Bar mitzvah outfits

[thatsthewayitgoes]

I've been invited to a bar mitzvah in a couple of months. I need a formal outfit for synagogue (was thinking skirt, top, little jacket) and then more of a party outfit for the party. I'm mid-40s; size 10-12; flat chested; 5'4ish. Ideas please. Can't find anything in shops! X

In my (admittedly limited) experience of Jewish celebrations the general vibe is modest over celebratory!

Your skirt / shirt / jacket combo sounds good...! I'm not sure an outfit change is required??

I think I'd go for fairly formal work style dress and possibly jacket for the whole thing.

Maybe watch some later Sex and the City for inspiration from Charlotte

Both your choices sound good.

And definitely an outfit change for the party.

Does the invitation say what dress code for the party? I would expect it to be proper party dress/cocktail dress. I wouldn't expect it to be particularly modest unless you know that the family is very religious. Google some London bar mitzvah photographers. A quick look through their photo galleries would give you an idea.

For the synagogue your outfit sounds appropriate. Smart skirt, with a top that covers your shoulders.

Thanks all. Anyone seen anything suitable in the shops? A brief look round Debenhams didn't inspire me yesterday. Synagogue and party on different days so will need different outfits x

I'd go for Monsoon for the party. Synagogue - anything in navy or black, skirt suit, modest heels. You can most likely put something together from your wardrobe, otherwise the clothing vibe is m&s or maybe Hobbs if you're at a posher synagogue.

Any party dress would work. Does it say what the dress code is ("dress to party", etc)? What's your style and budget? Lipsy occasion dresses through Next are good. This kind of thing:

www.next.co.uk/g262296s2#l62846
www.next.co.uk/gl92048s13

Coast dresses if your budget stretches further.

Fab. Thanks all. Some great places to check out xx