Personal Shopper: Therese is Branching Out

Therese writes, "Hi Outblush! A friend of mine recently introduced me to outblush and I'm hooked. Please help me! My problem is that I generally hate shopping and I need some direction. For most of my life this hasn't been a problem: I just find some things I like and wear them forever. But I've been at my current job about a year now and I work with some well-dressed women, so I'm beginning to feel self conscious about wearing the same old things forever. The problem is I don't even know where to shop. Right now I'm in the market for some new tops. I have a pear shape figure and I like tops that emphasize my waist a little. Here is an example of a cut that flatters my figure (I just got this top): I would really appreciate any advice you could give me. I usually shop at anthropologie or jcrew but I really need to branch out! I truly need your help."

Therese, there is nothing wrong with Anthropologie or J. Crew. Both have great pieces! But, if you're looking to branch out, a few of our fave online stores are Couture Candy, BlueFly, Revolve Clothing, Shop Planet Blue, and Tobi. They all have the hottest brands you see in fashion magazines, like Alice + Olivia and BCBG Max Azria, at discounted prices. Of course, you'd be surprised at how trendy a lot of department stores have gotten. Bloomingdale's, Macy's, and Nordstrom are all great. Since you have a pear-shaped figure, steer towards boot-cut or wide-leg trousers to visually elongate your figure and balance it out. We've done a little shopping work for you, and found some great blouses, too. Don't be afraid to play with proportions, different necklines & sleeves, prints, and fun dresses, too. Enjoy!

P.S. No matter what anyone else says, you will always be well-dressed in clothes that fit and flatter you. Always.

1 - Aryn K Dusty Pink Chiffon Pleated Belted Tank ($56)

2 - Calvin Klein Jeans Petal Sleeve Diamond Stripe Tunic ($60)

3 - Nanette Lepore Lethal Love Polka Dot Top ($298)

4 - Plenty by Tracy Reese Flamingo Femme Swirl Jersey Tunic ($66 on sale)

5 - Joie "Fairbanks" Silk Chiffon Tank ($188)

6 - Tart Plum Stretch Knit 'Zephrus' Top ($100 on sale)

Frustrated in your search for that perfect leather handbag, red stiletto pump, or whatever makes your heart go thump in the night? Send us a request and we might do the shopping work for you in a future Personal Shopper feature!