Why doesn't this work?

[Lobsterquadrille2]

In my head, this looked ok but the reality is vastly different. Is it just too short for my age, and could I do anything to improve it? I think I'll send it back but I wanted to like it.

I think the straps are too thin & it seems confused whether it’s going out or casual.

It’s a tiny bit short, and... I can’t put my finger on it exactly but I think the bodice is too dressy?

Actually I take it back, it isn’t too short. The length is fine. It’s just the cut of the bodice imo.

Straps too thin and bodice part slightly too low maybe?

A different top would help. Black and white remind me of a waitress. Sorry!

The straps are too long and the bodice sits too low on your chest. The straps are also too thin.

It looks a bit schoolgirl to me

Party up top, school uniform below the waist

Agree with Summerfalls. The bodice is too low. Can the straps be shortened? They are also thin but if the right length that may not matter so much. Skirt length is fine.

Thank you for the comments. I wanted something I could put a T shirt underneath and wear to work (new job and too casual for my City suits). But it's not worked, damnit! Yes, I agree about the straps now.

The straps are adjustable but then it really would be too short! I'm 49 and I had something like this in the mid 90s. Maybe that was my mistake .....

An alternative might be a striped top under it. That way the contrast wouldn’t be so noticeable.

The bodice makes it look like a party dress, low cut, thin straps, so it look all wrong worn over a white high neck tee shirt.

It's a bit 1990's school girl. You could throw a looser top over it and use it as a skirt.

If you want a similar look this shape may be better

It is very 1990s. Bodice too low, style too 90s and way too short for work wear IMO

@batshite1 yes, that's a better shape. I must be trying to relive my mid 20s. I've just packaged it up to send back. It didn't feel right so I'm kind of glad that everyone agrees.

Don’t worry I’m wearing the same Nike trainers & Superga flatforms I first wore at 19. The 90s rock!

If you want something similar to what Batshite posted, search for Pieces on ASOS. They have an identical knitted dress to that picture

Thank you @CaseStudyResearch will do!

Very 1990s but not in a good way!

The bodice looks a bit low which makes the bust line look lower too sorry

The bodice looks like it only comes up to half way up your boobs which makes the outfit look odd

Op, your hair is looking good by the way. I remember your previous threads x

The straps are too thin for this look. You need a chunkier strap, like a proper pinafore dress style dress, then a T-shirt or shirt underneath