Help! Lost my style

[WannabeMamaM]

I seem to have completely lost my style and have no clue what to wear any longer.

Heading out tonight for a fancy dinner and honestly at a loss about what to wear.

I have no idea what people are wearing these days and to be honest never really followed the pack anyway but don't want to look ancient or like I've walked out of 2013.

I've always been a bit of a classic dresser, in fact if I was going to a funeral I could probably pull it off even now... but a party or fancy dinner out and I'm really stuck! I don't want to look older or frumpier than necessary.

I am 41, 5'7", size 14-16 and definitely lost my way when it comes to my figure, hair, make-up etc.

I'd love any tips for tonight but even just in general for casual day to day wear, I need a complete overhaul!

Sounds like you’ve lost your confidence rather than your style?
I think you should wear what you like and what you feel comfortable in.

For tonight allocate plenty of time to pamper yourself so that you are feeling your best. I’d choose what you are wearing early. Maybe a going out “ go to” that you can accessorise with some bright jewellery or silver or gold tones.
Take time over your hair and make up etc. Hold your head up smile and enjoy yourself.

Moving forward maybe start with a wardrobe clear out. Some places sell capsule wardrobes for every day.
Browse some sites that sell lots of brands like Next, John Lewis or M & S. White Stuff, Seasalt Cornwall and Roman are worth a look. Popsy is great for unique prints and they do free alterations. Filter by your size and style choices and some things might jump out at you.

For make up you could watch some tutorials
online. Maybe book a hair appointment for a new style, cut or colour?

Have a great evening.

Well, unless you’re actually in a shop at this moment you’re going to be wearing something from your own wardrobe.

What are the nicest / most luxurious / smartest things you own? (Including shoes and accessories.)

This is partly going to be location dependent because I could walk into some bouji restaurants and it will be dressy and in some equally nice places people will be in hoodies. What shops did you shop in in the past and what did you enjoy wearing ( the last time you felt confident ). What does being a classic dresser look like to you?

Can you have a look on the venues Instagram page to see what people are wearing?

I dont think I ever had any style tbh. I get by by asking AI what to wear for occasions.
That usually works very well. It gives you ideas anyway so you can then choose.
Put in all the details, weight, height, body shape, age.
You can also get apps where you can try different hair styles on.
Ai has revolusionised the way I dress to go out.
Pinterest is also great.

I’d start with your shoes, they can really date an outfit.
My go to for a fancy dinner is either wide leg trousers and a lovely blouse, pointy kitten heels or satin bias cut midi skirt with either a sleeves jumper or cami and blazer, again with kitten heel boots or sling backs.
Supermarkets are great at the moment, especially Tescos The Edit, you can really take your time wandering around without anyone harassing you! M & S also, stress free shopping. Look at the mannequins. See if you like the way they’ve been styled.
Get some lovely statement earrings and a cuff or bracelet. Or a statement necklace and small earrings, whatever your preference is.
A clutch will make your outfit seem more eveningy.
Good blow dry with products.
Make up, light touch but accentuate your eyes and line your lips, swirl of bronzer or blusher.
Perfume!

Ive got a lovely Baukjen dress in dark leopard
I love it because it can either be worn as a casual outfit quite simply with sandals or be dressed up with jewellery, great shoes and a jacket.
I love pieces like that that have a dual purpose.
Have a look in your wardrobe and see if there are any clothes you can dress up.

I do agree with your brand suggestions - Roman sea salt and white stuff wouldn’t feature on my radar and Popsy is awful

Absolutely agree that updating your shoes is the place to start. When I’m at a loss I dress as tonally as possible, so all black, all blue, all cream.