Nominated for an award... Desperately need a dress

[Iloveredvelvetcake]

Hi everyone,

Longtime lurker who loves this section and now calling on the collective wisdom of the MN. I have been nominated for an industry award with a posh do on the 24th October at a 5 star hotel.

I haven't a clue what to wear!!! I've lost a bit of confidence as I'm going through a divorce.

I'm 5'4, dark-skinned so can wear most colours, although tempted to go for blacks, aubergines etc... On the other hand, I think a fabulous red dress could be just the ticket too.

I'm a curvy size 14 with a bit of a tummy.

I quite like this M&S dress for starters but need some more inspiration.

www.marksandspencer.com/Collection-Side-Bead-Embellished-Dress/dp/B00COVYP68?ie=UTF8&ref=sr_1_28&nodeId=533512031&sr=1-28&qid=1381599514

Thanks for reading.

That is a nice dress and wow, very cheap.

I am not sure if it would swamp you as the model is probably seven foot tall?

Tis very very dull from M&S and I think we can do better.

Google phase8 and go to dresses.....there are loads of fabulous dresses there.

I cannot link as am on ipad but think you will find something.

Sleeveless?

The blue against your dark skin I think would look great and the top means you can wear a really good bra underneath without straps showing

www.debenhams.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prod_10701_10001_003010131860_-1

Red

www.debenhams.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prod_10701_10001_008010142303_-1

I have no idea but am very excited for you!

Why not go to one of those glam rent-a-frock places? They can advise and match up accessoried too.

Not sure if colour a bit dull

www.debenhams.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prod_10701_10001_008010140297_-1

This is one I would wear as I love dark blue

www.debenhams.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prod_10701_10001_008010841447_-1

Oh I think it's very nice - as Sunday said will it need very high heels?

www.debenhams.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prod_10701_10001_008010161247_-1

Feel obliged to offer this which I am desperate to buy but have no occasional wear!

Excuse my rudeness, I forgot to say, well done!

Always a great achievement to be nominated for something and also for your hard work/talent/skill to be appreciated and recognised.

Thanks so much ladies for the well wishes and the excellent links. A great start and lots of inspiration. I'm going to spend a good few hours browsing these properly. I'll make sure to report back on what I decide on. Thanks again!

Some practical points that may help to decide:
You may have to walk up (wobbly) steps to collect your award so make sure the skirt of whatever you choose allows you to stride up them confidently - not too tight.
Make sure shoes are relatively easy to walk in - your table may be away from the stage and you may have to wiggle through other tables in the gloom.
Don't go for black - it won't look great in the inevitable photos. Go for a bright colour so you stand out as presumably they'll be sending pics to your industry press.
No silk - if you're nervous and sweat, it will show through.
Get a blow dry or have your hair put up. It will make you feel and look more groomed.
HTH - well done and good luck.

Wow RatherNot, great tips! You've done this before obviously thank you x

Congratulations!
How about the pied a terre slinky knot dress?

I'd get my make up done properly too (but then I'm not very confident at doing make up, and I'm sure you are probably much better than I am) as when you get your photos taken with your award, the flashes/lights can wash you out!

Mind your alcohol consumption (I've seen a few recipients wobble up on stage after a couple of glasses of fizz) and if there's food, check for spinach between the teeth!

Will you have to do a speech too? This is very exciting - you must be so proud!

Congratulations! Good luck, and I hope you have a wonderful time. What's your budget?

Interesting, red, and very flattering

Not sure whether this would suit - I love it though

This is nice

More expensive, but...

Nice Issa dress in a more interesting but similar style, but a bit pricey...

Lovely, but again quite pricey...

Hi everyone,

Thank you so much to everyone for all your suggestions, links. I tried on LOADS of dresses. Spent a few good hours in Debenhams!

But I have surprised myself by opting for this little red number. What do you think?

www.wallis.co.uk/en/wluk/product/red-necklace-maxi-dress-2225698

Also any shoes, accessories suggestions gratefully received. Nervous but excited about a big night out...

Ohhhh lovely!!! Very glam.

Hair and nails and you're all set.

Update:
Thanks to all the lovely ladies who responded to my post. I WON!!!

Over the moon ecstatic...

Thanks again.

Congratulations!!! Well done . I hope you had a lovely time!