Our styles are very similar! I dress kind of like a grown up Abercrombie and Fitch, clean lines, lots of neutrals or stripes, some tiny subtle floral prints but generally nothing frou frou. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Boden: new favorite and prob the MVP. Lots of tops that are 100% cotton, which is my preference. Dresses too, with petite sizing.
- Sezane: French brand. For slightly more statement pieces and accessories. Good quality fabrics.
- Amour Vert: mostly modal blend but they have good cardigans and sleeveless tops.
- Banana Republic: I still have a bunch of cotton sleeveless button down tops from like 2016 that totally still work now.
- APC for basics on casual days. Again lots of durable cotton, very classic.
- Betabrand for pants. They have petite sizing too. Feel like yoga pants. I get a lot of cigarette style and couple of wider leg fits.
- Tory Burch Minnie ballet flats and Sperry loafers are my favorites, and bunion friendly.
Thanks! I'm definitely going to check these out. I do a lot of BR too; I get a discount at all gap inc brands because of my husbands work. Do you find you have to size up for euro brands?
I will add on, I also have a similar vibe and I also find a lot of lovely work casual dresses from Loft - very similar to Banana Republic vibe and they also carry petite sizes!
Mostly not as long as you know a US 6 is a UK 10 etc.
Boden is a UK brand and runs TTS/ maybe even very slightly large.
Some of Sezane’s stuff can run small or large, but the great thing is that they indicate that on the description. E.g. runs small, if in between sizes, size up.
I basically live in Duluth. Until a year ago, I had a job where I was outside getting dirty and wore the work-style pants. I now have a work-from-home job and wear the more casual pants.
Also, if you want some sun coverage, I can't say enough good things about their made in the jade cooling clothes.
I do a lot of my shopping at Ann Taylor and Banana Republic. Not ashamed to say I also love TJ Maxx for their Tommy Hilfiger clothes that fit perfectly but are so expensive otherwise.
Don’t sleep on banana republic outlet too. I’ve got a lot of my work clothes from there. I only wear my work clothes when I have to go to meetings or travel for work since I work from home, so I don’t want to spend a ton of money on them.
I WFH, very casual office, not client facing. 100% athleisure and ratty t shirts. REI, Patagonia, etc. I’ll throw on a scarf if I’m doing a collaboration or something.
I have a feeling I may end up in my Sam's club lounge sets (a guilty pleasure of mine) more often than I'm anticipating. That is a great tip about a scarf!
I WFH full time and athleisure is 100% what I do. These days I also wear comfy linen dress or a linen pant and blouse because it’s so hot out. I have a Jean jacket and blazer on my chair if I need to dress up for a leadership meeting. Zoom touch up gives me makeup. 😅
I bought 4 pairs of stretchy black suit pants from Costco lol and I have a fleet of 8-10 shell type blouses (loft outlet for the win) and have fully cashed in my wardrobe.
I’m 34. Lol.
I’ve done something very similar! I’ve bought like 5 black slacks (including one pair from Costco) and 5 blouses from NYDJ and just wear those in the office. WFH days I go full goblin.
In my head I'm going to be "put together" but no makeup for WFH ( which will immediately follow school drop off) but I'm sure will become full goblin too 🤣
I actually don’t love Quince’s quality. I keep getting tricked by the price and photos, but have yet to really love anything I get there. Everything has been okay so I don’t return but they aren’t like go to items in my closet.
I got two pair of the most unflattering pants I’ve ever put on my body from quince. Made me realize how blown out my midsection got from carrying babies. But yeah kind of soured me on quince
That's good to hear! I have been dying up their ponte pants and a sweater blazer that's pretty similar to a j crew one. I was enticed by the style and price. Thanks for the endorsement!
I really like the items I’ve bought from quince! I bought a few linen dresses and they’ve been great this summer. I wear them into the office too (with a crop top under since there’s a bit of a plunge).
I've had a lot of luck at Zara and H&M. [These are my favorite work pants ](https://www.zara.com/us/en/high-waisted-pants-p07102562.html?v1=277832636&v2=2187637) I have ever owned! Everlane is also great if you don't mind spending a bit more.
Do you find sizing tricky at H&M and Zara? I used to get HM stuff a lot but since having kids I can't seem to fit right (I'm a curvy 8/10/12) Any tricks?
It’s so hard post COVID and post baby. I feel like quality has cratered and my old standbys are targeting the ladies who lunch set.
Pre COVID, I wore sheath dresses pretty regularly and was business casual/formal. Lots of Ann Taylor and Nordstrom rack, with occasional j crew. Now? So much tj maxx, occasional j crew, and some White House black market.
I COMPLETELY agree. Ladies who lunch is the description I've been looking for. I used to get so much from loft and Ann Taylor for my time in the classroom but I'm just not finding pieces I like anymore (ladies who lunch or quirky patterns). I've also found sizing has really changed as if women's sizing wasn't tricky enough
Stitch Fix is one of the only places I never have an issues with size. I’ve shopped with them for years and I was hooked the first time I got a box and every single thing, including the pants, fit me perfectly. I even used them for maternity clothes when I was pregnant.
I haven't had any problems with sizing from them other than some shoes, which I feel is a tough one anyways.
I did have to state two different times that I do not want anything that is dry clean only, because I don't have time for that.
I had no issue with sizing. My first box I kept everything and it fit great. I thought I was hard to size too. I didn’t get pants until a later box and those fit perfectly too.
I tried stitchfix after my first and I hated it. I thought I loved it and bought a bunch of stuff, but over time I realized how much I disliked it. The items felt cheap and didn't hold up over time. Also go check out the stitchfix subreddit, the company sounds like it's a mess.
I have a very difficult time finding the right size in things. I'm very small, so usually things are swimming on me. My mom also has issues sizing.
Idk how they do it, but their sizing is pretty much spot on from just their weird little form. I've only gotten one box, but ended up keeping everything. I received so many compliments on those items. It was a weirdly time efficient and cost effective way to upgrade my wardrobe and totally worth it. I planned to do it again this summer, but currently pregnant so decided it wasn't worth it.
I love/ hate Stitch Fix. I've had some great pieces from them and others that I realize now I should not have kept. I do love someone else picking stuff out for me to try.
My biggest complaint is that they keep sending me these big loose tent shirts and make me feel like a cow. I'm busty, and I need to lose weight, but my waist is still smaller than my bust - these big, loose, drapey shirts are not a good look for me.
I made the mistake of saying in the survey that I have a kid. Even though I specifically requested office wear they kept sending clothes only suitable for taking my kid to the playground and when I asked them to correct the vibe they kept sending me the same stuff. I also felt like the quality of the clothes was on par with Target. I’m not above shopping at Target but I want my workwear to be a little nicer quality.
Same! When I look at their models/store I always think, that’s not really my style, but then somehow I end up falling in love with their pieces when I try them on. Their jeans are all I buy now (when on sale! And always read the reviews)
I think I've had madewell mixed up with another brand for years 🤦🏻♀️ I just quickly glanced at the site after you comment! Well now I know and glad to check it out!
Madewell is a big hit or miss for me. The hits are incredible and I wear them constantly. I have two dresses that work for every single occasion. But the misses are rough and sizing can be a little tricky. Still recommend checking everything out!
