Anyone in the mood for dress finding?

[takeyourdog]

I'm nearly 50, 5'9 and a big 12. Ok legs, small bust, fair arms, no bum and suffer from 'middle age thick middle'. Olive skin, blond bleached hair.
I've always looked ok in shifts but I think my changing shape might be suited to something else.

I need a smart day outfit, not a wedding but similar dress code.
Usually I'm very safe, navy shift etc but the ones I've seen tend to look very officey.

Healthy budget for the right thing.

So far I've seen this, is it nice? Major confidence crisis

That's a nice dress and sounds like it would flatter your figure - I am not a fan of the colour (I look really pasty in nude/pale pink) but if it suits you get it - lovely

Thanks Faux, I've no idea if it would be flattering I nearly always wear navy. I suppose I could order it and send it back.

What colour shoes, bag, hat?

Any opinions on this?

I really like the first dress

The second looks a bit office wear to me, but that might work well depending on exactly what the event is.

Or this, clutching at straws

The first dress is lovely, I would pair it with either nude or black shoes same for a bag.

Third dress is a bit Greek widow for me

Thank you. I have nice navy shoes or pretty tan sandals.
My only designer bag is tan.
Could I do nude shoes & tan bag. What about a cardi/jacket and possibly hat colours?

Not sure of your style as your three choices are all quite different but have a look at Finery for things which are in a similar vein to your first choice, which incidentally I think is the nicest by far.

Here are some others for you to consider - difficult to say but it might be worth considering a stronger colour if navy is your go-to...

biba
navy/nude
spotty
floral Fenn Wright Mason
pink Damsel in a Dress

Mini, I don't know my style either since my shape's changed.
Faux, I love the satin appliqué but I've got very long legs and my knees are not attractive.

www.oasis-stores.com/ie/sale/dresses/ruffle-cold-shoulder-dress/063240.html?dwvar_063240_color=48&position=1&cgid=sale-dresses#&start=1&categoryID=sale-dresses

www.oasis-stores.com/ie/sale/dresses/magnolia-ombre-pencil-dress/062415.html?dwvar_062415_color=00&position=18&cgid=sale-dresses#page=2&start=18&categoryID=sale-dresses

www.oasis-stores.com/ie/sale/dresses/short-plain-midi-dress/062615.html?dwvar_062615_color=62&position=20&cgid=sale-dresses#page=2&start=20&categoryID=sale-dresses

The first dress is beautiful

I've found 2 more on the Phase Eight sale page

red/ivory
green floral
khaki stripe
blue print
coast floral

This is nicely modern, would show off your good arms and hide your middle.

The red Phase Eight dress is the one. Tan sandals & bag will work.
Daytime black is work or funerals.