Shopping Help - need business casual clothes

[Just Kate]

I have never been very interested in fashion, but I've done okay. As I get older though, I just don't know what to buy or where to buy it. I definitely need some new clothes for work. Typically, I work in My home office and sport lovely yoga pants. ;) Occassionally though, I have to leave the house to go to my real office (3 hours away) and visit with clients. My boss is a 50 something year old man and he always wears a suit. I try to wear something professional looking (dress pants with an in style cardigan). I need some new things though.

 

I live in a fairly rural area. My go to is Kohls, because it is easy and cheap, but I honestly am beginning to dislike their clothes. So what are the stores that a 40 year old woman would hit to find something new? I can't spend a ton, but would like some cute new pieces. Also, any websites/blogs I should check out to see what is in style?

[kewb]

I have been having success lately at dress barn.

[zoobie]

Ann Taylor Loft -- mix of classic with some trendy. Sign up for coupons or google for one. New York & Co is supposed to have good work pant basics, especially if you need a curvy fit.

[BlsdMama]

If budget is something to be aware of, honestly I'd rather spend $$ on really good used clothing (consignment or ThredUp) than stuff that is thinner and won't drape quite as well.

 

He wears a suit and you're meeting with clients?  Skirts or pants?  I'd do skirts just below the knee in basic colors - think khaki, brown, gray, black and then solid or print shells, and then appropriate seasonal sweater.  The nice thing is that these can be converted seasonally by the sweaters you wear.

 

 

[Just Kate]

Ann Taylor Loft -- mix of classic with some trendy. Sign up for coupons or google for one. New York & Co is supposed to have good work pant basics, especially if you need a curvy fit.

Oh how I wish we had a Loft around here!!! Where I lived before, I shopped there frequently. I hate buying clothes online, but I might just have to give it a try.

[magnificent_baby]

I am near your age. I really like the Worthington brand from JC Penney. Most of their dress tops are made with a really comfortable and flattering material. They hold up very well too! I also like their dress pants. Dress Barn is another one that I have had really good luck with. Their clothes are on the pricier side, but they are very good quality and last me years! Their dress pants are my very favorite (Roz and Alley); super comfortable and flattering, especially the pull up ones with no zipper. I'm short so am very limited on where I can get pants, and these fit me perfectly. TJ Maxx is a hit and a miss for me so I don't go there often. 

[Just Kate]

If budget is something to be aware of, honestly I'd rather spend $$ on really good used clothing (consignment or ThredUp) than stuff that is thinner and won't drape quite as well.

 

He wears a suit and you're meeting with clients? Skirts or pants? I'd do skirts just below the knee in basic colors - think khaki, brown, gray, black and then solid or print shells, and then appropriate seasonal sweater. The nice thing is that these can be converted seasonally by the sweaters you wear.

I totally agree! I typically wear pants, but some nice skirts may be a good addition. I'm not familiar with ThredUp. Is it a website? I have tried consignment stores, but we just don't have many available in my area.

 

What stores do 40 year old women shop at? Department stores? We have a Macy's, but for some reason I can't stand the layout of this store.

[Caroline]

I shop Talbots. They have amazing sales. Their clothes are classic so don't go out of style. And they are great quality. Not on sale, they are expensive, but last forever. I have been wearing the same Talbots sheath dresses for years.