Short, wide - need an outfit for office Christmas do

[KiteyDelighty]

I am reasonably senior, mid40s and needing an outfit for a work christmas do in London's West End. All the other women are mid20s, slim, stylish things and I would love to find an outfit that doesn't scream middle-aged frumpy mum from the regional office. The do is at a bar/restaurant/club. I am 5ft2, size 16 used to be hourglass i still have a waist but also a spare tyre. I struggle with high heels too. I have got as far as thinking drapey dress and getting a blowdry. Autumn colouring with natural red hair. Any inspiration? I have a hobbs/phase eight budget and no time for browsing.

Anyone?

Placemarking; I'd like to chime in on this but am too busy right this minute. Hope you get other replies!

www.johnlewis.com/phase-eight-osaka-print-dress-navy/p3307379

This is a "mini" length which should be knee length on a more petite person.

www.johnlewis.com/phase-eight-taylor-pleat-front-dress-black/p3300694

Could jazz this up with some bold accessories and a wrap?
www.johnlewis.com/chesca-lily-rose-print-jersey-dress-black-multi/p3273930

Might be a bit long?

Thanks so much! That first dress looks very promising. Second one less good (arms aren't great and being so pale against black means they would stand out rather). Second one looka a bit long I agree and also a bit weddingy I wonder?

I love the second dress! Going by your description I think it would be very flattering on you.
Classy black court shoes and fake tan your arms. (Recommend Vita Liberata - foolproof)
Bracelet and a statement necklace. I think this would be fab!

Is something like this any good? - velvet cowl neck?
www.poetryfashion.co.uk/product-VR26-POEDS/dresses-skirts/silk-velvet-cowl-neck-dress.htm

Drapey abstract print
www.poetryfashion.co.uk/product-VP51-POEDS/dresses-skirts/printed-dress.htm

I usually try to aim for simple dresses in this situation and then make the details around the edges work harder; so yes blowdry if that makes you feel at your best, and take time to get the makeup (if you like wearing any) exactly right (new lipstick!), and actually a good new bra always makes me feel like my posture is effortlessly better and more elegant for swanning around socially.

This might look nice with red hair. Tailored fit could also help make you figure look a bit neater.

Super thanks. I hadnt seen Poetry dresses before, I like the velvet one but might het a bit hot for evening. And you are right about the details. A good evening bag and necklace needed!

The blue tailored dress is lovely - pretty much what I wear in the office normally but possibly a bit too daywear.

OP how about a stunning trouser suit with killer accessories? (Sorry no examples but there are lots of variations about)

Hang on, found one, if someone tells me how to post a photo please?

Ok figured it out

I love that jumpsuit but I suspect I would need to lop 12 inches off the bottom

You could get that done easily enough. I am similar age/body to you and I would feel amazing in something like that ;) a mid or wedge heel would also suit it-happy hunting, you've got plenty of time til the do!

May be a bit towards the budget end for you OP, but I've been sale surfing/shopping and saw these...

Did you say you are based in a regional office? As in my experience people don't tend to get 'dressy' dressed up in London as much as they do in other places.

I think you risk looking 'frumpy' or standing out too much if your outfit is overkill. I would keep it simple and definitely not 'wedding-y', not trying too hard iyswim?

Can you get a fitted simple top in a lovely material, good trousers and a lovely jacket to be the star of the outfit. Low heels and fab jewellery. You want to be comfortable and effortlessly stylish.