Flattering dresses for short plump(18/20) hourglass

Squiggly_Diddly

I need to get myself some new clothes as I seem to be living in the same leggings and jersey long tunic or short dress combinations, with a cardi if its chilly & cheap primark flat shoes. Whilst its easy & comfortable, it actually doesn't make me feel good about myself and I find I tend not to bother making an effort with hair/makeup much either. I'm starting a new job in a couple of months so want to gradually make some additions to my wardrobe, & make an effort to feel good whilst i try to shift some weight too, but don't know where to start. Also with spring/summer coming its probably a good time to stop with the leggings!!

I spend a lot of time in the car but am going from meeting to meeting as well (hence a lot of jersey as it doesn't crease!). I'd like to smarten up a bit without being too overdressed and don't have a massive budget but want good quality clothes that will look nice. I don't do/suit/like high necklines so scoop/sweetheart/deep V ones are better. I have some heels so need to start wearing them in & getting used to them a bit more.

So - help! Where to start, suggestions of what people have found looks nice, good places to shop - all would be much appreciated. (I do like watching Gok etc & have his books but can't translate that into finding things in shops for myself & the whole experience can be a bit depressing). And I have definite boobs & hips to accommodate!!

Thanks for any help & apologies for the length of this!!

Waffle_On

I would steer you towards Wallis for tops/dresses and the like. They tend to do quite a few tops in the style you currently wear, but they'll be an upgrade in terms quality and overall look. I love their sale rails, because I often find a bargain!

Pimpmyride

Why not try something not too different than what yu do already, just smarten it up a bit? This isnt very MSE, but perhaps go for some 'treggings' or slim fitting trousers rather than leggings, get some better quality/nice detail ballet flats from somewhere like next rather than Primark, something with a sturdier sole/heel .
Go for a soft, easy to wear cotton shirt (still comfy/casual but a touch of smartness to it!). Maybe try a long jumper dress or a casual day dress worn with thick tights....things that you arent going to feel self concious in and are still soft and easy to wear!!!

if you have any celebs you leek, or see pictures of people in outfits you like, save pictures for inspiration. even if they are compleltely different body shapes to you, sometimes just seeing a nice outfit on someone else can help with ideas, or think hmm I've got something similar to that....
Don't be scared to just 'try things out'. It will all go towards understanding what you do and dont like to wear!
Hope that helps!

sally24_2

Asda, Sainsbury and Tesco do some good basics such as trousers and skirts for low prices. No need to cover up your shape, a flattering top with a plain skirt will look great and dark tights will give a modest appearance at work. I have found that smart leather pumps work really well with skirts and are practical for a busy working day. If you don't like suits, how about black trousers with a colourful jacket.

CharlieRabbit01

I got stuck in a rut with clothes as well and had no idea what to wear.

So I booked myself in for a wardrobe update - personal shopper at debenhams, the best thing is its free and no obligation to buy, you tell them your budget and then either let them pick out what they think or you can give them a little guidance of your likes and dislikes.

I let them pick out anything some which I looked at and turned my nose up but I still tried them on after all she knows what she's doing and I ended up buying most of the items.

I got a capsule wardrobe for £200.

consisting of:

1 pair of coloured jeans

1 pair of cropped trousers

4 tops

2 jackets

maxi dress

scarf and shoes

This was for the summer I went back in the autumn to get an idea of how to do my AW wardrobe, only bought one outfit but it gave me a jumping off point to build it up myself.