My 40th

[exhaustedhome]

It's my 40th in December -I've got a couple get togethers with friends to celebrate. The first one in 2 weeks. I've lost my way a bit with clothes - used to 'get' it and was a long term poster on the wise and avid threads etc. Now, I wander into shops and wander out again.

We are staying in a hotel in shoreditch and out for dinner and drinks. I have absolutely no idea what to wear.

I'm a size 12 - good legs but crap tummy area.

I love Isabel marant sort of stuff, but a) too ££ And when I try it on it makes me look like I'm wearing a toddlers clothes.

My most worn evening dress is a navy lace whistles number that is short but with a bit of a frill. That's the sort of look I'd like, I think

I'd love to look and feel amazing, it's been a tough year and currently due to work I'm worn out and looking ragged.

Help from the experts much appreciated.

Help!

[Chippednailvarnishing]

I'm following this with interest!

[starsinyourpies]

If you live near London I highly recommend the (free) personal styling at John Lewis Oxford Street, they did a brilliant job when I was in a panic about an awards do! Other John Lewis stores offer it but don't have such a wide range of the higher end brands for special occasions.

[Pisssssedofff]

If you love the navy dress, wear that. I go back to old favourites that I know work time and time again - I also keep my eyes peeled for updated versions but if something makes you feel good and confident stick with it, but some new jewellery to go with it to have a "new" thing

[exhaustedhome]

I'd really like something new - literally the
Navy dress has been worn every wedding and party for the last 3 years!

That's a good idea re personal shopper - think I'm going to struggle with getting to the shops though and was thinking online ideally

[Pantsalive]

Have you got a picture of the Whistles dress? I can't quite picture it so can guess whether feminine or a bit edgy.

Have you looked at Jigsaw? I like their dresses for looking pretty dressed up but feeling comfortable.

[Pantsalive]

*can't not can

[shirkingworking]

Can anybody recommend a particular personal shopper at JohnLewis in Oxford Street? I went before my 40th, a year ago, and she didn't find me anything I liked! All rather frumpsville. Sorry for the post hijack!

[JamieVardysParty]

Can't link rn, but I keep recommending the ASOS Minimal playsuit. It's black, V neck but not revealing, just above knee and fitting without being clingy. I'm a 12 with a wobbly stomach and it is so flattering.

I wore it with a big statement necklace and had so many compliments. I've worn it on nights out, to a christening, to a wedding etc and found it so versatile.

It's been a while since I've felt cool on a night out but this really hits the spot.

Just search minimal playsuit on ASOS, it's the one with short sleeves and kind of looks like a dress. I'll try and find a link later if you like the sound of it.

[happypoobum]

Is it this Jamie ?
Looks a lot shorter at the front than the back?

Have you looked at the "& other stories" website OP? Lots of cool affordable clothes there.

[JamieVardysParty]

That's the one happy. Looking at mine, the back is slightly longer, maybe an inch or so, but doesn't look hugely obvious. I didn't even notice till you pointed it out but the picture makes it look more of a difference than it is.