Capsule Wardrobe NI

Belfastbelle

Just thinking about moneysaving on workwear for 2011. If the sensible idea is starting off with a capsule wardrobe of basic essentials~ where's the best place to buy them in NI?

T-shirts (taupe - white - black- navy - cream )
black trousers
white shirt
Little Black dress
Accessories

Ive tried M&S, and some of the shops in Debenhams..
is it better to invest and try more expensive brands??

Is that really moneysaving (if they last longer)????

Has anyone used a stylist?

Phoolgrrrl

I use Autonomy at Junction one, good quality and not too dear as it's an outlet. Also there is a next outlet at Junction one which is good for suits and dresses. I do all my work shopping at junction one, prob once a year. It does work out cheaper in the long run they last longer and wash better than tops from dunnes etc. I got 2 work dresses, 2 jersey tops and a cardigan for about £40.

BangorJane

I like Principles in Debenhams for the classic work stuff. TK Maxx has the designer/more expensive and quality workwear if you are prepared to have a trawl and definitely try them on - they are also online now. I like Dunnes and Next for work trousers.
Personally, if they are for work I would pay a bit more and look at the cost per wear.

BangorJane

Alsoooo...... GAP for the T-shirts, good quality cotton that washes well. H&M work shirts are brill as well.

metalgal

for stuff you were every day its really worth it buying more expensive things. Did you try the personal shopper at debenhams? I think next is one of the best for work clothes. You can buy cheap stuff but in about two months you will need to buy more.

spendaholiceejit

I'd second Gap, the quality and cut are good. I especially like their cotton T-Shirts.

I do like Zara too. Usually I mix good trousers with lots of cheaper tops from the likes of New Look though. A capsule wardrobe is a great idea.

Belfastbelle

Thanks everybody
I went shopping yesterday-
bought a couple of Dorothy Perkins T Shirts (long sleeve - 2x £12),
then some really nice (short sleeve) tops in Next (£12 each),
finally black trousers (£29?) in M&S
(saw white shirt in Next but it was a 'round' collar -didnt buy).

all workwear.

I am looking for better quality classic black trousers (not 'going out trousers' bootleg probably with nice drape) -
tried House of Fraser but there were too many choices, the ones I tried didnt fit that well and I got fed up!

Back to the drawing board..

I'll try Junction 1 Thur or Fri if Im passing

spendaholiceejit

Nice One. I forgot about Next.

leftieM

I like Austin Reed at the Outlet. I got some AR shirts in the House of Fraser sale and the quality is great. Also, the white shirts aren't see-through the way most white shirts are (essential when teaching teenage boys!) They were around 30 pounds in the sale/outlet shop. Well worth it.

Belfastbelle

Good tip, thank you

Belfastbelle

Junction 1.