How does a nearly 50 year old do beach party chic?

[cutsthemustard]

Sunny beach destination in February.
One evening there's a dinner on the beach. Looking at the online images all the partygoers are size 8 models with swishy hair and teeny tiny play suits or strappy dresses.
I'm middle aged, size 12, 5'9" and am not known for my gleaming shimmery limbs.
The Monsoon Kaftan from 1989 and Havianas won't do will they?
Please help me not be the British frump.

My only stylish possession is a pair of very gorgeous sunglasses.

I would do a maxi dress or sarong over my swimsuit, big sunglasses, and massive brimmed hat.

I would get a blowdry for when I took the hat off and would consider fake tan and would paint my toe nails (I don't bother with my finger nails).

I would accessorise with a cocktail or 2, inhale deeply and smile a lot. It sounds nice!

Thanks here, I do have a maxi dress but might look for a new one. Is there any style that's flattering for a thick middle?
Blow dry won't be possible due to location but I could have a bright pedi before I go. I struggle with hats on planes, but I could just carry one on board.

I wouldn't do a maxi dress! Do a sundress. You're only a size 12 and you're tall. What about a strappy sundress? what are your shoulders and arms like?

agree with accessorising with cocktails. After a couple you won't care what you look like and you'll be dazzling them all with your wit.

I once was on a boat in the Galápagos Islands for a week and one of the other guests was beach chic every night! She was a banker. However, the look was wafty lightweight kaftan and statement necklace with gold bangles. I think there are specialist beachwear shops that sell them.

If you can afford it - Melissa Odabash. If not bleue.co.uk have cheaper options. Elle-est-grece.com advertise in Conde Nast Traveller so may have something suitable.

Thank you. Had a look at Melissa O and Bleue but a bit beyond my budget.
I have good shoulders but my upper arms aren't perfect, however once I've had the cocktail accessories I won't care.
Where would I find sun dresses online at this time of year?

Ha I too am hoping to be heading to the sun in the next few weeks. I am forties and also tall, size 14. Next have some stuff and Asos. Bit random but Brand Alley have a Liz Hurley sale on at the moment and some silk sarongs were 22 quid and affordable bikinis.

I have spent a lot of my life overseas and at chichi beach clubs. Don't be put off by the youth. As long as you avoid the Mariah Carey route you'll look great!

Mariah Carey look
Thanks, I'll have a look