is large; so midi, A shaped stuff is better on me than anything nipped in.
Favourite pieces at the moment are 100 Stars throwovers and kimonos plus I have a few things from Masai. I used to love Cos when I could fit into it.
Otherwise I tend to go for simple black pieces dressed up with good costume jewellery and cashmere scarves.
Looking online I like Sahara (but have not bought from there and I think I might be just a bit toooo fat for most of their stuff). I'm not afraid of colour or pattern and am trying to ignore the siren call of black. But probably most comfortable in earthy colours, olive green, navy etc. Tailored stuff tends to make me look frumpy. For some reason shirt collars look awful on me. Whilst I'd like to lose a bit of weight and definitely don't want to put on any more, I'm reasonably comfortable in my own skin.
And finally I'm living in Ireland. I travel to London once or twice a year so could shop there.
For work I particularly love dresses - so easy! I'd love some good quality lounge wear. I probably need to invest in some good quality black 'basics' as well. And maybe one or two things that can see me through from day to evening.
If anyone has any inspiration, advice or tips I'd be really grateful. Thanks in advance!