Help me find a dress for my 40th birthday

[Minicooper]

Just that really. I'd like something fairly classic - possibly little black dress. It's just for a dinner party at home, but I'd like to feel good. I'm 5'3 and a size 12/14 depending on where I shop. Bit of a tummy after dc.... Help!

I just tried this
www.thewhitecompany.com/clothing/dresses-and-tunics/ruched-waist-jersey-dress--black/

and this
www.thewhitecompany.com/clothing/dresses-and-tunics/drape-jersey-dress--black/

and they looked sooooo terrible - made my biggish boobs look like nothing and my post dc belly look huge....

I'm 5'1 and it was around my knee. It certainly didn't feel like a really short dress, I think it would be only an inch or so above the knee?

I'm so in love with that dress, it is the sort of one that will just go in the wardrobe for years without dating.

Damn my last link was wrong. Should have been this

lynniep, that leopard print dress is fantastic!

I was going for the 'woah' factor. Possibly the 'rooaraaargh' factor. I'm just hoping the seams don't give way (I got it in an 18, but my bottom is very much taking up all the room LOL)

Thanks Thurlow, it might not be too flattering on me then, but I am tempted to order it to try - you've sold it to me!
lynniep yes, it is a fabulous dress. I want that too.
I have never even seen that website - I have found so many new online shops on MN, mixed blessing! I may have to start a 'can I wear leopard print to a wedding?' thread.

LOL. I love Collectif. When I'm in London (which is rare) I try to get to a store and try on all the frocks - not to buy (although I did buy a leopard fur coat last time I was there) but just to try on - they feel so lovely!

Other brands I love which have the retro vintage feel are Voodoo Vixen (cos I model their plus sizes - heh!) Hell Bunny, Lindy Bop, Vivienne of Holloway, Hearts and Roses, Lady V London and Vanity Project by Limb (sorry no links there was just listing off top of my head!)
Aspire Style tend to sell some of these brands as well as others and have some lovely dresses in stock.

Right Lynniep, I'll be off to check those out

Wow, Lynniep - great statement dress - hope you have a ball on Friday and get lots of woahs!

Hee thanks miniC - and I hope you find your perfect dress!

I don't think Phase 8 is frumpy at all, thesaurus. I'd say everyone went to Coast for occasion dresses