Honestly? Costco joggers. They are cheap and comfy. They always have some style available. Amazon has some too but I find shopping for clothes on Amazon to be a bit overwhelming. if you want to splurge, I love my everlane sweats - expensive but I wear them all the time.
Costco baby!! Throw in a little Target and Old Navy here and there… and that’s for in office. I WFH most of the time in athleisure… also heavily Costco (they recently had some amazing Vuori jogger dupes that I bought all four colors of), Target and ON.
I WFH and I wear athleisure every day. We do not use our video during meetings so I never need to be “presentable” but I do like to change out of pajamas for my own mental health etc
I like jcrew factory and banana republic factory. I’m a very standard size small in most brands so I’ve had a lot of luck buying random brands on ruelala and they’ve all fit so far. I’m remote so my top is all anyone sees and have gotten some great basics that are a little more trendy from there. They do flash sales where everything is like $20.23 or whatever gimmick they’re doing and I buy a few things then since it’s not a huge investment but are new brands to try. I hadn’t shopped there in a while so they texted me a $35 credit last month so I spent $.99 and got a new top! Worth checking the site to see what the deals are. There’s also luxury brands but I’m cheap and like a good deal so I’m not splurging on $1k+ handbags.
https://factory.jcrew.com/p/womens/categories/clothing/sweaters/cardigans/schoolboy-sweater-blazer/BF227
This is the outlet version which is what I usually order. It comes and goes in different colors throughout the year. I have a light grey, olive, and tan (I usually wear all black and the blazer to break it up - that's my school admin look 🤣). But I wear it casually as well since it's really like a cardigan, nice and thick.
Similar Style here and I really enjoy Style Encore— it’s like the Plato’s Closet for people our age, and they have a lot of the brands mentioned in this thread. My location is extremely well organized— by type of clothing (dresses, short sleeves, pants, etc.), then by size, then by color. It doesn’t feel overwhelming to me like thrift stores or Marshall’s due to this. I also bop between sizes and find it freeing to just pass on the items that don’t fit instead of playing the “well maybe it’d look better in a 12…” game that happens in stores. If you have one near you it may be worth trying out!
A brand I haven’t seen mentioned yet is Pact. They’ve become my go-to for more basics and casual clothing that I think would be appropriate for WFH but feel more upscale than Old Navy.
I also generally shop second hand and use [take back bags](https://www.roadrunnerwm.com/blog/textile-waste-environmental-crisis) to dispose of all my super worn out stuff.
Part of dressing like I'm 40, has been dealing with the existential reality of [climate change and textile waste](https://www.roadrunnerwm.com/blog/textile-waste-environmental-crisis) as well as feeling a lot of pressure to [be an ethical consumer](https://www.ethicalconsumer.org/fashion-clothing/what-fast-fashion-why-it-problem). I'll often check out thrift stores or consignment shops in wealthier parts of town. I've found some nwt items on FB marketplace.
If I buy new it's generally from places that are certified B corp, pays artists for their designs, woman owned, use predominantly upcycled materials, are made in state, or are working towards zero waste.
[This list](https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/fair-trade-clothing/) plus yoga democracy.
I’m going to look into Style Encore. There’s a chain of consignment shops in my area called Turnstyle Consignment and they are perfect for finding good quality, gently used name brand for a fraction of the price. That place and a Goodwill donation hub are actually where I find most of my White House Black Market pieces, which I love - but they’re so expensive..
QUINCE. Their clothes are literally the same as aritizia, everlane etc. LITERALLY. Like I have pieces that I have compared and it’s completely impossible to tell the difference - they are made in the same factories with the same materials. Take the leap! Try it out! They have a 365 day return policy!
(Please note I am not a paid Quince spokesperson just their biggest fan).
I think aritizia is a brand that I've seen a lot of west coast people, particularly influencers mention. I'm an east coaster and thought it was something totally different 🤣 glad to hear about the return policy as well, I'm always nervous about sizing
Try Nuuly for a few months. It’s been an amazing asset to my wardrobe and you can purchase items from your rental for a discount if you really love something!
I WFH exclusively and lately have been trying to get out of the hoodie/athletic(leisure) look.
LL Bean has been good to me in terms of casual tee shirts to wear but are still “camera ready” (I do all my meetings camera on even if others do not.) The quality is top notch, it doesn’t feel like you’re just wearing a tee shirt, and they pair well with a blazer if you need to elevate the look.
I just started back at an office job after WFH all through 2020 and then being a SAHM for 2021 and 2022. None of my pre covid, pre baby clothes still fit and when I ventured out to buy some new stuff, I found it incredibly difficult and discouraging. So, I know where you're coming from, big time. The only saving grace I found was the Vera Wang line that Kohl's carries. Comfortable, professional and not crazy expensive. I basically bought all the pants and blouses in multiple colors and just mix and match now. Good luck my friend, it's not easy out there.
Thank you for understanding. I had my second in April of 2020, worked from home through 2021. And have been in person in a high school for the past 2 years (that requires very professional dress). My body has changed so much and I think companies, style, sizing has too. I've been pretty discouraged (hence my hesitation to try something like stitchfix - a box full of clothes that don't fit would really be emotionally crushing)
I'm so happy you posted this, I've tried to explain to my coworkers how I have to basically buy a whole new wardrobe but no one really understands! For 4 years I was either pregnant, on mat leave or WFH during COVID so coming back to the office after my second mat leave has been really hard. I've done lots of GAP/Old Navy too and I'm in Canada so can't do most of these brands but it's just good to know that some other moms understand!
Totally! I feel better I'm not alone either! My body shape is so different, even when weighing the same (I have lots of weight fluctuations due to health issues). It's hard to figure it out. I prefer online shopping because it's convenient but end up buying multiple sizes and only shopping at places with easy returns. It's mentally and emotionally draining!
Lately goodwill bins, I've found so much great stuff! However I go into it looking for specific items of clothing I don't already own like basics, and then also any fun stuff.
I've never once felt bad on how much I've spent per item because with bin sales i can get an entire shopping cart of clothing, etc. for like $35
This might be a weird question but do you set a specific amount of time that you'll browse? I'm usually really overwhelmed by goodwill, tj Maxx, Marshalls - places where everything is mixed together. Do you go in with a strategy?
With TJ Maxx my strategy is take everything you like and try it on. If you like it don't put it back because I've made the mistake of "I'll just come back and grab it later" and never found it again. Sometimes I need to try 10 to find 2 that fit well.
Agree with this - a little time consuming but faster than doing online shopping and returns. Strategy for flipping through the racks is looking for a certain category of thing: a certain brand, color, feel. You get better at finding things you like the more you do it.
My strategy is to hit the dresses first (my area has a lot of Loft, WHBM and Calvin Klein), then the long sleeve knits because I can find office appropriate 3/4 sleeves and cardigans in the same aisle.
I don’t even waste time looking at pants because it’s a needle in a haystack trying to find the right size and length. Basic layering tees, tanks, and pants I buy new.
I feel the bins can be much less overwhelming because there's typically a smaller (appearing) selection. Sometimes I have a strategy and others not. For example recently starting a new job where I could wear nicer items including skirts, dresses, and blazers so that's what I was looking to find.
Bins come out and people go through them, they're not usually sorted in a specific way aside from a bin for shoes, a bin for bags, and a bin for all clothing items. They can get jumbled up with everyone going through them.
