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Starting from scratch - overwhelmed

8 replies

InandOutlander · 10/09/2024 20:49

Has anyone ever built their wardrobe from scratch (or near to)? How did you do it?

I've lost 5 stone and now I'm maintaining a need a whole new wardrobe. But I've gone from only being able to shop at M&S as a size 20 (or feeling like it) to now faced with the whole high street and beyond.

I'm thinking of compiling a list of things to get and places/ brands to look. Anyone want to help?

OP posts:
Newsenmum · 10/09/2024 20:50

I’ll bump it for you because I feel absolutely clueless with clothes atm and I often find great advice on this board.

WeregoingtoIbiza · 10/09/2024 20:51

Sorry no advice but just wanted to say well done on your weight loss x

JC03745 · 10/09/2024 21:03

Congrats on the weight loss OP! That is a huge difference. How did you do it?

Do you need clothes for work? What type of workplace? Leisure wear, day to clothes for shopping and eating out?

I'm far from any fashion guru. I buy clothes that suit my figure and not what is 'IN' fashion. I'd start with a pair of jeans. If comfy and suit you- I'd buy in navy and also black.
Autumn jacket, either a hip length one or a trench coat
Cardigan and/or jumper
T-shirts
Blouses
Skirts/dresses depending what you preference

I buy from a range of places. TU, M&S, Monsoon, Hobbs, Next. Pre covid, I worked in an office and used to find lots of nice blouses and tops from Coast. At that time, they seemed to last multiple washes, yet still look smart and had lovely details. Not much help I'm afraid, but a hopefully bump anyways.

loropianalover · 10/09/2024 21:06

Honestly the best thing about being a ‘regular’/common size is that you can buy SO much stuff on Depop or Vinted for really cheap! When I was bigger barely anyone was selling size 20/22 stuff, and if they were it was ugly. Being a 12-14 I can easily add to basket or even search for specific things I want and know I’ll probably find them!

Anything you like the look of, search it up on Vinted/Depop first.

ToriTheStoryteller · 10/09/2024 21:49

I have kind of done this over the last two years (due to budget!)

First, I spent two different days at big shopping centres trying on (not kidding) about 100 tops and taking selfies to look objectively at what colours actually suit me. Lighting in changing rooms isn't ideal but it made me see how 4 shades of green or cream vs white could make my face look dull or fresh or make my eyes sparkle, for example

Then, I looked at Pinterest and other sites to decide what styles I actually like that suit my shape. I then came up with some key words that describe the vibe of what works for me: eg, yours could be "autumn, a-line, 60's, pattern".

Then I spent a year buying ONLY basics: 5-6 plain t-shirts; 6 trousers - 2x jeans, black jersey, 3 flowy viscose neutral tones; 2 skirts; 4 belts; 4 necklaces from charity shops - two gold, two silver, chunky and delicate of each; cream trainers; black brogues; brown sandals.
I really was starting from scratch!!

Now, for the last year, I've added in more interesting pieces: a couple of coloured shirts, couple more skirts, two jumpers, non-neutral bags, band t-shirts, bright shoes, etc.

All of this is from the high street or charity shops but I have to think carefully before I buy anything: I can't just love something, I have to consider the outfits it could create with what I already have, and it has to fit in with my key words so I know it will earn its keep.

It's been a revelation. I went out at the weekend and felt a bit chilly walking to the car so I popped back in for a jumper: I just pulled it out the drawer in 5 seconds and it hit me that I finally have the start of a wardrobe that is interesting, inspires me and is full of items that work well together and make me feel good.

Edited to say, two years ago I would have gone without a jumper because whatever jumper I had wouldn't have gone with the rest of the outfit or fitted!

ThinkingAgainAndAgain · 10/09/2024 21:57

In your position, I would get a personal shopper experience at somewhere like John Lewis. They’ll pick out things for you that you might not have chosen for yourself. Is there someone whose look you like? Or lots of people? No obligation to buy. And if you feel under an obligation, you can always buy a few things and take them back another time.

mynameiscalypso · 10/09/2024 22:08

I agree with a PP that you need to think about your lifestyle and what kind of clothes work for and what appeals to you. Having lost similar amounts of weight at times, I would also put aside some money for something entirely frivolous that may be totally impractical but which makes you feel good. I have a ridiculous silver coat like that and it just makes me smile, even if I don't wear it that often.

DuskyBlueDepartingLight · 13/09/2024 11:34

Hi OP,

I found this visual helpful - didn't need everything & used slightly different styles & colours but a good tool to start thinking about what you need / like.

Covers smart & casual, as well as seasons. Only thing missing is a sunhat!

Doesn't include PJs, undies, technical sports wear, hobby or activity specific items like dog walking wellies, walking boots etc.

Good luck!

emilylightly.com/2018/04/basic-year-round-capsule-wardrobe/

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