What to wear!

[Lovelyladiesarenotinsecure]

I’ve lost 5 stone and urgently need some new clothes! I’ve worn long dresses for years, as they’ve suited me best. I have big boobs and hips (and stomach….) with a well defined waist. I’m not super slim now, still about a 14-16 (bottom/top) but am happy.

I feel I want to branch out from my wardrobe and try new stuff. But I don’t know where to start. I literally haven’t worn trousers in years and years.

I like more edgy styles, definitely not cutesy or preppy. Any hints tips from people that have been there?

Have a look on the style and beauty board as they've got loads of threads on recommendations for stuff.

Wide leg trousers are apparently 'in' but if you're short like me then it won't work. I'm still in skinny jeans and magic pants so don't take style advice from me 🤣🤣🤣

But when you find your style then vinted will be your best friend.

I went into John Lewis and just picked a whole load of stuff up, tried all different shapes and styles and took a photo of each which helped to get a basic idea of shapes to wear and shapes to avoid. The other thing I did which I was surprisingly impressed with was to take a full length picture in decent lighting, I put it 8n to chat GPT and asked it to tell me what shapes and styles of clothing would best flatter my figure as well as to tell me what colours and metals would be best for my colouring. I learned I should wear v neck or wrap tops, straight or bootcut trousers but not wide leg, high waisted not low and that I am a warm autumn who should wear gold jewellery not silver.

I’ve found the New Look jeans work as they have a good shape, they actually go in at the waist, used to buy Tu but they no longer suit. Vinted has been my friend. John Rocha and Phase Eight are good for fitted items that flatter a curvy figure even at lower sizes. Joe Brown might be worth a look.

If you have a John Lewis close by, you can book a personal stylist session. It might be worth trying.

Did you wear clothes or underwear?! I want to try it!

I was wearing shorts and a vest top so my overall figure was easily discernible. I think anything reasonably tight like leggings and a form fitting top would work. I’ve been obese since primary school so had no idea really what my adult body would look like as a healthy weight, no frame of reference to refer back to what used to suit me. I was convinced my whole life that I was big boned, busty, with wide hips. Turns out without the fat I’m actually naturally slender with narrow hips. Who knew!?!?

At my highest I was 21 stone, I’m currently 10 stone so literally half the woman I used to be, and I have loose skin and deflated boobs so was at a bit of a loss about how to feel good about my new body, which I generally do but sometimes I can’t help but regret ruining my skin with 30 years of over stretching it.

This was the kind of answer I got:

Your photos really help with this. You’ve got a tall, straight frame with long limbs, a smaller bust, and a waist that isn’t very defined (more of a column shape). The goal with tops is to:

• Add curves and shape to your silhouette.
• Highlight your shoulders and neckline (great features on you).
• Define the waist without clinging to loose skin around the midsection.

1. Necklines

• V-necks – lengthen the neck, soften the shoulders, and create a slimming vertical line.
• Scoop necks – more rounded than a V, flattering for smaller busts, adds softness.
• Square necks – great for adding structure and widening the upper body slightly, balancing hips and shoulders.
• Boat necks – broadens the shoulders a little, which can give the illusion of more waist definition.
• Wrap/twist necklines – create curves and movement at the bust/waist area.

Avoid: very high crew necks or polo necks, which can make your frame look more rectangular and add focus to the midsection.

1. Shapes & Cuts

• Wrap tops – brilliant for creating a waistline and adding curve.
• Peplum styles (subtle, not too frilly) – nip in at the waist, flare gently over tummy/hips.
• Empire line tops – sit just under the bust, skimming over the midsection without clinging.
• Fitted but not tight – think tailored blouses, knit tops, or stretch fabric that skims.
• Structured shirts – especially with darts or a tailored waist, worn tucked or half-tucked.

Avoid: shapeless oversized tops (they’ll make you look boxy), and clingy thin fabrics that highlight loose skin.

1. Sleeves

• At least elbow-length (as you mentioned you prefer) – balances your proportions nicely.
• 3/4 sleeves – elongating and elegant.
• Cap sleeves can work if paired with a V-neck, but full sleeveless is less flattering unless layered

Fabrics & Styling

• Go for structured fabrics (stretch cotton, ponte, modal blends) rather than very thin jersey.
• Use tucking (full or French tuck) with your trousers to define the waist.
• Belts or tops with built-in banding at the waist can give you extra shape.

Oooohhhh, @InfoSecInTheCity fab idea!