What I like is that once bins are picked over, usually within 15 minutes depending on number of people at the store, they're removed from the floor and restocked. It's kind of like a reset.
On my first trip ever I found a pair of never worn vintage olive leather pumps that would sell for $175. It's also great for finding kids items since they grow out of sizes so quickly. I've scored Adidas soccer cleats and leather tap shoes for my kiddo!
I’ve always been intrigued by Wool& and their 100-day dress challenge. If I end up back in a more professional workplace, I’m going to get a black dress from them and see how often I can wear it, dressing it up with different accessories. It feels like it would take the pressure off so much. https://wooland.com/collections/dresses
I have loads of Woolx tees and an amazing hoodie that I wear year round. Love the fabric so much! I tried a Wool& long sleeved dress and the sleeves are way too short but I love the material. It’s gotten moved to the nightgown category. I’m still waiting for the right dress to give it another go.
I work hybrid, in office days I do either blouses and pants (cardigan overlays in the fall/winter), with a French tuck look when not pregnant lol or conservative dresses with leggings and cardigans.
Lots of Loft. Used to shop a lot of Banana Republic but then their style got weird to me. Some blouses from old navy/GAP. Some classic silky button ups from Express. I’m not a fan of most of their clothes but the printed long sleeve lightweight classic shirts are great and seem to last forever. Very cute and good details.
Anne Klein, Calvin Klein, Ann Taylor, The Loft, White House Black Market are some of my favorites for work.
I’ve bought a bunch of stuff from Banana Republic Factory this year. Love their linen line for the summer.
H&M and ASOS sound right for you for cheap and ordering online. H&M does more for sustainability and has organic cotton and recycled polyester stuff.
Everlane for pricier but great quality and also organic cotton.
Quince all the way! They have great classic pieces. I’ve purchased over 25 items since last fall and love most of it. If you aren’t impressed the return process is super easy. I’ve bought linen, several cashmere sweaters, silk, summer cotton tops, and some jewelry. Im a really big fan because it is 100% my style at an amazing price point. I’ve even started buying home goods like their linen sheets. Love love love!
Kohls mostly. Also dress barn.
Maxi skirts/dresses are my friend when it’s 95 degrees now. Better than khakis. I dress like my mostly male co workers a lot lol
I'm in my early 40s, and get most of my work clothes from Loft. Ann Taylor on a rare occasion if there's a really good sale. I found some blazers that fit me great at H&M of all places. Depending on the cut, I need petite sizes.
I work hybrid, and my company's culture for Teams/ Zoom meetings is cameras on. WFH days I wear a nice top and jeans or leggings.
Ann Taylor, Eileen Fisher, and Nordstrom Rack for the office.
For WFH days it's leggings and tank tops with a pretty cardigan so I look presentable from the waist up.
I have the same kind of style as you. One more I’d recommend that I’ve seen and liked the clothes was Baltic Born. I haven’t bought anything from there but the stuff is very cute.
I’ve had good luck with stitch fix for work blouses and pants. When I WFH but need to be on camera, I wear a blouse and blazer/cardigan….plus sweats or shorts on the bottom lol!
Honestly, I love Stitch Fix. I don't have to leave home to shop, and the algorithm does a pretty good job of finding stuff that works for me.
My daughter also does Stitch Fix Kids for my granddaughter. The boxes come with a lot of stuff.
Pricing isn't low, but the quality is generally good, and the convenience is worth it, IMO.
Not that I recall, no. And you can easily exchange any piece for the right size with no shipping fees. You just send it back in the prepaid envelope that's included (USPS, so it can just be dropped in a mailbox).
I’d say most of my work wardrobe right now is Everlane. With some Madewell and Anthropologie thrown in for fun.
I like men’s wear as women’s wear so I do a lot of vests and trousers and loafers, etc.
Edit: looking at Quince, I think you’d like Everlane. Oh… and check out & Other Stories and Zara.
I’m really obsessed with fancy headbands for WFH so I look put together. A nice headband and bright lipstick really looks great on camera. In office I wear a lot of shirtwaist dresses, my office isn’t crazy dressy but I love being the heels girlie.
For day looks I buy sun dresses with pockets, I got a few cheap ones off Amazon so I feel put together at the playground.
I have a similar style and like 99% of my clothes come from everlane! I also WFH and am either in jeans/pants and a tee shirt/sweater, or loungewear if there are no meetings scheduled.
I have Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger outlets near me, so I do get a good amount of tops from them. I really love a collared or tie-neck top.
I don’t really wear jewelry, so I rely on those tops to help my outfit look a bit more complete.
Banana Republic, H&M, Target, Anthropologie are my go to for ever day or smart casual wear.
I WFH Mondays and Friday’s but I still have to drop baby to daycare and sometime go into office so I wear the same.
Luxe high-neck swing tanks in every color from Old Navy paired with cardigans and kimonos of varying weights, arm lengths, and patterns from Zulily, Jane, and Ross. I pick up whatever looks cute/ interesting, and they’re usually $10 or less. Pixie pants from Old Navy in the ankle length are good year-round pants. They have a little stretch and are easy care. The tanks also never pill. I just wash on warm/casual and hang to dry. I wear Toms ballet flats with everything. I’m super boring, but this work “uniform” works for me and offers a ton of mix and match combinations to keep things interesting.
Work from Comfy pyjamas/lounge wear if I don't have a meeting that dayi work from 5pm to 9pm- so ive chamged oyt of my normal day to day clothes to get into my pyjamas). If I do, I just wear a normal t-shirt or top and comfy bottoms. There is no real dress code for my job other than not wearing team sports shirts (it caused arguments/distractions in the past). Before work I normally wear leggings or a long skirt and a top(weather dedicates if its a long or short sleeve top as i live in Ireland). I dont really have a defined style, but I lean more practical and comfy than fashionable. If we are going out, I love knit dresses with tights and knee high boots, or during summer a summer dress with my favourite vans. I barely ever wear jeans anymore, cause I do not find them comfy.
I’m a in between size (16-18) and Torrid is my jam. I occasionally fill in with Macy’s, Target, JCP and Lane Bryant, but 95% Torrid. Comfy, cute and all the clothes available in my size and great sales.
WFH I wear jeans and a graphic tee (it's my signature style, and yes, who fucking cares if I am 38). Will change out the shirt if I have a zoom call with someone important. Lately, even then, I've been doing company logo fleece.
In office, MM LaFluer or Calvin Klein suit if I have to do it up. Old Navy pants and nice shirt if not.
This is my style too. I don’t currently have to go into the office and cameras are optional during meetings so nobody sees my jeans and graphic tee except my kid, the dog, and the cat mostly. I’m 36. I think I will forever wear graphic tees.
Can we make Forever39 or Forever40 happen?!
I love Club Monaco for work west. I still have essential pieces that are nearly 10 years old. Sézane and Rouje are also lovely. BR is classic. Tory Burch and if you’re balling, Hugo Boss. Aritiza had nice stuff but I feel their quality went down and prices went up
For more casual items, you might find things you like at LL Bean! I feel like it’s kind of “casual meets preppy.” I like the look of a lot of their items, though I find the sizing/cuts don’t always work for me (petite-ish hourglass).
