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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

AIBU to think there’s no such thing as a plus size wedding outfit suitable for an on the go mum?

103 replies

ACupOfTeaSolvesEverything · 05/01/2020 09:39

My sister in law is having a very fancy black tie wedding in April. Obviously I want to wear something nice, we’re not well off so I can’t spend too much but I can afford a new frock.

However here’s the thing. Not only am I overweight (size 18/20) but I’m constantly on the go with my son who has ADHD and SPD. I need to be able to run, bend down multiple times without flashing, pick up and carry an 8 year old and be climbed on. All while looking nice and retaining some modesty. Help! Does such an outfit exist? Last time I went to a family wedding I looked awful in a mismatched outfit I had thrown together and I tore my pretty dress chasing my whirlwind who was a toddler at the time. Shall I just accept defeat and wear leggings and a jumper as usual?

OP posts:
Cryingoverspilttea · 05/01/2020 16:15

OP www.wantthattrend.com do lovely dresses that are all stretchy and flattering. Next do some lovely tunic dresses too. I'm an apple shape 18/20 and I always find something from either.

messolini9 · 05/01/2020 16:37

This designer has a sale on - practical, feminine clothes with pockets & generous cut - www.gudrunsjoden.com/en-gb/sale/clothes/dresses

MacRedsocks · 05/01/2020 16:42

High waisted trousers with wide leg (very do a brilliant pair,) Bardot style top tucked in, go big on hair then contrasting colour pointed flats & matching funky handbag would my outfit of choice. I'm the same size as you & would be running around after a 2&4 year old

Antihop · 05/01/2020 16:47

Debenhams have some lovely dresses and stock a great range of sizes.

okiedokieme · 05/01/2020 16:49

Don't know your budget but bravissimo works for me

Clarinet1 · 05/01/2020 17:05

If you feel most comfortable in leggings, could you go for leggings (possibly patterned/glittery etc) with a glamourous top - may be something in a loose T shirt shape but with something like a beaded motif on the front or a sparkly pattern all over? Or something fitted at the top but flared down to below the hips? With a jazzy accessory or two and flats with some decoration or in an evening-ish print you could look as if you've made an effort and still be dressed practically for DS.

ItsNovemberNotChristmas · 05/01/2020 17:25

I got a beautiful 50's style dress from Hell Kitty for a wedding when I was a size 18, pale blue and hot pink. Some gorgeous dresses from there

iforgotthatyouexisted · 05/01/2020 17:36

That peacock lady v dress is beautiful and would look great with flats.

Measure carefully for lady v though, I've had to size up with their stuff as it can be quite a snug fit.

sweeneytoddsrazor · 05/01/2020 17:41

Dolly and Dotty are fab.

Pics · 05/01/2020 18:20

Lands end have some nice stretchy dresses that are co.fy and go way beyond your size (I'm an 18'20 too). Also try Thought clothing they have so.e lovely dresses that tie at the front but for some reason look really nice on my figure.

ultrablue · 05/01/2020 18:23

How about a nice trousers, top and jacket with a matching fancy hat and silky scarf for the photos?

ultrablue · 05/01/2020 18:25

Sorry but post too soon. I wore that to my BIL wedding when I was pregnant, didn't know how big I was going to be etc etc. I felt good and more importantly comfortable x

DoubleFunMum · 05/01/2020 18:33

You can carry an 8 year old? Wow. Agree with others, go to a + size shop. Try stuff on & see what fits rather than ordering online. Surely a wrap dress with a modesty vest underneath would be fine? And appropriate.

princesspuds2004 · 05/01/2020 18:34

Lindy bop do a good range of dresses in plus size and very reasonable too, I bought a lovely gold 50s style for a wedding last year and got lots of compliments on it

ginnybag · 05/01/2020 18:43

Try Coast's scuba midi dresses.

www.coastfashion.com/ruched-scuba-dress/ACC99981.html

I wore one to a wedding last year and we're a similar size and shape. Very comfy, flattering and doesn't crease.

Or Roman. I've just bought a gorgeous blue velvet dress from there for a black tie awards dinner.

ACupOfTeaSolvesEverything · 05/01/2020 18:57

Wow loads of great suggestions here thank you!

OP posts:
Frenchw1fe · 05/01/2020 19:31

I agree don't wear leggings. Imo they are for gym wear and pregnancy.

I think a dress would be best, preferably plain and fitted but with room to move.
I can't understand why people wear oversized tops, they don't flatter anyone.
You'll enjoy the wedding much more if you feel nicely dressed.

partysong · 05/01/2020 19:44

Get the peacock dress and then some thick black tights from Snag - they're pretty much the same as leggings but smarter

JamesBlonde1 · 05/01/2020 19:44

Is your DH asking the same question about what he will wear to cope with running all over the place? I hope so.

Bibijayne · 05/01/2020 19:46

Jersey fabric wrap dress?

ACupOfTeaSolvesEverything · 05/01/2020 20:39

Is your DH asking the same question about what he will wear to cope with running all over the place? I hope so.

Well no Confused He can wear a tux like all the other men and not flash his boobs when he bends down or have DS’s foot catch his skirt when he picks him up, baring his knickers to the congregation. Men don’t have the same fashion quandary women do.

OP posts:
RubySlippers77 · 05/01/2020 22:25

Thank you for all the ideas everyone! I'm going to a family wedding abroad in April and will have two toddlers to chase round after Confused with all the worrying about that, it had completely escaped my notice that I'd have to find something reasonably posh to wear as well.....

I'm looking at this at the moment, would something like that be any good for you too?

Ohtherewearethen · 05/01/2020 22:45

www.simplybe.co.uk/shop/teal-lace-shift-dress/xf651/product/details/show.action?pdBoUid=1029

I wore this to a wedding recently (teamed with shocking pink shoes and accessories) and it was very comfortable.

atta2006 · 21/01/2020 17:37

Studio 8 is fab...

CoraPirbright · 21/01/2020 17:51

I am a similar shape to you and my absolutely go-to is a long-line jacket and loose trousers. Depending on the choice of fabric, it can be quite casual (ie to go with jeans) or quite smart eg velvet or linen depending on the season.