It’s hard to find clothes in general that fit and suit me

[TheSnugHare]

I’m not obese, but I’m not skinny. Just a bit over weight. I’m slightly shorter than average. The models in the adverts are tall and thin, usually from other ethnicities where it is hard to tell if it will suit me or not as their builds are different. Clothes drag on the floor or will come down or feel too loose.
I’m looking for some soft 100% cotton pyjamas this time. I’m 5ft 2
TIA

What’s your size Op?

What are the parts of your body you're happiest with OP? Or if you don't think there are any, ask someone you trust to tell you. There definitely will be some whatever you might think!
I'm average height and like you a little overweight. I have a big bum, thighs and stomach, and I have tended to look for clothes that cover those - and generally they do me no favours. But I know I have decent lower legs and a very kind clothes shop assistant told me 'you still have a waist, you need to show it off'. I also have largish boobs and if I wear high necks, they look even bigger.
I tend to wear leggings or jeggings which flatter my lower legs and a tunic style top which goes in at the waist, with a lowish (without showing cleavage) neckline. Amazing what a difference it makes.

I am a size 12-14. For some reason my legs are a size 14 but my top half is a 12

have you got a sewing machine op/can you sew? I’m quite a bit taller than you and I take up the legs of most of my trousers and jeans because they do seem to default to really long at the moment. I’ve taught myself to do a few more complicated alterations with varying degrees of success, but trousers are easy. Literally just fold them under and sew a straight line. Even jeans are quite simple to turn up and still preserve the hem, although I’d not want to do it by hand unless I had to.

I will try to learn to alter my clothes then.
my leggings and tights will fall down or my clothes will feel too loose. Dresses are too long and shirts are like dresses.

Have you tried petite ranges? Probably.

I have a similar issue. I mainly wear stretchy materials so they fit. It does limit what I can buy.

I'm currently thinking about putting some effort into losing weight. I'm not actually that bothered about being thinner but it makes clothes fit better.

I can’t remember what it’s called but I think I might have that condition that causes bigger legs/arms but it’s not actually fat. Not a severe case of it though

How have you managed this far in life?

Absolutely no need for that

Oh, I feel your pain OP!!

I am your height and have posted before about my struggles to find clothes. I never used to have this problem. Try petite ranges - it’s the only way.

I can't speak for the OP but my shape is very different post two kids over the past 3 years. My previous clothes don't fit and I don't really have time to experiment with trying loads of stuff on and observing people. I'm sure others have my shape so maybe the OP is hoping those people will provide advice...?

I relate to this. Similar size and also a pear. Post kids it's hard to feel nice in anything really!

I've heard snag tights are good for not falling down.

Buck up, @TheSnugHare!

5’2, size 12-14 is really pretty average. And there’s never any need for your clothes to be dragging on the floor.

You don’t actually have to learn how to sew - you could just take your clothes to your local alterations service. (It’s also possible to do this by post, but going in person to be measured is better,)

You haven’t responded to the suggestions that you look to petite ranges? I’m aware they don’t work for everyone’s proportions (I’m 5’3 and have never bought anything petite) and they do limit one’s options.

It’s also difficult to recommend brands or specific items without knowing your budget. You can dress well at any price point but a few very good quality things will help you to feel polished and elevate the rest of your wardrobe.

As for pyjamas - have you considered buying separate to pop an and trousers? Uniqlo usually does cotton flannel pyjama / lounge trousers which can be worn with any of their t shirts.

I didn't mean to be snipy, I meant has it always been a problem or has something changed ? It helps to know background or what someone's previous shopping habits were, to give helpful ideas. Reading it back I can see it's a bit abrupt, sorry.

This is style and beauty. Op is asking for advice. Asking how she got this far in life is totally unnecessary.

I already explained and apologised. I'll ask for the post to be deleted since people seen intent on derailing the OPs thread with a pile on rather than answering her original question.

I'm also very short with different size top and bottom though a bit plumper than you. I agree, everything is made for six foot tall one inch wide sticks. If you're okay with pre loved trying Vinted and eBay for labels like Kaliko, Precis, Ann Brooks, Principles petite, Wallis petite, some Elvis, some Roman (okay they're still going). I really miss Debenhams as you could happily wander round all the concessions trying on different shapes.