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New job office wear please help!

37 replies

Itsmahoneybaloney · 04/10/2024 21:31

Hi everyone, new job starts on 14th Oct. I'm a size 18/20 at the moment but on mounjaro so hope to lose weight soon. I am so unfashionable, I don't have many clothes, don't follow trends. I have huge HH boobs so find everything awkward on me. The only style I've found that does suit my shape is peplum. I'll be in the office twice a week so can afford to recycle looks.
The dress code is casual office/comfy vibes but smart ish. Are trainers allowed? I've been looking at burgundy trainers as they're in fashion but most places are sold out.
i have no idea what to wear or buy even as staples. I have a big tummy overhang from 2 csections so cant do the 'tuck in the tshirt into floaty trousers' look. Please help a girl out!

OP posts:
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Itsmahoneybaloney · 04/10/2024 22:56

Bump

OP posts:
ANagsHead · 05/10/2024 08:24

Read these!

https://www.lauraadlington.com/plus-size-directory

https://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/gallery/best-plus-size-fashion-brands

https://www.vogue.co.uk/fashion/article/best-plus-size-fashion-brands

Laura Adlington’s list is very High St, the other two are wider ranging. They all cover daywear, plus lingerie and gym clothes. Between the three lists you would be able to find a complete new wardrobe of work wear.

Obviously if you’re anticipating losing any significant amount of weight (more than one dress size) it would be sensible not to spend very much on (or buy too many) tailored / fitted items - but you’ll want to make a good impression at your new workplace so choose with care. Knitwear, for instance, and elasticated or drawstring waist trousers will carry you from one size to the next more easily than a zipped skirt.

Actually, I’m not certain any of the lists above include:

Community Clothing

which is gradually increasing its range of sizes (several things go up to a 20) and carries pretty much everything one could want for a well dressed casual wardrobe.

Where to shop if you're plus size — Laura Adlington

https://www.lauraadlington.com/plus-size-directory

IHaveNeverLivedintheCastle · 05/10/2024 11:07

On the similar thread there's a link to Joannie plus size.

eatyeateat · 05/10/2024 11:20

What style do you like? At your size you can wear most high street clothing.

IHaveNeverLivedintheCastle · 05/10/2024 13:55

eatyeateat · 05/10/2024 11:20

What style do you like? At your size you can wear most high street clothing.

Good point.

Itsmahoneybaloney · 05/10/2024 21:17

eatyeateat · 05/10/2024 11:20

What style do you like? At your size you can wear most high street clothing.

I literally don't know. I don't have a 'style' I'm not into clothes at all. Thank you all so far I just need as much help as I can get. For further context I am autistic and find it hard to relate to fashion and don't feel great in much really- hence the weight loss.

OP posts:
Itsmahoneybaloney · 05/10/2024 21:21

Are trainers OK in the office these days? I've just bought these but not sure how to style them.

New job office wear please help!
OP posts:
ANagsHead · 05/10/2024 21:27

We can’t really know what’s acceptable in your office without having been there or read the dress code.

But as for the trainers - you don’t need to ‘style’ them, they’re trainers - they’re meant to go with everything.

eatyeateat · 05/10/2024 21:29

I probably wouldn't go in with trainers on the first day. Do you have sensory sensitivities - I might start with that (ie you prefer dresses or tight fitted things)

You don't need to be fashionable, I wouldn't be aiming for that. Comfortable and happy enough with what you're wearing instead

Itsmahoneybaloney · 05/10/2024 21:33

ANagsHead · 05/10/2024 21:27

We can’t really know what’s acceptable in your office without having been there or read the dress code.

But as for the trainers - you don’t need to ‘style’ them, they’re trainers - they’re meant to go with everything.

Sorry I'm autistic- don't need to style them just doesn't really compute. I have no idea what to wear with them - black jeggings/blue jeans etc
I have no clue.

OP posts:
Itsmahoneybaloney · 05/10/2024 21:34

eatyeateat · 05/10/2024 21:29

I probably wouldn't go in with trainers on the first day. Do you have sensory sensitivities - I might start with that (ie you prefer dresses or tight fitted things)

You don't need to be fashionable, I wouldn't be aiming for that. Comfortable and happy enough with what you're wearing instead

I dont like things too oversized but I'm conscious of my weight. I'd feel uncomfortable in a dress on a first day I think- I prefer leggings or jeggings. I don't like jeans with buttons.

OP posts:
Itsmahoneybaloney · 05/10/2024 21:37

Dress code is 'dress for your day' smart casual. I won't be client facing so no issue there.

OP posts:
eatyeateat · 05/10/2024 22:03

I wouldn't go for normal leggings ideally. Have a look on the M&S website at their leggings as they have cord, velvet and leather look ones that would be better for a work setting. Then see if you like how they're styled and you can copy the look?

nzeire · 05/10/2024 22:04

I saw a cool instagram reel the other day, with a woman in plain black pants, plain black top, not tight, not baggy, just skimming. Then she styled it up with different jackets and shirts

it was awesome!

denim shirt
blazer
white shirt
plaid jacket and so on

NewNameNoelle · 05/10/2024 22:16

In your situation I would probably think of things in terms of a formula, simple items that work together in a sort of uniform style.

