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Black tie event advice please

18 replies

MrsThePoint · 25/08/2011 16:28

It?s a Christmas do, so ages away, I know, but this is DH?s work do and it is really important that I get it right, impressions count in this, his new job.

My web search has not helped at all so I thought I?d ask those who actually know!

Firstly, I want to ask if a long, floor length white dress is acceptable or is white a wedding dress colour, as I have a acquired a lovely silk one. It is very flattering on me, which is great, and seems very formal to me. Do I have to have a colourful dress?

If white is an acceptable colour, do I need a colour to brighten it up. If so, how and with what?

As it?s winter, would a bolero be acceptable, and if so, what fabric/colour?

What style shoes should I wear?

Do I go for matching colour bolero, shoes and clutch bag or should bag and shoes be white to match dress and colour in bolero only?

What jewellery do I wear? My ears are not pierced.

Links would be great if you can. Thanks all.

Very low budget, around £100-150 total.

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wahwahwah · 25/08/2011 16:37

I wouldn't go for white - not very Christmassy and you run the risk of doing a Miss Haversham.

I would spend it on a 'classic' black number and some kind of wrap. Keep your eyes open in the meantime for sales - especially anywhere that sells samples. Even e-bay. Loads of people must buy a posh frock and sell it after only a couple of wears.

Depends on how fancy the Doo is and what shape/size you are...
www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Cherlone-Black-Backless-Long-Evening-Gown-Dress-18-20-/250876689613?pt=UK_Women_s_Dresses&hash=item3a696a7ccd

cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?VISuperSize&item=200586725771

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worldgonecrazy · 25/08/2011 16:44

How plain is the dress? What style is it? I'm picturing something 40s glamour but could be wrong.

I think white can look christmassy, especially if teamed with silver or silver-sparkly accessories. A pashmina would probably be a better option than a bolero as you would be able to use it as a scarf or wrap throughout the winter.

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MrsThePoint · 25/08/2011 17:04

Looks a bit like this

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MrsThePoint · 25/08/2011 17:05

And the dress is a size 10, I am pear shaped and don't like my hips, bottom or thighs at all.

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FauxFox · 25/08/2011 17:29

If you want to stand out wear the white dress with a white fur bolero, silver diamante sandals, silver diamante necklace and chic up-do hair with diamante pins. Optional white opera gloves.

If you want to blend in - don't Wink

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MrsCampbellBlack · 25/08/2011 17:30

I think a dress like that is too weddingy and do you know if other people will be in full length or more cocktail type dresses?

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TheMitfordsMaid · 25/08/2011 17:32

If it is like the one in the link I'm afraid it won't be suitable.

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wahwahwah · 25/08/2011 17:34

If you dont have huge flappy arms (which you propbably dont if you are size 10)...

www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Prom-Gown-Party-Dress-Evening-Cocktail-dress-Sz-8-18-/260688100116?pt=UK_Wedding_Clothing&var=&hash=item8263960a9c

Spend good money on a really nice pair of shoes.

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Tommy · 25/08/2011 17:35

agree that it looks a bit weddingy. Could you dye the dress? or look at Debut in Debenhams - they have lovely evening dresses that are not too pricey

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auroraday · 25/08/2011 17:49

my experience of black tie work dos is that this would be far too formal and more appropriate for a summer ball (and even then probably not a work one). You could get away with a longer dress in a darker colour or go for something classy but shorter. If it's your first time and want to make a good impression, better to play it safe. I've got this for a different occasion - but rare for me to wear long to a work do

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FauxFox · 25/08/2011 18:27

That is a beautiful dress aurora

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MrsThePoint · 25/08/2011 21:40

I take it strapless is the way to go? What colour is best? Is black the most 'blend in' to go for.

Yes, it is my first 'black tie' event and I have no idea what others will be wearing! Is shorter length more sensible then?

Thanks all so far!

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auroraday · 25/08/2011 22:49

Not necessarily! That was just one idea. In fact short and strapless is not a great look for a work do in my experience. Honestly you may be better waiting a little closer to the time because all the stores will start to get Christmas lines in which may have the sparkle you need. You may want some sleeves by then in fact. Black is always safe but you could go for jewel colours if you preferred - I just wouldn't choose white personally.

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worldgonecrazy · 26/08/2011 08:30

I agree that is far too bridal to get away with. There are lots of cheap dresses out there, check out ebay and charity shops. You should be able to pick something up for less than £30. Spend the extra money on good underwear - spanx or something to give your clothing a nice line, and getting your hair done nicely for the event.

Search out something with a feature around the bustline, either draped material, a twist in the fabric, or embellishment, or a fabulous necklace. This will draw the eye away from your hips and thighs.

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QuinnFabray · 26/08/2011 11:39

Perhaps get something from eBay. As your a size 10, it's fairly easy to get it right. I just got a black satin strapless Coast dress for £6.80 including postage. It's beautiful and fits perfectly. I'm guessing it would have been atleast £100 new.

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tethersend · 26/08/2011 12:57

What's the budget?

I like this and this but they are £££

This is my favourite though.

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tethersend · 26/08/2011 12:58

Oooh, sorry, just saw budget. Ignore me, I'm fantasy shopping Grin

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auroraday · 26/08/2011 19:52

That one from the outnet looks like the cover of a horror movie to me Grin
(I bet you saw my choice and said - god how boring is she?!) Different strokes I guess...!

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