How to look

IT’S a common complaint of women who will never see 30 again – lots of shops seem to have forgotten about them and it can be a struggle trying to find an outfit that works.

Is it too young – it’s a bit short? Is it too old – it’s a bit beige? Does it make me look like a burst mattress? Will I just give up and wear a sack?

It shouldn’t be too much to ask. Shopping is meant to be a pleasure, not a pain.

Thankfully, we have role models such as Lorraine Kelly and Twiggy leading the way with their own ranges – and they always look amazing.

It’s all about knowing where to shop and what for.

A couple of the brands we’ve picked are a wee bit more pricey, but it’s also about knowing when to shop, as well as where – that’s where great sales come in.

So, just for you, I’ve shopped till I dropped...

We all know it’s great for undies, especially basics.

But shoes are good, too – a great variety of styles, heel heights and colours. You can pick up a pair of great quality shoes for less than £20, so what’s not to love?

Great for bags, shoes and accessories.

With ranges from lots of designers, you’ll find bags here for everyday use, unusual colours and styles and evening bags that you won’t be able to resist.

Separates. Skirts are great and if you fancy something different from a boring black pencil skirt, M&Co is worth checking out.

It’s all about the trousers – perfect for basics such as black trousers for work. But they always add something a wee bit different, and our testers have found they wash well, too. We love their gingham trousers – £35 and you’ll wear them right through to autumn and beyond. Grown-up style that allows you to create your own looks at high street prices.

They’re at the upper end of the high street – some of their items are dearer.

But their sales are great, with reductions of up to 75% not unusual.

We love their dresses. Lots of them are cleverly ruched and have empire lines, helping to give you a waist even if yours actually disappeared several years ago!