I kind of have two sets of clothes, my work stuff and then all my other stuff. For work I have to pretty smart although I don't always wear a suit. I do have about 4 though and have the trousers and skirt that go with the jacket. I find Next and Principles are pretty good for short arses like me. I have a lot of shirts and tops that I can wear under the jacket. For work I tend to have things that I can layer so I can take the jacket off if its hot. If I don't have meetings or presentations to do then I'm a bit more casual but still wear smart trousers or a skirt with a shirt or nice top. Floaty summery clothes don't really go here.

Outside of work I live in my jeans or combat type trousers. Normally just wear them with a tshirt at the weekends or if I'm going out will dress up a pair of jeans with a really nice top. I have a couple of pairs of linen trousers which are good for the summer too. I have quite a few summery skirts but don't actually wear them loads as I tend to stick to my jeans most of the time.

For me I'd probably go with a good pair of jeans, a few pairs of smartish trousers and maybe a pair of linen trousers and some combats. Then a selection of shirts and tops that you can pair with them and probably a few vest tops in different colours as they are great for the summer. I don't wear skirts that much but you could get a couple so you don't have to live in trousers all the time.

Have you thought about getting using a personal shopper? Places like Debenhams have them and I don't think you have to pay for them. Could be worth a look if you are unsure about what to get.

Congratulations on the windfall.

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Teresa and Paul - 2nd October 2004