Please Help! Lost weight, need to decide my style

[PollyLaundry]

Hi,

I have never been stylish no matter my size. But considering I now need to buy a whole new wardrobe I thought I might as well try and take some enjoyment from it.

I am 5ft2. Aged 32.
I used to weigh 13 stone and have managed to get to my target weight of 8 stone.

I have bought bits in between the different weights but basically now need to start afresh with my clothes.

I have big breasts, small shoulders. Don’t like the tops of my arms, so prefer sleeves. Don’t like my stomach. I mostly wear black/neutrals. Get colour from footwear and handbags. High street prices.

Does anyone have any tips/recommendations. Or can help me decide what/how many clothes I should buy.

Thank you!

I am 5'5" but got used to dressing taller if you know I mean. Harder now I do not want wear heels

Do not be tempted by big blousy clothing- puff sleeves etc
Keep your lower half reasonably fitted- ignore huge baggy jean trends.
In fact after all your hard work ignore anything that is bulky, puffy etc.

There are some nice styles with waistcoats and trousers at the moment- try before you buy

Dresses are easy - but avoid big poofy sleeves
eg
Buy Lipsy Black Long Sleeve Wrap Gathered Waist Midi Dress from the Next UK online shop

Thank you @Breadcat24 I definitely agree that I need to avoid anything bulky.

It’s really hard as I don’t think I have an actual style but I’d like clothes that can be mixed and matched rather than just loads of individual styles if that makes any sense.

Congratulations on your weight loss, what an achievement!

Do you like dresses?

https://www.silkfred.com/womens/clothing/dresses/day-dresses/fs-collection/abstract-floral-print-wrap-top-mini-dress-in-blue

I’d probably just order a ton of things and go from there.

What is your lifestyle? What practical considerations do you need to dress for? Eg do you need your wardrobe to suit office working, are you a full time parent or do you walk your dog every day in muddy fields?

What words would you use to describe your personality / aspirational style eg alternative, casual, classic etc?

Once you've had a thought about the above I would recommend buying 4 or 5 pieces that can be mixed and matched to start building your new wardrobe. I wouldn't commit to any more than that initially.

The biggest thing I have learned since losing weight is that baggy clothes are in no way 'slimming'

What a fool I was!!! Making myself look even more enormous

Ive also got quite short legs so try to tuck shirts in now and wear high waisted trousers. I am in no way svelte, I have a stomach and flab but I still look better with a little pot belly and tucked in, than having a flowy blouse over the top because I look taller and leaner somehow. Im not short but Im really out of proportion leg wise.

I still dont look any great shakes but its just improving on the bits I can. Also Ive taken to wearing belts quite a lot.

https://theconceptwardrobe.com/

This website talks about different body shapes. Work out which one you are and find clothes that suit it. The only thing I know about big boobs (I have small boobs) is that you should wear v-shaped necklines.

Do you gravitate towards a certain look - classic, bohemian, tailored etc.? If so, embrace it. Often on mn you see certain brands are lauded as respectable, whilst others disparaged. Ignore these, and if you want to wear Seasalt over Toast, then do so. Don’t try and be someone you’re not.

Ignore size labels- an 8 in one store can be 12 in another.

Look online and work out which colour palette suits you.

Congratulations on your weight loss. I bet you look amazing.

Follow Melissa Murrell styling on YouTube/Instagram. She's a similar height & size & is in her 40's and she includes lots of high street buys, along with a bit of Me & Em & Sezanne. Lots of neutrals & wardrobe staples etc.
She, all Ng with 'Invest in style' are by far the most useful in istagrammers for a cohesive wardrobe.