I’m 47, size 12-14 with a muffin top. Can you find me a ball gown that doesn’t make me want to cry?

[AlwaysOneSock]

As the title says really. I’ve been invited to a black tie event/ball taking place in February. I’d really like to go but very body conscious at the moment. I’m 5’’6 and naturally pear shaped. Was always size 10 curvy of hip but with washboard tummy before kids. Now best described as size 13 with hideous muffin top and bingo wings.
I don’t expect to look stunning but I’d like to look as less frumpy as possible.
Can anyone help?

Thanks for all the eBay suggestions. I’ll def have a good look.

doris, yes, I think if I hit the gym and just tone slightly and lose 3 or 4lbs I’ll probably feel better. Ditto, getting my hair done! Thanks

Oh that is a rubbish photo

I wonder if this style would suit? (sorry, Aussie site and also from the tall range... Just for inspiration )

m.asos.com/au/asos-tall/asos-tall-pleated-maxi-tea-dress/prd/8754244?clr=red&SearchQuery=&cid=8799&gridcolumn=1&gridrow=3&gridsize=2&pge=1&pgesize=72&totalstyles=7

I'm now browsing formal wear cause I love it...
How about something like this:
m.johnlewis.com/adrianna-papell-sequin-jersey-dress-black/p3378520

Cap sleeves, defined neckline, some nice detailing, buy it in a size up, get it taken in to fit you perfectly, pair of spanx to add confidence and I reckon you'll look drop dead gorgeous.

Rufus, I like that. If it was black I’d be more keen. Navy just doesn’t suit me and the green would draw attention to me.

The dress is gorgeous. OP, listen to yourself. You are running yourself down. You sound curvy not a complete frump. I would go for something with a bit of sleeve and showing a bit but not loads of cleavage. A bit of a bias cut is flattering and don't go for too much volume. Buy black as you can wear it again or navy. Invest in good underwear. Get your hair done and a bit of sparkly jewellery - costume is fine.
Go out there and knock em dead.

Rage, I think that’s very pretty if you’re young and skinny but would look really really fugly on a middle aged fat girl like me. My 20yr old self would have worn it with flip flops.

Hmmm doesn’t meet the criteria on arms but this dress is beautiful and would hide muffin top etc. It will be difficult to find a ball gown with arms so could think of a shawl etc

m.ralphlauren.co.uk/#/product/99360551?_k=fmkt9q

I like the phase 8 dress.

always

I prefer black but it was such a lovely fit. Its not a very dark navy...more blue

I got lots of compliments when i wore it

If it was in black i would buy a few in each size

Thank you, Mike. In my head I’d love to just look classy and curvy in a sassy black dress. I think I’ve lost all confidence and I know I’m about 2.5stone heavier than I was pre children and far, far flabbier as I don’t exercise anywhere near as much as I did. I haven’t worn anything dressy for about 11yrs.

The Ralph Lauren dress is stunning but shapes like tea dress make me look enormous.

The John Lewis one is beautiful. Stop being down on yourself. Confidence is half the battle.

Raishma does some lovely kaftan dresses and long sleeve evening dresses, some of which have chiffon bits to cover the arms.

Hm, I'd be thinking Westwood

Do you think this sort of thing would hide my muffin top?

www.phase-eight.com/fcp/product/phase-eight/shop-all-dresses/hermione-layered-maxi-dress/204115502

How about:

www.debenhams.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prod_10701_10001_54488+046682350_-1

sparkly and pulls you in at the waist, skims muffin top

^^Link fail for 2nd dress, here it is here

Could you send a body shot of yourself from front and side with you face out of sight?
Then everyone could look for a dress for you.

Your hair and eye and skin colouring sound really lovely together, and your figure seems not to be a lost cause at all!

Or this?

www.phase-eight.com/fcp/product/phase-eight/shop-all-dresses/faber-maxi-dress/204321050

What about something like blue's dress with a bolero over it?

Stop doing yourself down OP - NOW. I'd be delighted to be 47, 5' 6” and size 12 - 14. (Not keen on the muffin top but nothing that some punitive underwear couldn’t cope with). Why not book yourself an appointment with a Personal Shopper at somewhere like Debenham's? (Free, I think) Then enjoy your evening.

I’d rather avoid a jacket as it’s an evening event and I don’t want to feel like I’m a bridesmaid. I’m actually quite liking that phase eight Faber maxi dress but worry it’s too plain.

That phase 8 dress you posted is gorgeous. Looks very structured so I imagine would create a fab looking silhouette.
I think you are going to look amazing in most of these dresses. I think, and this is meant kindly, you just haven't gotten used to a different body shape? Trust me, there is lots out there, and I imagine based on your description of yourself that you will look incredibly striking in formal wear.

Theprettydress company... Absolutely fabulous, whatever you do, do not be tempted to go free flowing type style.. You'll look bigger. Go for some wow with a fitted style. The pretty dress company are made with stretch velvet so very forgiving and I found they really smoothed over luns and muffiny bits