Clueless Corporate Emo

[DoubleShotEspressox]

Hi all, especially since losing weight and getting past the postpartum leggings and baggy tshirt stage, I have secured a new job and I need some help dressing for it.

I want to avoid Shein and their sweaty fabrics but also that’s essentially my budget right now. Don’t need a huge amount of stuff but things I can mix and match.

Size 10, mid 30s, and basically I’m a bit “alternative” but still an adult that needs to look smart.

I want to retain my quirky-ness but be office appropriate. (Think, blonde hair, dark lipstick, emo type).

The office is smart-casual unless you’re client facing that day. I can smarten things up with colourful blazers that I already own but need trousers/jeans, tops (haaaaaate blouses with a passion), maybe a dress or two, and footwear.

I can never find anything on vinted as I get overwhelmed and feel like I’m in a bootfair in my own living room. But also have no idea what’s good and what isn’t.

Is there anything I should be doing in the searches to make finding stuff easier? Or is there an “ethical shein” app that exists or similar?

Thanks for your help!!

Can you not just buy some plain trousers from Uniqlo? Like these for instance:

https://www.uniqlo.com/uk/en/products/E487589-000/00?colorDisplayCode=07&sizeDisplayCode=003&pldDisplayCode=020

I’d suggest adding a cropped shirt (don’t know if that counts as a ‘blouse’ to you).

https://www.uniqlo.com/uk/en/products/E484928-000/00?colorDisplayCode=63&sizeDisplayCode=003

Colourful blazers aren’t desperately fashionable at the moment - but as it’s summer you probably won’t need the extra layer anyway.

I’ve never really looked at Uniqlo but you can’t argue with that pricing really. What’s the quality like? What shoes would you pair with those?

Anything with a collar really I’m not a huge fan of 😂

Noted re the blazers. I told you I’m clueless.

I’d say Uniqlo clothes are relatively hard wearing for their price. And for a work wardrobe I’d prioritise natural fabrics.

If you like that utilitarian look but would prefer impeccable ethics / environmentalism you could browse:

Community Clothing

and see what you can find of it pre-owned.

Footwear: loafers, trainers, Doc Marten sandals maybe? It depends entirely on the culture of the workplace - smart casual is a broad brief.