Ball.

[Smurfgirl]

I am going to the end of year university ball. Again.

I am 5'3" and size 16/18. Big norks, fat tummy, nice legs. I don't wear heels. So over the whole ball gown thing. Am afraid I will look like a bit fat ugly frump.

Have just checked length, would maybe be too long - I think it's floor-length on me, will check.

Another option: I have an empire-waisted knee-length dress. Bluey skirt, in panels, with silkscreened stars on it. Bodice is shantung silk. Very low cut. Again, would be frightening with actual norks, on me it's still pretty scary. Sleeveless. Probably not formal enough?

Ok, just tried on b+w dress, despite now being a 16, it no longer does up. Whoops. Problem is ribcage. I measure 34" minimum under boobs, I'd think you'd want to be 32" at most, to wear this dress and still breathe.

Given the above, I'm happy to send it to you, if it'll fit, and you can shorten skirt as necessary, and keep it?

It would be v. impressive with norks. Wide V neckline much more tasteful than other dress with is quite an open neckline (and was custom-made! I asked for a high neckline.)

NQC I don't think that dress would do up on me am about 34" too... it does sound v.v.nice!

have many ballgowns, would love to lend, but am utterly wrong shape to help you.

Sorry about that...

I have a really lovely Monsoon, bias cut satin long dress - size 16, sleeveless, but straps are wide enough to hide bra. deep V at front and back. Colour is sort of dark grey/greeny. I too have big norks, and I wore this when 3 months pregnant with 2nd but not telling and nobody guessed. It is long so would need heels, but if you are a size 6 i also have some lovly grey satin sandals with diamante straps and a 2 inch heel - but a very thick heel so not teetering shoes.

Oh, pity. Breathing isn't optional for these things, is it.

(Weirdly, this dress used to fit fine, when I was 18 or 20, and a size 18, I think.)

\link{http://photobucket.com/albums/c176/NotQuiteCockney/?sc=1&multi=1&addtype=local&media=image&test=test\pics} of the dress are up, anyway.

The other dress doesn't tempt, I guess? It is more casual.

I do have a silk trouser suit, in black (by Evan Piccone!). Would be very nice, and could be dressed up. Trousers probably too long.

Oh, I do have a black dress with sequins or beading on the bodice, empire cut (again!). It's ... rayon? I think. It's ok. Not really a ballgown, though. I think it's reasonably long.

Just looked at the pic, you do have the same colouring as me, albeit not the same build.

Oh pretty! I do definately want to wear a dress/skirt. I think the other dress might be too casual and I don't think I could carry off the v-deep v (have dd boobs!).

Thank you so much for being so helpful!

Profrock, that dress sounds lovely!

OK - pic coming.

Pictures \link{http://www.photobox.co.uk/album/2723141\here}. It was more flattering when I filled it and with a pushy-up bra!

Whilst it is floor length on me (5'6, you could get away with it dragging on teh floor as it pools beuatifully

think lovely

prufrock, who took those pictures? not your best angle

Oh thats so beautiful! Does it drape nicely on your tummy? (i know i am obsessed but trust me I have a very fat belly!)

lol
you dneed fat pants deffo or an alli one holder inner

it turns purple inthe last two pics

m&s magic knickers will dothe trick

\link{http://www.marksandspencer.com/IWCatProductPage.process?Merchant_Id=1&Section_Id=275&Product_Id=1583666\or one fo these linky nimbers so you dont get any fat splurgin govert he top of the pants}

you weren't all meant to look! My little brother took them just now and he couldn't be arsed to get up off the floor!

Magic knickers definately work, and yes it drapes beutifully - I've actually still got it on because it feels so lovely!

with these?

\link{http://www.worth1000.com/entries/33500/33941sebg.jpg\on too?}

so is it a deal
how much is hire pru?

great dress

lol prufrock. think the dress will look great. espeicallyw ith cods underwear

Just had discussion about ball gown with size 10 housemate, she is wearing one of her 3 ballgowns

Will it be ok on 5'3 me?

Will obv wear v.tight fat holding in underwear!

yes cos then you can wear wiht ballet hoes

Backtracking a bit here Smurfgirl but there's a Coast outlet in the factory outlet place in York which isn't that far really from you is it and they have some good deals on last years stuff. Have you had a look in TK Maxx - a bit jumble sale like at times but often have some decent evening stuff.

Totally know where you are coming from - exactly same size as you and also don't do heels. I always play safe and go for black - plus the wrap permanantly fixed to my bingo wing arms!!

DH's school having a leavers prom this year and as he's a Year 11 tutor will be going - really don't want to be sir's frumpy wife!!!

PS those M & S all in one things are wonderful and don't let anything escape!!

Hope you find what you need