Black tie event - help!!

[milkmoustache]

I have a black tie event next month, full-on dinner jacket type thing, and I haven't a bloody clue where to start. I am not a big fan of formality and don't have anything remotely dressy, so am really starting from scratch.
These are the facts: size 16, hourglass, quite curvy, swimmers shoulders, short waisted and 5 8". I won't be in heels, DH is a fair bit shorter and doesn't enjoy me towering over him. There won't be dancing, but there will be a fantastic meal, so nothing too tight!
Also... I don't want to go low-backed (large birth mark), or sleeveless. I am not at all girly, so not keen on frilly/fussy, but I have thought about going for lace overlay, which can look quite dramatic. I hope that gives you an idea of the mammoth task ahead - oh, budget of about £150.
Any of you brilliant fashion fans willing to rise to the challenge??

[therealladygrantham]

I am size 20-22 so bigger than you, but also 5'8 and broad of shoulder!
I got a lovely lace overlay dress from Kiyonna last year, it's called Boudoir dress. Kiyonna is an American label and was sold through a company in the UK that now have gone bust but I'm pretty sure Navabi sell them. It's a cocktail length, v v flattering and on the knee.
HTH

[BellsaRinging]

How do you look in jumpsuits? I am going to a similar do so and have a lovely one (at least I hope it is and I'm not kidding myself!). I found a lot of options in the coast sale last week...

[milkmoustache]

Definitely going to investigate these ideas - keep them coming!
I have never dared to even try on a jumpsuit, my arse is large, but perhaps I will give it a whirl as they can look great.

[therealladygrantham]

acloves.co.uk/collections/kiyonna

Sorry it's not Navabi...hope this link works