Arrgghh Desperate Party Help

[astridforty]

Ladies of Style and Beauty, hoping you can help...

In my wisdom, back in August we decided to book an engagement party - end of November, function room in country house hotel, 100 ish people. I'm now in full blown panic mode over my outfit.

I'm 35, my first 'attention on me' party so really really want to look fab. I've sorted hair and nails but just not sure about a frock.

I want my arms covered, I'm a size 16, bit of a belly and not much waist :-( I was looking at this one
www.little-mistress.com/clothing-c9/black-heavily-embellished-panel-dress-p4063

But friends just said I'd be better with more of a nipped in waist to create some shape.

Help! Suggestions really appreciated

Anndd appears I can't do links..

Although I don't totally agree with your friends, I'm not at all keen on that dress.

What's your budget?

If you like that then you may like this, I think it looks a little short on the model but it depends on your height I love the sleeves!

www.joythestore.com/louche-luxe-yorba-sequin-dress

About £200 for dress

www.very.co.uk/ax-paris-curve-plunge-neck-midi-dress-with-long-sleeves/1600010809.prd

A friend of mine wore this recently and looked amazing.

bit over budget

French Connection

And again

Maybe?

Lurex- also comes in velvet]

I like this too.
www.hobbs.co.uk/product/display?productID=0215-5657-9045L00&productvarid=0215-5657-9045L00-MIDNIGHT-12&refpage=dresses

Although maybe you’d prefer something cream/ivory/gold tones to highlight you as the bride

www.phase-eight.com/fcp/product/phase-eight/dresses/colby-beaded-dress/203226105

Like this

lace

How about this Coast dress. Out of stock in your/our size unfortunately but you may be able to source it elsewhere.

Actually, I've just found it in Debenhams.

If you're ok showing your arms- your second link suggests that you are - how about this?

I might be mistaken, but I think Holly is wearing the dress I linked to on This Morning today.

Not an expensive label, but saw this dress today and thought about this thread. It reminded me of the shape of the first one you linked too and has long sleeves, seeing as you said you'd rather not have your arms uncovered.

I think it's a really classic look that's hard to go wrong with.

This one with control pants?

Ditto?

I really like this but it is sold out in your size.

Too bridal? It also comes in green. (12 US size).

On the other hand, if you really like the dress in your OP, then wear, regardless of what anyone else thinks you 'should' be wearing.

I may be barking up the wrong tree but I was admiring this earlier

www.baukjen.com/uk/m/shop/baukjen/dresses/occasion-dresses/ambury-lace-midi-dress-black-lace.html

But nowhere to wear it !
Their dresses are very flattering.

Hmmm link not working

www.baukjen.com/uk/m/shop/baukjen/dresses/occasion-dresses/ambury-lace-midi-dress-black-lace.htm

I received the Baukjen catalogue today and thought that was nice.

I've just found This reduced Gina Bacconi dress which is another understated version of the one in the original OP.

I keep finding them because I'm a similar size to the op and looking for something to wear to a formal lunch at a posh hotel, but haven't a clue what I'm looking for. There are some beautiful dresses around, but like you - I have nowhere to wear one.

Love [http://www.johnlewis.com/kaliko-lace-and-jersey-dress/p1939755?colour=Navy this Kalico one]] and it would enhance a waistline with the cross-over midriff.

Funny thing is, I never wear dresses myself, because I have truly shocking legs. I do enjoy browsing them online and daydreaming though.

Aargh, link fail.

Love this Kalico one and it would enhance a waistline with the cross-over midriff.

Don't know if you're still looking, but this fits your criteria.