Usually a good place to start is casual dress. You will want to go with something that flatters your body-type but also something that is comfortable. Every day clothes, casual clothes and fashionable accessories are likely going to be what you use most in your wardrobe. Quite often, if you pair a simple black top with a great pair of earrings or a nice chunky necklace you will find that your simple black top has turned into something that looks great on a date or when meeting friends for dinner. The key is in truly knowing how to match accessories to turn up a look or play down a look depending on where you are going.
If you are the kind of person who doesn’t dress up often and prefers day-to-day clothes, casual may be the name of the game for you. In this case I would really try and find cuts or styles that work best on your body. If you have shorter legs you may prefer a straight cut to your pants rather then a flare leg. This can be paired with pointy toe shoes or boots for a fun look. The effect will also elongate the look of your leg. If you have longer legs you will want to stay away from a high waist in your jeans and perhaps choose a longer top to help balance your torso with the length of your lower body.
Most women tend to try and spend less when choosing day-to-day clothes. Casual clothes however, are likely going to be worn more, washed more and abused more so sometimes it is actually more economical to choose better quality brands when possible for purchasing fashions that will be used the most. This will prevent having to replace your basics often.
If you are looking to purchase something that can be worn out and also worn to work you may find that this transition is easier than you think with most of your business casual clothes. Casual options such as sandals or flat shoes and cardigans can make a dress look suitable for the office however a few simple changes can turn that same dress into a fabulous evening outfit. Swapping the flats for a cute heel, removing the cardigan adding some fun jewelry and a great over sized purse will make you look and feel like a whole new person.
My best advice is to try on many things (even if you don’t think it is something you will wear as you may be surprised), bring a friend who will give their honest opinion, have fun with accessories, ask the sales associates for advice and spend a little extra on your wardrobe essentials. Most of all, have fun and remember that your fashion taste is individual and directly represents you!