Christmas party outfit - I've not long given birth!

[lexi727]

My DD is 8 weeks old today. I am probably around 15lb heavier than my 'ideal weight', bearing in mind I am 5ft2 so any extra weight does not suit me in the slightest. DH is CFO of a large telecommunications company and this Christmas party is considered to be 'a big deal'

Anyway, I really want to go but the extra weight has really knocked my confidence and to be honest I have no idea how to dress it. I used to work at the same company, but at the time I was a size 8 and incredibly confident. Going back after having 2 kids and seeing everyone again whilst I'm bigger than I used to be is giving me horrible anxiety! The office girls are known to be very bitchy and judgemental. I am a size 12 at the moment.

I need to look professional-ish since DH is high up in the company, but I obvs don't want to be turning up looking like I've just left the office.

Any suggestions? I ideally want to wear black to hide my belly. Anything that skims over my stomach material wise makes me look like im in my first trimester at the moment though.

maybe something like this? link with tights and boots/flats/heels?

I’d head to Monsoon I think OP. I had to go to a swanky 40th not long after giving birth to DD and I found their dresses the best.
They seem to be cut for a more realistic figure. And I think they do the ‘Christmas Party dress’ well.

For your height and the event, I’d probably go for a shorter sequin or beaded tunic. The weight of the sequins or beading would help it hang better and skim over anything you want hidden. I’m really rubbish at links but there’s a few here.
uk.monsoon.co.uk/uk/women/sequins#filtersClosed=true&pageSize=12&sort=newIn&grid=grid&picture=model&productID=5413360108

What shape are you? What are your good bits? What can you afford to spend?
You want something that highlights the good bits and draws attention away from your midsection. Sometimes the problem with clothes skimming the stomach is that they can look a bit maternityish.
Could you find the time for a personal shopper experience somewhere?
Normally I’d suggest ordering a load of different styles to try on at home but if you’re feeling a bit down about your appearance anyway it may be more depressing than helpful. Professional help may be the quickest and least frustrating option. I know at 2 months post party’s with the sleepless nights etc I’d have been hopeless making any decisions.
Hope you find something lovely.

Post partum not post party’s - sorry autocorrect