I need a shopping spree - please help me figure out where to go

[Anonymous]

Post-Christmas, I really need to go shopping and get some work clothes AND weekend clothes. I get so overwhelmed by big department stores and the mall. Here's some background:

- I wear suits and outfits one step below suits to work all week
- I'm a 35 year old mom who wants to be comfortable but not frumpy on the weekends (pretty typical, right?).
- I buy a lot of work clothes at Ann Taylor, have found some suits at Filene's Basement. Weekend wear tends to be also Ann Taylor or J. Crew.
- I'm 5'7, 145 lbs, and relatively curvy (I have hips!)

I would love some advice about where to go to buy some new outfits. I'm sorry to say I'm just not a huge fashionista....and need help!

[Anonymous]

For work I love Theory; they have an outlet in Leesburg where you might find some good stuff for less.

[Anonymous]

I second Theory for work clothes. And also the outlet. You can find this season's clothes for a discount. Good luck!

[Anonymous]

It might really help to work with a wardrobe/image consultant. I've worked with one who will do a lot of research and come up with suggested pieces to buy (and can do some of it online), as well as come shopping with me.

I've also found that new accessories and shoes can update the basics in my wardrobe pretty well.

I happen to be a huge fan of online shopping. If you are a pretty consistent size in Ann Taylor, J. Crew, etc, it can be much easier than going to a store.

[Anonymous]

i'd give anthropologie a whirl. i really like filene's basement as well. and macy's too--just don't wander into the older/younger sections and you should be alright.

[Anonymous]

I second the call for a wardrobe consultant who will teach you and ensure you don't make any purchase mistakes. You've got alot of goals on your plate.

AICI is the association that oversees and regulates the industry. Check out www.aici.org and call some of them to find someone who can work with your goals and who is a great personality match.

[Anonymous]

Maybe spend an afternoon walking around the shops at Friendship Heights? They have the bargain places (TJ Maxx, Filene's Basement), mid-range (Ann Taylor and the Loft, Banana, Gap, J Crew, etc) and some higher end new shops just opened up next to the Bloomingdales and Mazza Galerie also has some boutiques downstairs next to the Filene's. That way if you walk into one store and it isn't what you want you can just walk outside and go somewhere else, and you don't get the same oppressive mall-like feeling because you are outdoors. An Anthropologie is supposed to open soon, but I get claustrophobic in those stores, everything seems so packed in!

[Anonymous]

Theory for work clothes

JCrew is fine for weekend clothes, mix in Anthropologie, a pair or two of great jeans, a boutique item or two (Cusp/Urban Chic, Ginger, etc.), may be a little Boden and you are good to go!