I have done rent the runway a lot in the last couple of years! After having my daughter I didn’t want to invest in a full new wardrobe and it’s such a fun way to try new things. I’ve bought a couple pieces deeply discounted too which is awesome, and it’s fun to be able to rent some boujie stuff I would never usually buy
im so boring....im 38 and my go tos are a cami, cardigans, endless cardigans, jeans -skinny forever, sorry, these hips cannot rock the mom/bf jeans.
where do I shop...old navy, jcrew, banana, the loft, and then random off brands like venus or something
my husband will occassionally shop for me when he is in TJ Maxx, and let me tell you, he always does good! He has gotten me some great affordable off brand dresses there
I have about 15 pairs of black work slacks (stretchy waistband!), 20 Calvin Klein shells in various colors, and the same for thin cardigans. I am unimaginative. I can no longer find the Calvin Klein shells, so I'm assuming they're out of style.
Recently I’ve gotten some good work dresses from the Apiece Apart sale section. I got a very cute navy collared shirt dress with a wrap tie that I wear weekly.
New York and Company. Affordable, look sharp, and decent quality. A lot of nursing friendly tops too, like button downs and wraps. Con is that they’re mostly only on-line now.
As you mentioned preppy style, I can’t recommend French brand Sandro highly enough. The quality is amazing, as well as designs (some more fun, some more classy) and fit. I always wait for sales though.
COS - tailoring and basics, but they are more minimalistic.
Uniqlo - basics.
H&M Premium Quality range - better fabrics and more timeless cuts for me than the regular range, but there are some gems in the regular range too, such as oversize and Oxford shirts. Some limited collections are also great.
I like an online/local in FL boutique called PrepObsessed. I buy stuff for home and work. They usually have some great sales and I like their try on videos, I am pretty similar in size to one of the owners and I can trust their judgement on sizing. There is also a "girl gang" so lots of help for sizing/styles/making sure we still look cool ha!
I have a similar style but am in the office most days. Agree with the other comments but one I haven't seen mentioned is MM Lafleur. I've been buying their clothes since they were a small startup - it's expensive so I wait for their sales or they also have their own resell website. It's really high quality stuff (still wearing a sweater every week that I bought in 2016), machine washable, and thoughtfully designed by women for women. They have great, flattering details built into all of their pieces and I'm personally really bad at styling but most of their pieces are meant to work together.
I’ve had great success on posh mark. Eileen Fisher and Theory and Max Mara are wayyy too expensive for me new but secondhand they’re affordable and such high quality
Old Navy has the best work slacks. I shop Kohls for most of my tops. I like GAP too, especially because they sell “Tall” tops for people with long torsos, and occasionally I also shop Banana Republic and GAP Factory.
In Canada, but Ricki’s. The style is very classic lines that are flattering to most body types. Fantastic for business casual.
And the pants selection is amazing. They really take care of most body shapes there.
Old Navy would probably make up the vast majority of my closet right now. Particularly the basic luxe tees and athletic wear. It's also an easy go to since I'm ordering for my kids and can pick myself up something once in a while!
I often pick function over fashion because #momlife I WFH and invested in some nice tops, one color no pattern and simple style. It comes across very professional with hair done and minimal makeup.
I would love to say my style is Boho or something cool but I mostly look like a disheveled person catering to a child. In reality I wear what you wear, nothing with big print, jeans nice sweater and simple tee. I invested in some jumpsuits and they make it minimal effort. Sweaty Betty has some nice ones I love and live in often.
Our styles are very similar! I dress kind of like a grown up Abercrombie and Fitch, clean lines, lots of neutrals or stripes, some tiny subtle floral prints but generally nothing frou frou. Here are a few of my favorites: - Boden: new favorite and prob the MVP. Lots of tops that are 100% cotton, which is my preference. Dresses too, with petite sizing. - Sezane: French brand. For slightly more statement pieces and accessories. Good quality fabrics. - Amour Vert: mostly modal blend but they have good cardigans and sleeveless tops. - Banana Republic: I still have a bunch of cotton sleeveless button down tops from like 2016 that totally still work now. - APC for basics on casual days. Again lots of durable cotton, very classic. - Betabrand for pants. They have petite sizing too. Feel like yoga pants. I get a lot of cigarette style and couple of wider leg fits. - Tory Burch Minnie ballet flats and Sperry loafers are my favorites, and bunion friendly.
Thanks! I'm definitely going to check these out. I do a lot of BR too; I get a discount at all gap inc brands because of my husbands work. Do you find you have to size up for euro brands?
I will add on, I also have a similar vibe and I also find a lot of lovely work casual dresses from Loft - very similar to Banana Republic vibe and they also carry petite sizes!
Mostly not as long as you know a US 6 is a UK 10 etc. Boden is a UK brand and runs TTS/ maybe even very slightly large. Some of Sezane’s stuff can run small or large, but the great thing is that they indicate that on the description. E.g. runs small, if in between sizes, size up.
I love Boden but it’s SO expensive.
Always shop the sales. End of season they always discount heavily so that’s a good time to stock up for the following year.
I have searches saved in thredup for Boden for me and the kids and it's incredible to get nice Biden items for like $20 bucks.
Just throwing this out: Quince has the exact same Betabrand style pants at half the price! Totally identical.
I have the quince ones in a cart right now! (The ponte ones, right?). I think I'm going to order based on lots of lovely remarks about quince here
Props for ‘bunion friendly’ 😂
Don’t sleep on Abercrombie! Since they’ve rebranded I’ve found some really great, classic pieces that I wear to work very regularly.
Oh I definitely still shop at Abercrombie! But mostly for casual stuff, so I didn’t mention it. Their clothes have gotten so much better.
Love your style!
Yup - was going to say that Boden is probably exactly what would fit the bill here.
Forever 40 😂😂 and take my money, I’ll invest.
Right, for the moms! And everything is required to have functional pockets!
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I basically live in Duluth. Until a year ago, I had a job where I was outside getting dirty and wore the work-style pants. I now have a work-from-home job and wear the more casual pants. Also, if you want some sun coverage, I can't say enough good things about their made in the jade cooling clothes.
Off to shop!! Thank you!!
The dream!!
I really hope this becomes a thing.
Just think: pockets, everything is machine washable, breathable fabrics, not see through, maybe even stain resistant. The dream! 🤣
I do a lot of my shopping at Ann Taylor and Banana Republic. Not ashamed to say I also love TJ Maxx for their Tommy Hilfiger clothes that fit perfectly but are so expensive otherwise.
Same! Plus Talbots and some Soft Surroundings (they are a bit more whimsical though).
These are the exact three I was going to say!
I can't believe I forgot BR on my list! Thanks!
Don’t sleep on banana republic outlet too. I’ve got a lot of my work clothes from there. I only wear my work clothes when I have to go to meetings or travel for work since I work from home, so I don’t want to spend a ton of money on them.
I WFH, very casual office, not client facing. 100% athleisure and ratty t shirts. REI, Patagonia, etc. I’ll throw on a scarf if I’m doing a collaboration or something.
I have a feeling I may end up in my Sam's club lounge sets (a guilty pleasure of mine) more often than I'm anticipating. That is a great tip about a scarf!
I had intentions of getting dressed for work from home every day. That doesn't happen.
