I’ve just been offered a new job and I need a completely new work wardrobe and bag.
It’s a pretty conservative company and moderately formal (I don’t need full suits but I will need shirts and trousers/skirts or work dresses).
I haven’t worked in a corporate environment for about 6 years (and I’ve had 2 kids in the meantime). I’m totally lost about what to buy or where to find it.
None of my old clothes fit and my style has changed (although I’m not really sure what to!)
I’d love any suggestions.
- I’m mid 30s and 5’7. Size 8-10.
- I’m still breastfeeding/pumping so any very fitted shirts look obscene! I prefer floatier silk shirts anyway (I borrowed a friend’s Sezane shirt for my interview and loved it- but worry about the upkeep of silk shirts, especially because I’ll have to take a baby and toddler to nursery on my way in).
- Because of the clients I’ll be working with I need modest/conservative clothes (nothing too tight and at least knee/elbow length).
- I prefer neutral-ish colours and patterns. Although I do like subtle details and colours (dusky pink, blush, blue etc)
- It’s a big salary jump so I have a decent budget. Probably £350ish per outfit (although I’m flexible for the right thing).
I’d also really like to get a nice work bag that goes with anything. My budget is probably up to £800ish (so nice but not high end designer). I don’t need it urgently so could buy in the sales after Christmas if there’s something slightly over budget.
Any suggestions for designers or places to look. I’ve seen a few in the Aspinal and Strathberry sale that I quite like but I’m very open to other ideas. I like:
- Simple and classic designs
- Neutral colours
- Shoulder strap
- Big enough for a laptop and A4 notebook (although this isn’t a deal breaker for the right bag)
- Hardwearing (no cream canvas!)
Thank you!