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?

You need a clever dress from Diva Catwalk. Super flattering and they go in the machine.

www.divacatwalk.com/dresses-c14

Thanks everyone. I don’t mean to sound like I’m moaning too much. I’m just feel very low in confidence having not dressed up for almost 11yrs and looking at DH and thinking his body looks pretty similar to what it was when we met whereas I’ve had 4 children and feel like I barely recognise myself. For years I’ve turned down these types of things but this one is important and I want to go. Right, enough of that nonsense on the S&B threads. Sorry

Something like this? With fab shoes and earrings.
m.johnlewis.com/whistles-elvina-tie-waist-jumpsuit-black/p3358270

I wore a Whistles jumpsuit to a black tie wedding. I felt really elegant. The cut was lovely. I ran out of time to get it altered but would definitely recommend having it tailored to fit like a glove.

I am 52 and a size 12 with proper curves, but toned except dreadful bingo wings.
I have the Fatale in dark green velvet and the monte carlo which is same, with sleeves... They are boned in the bodice so extra help for the tummy control

always

I have another dress in mind

Again phase 8 beautiful and i have seen a number of ladies of all different sizes and its been very flattering on all of them

Its black

Ill see if i can find it

You’re all so lovely! Even if I haven’t yet found a dress, Thank you for giving me the confidence to at least try.

I’m a similar size and height - similar concerns about my body size too - and wore this. It was very, very flattering

www.ebay.co.uk/itm/No-1-Jenny-Packham-Womens-Navy-Selena-Evening-Dress-From-Debenhams/263305655217?hash=item3d4e3d73b1:m:mFeShrUSFv6_zLebYI6uNcg

Got it

It drapes well

And normal human beings look great in it...model just looks miserable

This is one I was trying to describe, it even has a slightly ruched bit accross waist to disguise tummy

Oh Mumatoo, I love that jumpsuit but can’t find it in stock anywhere.

Try Carolyn Keyes in Worthing for dress hire.
I would second a jumpsuit. They can look really glamorous with the right shoes and accessories and they're lovely to wear. Just wear some control underwear underneath.

I like that too, Rufus but can’t see the name.

Thanks, jellybean, it’s a lovely dress but I want to try and avoid knee length, think I’d like maxi.

Yes, TeeBee, I really liked that Whistles one but can’t find a 14 anywhere.

My daughter got a dress for her graduation that was a slip dress and then had a net/lace one over it with lots of nice embroidery on. It had long sleeves that were net. Very glamorous and also sounds like something that might fit your bill.

Oooh, Rock, I like that too. Will look closer.

I attended quite a few ball events last year and I bought every dress from Asos.

I’m 5ft 4 prob a size 14 and ordered loads and loads that I liked the look of (free delivery) tried them all on at home and sent the ones I didn’t keep back.

They are reasonably priced from 80 upwards and have loads of different styles.

I am 40 so not young, I had my hair and make up and done and honestly I felt amazing, you will look great.

Always
www.chichifashion.org/whistles-black-womens-dress-elvina-tie-waist-jumpsuit-sale-2347.html

Its the AVALINE TIE DRESS

Its in a 12 which should be fine on you

If you give customer services a ring they may be able to get a 14 but its very swishy so I doubt youd need it

The phase 8 maxi you posted (with sleeves) is stunning. Something simple is the way to go.

If you've a 400 budget (didnt look at the price) and there's money left Get some decent underwear too also Hair and makeup done if it stretches to that.

Ariella has some interesting dresses. This one is quite striking Blue Silk Maxi

This Ariella dress has ruching at the waist which is very flattering chiffon cape dress

Ok, I’ve ordered the jumpsuit (thanks for finding it, Mumatoo) and the phase eight Faber dress I linked to above. I’ll try both and see if either is a goer.
Thank you all so much, you’ve all been brilliant!

I'm similar shape to you but taller and have this
http://www.ghost.co.uk/salma-dress-navy1-dw64ca-k10

I wear one of those sucky in body suits underneath and it definitely helps with the lumps.

Have a lovely time

I would go: velvet black cross dress with long sleeve.

Velvet very forgiving and gives a luxe/sexy feel. Cross will make the most of a good bust.

Like this from Diane von Furstenberg...
uk.dvf.com/julian-long-velvet-wrap-dress/D897802O16.html

The pretty dress company do have full length dresses but not with sleeves :(
I am only 5ft3... On a good day with a prevailing wind... So they are mid calf on me which would have been typical for 1940 's which they are based on... But on you OP would be knee length