Smart, pretty outfit for size 16

[ladybirdsaidneveraword]

I need to find an outfit for a smart casual family thing this weekend. I'm struggling, I've lost track of what suits me as I have gained several stone over the past year. My slimmest point is just below the boobs and my arms are good, but I have a wibbly belly and huge bum. I'm not sure where to start... can anyone give me any inspiration please?

I know that problem!

What sort of thing do you like wearing - dress, skirt, trousers? Any colours particularly good for you? What's the budget?

I've had a couple of flattering dresses from Mantaray in Debenhams
This one is nice.

This would also be a flattering shape and perhaps better for this weather.

I also have this dress from Mistral in a different colour.

A bit more dressed up but again would be a flattering shape:
Monsoon

Thank you! I like the shape of the dresses but they are a little too patterned. I need something a bit more neutral. I like the mistral dress- had forgotten about mistral! Thank you.

if I was doing smart casual I would wear my black or blush long line blazer over skinny jeans and a nice top with the blazer sleeves ruched up maybe a nice scarf...do you have any of those items?

No blazer.... for some reason I have it in my head blazers make me look square shaped... but I could see how something a bit tailored might be a good idea . That would lift up stuff I already have. Will experiment. Thank you

In a size 16 and a blazer was my favourite purchase of last year. Usually worn in exactly the way described above. Can't wait for it to get warmer so I can wear it unstead if a winter coat!

I find Studio8 to be very flattering. www.studio-eight.com. I'm a size 16 and find their selection really good.

I'm not a fan of Boden usually but have 2 of these dresses which they seem to do each year. I bought mine a few years back so can't vouch for the quality this year. I have it in Navy and Black - it is really comfortable and stretchy and hides wobbly bellies and bums and washes well. They are a bit dull but safe.

www.boden.co.uk/en-gb/womens-dresses/day-dresses/j0118-blk/womens-black-casual-jersey-dress

If you can get a discount voucher for 15 or 20% off it also works out a fairly reasonable price

Search the Oasis website for wrap dresses - their wrap dresses are really flattering and comfortable.

Can anyone recommend a blazer?

I got mine from New Look but its out of stock thought they have others... I think Asos sell the one I have.
Im 5'6 and pear shaped and its the perfect length for me finishes just below my bum very flattering....
Here is the link I hope
m.asos.com/new-look/new-look-tailored-blazer/prd/8635952?affid=14179&channelref=product%20search&mk=abc&currencyid=1&ppcadref=761030380|39786622283|aud-108719242581:pla-425860486477&_cclid=v3_7b5511fa-3b40-50c3-9e17-702f53e7cc7a&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI3Iui5b7Y2QIVzrDtCh35Zw1DEAQYCCABEgJZv_D_BwE