Outfit needed for this friday

[Fayrazzled]

I'm going out with a group of friends this Friday and need a non-frumpy Christmas outfit. Please help me! I'm 38, 5'5, size 14-16 (bigger than I would like). The outfit needs to be festive, reasonably smart but not black-tie or cocktail formal.

I've gone cross eyed searching the internet. I don't know whether I need a top and trousers or a dress but nothing I like would suit me.

I don't have much time to go shopping but am happy to order several things online and send back. I might be able to get to a real shop on Friday.

Please help! Many thanks.

If you're out with friends I'd say go for trousers and a really nice top. Particularly since people only really see your top half when you are sitting down or standing in a crowded bar. I find dresses a bit formal for nights out with the girls in winter.

I'm a fan of coated jeans for evening. You should be able to get hold of some pretty easily. Wallis have some trousers with faux leather fronts but stretchy backs, which look quite slimming. Are your arms OK? If so, how about a sleeveless top with a bit of sparkle? You sound like you could carry off a v neck with aplomb (unlike me. I've got nothing to put in one). Add a glam necklace or earrings, plus bracelets and some glam shoes, ta dah!

www.newlook.com/shop/womens/dresses/teal-floral-lace-belted-skater-dress-_293412547

With black tights and shoes and chunky gold necklace?

Many thanks for your help. I have ordered some black trousers and coated jeans from Warehouse and a couple of dresses. Fingers crossed!