black tie wedding at christmas

[jules27]

HI HAVE BEEN INVITED TO A BLCK TIE WEDDING AT CHRISTMAS AND HAVNT A CLUE WHAT I SHOULD WEAR. I dont know the bride, groom is a friend of my partners. My partner is wearing a tux as are most of the other men(he is hiring his as we dont normally do formal) Any ideas ladies.

since its christmas you culd really push the boat out

have you thought of hiring a frock? you could then wear something really beautiful, without splashing out a fortune. especially if you probably wouldnt wear it again

Posh party frock - any length goes - or even floaty type trouser suit. Just something that you look and feel glam wearing!

Why not hire a dress for the day? Plenty of places do this, then you will be able to afford something really special.

Black tie for women means formal but not neccesarily long, so you could wear a cocktail-type dress, evening trousers and a glamourous top, or a full-on ballgown.

Coast is a bit pricey but always has good ideas, ditto Monsoon . If you're on a budget or want something that will do for other parties, Dorothy Perkins have some very good dresses, including this one in red or black.
Put your hair up, add a sparkly necklace and some heels and you're good to go!

Erm, or otherwise exactly what Nailpolish said about ten minutes ago .

I'd go with hiring too - its a great idea if your not likely to wear said item again. My mum has done it a few times and it costs like £50

Have never been convinced of the merits of hiring myself - I'd rather buy a £50 dress and keep it to wear again than spend £50 on wearing a £200 just dress once...

Evening clothes can be very good things to buy secondhand though as they never get worn really hard - perhaps try yell.com for dress agencies near you?

i though of hiring, mrsB, because jules says "we dont do formal usually" which made me think spending money on a dress which she may not wear again might hinder what she chose

ive hired loads of times - the dresses are way beyond my budget, and you feel a million dollars. the hire places provide accessories, bags, shoes etc as well

if you are in edinburgh, jules, i can recommend a couple of shops if you like

or what about a vintage dress from a second hand shop

Go for a really rich fabric (velvet, silk etc) in a really rich colour. Ebay is great for cheap and different clothes if you have the patience to hunt for them. I have just bought a black velvet mid length fitted coat for £7 (inc p&p). It is fab, a bit goth and in superb condition. You can get great baby clothes too.