Help - what to wear to Embassy Garden Party in UK!

[janajos]

My DH and therefore I, have been invited to said garden party. I am planning to wear a formalish maxi dress with a shrug and will obviously have my hair done etc.. but will that be sufficient? I don't really do formal and won't be wearing a hat! Bags are my problem as all the bags I have are huge I'm a teacher and mum of 3, so you can imagine. They are good quality, designer, but don't really say occasion! Any suggestions/criticisms welcome. It is a late afternoon, early evening affair with parades involved and we are on the Ambassador's list, so I will have to speak to him!

[Emo76]

Could you pick up a reasonably priced clutch bag in the sales? Something which isn't too "matchy matchy" but goes with your dress and shoes? Maxi sounds good! Will there be Ferrero Rocher to eat ...?!

[janajos]

don't ! I hate ferrero Rocher! Have been looking in sales for said clutch (not keen on most of them but will keep looking. Thanks for response.

[chinateacup]

Can I ask which Embassy? Only that you may want to be more or (slightly) less conservative depending on that country's norms .... Outfit sounds good. Wouldn't have thought you needed a hat anyway. Have fun!

[janajos]

The French Embassy, so you will see why my slight trepidation! Full of elegant French women!

[chinateacup]

Sacre bleu ....
You will look fabulous, nobody will notice what you are wearing and you will have the most wonderful time. Don't stress, just enjoy . You will surely meet some brilliant &/or inspiring &/or creative &/or fascinating people. And some total bores too I guess! But it will be one to tell the grandchildren.

[meditrina]

I wouldn't get a clutch bag - by the time you've got a glass in one hand, someone's trying to shake the other, and the canapes are circulating, it's just too much to hand on to. Either get something small on a chain (not a Chanel lookalike to the French Embassy though), or minimise what you want to carry and distribute it found your DH.

Don't wear very spiky heels if there's the possibility of being on a lawn.