Help on 'evening do' dress etiquette?

[MDM]

Hello all, can anyone help me decipher what the dress code would be for an 'informal' evening wedding reception?

The wedding itself is at a civic centre, with an evening party being the celebration. I recently had a baby and am not quite yet back to my regular size, and can't really afford a new frock that might fit now, but will be too big in a couple of months time (she says, optimistically!)

'Informal' to me suggests jeans but then I don't think many people would wear that to a wedding reception! What about a tunic top (perhaps with metallic or sequin detailling to make it more eveningy) with leggings or footless tights?

Yes, that sounds ideal, and I think I have most items in the wardrobe. Tunics are great for the post pregnancy bump ay?

I would interpret informal for a wedding reception as night out in a decent bar/restaurant as opposed to jeans.

I would go for dress with heels rather than tunic.

Try on what you have, and ask a good friend's advice. If you feel happy and comfortable, you'll look great and enjoy yourself, which is what it's all about! Don't forget, you can do a lot with accessories. Also treating yourself to a professional blow dry on the day can work wonders for looks and confidence. Good luck!

To me informal means dress, or tailored trousers. Casual would be nice pub/restaurant gear. I really wouldn't have thought leggings to be honest.

Thanks all - great advice as usual. I definitely believe in what mindgone says. People who look comfortable in their style usually look good too. I've never been much good in heels, or fancy dresses, but I do need to up my game from jeans....point received and understood!!