I would start with black trousers in a style that’s comfortable to you (I like a wide leg). Then I’d add 3 tops, perhaps black 3/4 sleeve top, white blouse, white smart T-shirt. Then, add something on top in case it’s cold (offices are so variable) so a smart knit (maybe in burgundy if it’s taken your fancy) could go on top of the top and T-shirt, and then perhaps a jacket that could go with all three.

You now have a simple, perhaps a touch boring, but absolutely practical work uniform that you can rotate. Most of it will work when you drop a size or two. I’ve lost a few sizes and mostly wear the same tops and jackets, but have had to buy new trousers.

With larger boobs I find a gentle V neck works well.

Your trainers are lovely, I’d wear them, but I wouldn’t wear them on day 1. So I would add a black flat shoe, I like a point as it lengthens my legs and just somehow looks better.

I am in the office two days a week. The majority of my work clothes are now black or white and the tops all work for out of work top. Everything matches, I get nice comments, and I don’t have to think about it much in the morning.

Good luck in your new job.

InfoSecInTheCity · 05/10/2024 22:25

I've recently discovered Popsy Clothing and the Tie Waist / flat waist dresses are so flattering. I'm big boobed and big bellied size 18 with decent legs.

Added benefit that they are remarkably comfortable and have pockets. I wear a cardigan in cooler weather, but you could wear a blazer if you like them. The knee length ones I wear with thick tights or leggings, the longer length ones I wear with knee high socks (can't see the top of them and they're more comfy than tights).

I have some lace up black boots from Heavenly Feet and some sketchers black pull on ankle boots that I wear with them now the weather has turned.

PonyPatter44 · 05/10/2024 22:38

The problem with Popsy is that most of the dresses are in a weird nasty cheap polyester that goes bobbly in about 35 seconds, and holds smells really badly. I like the black and white capsule wardrobe that @NewNameNoelle described and hopefully you will be able to keep sizing down!

Itsmahoneybaloney · 05/10/2024 22:49

NewNameNoelle · 05/10/2024 22:16

In your situation I would probably think of things in terms of a formula, simple items that work together in a sort of uniform style.

I would start with black trousers in a style that’s comfortable to you (I like a wide leg). Then I’d add 3 tops, perhaps black 3/4 sleeve top, white blouse, white smart T-shirt. Then, add something on top in case it’s cold (offices are so variable) so a smart knit (maybe in burgundy if it’s taken your fancy) could go on top of the top and T-shirt, and then perhaps a jacket that could go with all three.

You now have a simple, perhaps a touch boring, but absolutely practical work uniform that you can rotate. Most of it will work when you drop a size or two. I’ve lost a few sizes and mostly wear the same tops and jackets, but have had to buy new trousers.

With larger boobs I find a gentle V neck works well.

Your trainers are lovely, I’d wear them, but I wouldn’t wear them on day 1. So I would add a black flat shoe, I like a point as it lengthens my legs and just somehow looks better.

I am in the office two days a week. The majority of my work clothes are now black or white and the tops all work for out of work top. Everything matches, I get nice comments, and I don’t have to think about it much in the morning.

Good luck in your new job.

Thank you this resonates with me.

OP posts:
Itsmahoneybaloney · 06/10/2024 14:32

Bump
Anyone care to share photos of what a normal office work day outfit would look for them? Thanks

OP posts:
Bestyearever2024 · 06/10/2024 14:42

I think I'd wear black trousers and a top in a style which suits you (you mention peplum)

Slip on black pumps

Jacket

Then once you've started, suss out what everyone else is wearing and match....eg trainers if others are wearing them

MrsMoastyToasty · 06/10/2024 14:43

Don't spend a lot of money. Play it safe with a pair of black trousers or a skirt from somewhere like the supermarkets or even a charity shop. Wear it with a blouse and a jacket and a pair of ankle boots. Even if you never wear it again to the office you'll have an outfit for funerals etc.

JustAnotherDayWorkingAtHome · 06/10/2024 14:51

So last week I wore

Massimo dutti grey pinstripe trousers
Grey sleeveless mango polo neck
Burgundy mango loafers
Black Gucci belt
Mango trench coat

Black wide leg Reiss trousers
Camel Reiss t shirt
Nude Reiss belt
Adidas gazelles

My office is smart casual people wear anything from jeans to semi corporate (blazers, smart dresses)

ThePoetsWife · 06/10/2024 14:57

Lots of wide leg trousers, tops or jumpers, trainers in cities that I work in.

bevelino · 06/10/2024 14:58

OP, wear trousers in a relaxed fit. Leggings and jeggings are not office wear and you might feel self conscious if nobody else is wearing them.