I need clothes advice

[Namechangerextraordinaire1]

Ok. I'm nearing 40, and have not really grown out of my hoodies, trainers and jeans stage. I mean, it's fine to still wear those, but I would like to be a bit more grown up/smart casual at times. I'm a size 18, pretty much all of my weight is in my stomach so my arms, legs, hips and bum are reasonably slim but my stomach is a "problem area". Boobs are on the smaller side of average for my size I think, most tops seem to expect me to have more boob than I do 😂

I don't have a lot of money, so I can't buy things from places that cost a lot (and by a lot, for me that means more than about 10 on an individual top and 25 on jeans etc. Ideally less than that.) I am not averse to second hand, but my forays on vinted have been unsuccessful as even buying brands I know in sizes I know fit me don't always result in clothes that actually fit. Charity shops near me are rubbish though, and only have old lady clothes in.

I'm also not comfortable fully changing from hoodies and jeans in to something completely different, so I still want things like jeans, leggings, jumpers etc, just ones that would be a bit less slobby than jeans and a hoody. I'm wondering if I need to be looking for maybe certain fabrics and textures? Does anyone else have a similar style but manages to look less like an overgrown 16 year old?!?!

Thanks

Sounds very much like my style! Im over 50 and I kept waiting for the more mature stylish version of me to show up...and Im still waiting!

TBH I never really know how to dress fashionably. What Im trying to do is go for well cut jeans in shapes that suit me, still love a hoodie and joggers but also adding some nice knit jumpers in colours that suit and invest in some less sporty/more street trainers.

Then if you have your hair and make up sorted I think you automatically look more put together. Plus investing in a decent 'grown up' coat is a good idea.
(oh, and Im also shopping on the cheap! Currently outfitting myself from Primark, outlet stores, New Look and supermarkets coz they all have some really decent stuff in....would highly recommend the New Look sale, I got some really good bargains!).

eBay and vinted are your friends but first take a look at a range of shops to see what styles you like. Popular brands on both are Mint velvet, white stuff, phase eight, Jigsaw, Karen Millan, see what you like and buy at a fraction of the price.

https://m.youtube.com/@mmpersonalstyling

I’m really enjoying this at the moment. She has some great tips and I’m sure you’d be able to find some similar things on Vinted.

M&S for trousers (sizing a bit random so better in store if you can find a bigish one). H&M for tops?

I was literally coming on to post about Vinted.

Good luck OP

I agree with @henlake7 about a coat. If you have a wool coat style one (does not have to be wool obviously) rather than an anorak style you can wear casual clothes underneath & still look smart. Flat ankle boots rather than trainers can change your look too.

In warmer weather you could try a jersey blazer over a hoody (and they are soft and flexible so not restricting)

I also like those boxy chunky knit cardigans that are everywhere at the moment (sort of Chanel style). Wear one over jeans & t shirt & looks very grown up.

Get on vinted op. Follow the shops you like. You can filter by new and new with tags. You can buy nice stuff for 1/2 price x