Outfit for Xmas 'do'

[doglover]

I'm a tall, size 20, blonde, 42 year old! I'd love some advice about an oufit to wear for the usual round of Xmas celebrations this year. (Fortunately, the 4 events will consist of different people but are all the dinner'n'dance type....... nothing really formal.) I've never been this big before and feel very self-conscious but still want to have a dance with everyone else. My tummy feels huge so I'd definitely need something to disguise this feature! I'm a relatively limited budget but know there are some miracle-workers out there.........please help!

please!

Thanks, guys. What an amazing response

I'm sure someone will be along soon doglover.I can't do links so not much use.
have you looked at evans I got their xmas leaflet today and there was some nice stuff there.
How about a nice skirt and cami with a nice shrug or evans have a nice deep v top to go over top.
I'm already sounding crap aren't I
I'm wearing the same black bias cut dress I've worn for the last two years but this yr am putting a weird silver/grey shiny startrek shrug on top.

Thanks,ggirl. You've restored my faith in MN!!!

Hi doglover - just spotted your thread. Was supposed to be heading for bed but couldn't leave you here alone.
What sort of things do you feel comfortable in? There's no point in paying out loads of money for something that you'll wear once, feel uncomfortable in and then never wear again.
Decide if you'd like:
A dress - do you like your arms to be on show?
Top and Trousers or a skirt?
Shoes or boots.

This top looks really nice and would go well with black trousers.

top

doglover - I got an outfit from the plus range at M&S the other day which might fit the bill for you.

this top, and a long black skirt which doesn't seem to be on their website .

oops wrong link but if you go to tops - smart tops it's the red ring detail jersey top

Evans have some nice dresses in, for example here which might fit the bill. If not, what sort of price did you have in mind, and what colours suit you?

Have you tried e bay btw? they have some great bargains

actually I like that red top myself - and I need something for my work xmas do - might nip into town and try it on at the weekend.

Have you tried Denenhams or DP as they both go up to size 20?

ideas on here

this is rather gorgeous

this also from Monsoon

Worth a good gander at their website, they have lots of sizes in stock. Veronica dress would be flattering if they've got it in your size, as it takes focus away from tummy. My yearly choice was the Mia dress (the chartreuse one).

and this

LOL- I think we speak the same dress langauge Boris!

This is mine but it's in a size 20 too, and I would recommend it for being very flattering- well it gave me some shape which is a miracle LOL!

and finally this....I actually tried this on the other day, it didnt suit me, but, its stunning

No that didn't suit me either (colour) but is a gorgeous dress nonetheless

OOOh i was going to post that one too!!!!

Btw...I was posting as BorisesBush

Oh QV - I saw you on another thread and thought it actually was Boris!

Trouble with Monsoon is that practically all of their (very gorgeous) dresses are strapless, so no good for me at all (huge chest - can't get strapless bras), but it's not my thread, so who cares?!

I tend to need to wear cap sleeve or long sleeve dresses because of my round shoulders. I agree that they do have loads of gorgeous strapless ones, but still plenty of stunning alternatives.

Simply Be have some nice looking stuff - this one looks good, especially in the teal colour (click on the 'enlarge pic' to see it), and the draping etc will help hide stomach.

Thanks everyone! I've just finished watching 'Torchwood' and, returning to the computer, have found all your brilliant responses! I'm off to town tomorrow for a mass try-on session! I'll keep you infomed!

I tend to avoid strapless for a different reason (completely flat chested- does anyone actually feel comfortable in them???) but you can always add a shrug.

remember when working out budgets- if the dress is going to do for 4 events then you times the amount you can afford by 4 to gett he final sending limit

No????????

oops

Here is the update as promised yesterday! Tried on loads of outfits, gradually whittling down to a couple of favourite. Ended up with a dress from Evans (looked totally insignificant on the hanger but felt great once on) which is black, empire-line with a sparkly V neck....... can't do links, sorry! Absolute bargain at £35 and excellent advice from staff. Thanks again, everyone.

Glad you found something you like doglover.
Now you have to add the MN Christmas meet up to your list of engagements so that we can all see it!