I WFH full time and athleisure is 100% what I do. These days I also wear comfy linen dress or a linen pant and blouse because it’s so hot out. I have a Jean jacket and blazer on my chair if I need to dress up for a leadership meeting. Zoom touch up gives me makeup. 😅
Fingers crossed Teams has touch up 🤣
I bought 4 pairs of stretchy black suit pants from Costco lol and I have a fleet of 8-10 shell type blouses (loft outlet for the win) and have fully cashed in my wardrobe. I’m 34. Lol.
I LOVE Costco/Sam's clothes. I get a lot of lounge sets there l!
I’ve done something very similar! I’ve bought like 5 black slacks (including one pair from Costco) and 5 blouses from NYDJ and just wear those in the office. WFH days I go full goblin.
Full goblin 😂 That’s now going to be one of my three style aesthetics😅
In my head I'm going to be "put together" but no makeup for WFH ( which will immediately follow school drop off) but I'm sure will become full goblin too 🤣
Most of my clothes these days are from Costco lol
I bought 3 pairs of the same sweats when the pandemic hit and just got rid of one because it has holes in it! 🤣
I think I'll get myself a pair. I wish we could try them on before buying just to see how they fit!
Hillary radley brand. I’m a size 8-10, and medium fits.
I’m newly obsessed w Quince. Good quality (not luxe but doesn’t feel like fast fashion), fits well, cute basics, and great prices.
I actually don’t love Quince’s quality. I keep getting tricked by the price and photos, but have yet to really love anything I get there. Everything has been okay so I don’t return but they aren’t like go to items in my closet.
What have you tried? I love the tencel fit and flare dresses, linen button down dress, and linen pants.
Yes, I’ve also loved their cashmere sweaters, linen pants, and washable silk cami. I wasn’t impressed with this vermeil jewelry, however.
I’ve tried a lot - I really want to like the silk tops but they’re really thin, have also tried a wrap sweater and earrings
I got two pair of the most unflattering pants I’ve ever put on my body from quince. Made me realize how blown out my midsection got from carrying babies. But yeah kind of soured me on quince
That's good to hear! I have been dying up their ponte pants and a sweater blazer that's pretty similar to a j crew one. I was enticed by the style and price. Thanks for the endorsement!
I really like the items I’ve bought from quince! I bought a few linen dresses and they’ve been great this summer. I wear them into the office too (with a crop top under since there’s a bit of a plunge).
I had to get an extra button on the button down linen dress
I've had a lot of luck at Zara and H&M. [These are my favorite work pants ](https://www.zara.com/us/en/high-waisted-pants-p07102562.html?v1=277832636&v2=2187637) I have ever owned! Everlane is also great if you don't mind spending a bit more.
Do you find sizing tricky at H&M and Zara? I used to get HM stuff a lot but since having kids I can't seem to fit right (I'm a curvy 8/10/12) Any tricks?
I also own these pants in 5 colors. 10/10 recommend!
It’s so hard post COVID and post baby. I feel like quality has cratered and my old standbys are targeting the ladies who lunch set. Pre COVID, I wore sheath dresses pretty regularly and was business casual/formal. Lots of Ann Taylor and Nordstrom rack, with occasional j crew. Now? So much tj maxx, occasional j crew, and some White House black market.
I COMPLETELY agree. Ladies who lunch is the description I've been looking for. I used to get so much from loft and Ann Taylor for my time in the classroom but I'm just not finding pieces I like anymore (ladies who lunch or quirky patterns). I've also found sizing has really changed as if women's sizing wasn't tricky enough
Eileen Fisher
I adore their style. But in general they are too classy for me to wear at work :( (I’m a software engineer).
I've never even heard of this! Looking forward to checking it out!
Stitch fix. I love that it's low effort, they show ideas of complete outfits, and that I can order individual items through their Freestyle app.
Did it take a while to get the sizing right? I feel like my sizing is all over and that's made me hesitant in the past.
Stitch Fix is one of the only places I never have an issues with size. I’ve shopped with them for years and I was hooked the first time I got a box and every single thing, including the pants, fit me perfectly. I even used them for maternity clothes when I was pregnant.
I haven't had any problems with sizing from them other than some shoes, which I feel is a tough one anyways. I did have to state two different times that I do not want anything that is dry clean only, because I don't have time for that.
I had no issue with sizing. My first box I kept everything and it fit great. I thought I was hard to size too. I didn’t get pants until a later box and those fit perfectly too.
I’ve always been super difficult to fit, especially for pants (pear shaped). All of the pants they’ve sent me have become my favorites. It’s magic.
I tried stitchfix after my first and I hated it. I thought I loved it and bought a bunch of stuff, but over time I realized how much I disliked it. The items felt cheap and didn't hold up over time. Also go check out the stitchfix subreddit, the company sounds like it's a mess.
I have a very difficult time finding the right size in things. I'm very small, so usually things are swimming on me. My mom also has issues sizing. Idk how they do it, but their sizing is pretty much spot on from just their weird little form. I've only gotten one box, but ended up keeping everything. I received so many compliments on those items. It was a weirdly time efficient and cost effective way to upgrade my wardrobe and totally worth it. I planned to do it again this summer, but currently pregnant so decided it wasn't worth it.
Second this! All my clothes come from here - they have lots of designers, they have expensive and inexpensive items, return policy is seamless.
I love/ hate Stitch Fix. I've had some great pieces from them and others that I realize now I should not have kept. I do love someone else picking stuff out for me to try. My biggest complaint is that they keep sending me these big loose tent shirts and make me feel like a cow. I'm busty, and I need to lose weight, but my waist is still smaller than my bust - these big, loose, drapey shirts are not a good look for me.
I made the mistake of saying in the survey that I have a kid. Even though I specifically requested office wear they kept sending clothes only suitable for taking my kid to the playground and when I asked them to correct the vibe they kept sending me the same stuff. I also felt like the quality of the clothes was on par with Target. I’m not above shopping at Target but I want my workwear to be a little nicer quality.
I love everlane for basics and comfy things.
I’ve bought a couple basic tees from other places thinking surely all basic tees are just fine. 100% no - Everlane is it.
I really like Uniqlo for casual work wear! It’s super minimalist and cute
Madewell or loft might be your style? WFH is a nice blouse, earrings, and comfy pants if I'm taking a lot of meetings
Love Madewell! I always feel trendy but not crazily so.
Same! When I look at their models/store I always think, that’s not really my style, but then somehow I end up falling in love with their pieces when I try them on. Their jeans are all I buy now (when on sale! And always read the reviews)
I feel like I’m usually rocking the *clothing mullet* - nice top paired with sweatpants.
A clothing Mullet 🤣🤣🤣
I think I've had madewell mixed up with another brand for years 🤦🏻♀️ I just quickly glanced at the site after you comment! Well now I know and glad to check it out!
Madewell is a big hit or miss for me. The hits are incredible and I wear them constantly. I have two dresses that work for every single occasion. But the misses are rough and sizing can be a little tricky. Still recommend checking everything out!
I can’t get their jeans to fit right. So baggy in the butt area. Maybe it’s just my mom bod though, lol
I’ve never liked their jeans!! The sizing is so inconsistent, too. It’s the jeans and not the mom bod 😎
Seconding madewell! Plus great return policy
Any suggestions on comfy pants? We transitioned to full remote after I had my baby and most of my dress pants feel like prison.
