Which brand for quality work outfit

[Okigen]

I have to attend an important committee where everyone dresses rather formally. The trouble is, I’m fairly petite (5”3) with a slim frame. Suits, patterns and extra details on the clothes tend to dwarf me. Can’t afford tailoring yet. So I’m looking for a clean, minimalist design with high quality fabric. It can be dress or a shirt/troursers combo. Budget £500 max. Which brand would you look at?

I really hope people reply as i could have written your post! Some of the Fold looks Ok but nothing really for petites 🥲 maybe Reiss petite?

I'm that height and have lots of phase eight dressses

Yes, my first thought was Reiss Petite as well.
https://www.reiss.com/shop/gender-women/sizetype-petite-use-workwear

Honestsly M&S for trousers, kitten heels and a ribbed top of some kind- bring that all in for approx £120,
and spend a bit more on a jacket from eg jaeger.

What sort of formal?

Some people swear by brands like The Fold. (I cannot imagine dressing like that but it looks smart on others.)

In your position, if I had nothing suitable in the wardrobe I’d be browsing:

Cos
MaxMara
Studio Nicholson
Toteme

and

The Outnet

to see what seems most you and is within budget. (It helps to keep an eye on brands throughout the year so you can take advantage of the sales.)

(I don’t quite understand what you mean about not being able to afford tailoring? I’m also 5’3 and am accustomed to taking off the peg clothes to a good alterations service whenever necessary.)

Thanks all, some lovely suggestions, I’ll start browsing 😁

@littleteapot86 @GarlicPint oh yes I haven’t thought about Reiss Petite, will have a look. From memory Reiss seems to expect you to wear high heels but I can always shorten the trousers I guess.

@EscapadeVelocity COS is my favourite brand! Sadly their shapes usually look quite casual on me. I adore Max Mara too although it’s a bit above the current budget. But will have a look on Toteme andStudio Nicholson thank you. (Sorry by tailoring I mean bespoke).

I am similar build to you with a similar budget. No matter how adventurous I get with my style outside work, for formal I still fall back on Hobbs dresses.There are more options now than the Apprentice dresses, some petite and caress sleeves are more forgiving than jackets in regular size.

For a blouse, I would go for silk as cotton can be too stiff and boxy on shorties. Sezane Chloe in your most flattering colour, Hobbs do a couple of pussy bow, Boden have some options.