December wedding. Help.

[Atla]

I'm losing the will to live. Going to wedding of an old friend in early December, reception at a city centre gallery space (UK). Brides family is very well to do, groom's side more laid back (ageing hipsters, lots of teachers and creative industries).

I have no idea what to wear. I'm 43, 5ft 8, size (generous) 14 -16, big boobs. I'm going on my own and there will be people there I've not seen in 10 years. Feel really self-conscious as I've gone up 2 dress sizes in that time.

Normally I dress very casually - was always a bit 'alternative' in my youth. Have been trawling online for weeks and found nothing. Styles either seem to look to young, or something my mum would wear. I don't mind spending up to £200 for an outfit if it's something I'll wear again.

Was thinking some sort of wrap/midi dress and boots? Don't want sleeveless or high neck. Or wide leg trousers and a nice top? But then what shoes?

Clueless. Feel like I've totally lost my way since having DD (she's 5!!) I don't even know what I like any more.

Haha, sorry @ChipsNCurry I'm living vicariously through anyone looking for pretty dresses at the moment because I'm pregnant and maternity clothes just aren't the same!

I have a few lovely dresses from Silk Fred (and returned a few shockers, but their returns are really straight forward to do) and I can't wait for baby to be here so I can get back to buying all the pretty dresses!

< sends @MsSquiz the bill>

yes, I would never have thought of looking there, but there are some really nice dresses, and it's not too expensive

Maybe this dress from Massimo Dutti

www.massimodutti.com/gb/women/concepts/satin-c2028567.html

Thanks so much everyone for all the suggestions! I think I'm going to order the green leopard print @MsSquiz suggested ..... on to the next decision.... Shoes? Boots? Aargh!!

www.silkfred.com/womens/clothing/dresses/jenerique/wrap-midi-dress-in-green-leopard-print

Great choice!

Something like these from Next I would say, with a blingy black bad and simple gold jewellery

Bag, not bad!

I'd go with heeled sandals, but I always go for heels because I'm so short. I'd probably go with nude or gold

Something like these would be my choice

www.asos.com/prd/21802878?acquisitionsource=pasteboard

Joseph ribkoff do fab dresses. Very forgiving and well worth the price

Don’t wear boots to a wedding! Definitely shoes

I’ve bought a phase eight dress of eBay for a December wedding! Bargain and lovely!

I would go for a pair of slightly cropped high waisted black or grey tailored culottes and then a blouse like this teamed with a pair of the pointiest, pixiest patent leather boots. Hair up. Chandelier earrings and a smart little clutch. Very elegant and will show off your décolletage as well as nipping you in a the waist.

Even dressy boots? I was thinking of something with a kitten heel, not too clumpy , haha.

I've got some sandals I could probably wear, but it's likely to be raining (and I want to wear tights) so I'd prefer enclosed toe I think.

@Atalune I really like that top

[quote Atla]Thanks so much everyone for all the suggestions! I think I'm going to order the green leopard print @MsSquiz suggested ..... on to the next decision.... Shoes? Boots? Aargh!!

www.silkfred.com/womens/clothing/dresses/jenerique/wrap-midi-dress-in-green-leopard-print[/quote]
It's gorgeous- good choice! Just wondering whether it would suit my xmas party......🥰

I'm hoping it might double as Xmas party dress as well.

I think boots will look a bit more edgy. I’ve worn boots to weddings in autumn/winter, I think they look better especially with a short dress.

I feel like I need to physically go and see boots/shoes. Going to wait until dress arrives and see what it's like lengthwise on me (and check it looks good) and then check out footwear. Thanks everyone (I'll probably be back if dress doesn't work out!)

Ah back to the drawing board - dress getting returned. Style nice but very poor fabric and also didn't fit properly across the bust (way too much on show!). The search continues!

I'm no expert on such matters but I wondered if this Boden dress might fit the bill? here

www.johnlewis.com/phase-eight-lilibeth-wrap-midi-dress-ocean/p5836339

www.johnlewis.com/hotsquash-spot-print-wrap-front-maxi-dress-black/p5559845

www.johnlewis.com/hotsquash-jersey-abstract-wide-leg-jumpsuit-black-white/p5615791

There are some nice ones on the Next website, particular the brand ‘Girl in Mind’