Is this dress terribly dated?

[Polkadot1974]

I’ve a gala dinner to go to with work. I’m insignificant in that I’ll just “be there” but don’t want to look like shit. Nor can I afford anything new. I bought two new (well second hand) eBay frocks which don’t fit or suit so I’m loathe to buy anything else online. I can go to to max tomorrow but that’s it. Time run out. I got this at Coast 12 years ago. Silk. Pleated bit at front and satiny silk straps and longer tie. Be honest. Will it look awful and if not, what shoes please? Thanks very much in advance - honestly. I need your help!

I'd wear black tights (15 dernier-ish) with that - I think nude would be very ageing. Can we see a pic of you wearing the other dress so we can compare?!

I think the other dress looks nicer

Can we see the first dress on? I think the first one is nicer tbh

First dress is better IMO although if we could see it on that'd be a fairer comparison.

Agree that I like the first dress better

I wouldn't do open toed shoes at this time of year - if you do, then no tights!!

I love the new dress but like to see the other one on too

In my pjs now but will try it on and put a pic up. I was thinking sheer black tights but colleague said nude

I was intrigued to see what it looked like. I don’t like either very much now. Damn you Christmas cheese!

I like the lace top one.

Lace dress with opaques.

Neither do your lovely figure justice! Please dont wear tights... tan if needed.

Lace for sure

Lace dress with black tights.

The new dress looks good x

I like the new dress now. Like the sleeves and it does look more modern.

Lace one
The other one needs binning love

Black sheer tights.

I know what you’re saying. The slight bias cut to the black/ cream just gets horribly stretched and the lace is a bit shapeless. But what shape would work? I’m so short and dumpy right now. I’m doing SW but it won’t work by next week. Rah! Why did I let myself get so plump? Anything anyone can find with quick delivery at £50 or lower? Maybe I’ll get room service and feign illness on party night. I’m in uniform the other evenings at the conference so no real clothing requirements. I’ve accepted I’ll look crap then

The lace one is nicer on. You look lovely.

The first dress looked nicer on the hanger - I didn't realise the black bits were only semi attached, it looked like just a dress with two colours.

The first one brings your shape out better but not keen on the front panel but might just be angle your at.

I like the lace one.

Thanks. First dress I think would be good on a tall willowy lady and was better on my thinner self. It is all one piece but I was trying to take a face hiding selfie.
Is the lace “good enough “ now you can see my dreadful pale doughy body. I’m so cross to look so squishy.

The lace is lovely and once you've accessorised and you're made up you'll look terrific.