No style

[SordidSplendour]

Where do you begin to find your sense of style? I find a lot of what I go for is what 20s me would have and it doesn't work with current me (30s) I also work mostly nights where no style is required but when anything comes up I have absolutely nothing and all the pictures of me "out" are in the same things as the last ten years!
What are later 30s, size 12/14 but likes arms covered, hourglass figure wearing these days?
I'm lucky with my shape but not my bare arms or legs so how do I begin

Go on Instagram and find fashion influencers in your age group and sizing. There are plenty about
https://www.stylist.social/Natalie.webb_
I’ve just added one. It was easy to search. You will find somebody’s that fits in with your style if you do a bit of searching.

Following as I'm an hourglass 12, and 5'3.
Currently clearing out my wardrobe, feel like a teenager "I've got nothing to wear" lol.

Just put in a picture of a dress or something you like in Chat GPT with the descriptions you have said here (no arms, legs) and it will come up with as many complete suggestions of outfits as you want.

I’m finding some of the advice on here confusing. I don’t understand the premise that you base an outfit based on what is considered flattering to your body type. “ Flattering” is either secondary consideration or no consideration. Primary consideration is whether you love it and whether you feel like you when you put it on. Does it work for your lifestyle? I don’t know how you feel about style books but I have 2 that are based on finding your individual style. The first is The Curated Closet ( which is recommended often) and the second is “Wear it Well” which is a more recent publication by Allison Bornstein. She’s developed the 3 word method which you might find interesting. Either way I’d start looking at Pinterest at different types of outfits… minimalist, boho, dopamine, classic etc and seeing what you’re drawn to. Once you start saving images you will hopefully find a common theme emerging. Allison Bornstein has a lot of videos online about personal style as does Jannine Jacob.

That's absolutely hideous

I’m finding some of the advice on here confusing. I don’t understand the premise that you base an outfit based on what is considered flattering to your body type. “ Flattering” is either secondary consideration or no consideration. Primary consideration is whether you love it and whether you feel like you when you put it on.

I agree.

Don’t put “ hide arms” in your search criteria just look through images. These 3 random images may all be examples of androgynous style. Just because you wouldn’t wear the waistcoat with the sleeveless t shirt doesn’t mean there aren’t elements of that look that appeal. It would be easy to add a different top underneath if that’s what you wanted to do. Just an example.

A line dresses and skirts which skim the belly but hug the bust. Vintage style dresses and military tailoring styles work really well here.
Wrap tops and dresses to accentuate the waist.
I have a very similar figure. High waisted jeans look amazing on me. These are my favourite jeans ever, I have them in 3 different colours www.very.co.uk/v-by-very-relaxed-skinny-jeans-black/1600864983.prd
I also dislike my flabby arms, long sleeved t shirts I can do. M&S sell fabulous slash neck t shirts which I pair with jeans for a casual smart vibe at work https://www.marksandspencer.com/pure-cotton-slim-fit-top/p/clp60654840

I love patterns but sometimes find a large print doesn't work as well with a large bust. Neutrals are good and accessorise with colourful shoes, belts etc.

Fabric is very important too. Avoid cheap artificial fabrics. Natural fibres all the way.
What I do is find a brand I like and I know fits me well. Hello French Connection, Reiss and Warehouse and hop over the Vinted for bargains.

True....but usually when you put something on and love the shape/or colour it's because it is flattering and subconsciously you've noticed this!

But the OP asked how you find your sense of style she didn’t ask what shapes suited her body type. You can find flattering outfits that are boho, minimalist, indie etc. work out the style first and then if flattering is a consideration adapt as appropriate.

I am SO glad I started this thread!
Such great advise and links, thank you so much everyone!

I'm still at a bit of a loss as to "who I am" but I was I a rush today and threw on a midi black polka dot dress with a burgundy cropped cord jacket and white trainers and really liked it. It was "ready" for anything but "flattering" and somewhat stylish!

Adored the vintage links people shared and the amazing long sleeve top too. Very at odds though!

My reasons for wanting to hide my upper arms and legs are just extreme weight loss over the years has left me with very loose skin.