That's it really! I'm from a very rural area, we have no shops and all shop online! Literally no idea what is in fashion! Only decent shop within reach is monsoon. For the first time since dc we are off to a pre-christmas drinks party. On the invitation it just says 7.30 'drinks', which, to me, is the smart end of smart/casual, skirt and a pretty top kind of thing. But verbally we were told it will go on for ages and is black tie.
Pre dc's black tie would have meant a LBD to me. I still have one... but will I look over dressed, or frumpy, do I need some sort of cardigan.... tights.... urgh! The dress I have is ancient monsoon one (like 1998!). black rough silk, just above the knee, pencil ish non skimpy skirt from empire line top, slightly rouched and fitting over the boobs with thin straps with sequins on. I am a small size 8.