Help! Dress for Black Tie - is this frumpy?!

[EvaBeaver]

Hello all! I have only recently come across the S&B board, so many helpful tips already So I was hoping for some of your wise advice please...

I am off to a black tie event next month, and need something suitably knockout to wear.

It's a business-related event & I will have to say a few words. So I need to feel as confident as possible!

What do we think of this? uk.dvf.com/dvf-julianna-lace-long-wrap-dress/D213301P15B.html?dwvar_D213301P15B_size=0&dwvar_D213301P15B_color=MIDNI#cgid=wrap-shop-fashion

(Would hire from www.girlmeetsdress.com/ rather than buying)

Do we think this would look as good as the model makes it? DVF dresses have made me feel a bit frumpy in the past And not sure if the lace would add to this feeling.

But I do love it.

If it helps, I am:

• 32 years old
• 5'7 / size 8 to 10
• fair
• narrow shouldered & small boobed with chunky thighs.

Would really appreciate any thoughts!

I quite like it but am around 15 years older. I think if I were early thirties I would not go for floor length. Depends what industry you work in though.

Have seen dreadful reviews of girl meets dress both on here and elsewhere online dresses not turning up or arriving dirty and smelly. Better to buy then selling if you like it.

Thanks MincePie - maybe floor length is not the way to go. Hmm.

Just been soooo long since I went to a proper Black Tie event, I'm really struggling!

That's interesting about the Girl Meets Dress reviews too, I've used them before & been impressed. Hope it's not gone downhill

www.phase-eight.com/fcp/product/phase-eight/dresses/sunto-maxi-dress/202972442

www.phase-eight.com/fcp/product/phase-eight/dresses/petite-cindy-dress/202833313

www.missselfridge.com/en/msuk/product/dress-shop-299048/view-all-299126/fran-maxi-dress-4148193?bi=1&ps=40

I think DVF/Wrap dresses aren't necessary for your age/figure. They're popular with slightly older women who need the flattering cut but you sound like you could get away with anything

Thanks nottheOP - love the second Phase Eight dress you linked to.

Completely get what you're saying about the DVF/wrap style. I'm not the most body confident so perhaps that's why they appeal!

Will have a good browse this eve...

Sorry can't do links
But some nice ones on john lewis website
www.johnlewis.com/gina-bacconi/brand

Forgot pic!

What's your budget for either hire or buy? What colours do you like? What kind of styles apart from lace or wrap dresses?

Thanks Justa - there is a John Lewis in town. Just had a look & they offer hour long personal stylist appointments. Think I will have to venture down!

MincePie, I'd like to keep it to under £250 - but would happily spend more, for a classic dress that will get a decent amount of wear.

My style is very classic. Some would probably say dull I live in skinny jeans, long line tops & soft blazers, usually in navy/white/black/grey. Mainly from Zara, JCrew & Ralph Lauren (when it's on sale!).

I like simple cuts, and I'm not big on bling / frills.

Thanks for all the suggestions!

Have a good look at the dresses on the JL website before you go. Look at names like Ghost, Adrianna Papell and Gina Bacconi. You have a reasonable budget. Try not to confuse black tie with red carpet if that makes sense. Oh and come back and report what you eventually buy- am always looking for ideas

Thanks MincePie - I know what you mean! Have booked the JL stylist for next week. Will report back