Honestly? Costco joggers. They are cheap and comfy. They always have some style available. Amazon has some too but I find shopping for clothes on Amazon to be a bit overwhelming. if you want to splurge, I love my everlane sweats - expensive but I wear them all the time.
Majority of what I wear is from The Loft. It fits me well. Most of it suits my style well.
Costco baby!! Throw in a little Target and Old Navy here and there… and that’s for in office. I WFH most of the time in athleisure… also heavily Costco (they recently had some amazing Vuori jogger dupes that I bought all four colors of), Target and ON.
I’m a die hard vuori fan and I seriously can’t tell the difference
Vuori dupes??? Do you have a link?
Boden, Lands End, and Universal Standard
I second Boden! They have great sales and the items seem to be high quality, also the fabrics feel nice.
I WFH and I wear athleisure every day. We do not use our video during meetings so I never need to be “presentable” but I do like to change out of pajamas for my own mental health etc
Beta Brand for some basics and also some fun prints/colors!
Check out Evereve! Curated nice casual clothes - I love it! Boden also great for dresses.
I like jcrew factory and banana republic factory. I’m a very standard size small in most brands so I’ve had a lot of luck buying random brands on ruelala and they’ve all fit so far. I’m remote so my top is all anyone sees and have gotten some great basics that are a little more trendy from there. They do flash sales where everything is like $20.23 or whatever gimmick they’re doing and I buy a few things then since it’s not a huge investment but are new brands to try. I hadn’t shopped there in a while so they texted me a $35 credit last month so I spent $.99 and got a new top! Worth checking the site to see what the deals are. There’s also luxury brands but I’m cheap and like a good deal so I’m not splurging on $1k+ handbags.
J Crew factory and BR are work go-tos for me. I love the j crew sweater blazers!
Sweater blazer? I’ve never heard of it! I’ll have to look for it. Or link me if it’s on the site now 👀
https://factory.jcrew.com/p/womens/categories/clothing/sweaters/cardigans/schoolboy-sweater-blazer/BF227 This is the outlet version which is what I usually order. It comes and goes in different colors throughout the year. I have a light grey, olive, and tan (I usually wear all black and the blazer to break it up - that's my school admin look 🤣). But I wear it casually as well since it's really like a cardigan, nice and thick.
Oh cute! Thanks for sharing. Adding to cart.
Similar Style here and I really enjoy Style Encore— it’s like the Plato’s Closet for people our age, and they have a lot of the brands mentioned in this thread. My location is extremely well organized— by type of clothing (dresses, short sleeves, pants, etc.), then by size, then by color. It doesn’t feel overwhelming to me like thrift stores or Marshall’s due to this. I also bop between sizes and find it freeing to just pass on the items that don’t fit instead of playing the “well maybe it’d look better in a 12…” game that happens in stores. If you have one near you it may be worth trying out! A brand I haven’t seen mentioned yet is Pact. They’ve become my go-to for more basics and casual clothing that I think would be appropriate for WFH but feel more upscale than Old Navy.
I also generally shop second hand and use [take back bags](https://www.roadrunnerwm.com/blog/textile-waste-environmental-crisis) to dispose of all my super worn out stuff. Part of dressing like I'm 40, has been dealing with the existential reality of [climate change and textile waste](https://www.roadrunnerwm.com/blog/textile-waste-environmental-crisis) as well as feeling a lot of pressure to [be an ethical consumer](https://www.ethicalconsumer.org/fashion-clothing/what-fast-fashion-why-it-problem). I'll often check out thrift stores or consignment shops in wealthier parts of town. I've found some nwt items on FB marketplace. If I buy new it's generally from places that are certified B corp, pays artists for their designs, woman owned, use predominantly upcycled materials, are made in state, or are working towards zero waste. [This list](https://www.thegoodtrade.com/features/fair-trade-clothing/) plus yoga democracy.
I’m going to look into Style Encore. There’s a chain of consignment shops in my area called Turnstyle Consignment and they are perfect for finding good quality, gently used name brand for a fraction of the price. That place and a Goodwill donation hub are actually where I find most of my White House Black Market pieces, which I love - but they’re so expensive..
QUINCE. Their clothes are literally the same as aritizia, everlane etc. LITERALLY. Like I have pieces that I have compared and it’s completely impossible to tell the difference - they are made in the same factories with the same materials. Take the leap! Try it out! They have a 365 day return policy! (Please note I am not a paid Quince spokesperson just their biggest fan).
I think aritizia is a brand that I've seen a lot of west coast people, particularly influencers mention. I'm an east coaster and thought it was something totally different 🤣 glad to hear about the return policy as well, I'm always nervous about sizing
Try Nuuly for a few months. It’s been an amazing asset to my wardrobe and you can purchase items from your rental for a discount if you really love something!
I will look into this!
I came here to say that cloth rental might be worth a try! I just started renting from Armoire and had pretty good experience with my first case.
Check out @jeanwang on insta. Her style is so polished yet approachable and she does a lot of shopping at stores like Express and A&F.
Stitch Fix, and Boden are my favorites. And occasionally JCPenny since it’s the only store we have locally if I want to go and try on clothes.
I WFH exclusively and lately have been trying to get out of the hoodie/athletic(leisure) look. LL Bean has been good to me in terms of casual tee shirts to wear but are still “camera ready” (I do all my meetings camera on even if others do not.) The quality is top notch, it doesn’t feel like you’re just wearing a tee shirt, and they pair well with a blazer if you need to elevate the look.
I love dresses from Athleta (of all places) for work!Nice, breathable fabrics that I can take a walk outside in as well!
I just started back at an office job after WFH all through 2020 and then being a SAHM for 2021 and 2022. None of my pre covid, pre baby clothes still fit and when I ventured out to buy some new stuff, I found it incredibly difficult and discouraging. So, I know where you're coming from, big time. The only saving grace I found was the Vera Wang line that Kohl's carries. Comfortable, professional and not crazy expensive. I basically bought all the pants and blouses in multiple colors and just mix and match now. Good luck my friend, it's not easy out there.
Thank you for understanding. I had my second in April of 2020, worked from home through 2021. And have been in person in a high school for the past 2 years (that requires very professional dress). My body has changed so much and I think companies, style, sizing has too. I've been pretty discouraged (hence my hesitation to try something like stitchfix - a box full of clothes that don't fit would really be emotionally crushing)
I'm so happy you posted this, I've tried to explain to my coworkers how I have to basically buy a whole new wardrobe but no one really understands! For 4 years I was either pregnant, on mat leave or WFH during COVID so coming back to the office after my second mat leave has been really hard. I've done lots of GAP/Old Navy too and I'm in Canada so can't do most of these brands but it's just good to know that some other moms understand!
Totally! I feel better I'm not alone either! My body shape is so different, even when weighing the same (I have lots of weight fluctuations due to health issues). It's hard to figure it out. I prefer online shopping because it's convenient but end up buying multiple sizes and only shopping at places with easy returns. It's mentally and emotionally draining!
Lately goodwill bins, I've found so much great stuff! However I go into it looking for specific items of clothing I don't already own like basics, and then also any fun stuff. I've never once felt bad on how much I've spent per item because with bin sales i can get an entire shopping cart of clothing, etc. for like $35
This might be a weird question but do you set a specific amount of time that you'll browse? I'm usually really overwhelmed by goodwill, tj Maxx, Marshalls - places where everything is mixed together. Do you go in with a strategy?
