Bag and Jacket advice

[1AngelicFruitCake]

I feel I’ve lost my way since I got older. I desperately need some help! I’m early 40s, size 14, being positive I’ve got a big bust, good waist (trying to ignore my sticky out tummy and big bum).
Jackets just completely confuse me! I wear dresses with leggings or midi/maxi dresses, fairly feminine patterns so what would be a good jacket?

I want a nice bag for going out to the pub on a rare night out with friends. I really like the Marc Jacob’s saddle bag style but I don’t want to spend that much.

Any help appreciated!

Jackets and coats are two things where a better quality item pre-owned might bring more satisfaction than a very cheap item bought new. Inevitably really good fabric and skillful cutting do cost money - but you still get the benefit of them on second hand things.

Are you on social media? There are some great accounts on Instagram. I find it helpful to see people who I think are similar age/ build to me and see what they are styling, where it's from etc or pinch the ideas/ look if nothing else. Two accounts I like if it helps....

www.instagram.com/fabfatand40plus?igsh=MWU5M3V5Zjlha25xMg==

www.instagram.com/mrshanbrown?igsh=aWtybm0yZHIwaXBo

I bought a men's dark denim utility jacket in a Uniqlo sale for about £15 and it goes with absolutely everything, and never looks scruffy or like I'm trying to be trendy.

OP, couple of things

Bust darts. I learned about this on this section of the forum. I now realise why so many clothes and tops for women look lumpy, misshapen, frumpy (and thats without me also looking lumpy, misshapen and frumpy). Try to look for things with bust darts in them to make sure your shape is drowned out and things fit nicely

Second, do you need a jacket, are you wanting a certain look or is it for warmth in the evenings?

Thirdly, I too love denim jackets, I think they can be dressed up or down and I would say, to emphasise your waist, get it to sit just above your waist.

I have this in tan faux suede from Primark. Very comfortable and looks good!

https://www.primark.com/en-gb/p/denim-bomber-jacket-ecru-991099827108

Wow! Thank you so much everyone. You’ve all been so kind and I’ve got so many links to look at 😊

To answer a few questions

1. i can spend more I accept I’m out of step with what’s a fair amount to spend.
2. I know dresses and leggings aren’t the best look😄 I’m wearing longer dresses now instead but do go back to dresses and leggings as well.
3. i don’t think im a current person or really ever have been. My style has descended into looking out of date definitely.
4. the person who made the comment to me can be a bit awkward so I don’t think they meant to be hurtful (note to anyone reading this, don’t ever tease someone on what they’re wearing unless you are close enough that they won’t mind!)

Thanks for starting this thread. I find myself in a similar position. I used to love clothes - though was never fashionable - but since having twins in 2019 have lost my way. I've put on weight and I am cash and time poor. I have started buying things on Vinted. I like Baukjen and watch out for things on there. I have no advice but you are not alone! I am currently retraining and once I have a new job - and some spare money - I will post looking for some fabulous advice on work clothes from the wise ones of MN.

Some great jacket suggestions above. Longer term I'd second the advice to look at Instagram to work out what you like and don't like. Based on what you've said, here are some other suggestions: https://www.instagram.com/backofthewardrobe70/ (does a lot of basics and high street), https://www.instagram.com/wearsmymoney/ (tends to do larger hauls, so good for variety), and https://www.instagram.com/alexandra.stedman/ (wears a lot of dresses). As always with SM, maybe start to follow one and it will suggest others, until you find someone whose look you do like.

Given your bust and waist, maybe look for a utility jacket with a cinched or drawstring waist. It might be more flattering than a denim or bomber jacket style. And if you like denim jackets, there are a few denim blazers around (like this https://www.johnlewis.com/white-stuff-loren-denim-blazer-dark-denim/p111292545), which might also work.