Please help a clueless, anxious size 16-18, dress-phobic dress for a wedding I dont want to attend!

[Batinahat]

I hate weddings, in quite large part because I dislike dressing up and detest having my photo taken as well as finding making small talk with strangers difficult. I have to go to a wedding in a few weeks as DH is the best man and there's no getting out of it (I have tried!). The wedding is informal - ceremony and reception all at posh pub. I have seen wonders worked on this board so hope the same can be done for me!

I am a size 16-18 big boobs, curvy - think hourglass but with but of a tummy. I am 5ft 7 and not confident in my looks or body at all. I do not own a dress. Literally don't own one. Whenever I try to wear one I feel like an imposter - either dressing too young or too old or something, just feels weird to me! I don't usually wear heels but I do have a pair (black patent). Otherwise it's all ballet flats and trainers I am afraid.

Can I wear something along the lines of skinny black trousers with heels or flats and some kind of floaty floral top/blouse?? Would this be considered too casual for this kind of wedding? I don't know anyone else who is going, only my DH who is best man and will be in a suit. I don't think I own anything suitable at all as I don't have much in the way of smart clothes beyond basic work wear. I am happy to spend up to £75-100 if I have to. Ugh, weddings!

I was in John Lewis earlier today and Hobbs and Phase Eight had a sale, mainly of quite dressy clothes suitable for a wedding. I know the wedding is quite informal so maybe a couple of pieces. Maybe look online?

Your figure sounds exactly like mine - hourglass with flab tummy since having baby, 16-18 and 5'8.

I learned from SIL that fitted looks infinitely better than baggy. My normal way of dressing is converse/trainers, jeans and a baggy t-shirt/man's shirt/hoodie, but it's not flattering.

At the moment I'm particularly liking Cath Kidston dresses - quite expensive but I got a lovely one on sale for £35 and it's so flattering and pretty, can be dressed up or also good for daytime.

A good maxi dress from Monsoon is great for elongating your body and I think maxi's are so elegant.

Also TK Maxx have a huge selection, pick up a few random things in your size and see what looks good.

Team with heels or flats, however you're most comfortable (M&S do very comfortable court heels, about 3 inches, for £19.50 - I hate heels but I can wear those babies 2 full days a week at work and be fine!), a nice clutch and a jacket and you're good to go.

I'm a similar height, shape and size to you and I've recently bought a wrap dress for a wedding in November. It makes the most of my boobs, while the v-neck stops them looking too big. It also flats nicely over my tummy, which is the part I'm most conscious of. Maybe this kind of style would suit you.

Love Scarlett and Jo. So flattering. Size down though because they are generous.

Have fun, op. You don't need to hate weddings. Book some nails and a blow dry. Have a glass of bubbles. Shake your tail feathers! You'll be grand!

You don't need to wear a dress and heels to a wedding. Some good suggestions above. How about trousers in a strong colour and nice flat shoes? I like pp suggestion of a wrap instead of a jacket or cardigan.

I am a similar size and shape and would def recommend Phase Eight . I have loads of work dresses from there and they accommodate boobs . Unlike LK Bennet for eg who only cater for the flat chested !

If you’re thinking of getting something from Phase 8 then code OCADOP8 should get you 20% off full priced items.