What to wear to a posh central London charity lunch!

[DanielleandBobby]

DH and I have to attend this event next month. It's a lunchtime event with some high profile guests. Dress code on invite is Lounge Suit which is fine for DH, but what on earth should I wear? If it were an evening 'do' I could wear a long dress.

Plese tell me what's appropriate. I really don't want to have to buy a whole new outfit and am thinking of perhaps hiring something! If you lovely people can give me some ideas I might, just might, have something lurking in my wardrobe which I can wear or at least accessorize. Thank you :)

These are also Reiss, pale green is in the sale.

I agree with Midnight and not just because she said my white dress was sophisticated .
I was forced to attend these sorts of things all the time as a teenager, and the people who played it safe stood out a mile as they always looked so uncomfortable and ill at ease.
They still do now I've inadvertently ended up in the same situation as an adult, though mercifully on my terms and without my parents this time.

Wear something you feel amazing in, which is slightly edgy or unusual. Have great posture, natural makeup and a calm, serene demeanor, look nonplussed by everything and you'll pull whatever you're wearing off.

And that's a contender for wankiest reply on mumsnet ever from me, sorry!

I think you’re looking at the Reid’s kind of dresses rather than floral maxi dresses. Have been to loads of these. They’ll be expecting you to donate so have an idea of what you want to give too

Eatenbydinosars do you live near Bristol as I'm sure this was worn by some at our beer festival a few weeks ago. I wasn't sure if I loved it or hated it but it definitely stood out.

Given your description of your figure, bombshell HQ would be perfect

Ex-Army officer wife here, lots of similar functions like Trooping of the Colour attended, agree Reis's, Boden and Pretty Dress Company would fit the bill!

goose no, I've lived in the US ever since I went to uni here

I'd probably wear a nice blouse + skirt. At least you'll be able to use them again more easily.

Wow - thank you to everyone who’s taken the trouble to comment. I’ll post a couple of photos of what’s in my wardrobe tomorrow and you can all scream in horror or say yes! Off to bed now

Wrap dress and heels

Look at Rixo

www.michaelkors.com/stretch-boucl%C3%A9-crepe-sheath-dress/_/R-US_434PKJ506

Not sure of your budget but I think you should wear this!.

LizzieMacQueen Thank you. I agree - I love Reiss dresses, and that mulberry one would be perfect! Also LOVE the pale green - much more my kind of thing than floral. I'm 56 and tend to look frumpy in floral patterns, unless they're abstract. Although the photo of me here in a Phase Eight dress from last year is a floral pattern!

EatenByDinosaurs Your first comment made me laugh as I'm known in our family as being the most clumsy and messy person going. The white would be a disaster for me! However, it is truly beautiful and I would love to own something like that...

Thanks to everyone who's taken the time to help me. Any opinions of this photo of me in the dress gratefully received. I've worn it once to a summer wedding last year and felt very comfortable in it. This year, though, I've put on a bit of weight around the middle and will have to wear big pants if I'm going for it! I wore it with pale beige, leather high-heeled sandals. Worth another outing maybe? If possible I would like to avoid spending too much money.

To the poster who mentioned donations - thank you - and yes, I had forgotten we will be expected to do this. Thanks for the reminder :)

I think that's perfect for the occasion!

I work in Mayfair, for a charity, and your dress would be perfect. I'm a similar age to you and don't wear florals unless they're abstract, subtle and/or have a lot of 'space' in the print. You will look lovely - enjoy yourself!

I think as it will be mid september the dress you have just posted may be a bit too springy. I am a similar age but a bit fatter and do lots of this stuff. I usually buy a smart frock I can then wear to work. Particularly like Boden for this sort of thing. Bear in mind you might need a light coat/jacket. Neat, smart shoes.

DearDeidre and BatshitCrazyWoman (love the name, btw), thank you. You're very kind! Problem solved, I think!

Sorry, DearDeirdre

Perfect dress. You may want closed toe shoes those. Have a look at M&S for a suede court shoe, maybe in a bright shade.

Ooh, I'd love to be going to a posh central London charity lunch That dress is perfect. For a lunchtime event I'd definitely go knee-length and high-ish neckline. Have a lovely time!

That dress looks lovely OP

@EatenByDinosaurs I have never heard of Facil Bianco but I love that kaftan dress! I've been on their website and bought a top

Danielle its definitely not a practical dress, but I do love it.
Your floral dress will be great, and looks fab on you. If its hot/mild yes absolutely wear your leather sandals, but for September if the weather is meh do you have any closed toe shoes?
I'd go for just earrings and no necklace too, but that's just my preference.

@NigellasGuest I have quite a bit from them, the quality is great and they last really well, plus they feel so lovely on

I would say that you are sorted with that dress . It’s lovely on you .