Could you do Black Tie at less than a fortnight’s notice ?

[BikeRunSki]

Last week I was told by work that I could, in fact should, go to the industry awards ceremony that we were initially told we could not attend (public austerity).

I am not high maintenance at all and my wardrobe is largely outdoor wear, denim, fleece and hi vis (I’m in the construction industry), with a couple of smarter office outfits. Days in the office were rare enough before lockdown, since I spend most of my working time on construction sites. I do have a beautiful black tie dress, but it’s more than 20 years old, and despite being bias cut, it really doesn’t fit very well after 2 dc and lockdown!!

It’s been a bonkers week of ordering and returning dresses, bra fittings, realising that there appears to be global shortage of nylon tights and cursing my size 9 feet.

My mother is horrified that I can’t do black tie at the drop of a hat. Could you?

Bras- I have a lovely pour MIU bra from Next that's clothes size. Plunge and non wired, comfy but a great fit

Feel that I should apologise because yes, I could do black tie at not just less than a fortnights notice, but less than 48 hours notice.

It comes from years of accompanying DH to black tie dinners and awards ceremonies. I’ve got shapewear, shoes and everything else I might need, as well as the clothes, obviously.

I’ve gained lockdown weight but I can still find plenty to pour myself into.

Once you have it all at least you can keep it for next time.

Yes, I keep all of mine and re-use (used to cruise often)

Depending on your age then try John Lewis or similar.

Also try ‘mother of the bride’ shops but be aware black tie often means darker colours not wedding pastels unless it’s a summer garden party version.

Yes! I once had to do it on an hour’s notice, having woken up at 7am to an email from my then boss saying my presence was required at a black-tie event that evening. I left for work with my entire outfit in a suit bag at 8am! One of those assumptions that City firms make, that everyone has black tie just waiting ready to wear