please help me sort out a look for a really smart lunch

[notagiraffe]

Off to a champagne reception and lunch with some VIPs. I work from home and live in jeans. I'm 5'4, blonde with pale skin, size 12 pear shape and can only wear fit and flare dresses. Shift dresses make me look like a size 18 matron from a Carry On film.

I was thinking of buying a plain navy fit and flare on the knee dress (The Collection, Debenhams - will link if I can) What to put with it? I'd maybe go for a bright, fitted jacket and matching heels, but what do I know?

Also -nail colour - what would go?

Would love advice from really elegant MNers, as this isn't my usual style but I'd love to get it right.

Just had a look and I, personally, would accessorise with a chunky bright beaded necklace, have my nails painted a classic red.. Or silver jewellery and a pair of bright shoes. Something to liven it up.

I wore this one with a black and white fit and flare dress to a posh afternoon tea recently.

Sounds lovely. Sprocket you don't have a link to your black and white dress do you?

It was a Boden one. I'll have a look.

Can't do links on my iPad, but it's this one.

Oh that's lovely.

I would also say bright accessories would look great. I have some red shoes that I live for that kind of event to brighten up outfits.
And a funky necklace. Have fun!

I would say bright jacket or bright shoes, not both.

www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-SALON-Premium-Embroidered-And-Embellished-Mini-Pencil-Dress/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=5992964&istCompanyId=6f061ed0-7427-4b6c-bb90-987c0bd08468&istItemId=aipqqqaaw&istBid=t&affid=12252

I think something like this would be good for balancing your shape and also colours are great for your colouring and good for spring/summer.

Just to suggest something different from fit and flare.

Ha links not working on my iPad either! Forget my thought

I have that Boden dress too and it is a great addition to my working wardrobe - smart and comfortable