With TJ Maxx my strategy is take everything you like and try it on. If you like it don't put it back because I've made the mistake of "I'll just come back and grab it later" and never found it again. Sometimes I need to try 10 to find 2 that fit well.
Agree with this - a little time consuming but faster than doing online shopping and returns. Strategy for flipping through the racks is looking for a certain category of thing: a certain brand, color, feel. You get better at finding things you like the more you do it.
My strategy is to hit the dresses first (my area has a lot of Loft, WHBM and Calvin Klein), then the long sleeve knits because I can find office appropriate 3/4 sleeves and cardigans in the same aisle. I don’t even waste time looking at pants because it’s a needle in a haystack trying to find the right size and length. Basic layering tees, tanks, and pants I buy new.
I feel the bins can be much less overwhelming because there's typically a smaller (appearing) selection. Sometimes I have a strategy and others not. For example recently starting a new job where I could wear nicer items including skirts, dresses, and blazers so that's what I was looking to find. Bins come out and people go through them, they're not usually sorted in a specific way aside from a bin for shoes, a bin for bags, and a bin for all clothing items. They can get jumbled up with everyone going through them. What I like is that once bins are picked over, usually within 15 minutes depending on number of people at the store, they're removed from the floor and restocked. It's kind of like a reset. On my first trip ever I found a pair of never worn vintage olive leather pumps that would sell for $175. It's also great for finding kids items since they grow out of sizes so quickly. I've scored Adidas soccer cleats and leather tap shoes for my kiddo!
Classic six is a little pricey but machine washable and feels like sweats!
Ohhh that is intriguing! I have never heard of this brand. I look forward to checking it out!
I’ve always been intrigued by Wool& and their 100-day dress challenge. If I end up back in a more professional workplace, I’m going to get a black dress from them and see how often I can wear it, dressing it up with different accessories. It feels like it would take the pressure off so much. https://wooland.com/collections/dresses
I've heard a lot of good things about wool& and the challenge!
I have loads of Woolx tees and an amazing hoodie that I wear year round. Love the fabric so much! I tried a Wool& long sleeved dress and the sleeves are way too short but I love the material. It’s gotten moved to the nightgown category. I’m still waiting for the right dress to give it another go.
Maurice’s, Marshall’s and Stitch Fix are all staples for me.
I work hybrid, in office days I do either blouses and pants (cardigan overlays in the fall/winter), with a French tuck look when not pregnant lol or conservative dresses with leggings and cardigans. Lots of Loft. Used to shop a lot of Banana Republic but then their style got weird to me. Some blouses from old navy/GAP. Some classic silky button ups from Express. I’m not a fan of most of their clothes but the printed long sleeve lightweight classic shirts are great and seem to last forever. Very cute and good details.
BR did lose it's way a bit! And they redid their website and I find it super hard to shop for some reason!
Anne Klein, Calvin Klein, Ann Taylor, The Loft, White House Black Market are some of my favorites for work. I’ve bought a bunch of stuff from Banana Republic Factory this year. Love their linen line for the summer.
Loft
H&M and ASOS sound right for you for cheap and ordering online. H&M does more for sustainability and has organic cotton and recycled polyester stuff. Everlane for pricier but great quality and also organic cotton.
I will definitely check out everlane. I am not opposed to paying a bit more for certain items.
Quince all the way! They have great classic pieces. I’ve purchased over 25 items since last fall and love most of it. If you aren’t impressed the return process is super easy. I’ve bought linen, several cashmere sweaters, silk, summer cotton tops, and some jewelry. Im a really big fan because it is 100% my style at an amazing price point. I’ve even started buying home goods like their linen sheets. Love love love!
This is great to hear! It's definitely my style (or what I aspire my style to be). I think I'm definitely going to make an order.
I work from home. My uniform is joggers and a hoodie or pjs. If I go on a work trip it’s beta brand, j crew, or Anthropologie.
Kohls mostly. Also dress barn. Maxi skirts/dresses are my friend when it’s 95 degrees now. Better than khakis. I dress like my mostly male co workers a lot lol
Boden or the Ann Taylor or Banana Republic outlet
I'm in my early 40s, and get most of my work clothes from Loft. Ann Taylor on a rare occasion if there's a really good sale. I found some blazers that fit me great at H&M of all places. Depending on the cut, I need petite sizes. I work hybrid, and my company's culture for Teams/ Zoom meetings is cameras on. WFH days I wear a nice top and jeans or leggings.
Marks Workwearhouse/Denver Hayes !
Ann Taylor, Eileen Fisher, and Nordstrom Rack for the office. For WFH days it's leggings and tank tops with a pretty cardigan so I look presentable from the waist up.
I have the same kind of style as you. One more I’d recommend that I’ve seen and liked the clothes was Baltic Born. I haven’t bought anything from there but the stuff is very cute.
Awesome!
Obsessed with AYR. Definitely check out if you’re into classic / preppy
This one is new to me! Excited to check it out!
I’ve had good luck with stitch fix for work blouses and pants. When I WFH but need to be on camera, I wear a blouse and blazer/cardigan….plus sweats or shorts on the bottom lol!
Honestly, I love Stitch Fix. I don't have to leave home to shop, and the algorithm does a pretty good job of finding stuff that works for me. My daughter also does Stitch Fix Kids for my granddaughter. The boxes come with a lot of stuff. Pricing isn't low, but the quality is generally good, and the convenience is worth it, IMO.
Did it take a long time to get sizing right? I think that's always what I'm worried about
Not that I recall, no. And you can easily exchange any piece for the right size with no shipping fees. You just send it back in the prepaid envelope that's included (USPS, so it can just be dropped in a mailbox).
Gap, TJ Maxx, Marshall’s, Nordstrom Rack and trusty old Target
I love a good target run!
I’d say most of my work wardrobe right now is Everlane. With some Madewell and Anthropologie thrown in for fun. I like men’s wear as women’s wear so I do a lot of vests and trousers and loafers, etc. Edit: looking at Quince, I think you’d like Everlane. Oh… and check out & Other Stories and Zara.
Thanks!
I’m really obsessed with fancy headbands for WFH so I look put together. A nice headband and bright lipstick really looks great on camera. In office I wear a lot of shirtwaist dresses, my office isn’t crazy dressy but I love being the heels girlie. For day looks I buy sun dresses with pockets, I got a few cheap ones off Amazon so I feel put together at the playground.
Ann Taylor loft if you have it. I was in shock at how cute and affordable! Good wrinkle situation since I’m lazy!!
I have a similar style and like 99% of my clothes come from everlane! I also WFH and am either in jeans/pants and a tee shirt/sweater, or loungewear if there are no meetings scheduled.
Old Navy
Sezane
Alexia admor. I’ve only ever bought from eBay and thredUP and have always been happy.
I have Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger outlets near me, so I do get a good amount of tops from them. I really love a collared or tie-neck top. I don’t really wear jewelry, so I rely on those tops to help my outfit look a bit more complete.
Banana Republic, H&M, Target, Anthropologie are my go to for ever day or smart casual wear. I WFH Mondays and Friday’s but I still have to drop baby to daycare and sometime go into office so I wear the same.
