HIGH street fashion is more inclusive than ever – but it can still feel like an impossible task to find the perfect outfit for your body shape.
We’ve been putting shops and supermarkets to the test to see which offers the best pieces for all figures.
And our wardrobe staples won’t break the bank.
I, Katy, am 35 and a petite size 18 while my work bestie Lynn, 46, is a slim size 10 – but often feels self-conscious about her mum tum.
We’re on a mission to try the same styles in different sizes from a range of high street and supermarket favourites to find clothes that really work ‘for everybody‘.
Our For Everybody series has showcased some of the best gems in Primark, River Island, Tu Clothing, Nutmeg and more over the past 18 months.
As well as sniffing out on-trend items for the new seasons, we’ve become pros at styling outfits for our very different shapes.
From concealing mum tums to minimising big boobs, we’ve definitely picked up some tricks along the way in the changing rooms.
This week, we headed to M&S and bagged two transitional buys for spring and summer.
Linen Rich Drawstring Wide Leg Trousers
I used to think linen trousers were frumpy. But the summer staple has been given an upgrade with stylish patterns.
And M&S has gone for the viral polka dot print for this season.
The monochrome £28 trousers have a comfortable wide leg silhouette and elasticated waist.
They are available in sizes 6-24, and come in extra short, short, regular and long.
M&S bosses claim the linen-rich trousers are “made for smart-casual dressing”.
And I can definitely see myself wearing these from the office straight to a beer garden in the sunshine.
The flattering high waistline is great for hiding tummies, and the trousers dress up perfectly with sandals and a black top.
Lynn adds: “These are such a comfy pair of trousers. I feel like they will become my airport, travelling go-to for holidays.
“The polka dots are bang on trend and really suit every shape and size, in my opinion.
“I’m not sure I’d feel cool enough to pull these off in the office or out with the girls – but they will definitely be going in my holiday wardrobe.”
But don’t just take our word for it, the trousers have racked up a flurry of five-star reviews on the M&S website.
One shopper gushed: “I love these trousers, not worn them yet but looking forward to doing so. Nice item for the money, great summer casual basic. They are flattering and true to size.”
A second wrote: “Lovely linen trousers, true to size. They look great with a plain black or white top. I will get a lot of wear out if these. Dress up or down.”
“These are lovely and a good fit, great at hiding the mum tum”, said a third.
Meanwhile, a fourth chimed in: “These are a great spring/summer wardrobe staple. Will wear them on repeat throughout summer. Great value, bought two pairs.”
To complete the look, you can also pick up the matching linen rich cami top for £30.
Flower Knitted Top With Wool
While the linen trousers are getting us excited for warmer months, this knitted top is just what we need while there’s still a chill in the spring air.
Available in sizes XS to XL, it is priced at £33.
The delicate embroidered flowers are such a pretty touch for the new season.
And it’s a very muted, easy way to do the floral trend – with cream easy to thrown on with any colour in your wardrobe.
I found the knit slightly too short for my liking, but that issue was easily solved with a ‘millenial tuck’ into my jeans.
Lynn adds: “I am in love with this cute little jumper. The short sleeves make it the ideal transitional top taking us from the chilly start of a Scottish spring into (hopefully) nicer weather.
“The embroidered flowers also make it feel springy and I am obsessed with the boxy, cropped shape.
“I also feel like this can be dressed up or down so easily – with jeans for a casual look or a little neckscarf and smart trousers for the office.
“It’s already been picked as my Easter Sunday top of choice.”










