Where to buy going out clothes?

[Shenanagins]

Kind of inspired from the Karen Millen thread but I’m curious as to where people buy going out clothes?

Back in the day when I was going out every weekend, Karen Millen, French Connection amongst others were my go to places for a nice outfit.

However, nowadays I really struggle to see anything that is remotely nice and isn’t polyester at silk prices!

Last Christmas I couldn’t find anything at all suitable so ended up wearing a jumpsuit bought two years previously.

So my question is, where do people go to get a going out outfit when you are in your 40’s and still want to dress up but not top to toe in sequins?

Anyone?

I have no idea! I really struggle with this too and just end up wearing something I already have. There is a real gap in the market for 30s-40s women's going out clothes. Topshop etc. are too young, M&S is too old.

Phase Eight and Mint Velvet, still a lot of polyester but I usually buy in the sales.

I'd probably go to Cos if I wanted something new, but appreciate that's not everyone's style. Otherwise I'd rummage in my wardrobe, am out-out so infrequently, there's bound to be something in there I've not had much wear of.

Rixo has great dresses - in silk too.

Majes, Sandro, and Zadig and Voltaire always have good pieces.

However, I find as I get older that better materials and cuts are more important and I find that I need to spend more and buy less for good going out pieces.

My current 'go to' is Miss Selfridge, but only the very reserved options - I don't do 'fashion' very well.

I’ve given up too, I buy from eBay now - Isabel Marant is my go to. Charity shops too, but I do love in an area where the charity shops are pretty good.

Baukjen is worth a look.

Hmm some new names to try but reassuring that it’s not just me!

Seems like there is a real gap in the market here which despite the ongoing demise of the high street one which is not been addressed.

Thanks everyone !

I pick up things form sales (whistles and normal high street) I also buy things online from Tkmaxx, brand alley etc. I go ‘out’ so infrequently that I often have something unworn in the wardrobe.

I also try to look ahead so I got a fantastic leather skirt in the sales at Easter which I think I will wear lots in Autumn/winter and I am looking in the sales for a dress to wear at Christmas.

Yes I’ve only just found Sandro (pre late Middleton I would add)

Reiss I like-seems to have moved away from the skin tight body dresses they were famous for. Ted baker is also nice

The Outnet is always worth a look. I picked up a fab DVF dress from there not long ago for under £100 and have worn it time and time again.

I buy separates, always. So plain bottoms and an embellished top or vice versa. However, the definition of a big night out in rural Cornwall is dinner in a gastropub. Fancy or funky shoes. (Depending on whether the streets are cobbled, or not.)

I still like oasis but do find some of it too young for me.

Cos, Other Stories, I usually search on the John Lewis website - they have some good ranges. H&M from time to time.

I have exactly the same problem, not that I go out much these days. Mint Velvet tends to be a good option, but everything is mega money these days and always bloody polyester