Work event clothes

[moonlight1705]

Help! I am starting a new job in fundraising and there will be some evening launch events (think choral music / orchestras etc) with some important people being invited over the course of a year.

My current 'style' is very casual as my office doesn't really require smart. I am a size 20/22 with a hourglass figure (big bum/boobs and smaller ish waist) so find it hard to get a dress that isn't too short or makes my top half look enormous.

I think I need a wardrobe revamp but especially for special work events. I am saving up a little pot to get maybe 2 or 3 good outfits for these events.

Bump - any ideas of which brand I should head towards?

So I’m assuming it’s a kind of not quite black tie, but more than a “night out” look?

I’m not your body shape so can’t advise on specifics or brands but my feeling is that you need some capsule separates that you can mix and match. For example a beautiful skirt and some beautiful well cut trousers that you can mix with tops or silk/satin shirts

That's a good idea thanks @Chocolatecoatedkettlebell

These events are vaguely but not quite black tie so I like the idea of some lovely silk skirts. May be easier than dresses.

One tip is to buy some good quality staple unpatterned tops and bottoms that flatter you, which you can then focus your colours on accessories, and isn't so obvious you're wearing the same outfits over and over.