So I have to go to an Awards Evening...

[goingwildforcrayons]

I really don't do fancy nancy fashion. I'm a frump, mid-30s, size 16, flabby tum (that still looks like I'm pregnant when I'm not), bingo wings, thinning hair (going grey and wiry too). Dress code is dress to impress.

What the heck am I going to wear??? Help!

Where can I buy suitable outfits? What should I go for style wise? Also any tips on a beauty regime (4 weeks to go) - I know we are going to end up being photographed as we are sponsoring an award.

[Pantsalive]

Unfortunately this is out of stock in your size but would this sort of thing work? Good for covering stomachache and arms?

What sort of colours do you like and what's the budget? Summer or full on evening glitz? Long or short?

[Pantsalive]

*stomach

[goingwildforcrayons]

Budget is up to £200 for a dress. Full on evening glitz I'm afraid. I'd be happy with knee length or longer. That one you've suggested is nice pantsalive, but I'm not sure if its evening glitzy enough.

I'm flexible on colour, any except red really, don't want to stand out too much.

[singlemumoftwins]

Would you rent?

This is lovely. chic-by-choice.com/en/hire-dresses/403-black-lace-gown

Or chic-by-choice.com/en/hire-dresses/236-embellished-black-gown

[Pantsalive]

This would sparkle in the lights, is nicely covered up and looks really comfortable.

[Pantsalive]

This one is nice and summery and a great price but I'm not sure how flattering it would be on.

It's worth having a look at TK Maxx generally.

Hiring is a great idea. You get some amazing dresses that you wouldn't necessarily want to buy.

[Pantsalive]

Short but elegant

[Iliveinalighthousewiththeghost]

Wow an awards evening fab. Look on modcloth. They have gorgeous elegant unique dresses on there.

[goingwildforcrayons]

Thanks for the suggestions, never thought of TK Maxx will have a look, there's a few round here. Also Asos now on the list to look at. Went to House of fraser today and tried on a few, all too tight in a 16 (eek), but was probably the style of them. tHis one fitted ok though, mbut not v flattering on tummy (where the knot is ) and also I felt a bit like I should be belting out "goldfinger"

[goingwildforcrayons]

oops cant find it on web now

[Pantsalive]

I'm intrigued to see ...
I did spot an amazing gold number but I thought it might not fit the brief of not wanting to stand out. I wonder if it was the same one

[goingwildforcrayons]

www.debenhams.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prod_10701_10001_008010442249_-1

This is nice on and long enough. bit arm showy but detail of dress detracts.

[Pantsalive]

That's lovely and it looks like the sort of dress you won't be fiddling with IYKWIM.

Maybe a bit of fake tan for arms? I always feel better with a bit of colour.

Have a wonderful time.