Hotel dress rules - what do I wear?? "gentlemen should wear formal jackets and ties, ladies should be dressed in accordance with this"

[SargeantAngua]

We're going to London for a couple of nights for my grandma's birthday, staying somewhere with these dress rules in all public areas! What does this mean for a lady - especially one who uses a mobility scooter to get around so comfort/fit is a bit different. (DDad booked it - I don't even know whether the place, an old London club, is fully accessible. Next thing to tackle...) I'm 34 and size 8-10 if that helps.

I normally wear tunics but assume they aren't really suitable (maybe a tidy one with new non bobbly leggings??). I still have basic black and grey Next trousers from work pre illness. Do you think I'd get away with them and a plain top and tidy cardigan? I have no jackets and no desire to shell out really. Plus they would not sit well or be comfortable while sitting all the time. I have a dress for the evening birthday meal but that's all. Women are allowed trousers now at least - they weren't until a few years ago.

Any advice greatly appreciated!

I'd make funding out if the venue is fully accessible a priority.

Then, maybe your smart trousers with small heels (if possible on a mobility scooter? Sorry, if not) and a lovely silk blouse and jewellery and clutch bag.

Finding out, sorry!

Sorry, I completely forgot about this. A nice blouse and jewellery sound like a great idea, thanks.

Heels work on the scooter but not off it so my flat ballet pump type things will have to do.

DDad has seen the room apparently and accessibility should be fine.

Hmm... there are lots of different types of cardigans. Mine are normally scruffy and comfy. But it sounds as though this occasion calls for something smarter. What is the cardi like you are thinking of?

I've got a long grey ribbed m&s waterfall cardigan so was thinking that or similar

If it's a smart cardigan like this, I think it would work really nicely. Whatever you wear, have a lovely time.

I’d call the venue, explain your clothing requirements (comfort/ease of movement/etc) and ask for clarification on the ladies dress code.

However I do find generally women get a bit more leeway on these things because female equivalent is so hard to define (double edge sword).

Thanks Molly and Cat. Yes, it's clear what's really not suitable -jeans, trainers, casual clothes - but there's a huge grey area and although they have jackets and ties at reception to lend to men who are improperly dresses there isn't really an equivalent they can have for women! I think I've got it sorted now though, thanks.