I think I know the answer to this already...

[BettyButterknife]

I've been invited to a black tie event for work, and I don't really know what to wear. There are a couple of dresses I own which might be suitable - here are pictures:
There's this one (far right, purple dress)
or
that one (have lost 10lbs since that was taken :)

Are either suitable? If so, how could I accessorise particularly the first one, as that was taken at a summer wedding, and this is a winter dinner. Sparkly cardie? What would go?

If neither are suitable, any suggestions for nice, fairly inexpensive dresses that would suit my figure/colouring?

Oh that's lovely. Glad the new dress is good. These shoes are amazing. Saw them recommended on here and bought them in store. They are v. flattering, look much more expensive than they are and vair cheap.

What bargain shoes! It'd be rude not to. Anyone know if there's an M&S code kicking around?

I have no black tie do on the horizon but if I did, I would be buying that dress in a flash - it is gorgeous. I also have a hang-up about my upper arms and it's so unusual to get a glam, current evening dress with long sleeves. And the shoes are fab - you will look lovely.

Have linked to some bag ideas below:

Would match the shoes

I really like this

Or vamp it up a bit with animal print

Have fun!

Oh god, I'm totally having second thoughts about the dress. Here is me in it. Be honest - do I look like a fat goth??

These shoes (decided against buying those M&S ones - going to spend the money getting my hair done instead), nude tights, nude lips, smoky eyes. One of these necklaces (crap photo, sorry).

Help!