Please could a complete fashion novice get advice on how to style a dress?

[flippinada]

I'm going to a very special do next week, the first time in years and years - my best friend is having a book published and I'm going to the launch . In a burst of optimism and confidence I got a lovely dress but now I'm wondering what on earth to wear with it. I literally can't remember the last time I got dressed up, it's been that long.

You all seem to know what's what so any advice gratefully received - please be kind, I'm not hugely confident about this sort of thing.

Anyway, this is the dress:

www.bravissimo.com/pepperberry/products/dresses/day-dresses/florence-rib-dress/black/pd611blk/?level=2&page=2

For reference, I'm an hourglassy size 14, 5ft 2 inches, if that helps.

Ok, fire away. And thanks in advance!

Love this jacket too. If you felt too casual in it on arrival, you could slip it off and show the dress in all its glory!

Lovely dress! I like the shoes but agree that they're very business like so I think the ankle boots would look great. I would definitely go for a silver bag and jewellery too.

I have to ask Oblomov, where are your sandals from, I love them?!

Thanks all, loads of brilliant ideas and advice - I think I'm going to go for the boots and a silver clutch. Feeling quite excited now :)

This clutch looks gorgeous if you fancy treating yourself and decide against silver. Am a bit in love.

Oooh that's lovely, very tempted..!

I like th idea of a shawl! Those ruby shoo shoes are just gorgeous, don't think I could carry them off though.

Wilburs the shoes are eBay £26.99

m.ebay.co.uk/itm/351758693155?_mwBanner=1 eBay shoes

Hope op had a great time.

I haven't been yet - the event is later this week, but I'll update. I feel much more confident thanks to you lovely lot so thank you :)