Elegant but flattering dress for a wedding guest?

[AnotherEmma]

Help! I'm going to 2 weddings this year (May and September) and I need a new dress but I don't know where to start

The problem is that I'm 33 and curvy and I want an elegant dress that isn't too MOTB...

Here's the brief:

• Needs to fit a curvy hourglass with 32GG boobs and a bum to match (dress size usually 14, depending on fit)
• Neckline not too high or low (due to boobs), ideally a shallow scoop or v neck
• Length on/below the knee
• Ideally with sleeves
• Colour: not cream/white or black, obviously (as it's a wedding), and I prefer strong colours to pastels.
• Budget: ideally not more than £150 but would consider going above it for The One

I really want to avoid looking frumpy and matronly (always a risk with the boobs)... the look I'm going for is elegant and stylish if at all possible, but I fear I'm looking for a unicorn...

Can the stylistas of Mumsnet help, please?!

Hmmm 34G is the sister size to 32GG. Maybe I should try it. I like the blue as well as the red.

Ha I don't have the legs for that one

Honestly, there's loads of room in the top of the dress, you might be surprised! I'm wearing the blue one to a wedding in July. I couldn't wear it to work as it is cut to sort of slip off the shoulder a bit!

Have you looked at Bravissimo/Pepperberry? They have some nice dresses specifically for those of us who are large of boobage

Sorrel
It's not about physical room for the boobs (it looks generously cut), it's more the style and whether it will be flattering. With high necks I usually look as if I have a huge shelf underneath and it's ridiculous.

Prosecco
I do cast an eye over the Pepperberry section when I'm in Bravissimo buying bras, but I'm rarely a fan I'm afraid.

Sorry I'm a tough customer, I'm very fussy it turns out

Sorry if its already been mentioned, but how about theprettydresscompany? Might not be your style but worth a go?

Ah, just realised that theprettydresscompany are similar to bombshell but actually i think they are still worth a go, especially in a jewel colour rather than pastels - i have a prettydresscompany dress (and as someone who has similar proportions to you) and its definitely not MOTD/frumpy on a curvy figure!

How about this? Or does it have to have sleeves?

www.oasis-stores.com/gb/clothing/dresses/floral-pleated-cami-dress/070056.html

TDMN
Thank you, some lovely dresses!

What about this one? I love the style, just can't decide whether the print is pretty or curtainy...
Hourglass Hibiscus Swing Dress

Shirley
Looking for a sleeved dress atm but might scrap that from the criteria if I get desperate!

Ooh I like that - also whilst the neckline verges on a bit frumpy in the picture I think its down to the smaller chest on the model, ive tried similar styles on before and have been pleasantly surprised. Might be worth looking at Collectif or Lady V London as well if you like that sort of style, not sure how much they have at the moment but they've had similar stuff in the past and are both cut for hourglass shapes! Always worth having a browse at ASOS as well.

Shame this one has a high neck, I really like it... I wonder I'd get away with it as the print might break up the expanse of chest...
Warehouse red floral midi tea dress

I am going to a wedding next week and got this www.phase-eight.com/fcp/product/phase-eight/camilla-print-dress/206518331 and am nearly the exact same shape as you.Vwry flattering and comfortable. Have ordered sandals from Boden which I will link to in a minute.

www.boden.co.uk/en-gb/cecile-heels-bright-dijon/sty-a0479-yel these in yellow

Ooh gorgeous outfit BigBairy!

I ordered literally 9 dresses out of phase 8and they were all lovely but this was the best.The wedding I’m going to is a fairly long journey in the car after the church so pleased this won’t crease and will still be comfy for the reception.Getting my hair up and chunky silver jewellery and am done!Phew!

I’m on the same quest op! Except I’m more of a size 16 these days! I have bit of a tummy and a few lumps and bumps so I think fit and flare styles like the ones you’ve posted are what suit me the best.

I have this red lace jolie moi dress that looks amazing on! Sadly a bit too tight atm (it’s a 14) I’m tempted to buy a bigger size in another colour (it comes in about 10 colours on various websites)

I love this but it’s sold out already. It’s in the “new” section so I’m hoping it will be coming back in stock. I’m just hoping the fabric isn’t too flimsy so it skims rather than clings to my bumpy bits.

www.yumi.co.uk/green-floral-tie-waist-tea-dress/

My absolute favourite dress that I’ve ever worn (apart from my wedding dress) came from here - bit over your price range though!
digforvictoryclothing.com/category/25554-fit-flare-dresses.aspx?pageindex=2

I bought it from the shop in Brighton- the dresses are made in the shop by the owner. My dress was made from leftover tie silk, in a shimmery blue colour. Sadly I’ve got no chance of it fitting in time for my cousins wedding. I do live in hope however lol

Watermelon
They're all lovely! I'll check out Yumi...

Something tells me you might like Vivien of Holloway, I have a gorgeous dress from there that's too small now sadly but it is also one of my all-time faves!

Lady V is also worth a look if you like 50's style bits.

This?

OP come over to my thread (the Parisian wedding one) to see the amazing suggestions I've had - we are pretty similar sizes I think! I've just bought this from Phase Eight for £150 and everyone seems to like it, especially if I team it with orange/vermillion accessories!

Love the red coat dress

Thanks yes I do like vintage but don't fancy full on vintage for this one (if that makes any sense?!)

They did design well for hourglass figures back in the day...

PS I'm a 34G (though edging towards H I think now) and I bought a size 14.

Xiao that is stunning! And Phase Eight! The brand is definitely winning this thread IMO.

You'll look fab in that at your Parisian wedding. One of mine is in France. (So I think I'm going to avoid the curtainy florals, don't want to look toooo British )