Oh stylish ones... Please help me find a dress

[beanandspud]

DH and I have a babysitter for the first time in years and have booked a night out - nice restaurant, local wine bar type thing.

But what to wear? At the moment my options seem to be pyjamas, work uniform or jeans. I am also rather larger than I would like to be (size 18, big boobs and tummy but legs ok).

Would love a flattering dress, to look a bit younger and more stylish and 'polished' if that makes sense.

All ideas gratefully received, I know that without some inspiration I will dash round M&S at the last minute and end up with black trousers and black top - possibly finished with a waterfall cardi!!

What's your budget? How about something like this?

Or this?

Ok, first of all, DON'T do what you said you might end up doing in M&S. Although don't rule M&S out for flattering dress idea.

This is your night out! Go for it! Get yerself a lovely dress! The idea is to accentuate your best bits and play down problem areas. So a lovely v neckline for your cleavage and knee high dress with heels to show off your pins. You may want to go for black because it is the most flattering colour, however you can colour it up with accessories. If it's a busy dress, then not so much jewellery. But if it's a plainish black number, you can go to town with some statement jewellery. I have a big tum and find that dresses that nip in at the waist don't work so well, but anything just above the waist is more flattering.

I am loving tethersend's ideas, especially the red dress, that is gorgeous and would look great with your figure.

Tethersend - thank you. I like both of those although VERY different to my usual boring style. Budget is probably up to £100.

Whethergirl - you're right and I should just go for it! I just seem to be stuck in a rut when it comes to clothes. I will try to post some dresses later and get a verdict from you all.

this would be flattering and could be worn again for lots of things

bravissimo dress