Very smart London wedding outfit on a budget

[Mymadworld]

We're going to a wedding in January where dress code is morning suits - it's in a very smart London church followed by 5* hotel. I literally have nothing that would work and very limited budget - any ideas? I did think about asking friends if I could borrow something but not sure if that's too weird/cheeky otherwise I guess eBay or hiring might be an option.

What shoes/handbags have you got already? Then pick a dress that goes with what you've already got - that will save you money so more for the dress

I've got black, silver and grey heels so something that goes with one of those would be great. I'm a 10 top 12 bottom and thinking probably a fitted dress in navy, dark green or something muted

What's called for here is a hat I think - really you need them for morning suits, and a cheap hat can make a very simple or not-quite-right dress look spot on.

I'd have a rummage in charity shops or maybe on sale in Debenhams and see if you can't find a small one that could work, maybe a little pillbox or flying saucer? Then dig out or borrow a very plain dress with a jacket (i don't think it would be weird to ask a friend to lend something at all). Wouldn't have to cost much at all.

Can you send pics of what you have already that is closest to working? Literally any simple dress that isn't too floral or summery? I always think people can rustle up more appropriate outfits than they realise from what they already have 

Good luck!

I like these two (no idea if they'd suit me mind you!)

I would ask friends in a heart beat in that situation!

Especially one who I know has a thing for bags, then the 1 who seems to go to a million weddings and is nearly my size, then someone who has the most awesome collection of accessories.

Between us, we could definitely create a masterpiece then I could spend a little bit of cash hiring a killer hat to top it off.

Now hat I'm ok with as I have a very good milliner friend who has said she'll help me either by lending, making or up-cycle something once I've got my outfit sorted

I think charity shops often have smart stuff because people don't wear it often; I've got some nice outfits from them and the odd amazing designer bargain.

I love that green one!

I think both are excellent, especially green. That, with a black blazer and a neutral hat would be smashing and so smart. Where is it from?

Have a look on eBay, smart occasion dresses that have been worn once often at weddings are really cheap.

I love this jumpsuit checkout.boden.co.uk/en-GB/#nav would be v classy with a low knot in hair, big earrings, blazer & heels.

Sorry, budget an issue! There's 30 percent off and you could probably borrow the accessories...?

Ffs here's the link m.boden.co.uk/en-gb/womens-dresses/special-occasion-dresses/t0105/womens-clarissa-jumpsuit

That green dress is gorgeous

The green dress is gorgeous, but I worry about it being swamped by a jacket or coat (essential in January!)

I would absolutely look to borrow something - most of my friends wuold be happy to see someone getting some wear out of their nice things rather than them sitting in the wardrobe TBH

What does limited budget mean?

I think I'd be asking around. If your friends aren't invited to the same wedding, then I'd be looking for a loaned frock, my own shoes and your milliner friend's help. For that sort of do, I would starve for a few days to get back into my wedding outfit (aqua wool shift and coat, classic Jackie O, but 26 years old) plus a warm top coat and a stunning hat. Very plain clutch, and high fashion earrings.

I love the orange one! It's stunning!

Both Reiss and £250 & £185 respectively I don't have a budget as such just as little as possible as we also need outfits for DH & 2 DC (there's a whole other what outfit thread!) not to mention taxi either end, train for 4 of us, a present & I'd really like my hair blow-dried.

I agree about needing something over a little dress in winter but do have a fab fur coat I was planning on wearing for the journey & church and just hope the hotel isn't too chilly . I'm going to put out a plea to my good mates and trawl eBay as it's definitely a case of less is best for my outfit much as I'd love to get one of the ones I posted.

Have a look at Hobbs, LK Bennett, Reiss and Whistles dresses on eBay.

Rent! Girlmeetsdress.com /.co.uk
Or look at The Outnet if you feel the need to buy.