So, I get into work this morning and find an impressively heavy gilt invitation on my desk, which turns out to be an invitation to the Lord Mayor of London's Trade and Industry dinner. Apparently this is not the rubber chicken dinner I was expecting, but quite a big deal rammed with financial big wigs and politicians.
Here's my dilemma: invitation says 'black tie' but it's essentially a business event so I don't want to rock up in full blown ball gown. On the other hand I'm expecting the place to be stuffed with sleek high maintenance bankers and I don't want to be the scruff in the corner.
I've just spent 20 minutes furtling through my wardrobe, waiting for the solution to magically appear (obviously hoping that there would be some Perfectly Devastating little designer number in there that I had unaccountably forgotten) but there's nothing there. So, ladies, I'm out of my depth and need wise counsel - please help?
Practicalities: I'm 5'4'', size 10-12 (10 on the bottom, 12 around the shoulders). Broad shoulders, slightly thick waisted, slim hips, nice arse and legs. I know I can wear deep v and scoop necks, and that asymmetric wrap things work well on me. Would like something that isn't too long and preferably has some colour. Budget up to £250.
Oh and I haven't begun to think about shoes/accessories...or hair...or make up. Waaaaahh!