Returning to work after maternity leave - a capsule wardrobe for under £75

I'm heading back to work next week after my 12 months of maternity, I am equal parts nervous, sad and excited! Nervous that I will feel like the new kid, sad that I am leaving Rosie and excited that I will be back doing what I love with my brilliant colleagues and clients. 

Personally if I feel like I am wearing the right outfit I feel like I can conquer the world and as absolutely nothing suitable for work from pre pregnancy fits me I have had to invest in some new workwear. I am going back 3 days in the first instance and so I don't need loads, and I need to bear in mind that one day it might be boiling and the next raining! I have purchased a few key pieces from H&M and thought I would go through them with you in case you are looking for inspiration for your return to work wardrobe. 

I should mention I did hit the Zara sale and tried on so many amazing items but unfortunately none of it fit well enough for me to buy, if you would like me to link any of the Zara workwear pieces in another post please let me know. 

I really wanted the photos in this blog to be of me wearing the clothes but a lack of time this week means nothing has been ironed, put together or posed for! Once I am back at work I will be sure to post photos to Instagram of the combinations. 

I already had this shirt in yellow and in my pre mama days I was a big fan of the pale blue stripe blouse (which should come as no surprise to you!) and so I bought the pink and blue stripe. These are an absolute bargain at £8.99 and come in a range of colours. They are very comfortable and so perfect for sitting at a desk all day and can be worn alone, with a vest underneath or with a jumper over the top. 

Next up are these brilliant navy ankle grazers, I wasn't sure at first as you can't wear a belt and they zip up the side but I am really impressed with the fit. These also come in a range of colours and patterns and are only £12.99, you will also need to check out this link - cigarette trousers 

The dress below is another super comfy staple and looks good with flats or heels, it is a super soft material and I think looks the smartest in the navy and white, it comes in grey and pink as well but is not quite as smart in my opinion. £12.99

I would also recommend this skirt, I haven't bought it but I thought it would round off the workwear wardrobe if you are a skirt fan and would look good with both of the shirts above.

Hopefully this has shown that you can get a smart, pretty and comfortable return to work wardrobe for under £75, assuming all your shoes still fit! 

Aside from these clothes I will also be wearing my Topshop Leigh jeans as we can wear smart casual to work, all of which have been bought on eBay. 

I am planning on accessorising with big earrings and statement necklaces as I won't get to wear these on the days I am with Rosie, unless I want to lose an ear lobe! 

Any questions or suggestions please let me know!