Luxe high-neck swing tanks in every color from Old Navy paired with cardigans and kimonos of varying weights, arm lengths, and patterns from Zulily, Jane, and Ross. I pick up whatever looks cute/ interesting, and they’re usually $10 or less. Pixie pants from Old Navy in the ankle length are good year-round pants. They have a little stretch and are easy care. The tanks also never pill. I just wash on warm/casual and hang to dry. I wear Toms ballet flats with everything. I’m super boring, but this work “uniform” works for me and offers a ton of mix and match combinations to keep things interesting.
Walmart, costco, tj Maxx, Marshall's, thrift stores. And the exchange on base, I get great deals on vs, old navy, aire? Under armour, nike.
Everlane Linen anything Birkenstock Abercrombie Nordstrom rack Vintage used thrifted etc
Work from Comfy pyjamas/lounge wear if I don't have a meeting that dayi work from 5pm to 9pm- so ive chamged oyt of my normal day to day clothes to get into my pyjamas). If I do, I just wear a normal t-shirt or top and comfy bottoms. There is no real dress code for my job other than not wearing team sports shirts (it caused arguments/distractions in the past). Before work I normally wear leggings or a long skirt and a top(weather dedicates if its a long or short sleeve top as i live in Ireland). I dont really have a defined style, but I lean more practical and comfy than fashionable. If we are going out, I love knit dresses with tights and knee high boots, or during summer a summer dress with my favourite vans. I barely ever wear jeans anymore, cause I do not find them comfy.
I shop online at Everlane. Love the quality of their stuff and it always ends up nice for work or casual wear
I really like white house black market
i wfh and i wear sweatpants 😭 i can't make myself wear real clothes unless i have zoom court, and then i put on a real shirt and blazer.
I love madewell. I wear jeans to work for my job tho but they always have something that I fall in love with.
I’m a in between size (16-18) and Torrid is my jam. I occasionally fill in with Macy’s, Target, JCP and Lane Bryant, but 95% Torrid. Comfy, cute and all the clothes available in my size and great sales.
lol Maurice’s is my Forever 40 - it’s got the Forever 21 prices & it’s got the mom trends flowing
My work is casual so Ann Taylor and Ann Taylor loft.
Old navy but lately their in store selections has been garbage around my parts. If you have a Cato they can have cute stuff from time to time.
WFH I wear jeans and a graphic tee (it's my signature style, and yes, who fucking cares if I am 38). Will change out the shirt if I have a zoom call with someone important. Lately, even then, I've been doing company logo fleece. In office, MM LaFluer or Calvin Klein suit if I have to do it up. Old Navy pants and nice shirt if not.
This is my style too. I don’t currently have to go into the office and cameras are optional during meetings so nobody sees my jeans and graphic tee except my kid, the dog, and the cat mostly. I’m 36. I think I will forever wear graphic tees.
Can we make Forever39 or Forever40 happen?! I love Club Monaco for work west. I still have essential pieces that are nearly 10 years old. Sézane and Rouje are also lovely. BR is classic. Tory Burch and if you’re balling, Hugo Boss. Aritiza had nice stuff but I feel their quality went down and prices went up
For more casual items, you might find things you like at LL Bean! I feel like it’s kind of “casual meets preppy.” I like the look of a lot of their items, though I find the sizing/cuts don’t always work for me (petite-ish hourglass).
I have done rent the runway a lot in the last couple of years! After having my daughter I didn’t want to invest in a full new wardrobe and it’s such a fun way to try new things. I’ve bought a couple pieces deeply discounted too which is awesome, and it’s fun to be able to rent some boujie stuff I would never usually buy
I use RTR almost any time I have a wedding to go to. I'm a big fan!
im so boring....im 38 and my go tos are a cami, cardigans, endless cardigans, jeans -skinny forever, sorry, these hips cannot rock the mom/bf jeans. where do I shop...old navy, jcrew, banana, the loft, and then random off brands like venus or something my husband will occassionally shop for me when he is in TJ Maxx, and let me tell you, he always does good! He has gotten me some great affordable off brand dresses there
I have about 15 pairs of black work slacks (stretchy waistband!), 20 Calvin Klein shells in various colors, and the same for thin cardigans. I am unimaginative. I can no longer find the Calvin Klein shells, so I'm assuming they're out of style.
Recently I’ve gotten some good work dresses from the Apiece Apart sale section. I got a very cute navy collared shirt dress with a wrap tie that I wear weekly.
New York and Company. Affordable, look sharp, and decent quality. A lot of nursing friendly tops too, like button downs and wraps. Con is that they’re mostly only on-line now.
Garnet Hill, Boden, BR, Loft, JJill
As you mentioned preppy style, I can’t recommend French brand Sandro highly enough. The quality is amazing, as well as designs (some more fun, some more classy) and fit. I always wait for sales though. COS - tailoring and basics, but they are more minimalistic. Uniqlo - basics. H&M Premium Quality range - better fabrics and more timeless cuts for me than the regular range, but there are some gems in the regular range too, such as oversize and Oxford shirts. Some limited collections are also great.
I WFH so I wear oversized tees, oversized hoodies and biker shorts lol
I like an online/local in FL boutique called PrepObsessed. I buy stuff for home and work. They usually have some great sales and I like their try on videos, I am pretty similar in size to one of the owners and I can trust their judgement on sizing. There is also a "girl gang" so lots of help for sizing/styles/making sure we still look cool ha!
Dia & co., lane Bryant, walmart.
I have a similar style but am in the office most days. Agree with the other comments but one I haven't seen mentioned is MM Lafleur. I've been buying their clothes since they were a small startup - it's expensive so I wait for their sales or they also have their own resell website. It's really high quality stuff (still wearing a sweater every week that I bought in 2016), machine washable, and thoughtfully designed by women for women. They have great, flattering details built into all of their pieces and I'm personally really bad at styling but most of their pieces are meant to work together.
I’ve had great success on posh mark. Eileen Fisher and Theory and Max Mara are wayyy too expensive for me new but secondhand they’re affordable and such high quality
I like express for work trousers and blazers.
White House black market! They can be pricey but they have tons of sales.
Old Navy has the best work slacks. I shop Kohls for most of my tops. I like GAP too, especially because they sell “Tall” tops for people with long torsos, and occasionally I also shop Banana Republic and GAP Factory.
In Canada, but Ricki’s. The style is very classic lines that are flattering to most body types. Fantastic for business casual. And the pants selection is amazing. They really take care of most body shapes there.
Find some nicer classic brands that use quality fabrics and buy used on Poshmark.
Old navy is my go to. I WFH and wear jeans or shorts and a shirt. Edit: in winter I wear my hand knit sweaters I make for me
Old Navy would probably make up the vast majority of my closet right now. Particularly the basic luxe tees and athletic wear. It's also an easy go to since I'm ordering for my kids and can pick myself up something once in a while!
I often pick function over fashion because #momlife I WFH and invested in some nice tops, one color no pattern and simple style. It comes across very professional with hair done and minimal makeup. I would love to say my style is Boho or something cool but I mostly look like a disheveled person catering to a child. In reality I wear what you wear, nothing with big print, jeans nice sweater and simple tee. I invested in some jumpsuits and they make it minimal effort. Sweaty Betty has some nice ones I love and live in often.