Going to a ball with a Cirque du Soleil theme. PLEASE help me find a dress!

[MrsMeow]

DDs Sixth form leavers ball is very soon. I don't do balls and I don't do dresses so I'm struggling, please help!

I'm a size 14/16.

Not girly at all, I tend to live in black clothes, quite alternative. The theme of the ball is just up my street!

Hate my legs so just below knee length if not longer.

Not over keen on my arms but will wear sleeveless at a push.

Quite 'booby' so nothing too low!

I love 50's style swing dresses, Hell Bunny and Lindy Bop etc but not sure if they will be formal enough?

Haven't got a massive budget. I'm willing to pay for something that will look fab but also aware that I won't ever go anywhere to wear it again so don't want to spend £££££

I feel 100% out of my depth. DD goes to a private school which is where the ball will be held (she's on a scholarship. DH & I aren't ball people at all, more meal at a local pub!) so want something I will feel comfortable in. I'm really nervous, truth be told.

Please help!! I will appreciate any help or tips at all. I've looked and looked but can't find anything.

thank you :)

Is it for you or Dd?
Looking at pictures do you have a bright leotard top which you could add a bright full frothy skirt too? Might have to get skirt made.

Thanks Fflamingo, it's for me. It's DDs leavers ball but parents are invited.

I think a big skirt might look good. I don't have much of a waist so might make me look slimmer?

Scarlett and Jo have some great dresses midi, maxi or peplum in tuxedo style. Ring mistress style?www.scarlettandjo.com/products/tuxedo-prom-dress-4?variant=51604677700

Or this one makes me think of tightropes and the big top.

Circus print Lindy bop? www.lindybop.co.uk/audrey-vintage-circus-print-black-swing-dress.html

That is gorgeous FauxFox

Add elbow length gloves and a mini top hat facinator if you want to go all out

Are you sure sure sure that parents are expected to go all out for costumes? Nephews’ Leavers Ball was Caribbean theme - the Leavers went for it completely, whereas the parents just gave it a nod - floral shirt under a suit or mums with ‘fruity’ necklaces.

I would go for a good basic dress you’re happy with, flattering and comfortable and then accessorise for the theme. There will be a mix of full on costume but I would bet lots of the women will be wearing their ‘stock’ black tie dress and accessorising.

Thanks for the help guys - I love the circus print Lindy Bop but sadly out of stock, boo.

No, we don't have to go in fancy dress or anything - I just need help because I don't know how to ballgown at ALL but I would like a kid to the circus theme if possible.

snowboarding queen, I was thinking maybe something v simple. I'm going to feel out of place as it is, may as well be comfortable!

*a nod to the circus theme even

www.tkmaxx.com/uk/en/women/occasionwear/occasion-dresses/navy-sequined-body-full-length-gown/p/30198723
Can't go wrong but not overly circus themed. A top hat type fascinator and a cane might help.

If your dd hasn't gotten sorted there's a load of alternative type dresses also on tk maxx that would be fab for that theme. Totally affordable too.

Love this for example. Only in size 6 though.
www.tkmaxx.com/uk/en/women/occasionwear/occasion-dresses/party-dresses/chartreuse-scallop-dress/p/30032239

Thank you NeverTalks :) hadn't even thought of TKMaxx!