Desperately seeking suggestions for a classic dress up/dress down dress!

[Rubirosa]

I'm prepared to buy a more expensive dress that will last, and that I can dress up and down, but I can't find one! Added complication is that I am short - 5'1".

Any suggestions gratefully recieved

Have you looked at petite ranges?

Are there any in particular you would recommend? I have looked at a few but they seem fairly limited and I don't want to go for something that is very patterned/a "now" shape that will date quickly - it's more something that could be a capsule wardrobe type staple.

I'm probably not the best to ask as I'm 5'4 so average height. However, I own 6 black dresses -- most of which are dress up/ dress down depending on accessories.

Just realised you didn't specify black.

My favourite dresses emphasize my bust I'm a pear and I like attention up high and dresses that skim my big bottom.

The most recent dress I purchased was one from White Company (it is grey) one of their jersey dresses I always get complemented when I wear it. I've had it since Feb and I don't think the quality is that great but the fit & style are fantastic. I would link but it is no longer on their website. I went to a store and tried them all on -- then ordered with a code from home.

M&S 3/4 sleeve wrap style dress in black - comes in different lengths and serves many a purpose - change it with coloured belt, scarf, tights,cardi , boots sandals etc etc I love mine !

www.marksandspencer.com/Petite-Crossover-V-Neck-Plain-Jersey/dp/B003C8IVAS?ie=UTF8&ref=sr_1_27&nodeId=527058031&sr=1-27&qid=1338927534

Me & Em do lovely dresses too - there's a nice pleat dress in the sale - pure luxury.

Hope you find what you need - a great dress is a godsend

this one www.meandem.com/sale/sale/front-pleat-dress/products_id/940/cPath/522_525_527

Rubirosa I really know what you mean. I am 5"7 and a size 18, I have a wedding to go to in six weeks and none of my old clothes fit any more. I am damned if I am going to spend almost £200 on a dress that I can only wear to a wedding.

I have been looking for the past few months for a quite plain, classic cut dress that I could dress up for the wedding or down for christenings, dinner out etc. I have had no joy.

Why do I always see these dresses when I dont need them.

Depends how expensive you want to go. this one (comes in black too) is a v.good day to evening dress. I'm 5'2" and it fits well.

Have a look also at Vivienne Westwood's Red label, or Theory, Whistles, Oasis, Cos or Reiss.

Brora

www.meandem.com/collection/dresses__skirts/tulip-pocket-dress/products_id/1105/cPath/522_523_531

What do people think of this? Looks like I should be able to have it shortened if necessary - not sure exactly what "modal jersey" is though...

Brora but with colour

I think it is OK but black and maybe the purple blue is nicer.

I'd go for a plain black one - The White Company ones are very good (try lots on and size down) or if you are rich or can wait for the sales, go for a plain black Vivienne Westwood jersey one. I'm 5'2 and both WC and VW are okay for me, if I pick and choose carefully.

I quite like the dress, but will be interesting to see whether the pockets will be in the right place to be flattering.

'Modal' jersey, is essentially cotton jersey, rather than silk jersey. It means the fabric will be matt, rather than with a slight sheen.

Thanks for all these brilliant suggestions! I'm looking through the websites mentioned now.

Maybe a bit long?

I really recommend The WC - not tried this one on though yet

Oooh, that WC one is lovely in both colours.

I have this but I tie the ribbon properly around my waist it then gives a nice shape I'm 5'1 and it sits just on my knee