Need a dress for a black-tie evening - any ideas?

[BranchingOut]

I have a black tie dinner coming up in about a month's time. These are about as common as hens' teeth in my social schedule, so I am looking forward it!

I have a few cocktail/evening dresses in my wardrobe, but I think they might be a tiny bit on the tight side now.

Would any of you wise ladies like to suggest something?

I am 37, 5'7 and have fair colouring. My colours are pink, green, red, brown, ocean blue or cream/neutral. I quite fancy a colour that could work well for winter or summer, as ideally I would like to get a second use out of it if possible. Budget maybe up to £150 max.

I have a small waist and bust, so prom style dresses look great on me (or am I too old for them?), but strapless doesn't really work! My legs are quite long so knee-length is about right for me.

Hobbs outlet online. Browse away! I got a beautiful red number (knee length, short sleeve, sweetheart neckline) a few months back and there were plenty there I loved.

uk.monsoon.co.uk/view/product/uk_catalog/mon_1,mon_1.2/2530727908

You sound just like me (but two years younger!) shape wise and I would definitely try this on. Think it might do summer and winter.

uk.monsoon.co.uk/view/product/uk_catalog/mon_1,mon_1.2/2530727908
Oops

Thank you, I haven't worn that shape before but it is pretty.

I might need to go a little more conservative length-wise, as it is my husband's work event.

Look in coast. They should have some gorgeous dresses in your price range.

Well, I have a lovely and not too expensive dress from Debenhams. It is a fit and flare style, about knee length.

The colour is Cadbury's purple and, looking at the way it works with other colours, i have ordered a rose and a fuschia pashmina to try out against it.

I am going for a pair of nude/pinky flats with jewels on the front.
www.johnlewis.com/335070/Product.aspx. They more or less coordinate with a nude silky evening purse I was going to carry.

Any views? Or suggestions for other nude or pink shoes?

Not meaning to hijack but, need to pick the s+b branes - would a straight black jersey maxi do for a black tie event if I jazzed it up with accessories?

Btw it has long sleeves and a v neck and is practically floor length.

I think it would, if you had a really spectacular necklace.

Now, have a look at those shoes for me please!