V smart party - is this dress ok

[JustAnotherDayWorkingAtHome]

I have been invited to a friend's very smart party for her significant birthday. I have a ted baker dress that I love and it really suits me but it is quite old and I am just not sure if it is a bit out dated....

I would also need new shoes, what would work best with this....

I really like that. It is a bit dated but so amazing to have something that you feel really good in. Perhaps add more up-to-date accessories?

Thanks sergeantmajor, how would you make it more up to date? Add cuff bracelet and some new shoes/ bag?

Looks perfect for the occasion! I would do some fuschia pink shoes or something like that

It is very reminiscent of the Hervé Léger Bandage dresses, the 'it' style of the mid-2000's, for that reason it feels dated to me. That being said, if it suits you, you like it, and you feel great in it - then it being a dated style isn't a reason to not wear it.

Not sure if it's your style at all but I just bought this in the Zara sale, and it has some similar elements while feeling modern.

@sergeantmajor

I really like that. It is a bit dated but so amazing to have something that you feel really good in. Perhaps add more up-to-date accessories?

Erm, I must be quite old fashioned then because it doesn't look at all dated to me. DD is a student, and this is the kind of thing she and her friends would wear to a smart do.

I wouldn't say dated at all! It's a classic so will always looks good!

It’s a classic, definitely suitable, go for it OP.

Erm...that Zara dress is certainly a good choice if you want to give your fanny an airing!

OP - I think your dress is lovely, it isn't dated at all - it's a classic design.

Some things stay classic for a reason - ie because they're super flattering!

Bodycon is apparently back in (per The Telegraph and interview with V Beckham)

It's not the silhouette that dates it to me, but the details - horizontal ribbing and exposed zip. But, it seems I am in the minority.

I don’t think it looks dated at all. Very now in fact. A great choice I’d say!

Thank you everyone I think I’ll wear it and get some new accessories

@SummaLuvin

It is very reminiscent of the Hervé Léger Bandage dresses, the 'it' style of the mid-2000's, for that reason it feels dated to me. That being said, if it suits you, you like it, and you feel great in it - then it being a dated style isn't a reason to not wear it.

Not sure if it's your style at all but I just bought this in the Zara sale, and it has some similar elements while feeling modern.

That really demonstrates everything that is shit wth buying clothes online. How are you supposed to know how that looks from the pictures?

OP I like your dress, if it makes you feel good wear it

Yes, it’s the exposed zip that dates it slightly, as a PP notes. But fashions move more slowly for party dresses, so I’d wear it still, with new accessories.

The Zara dress looks dated to me, but that will be because I was around in the 1980s.

@SummaLuvin

It's not the silhouette that dates it to me, but the details - horizontal ribbing and exposed zip. But, it seems I am in the minority.

This is true, but I think most people will just see a nice fitted black dress.

There’s quite a lot going on OP w the exposed shoulders and the horizontal stripes, so I’d keep jewellery simple and bold - cuffs or earrings. I would very much NOT wear bright coloured shoes as PP suggested, less is more. Hair very sleek though, and it needs similarly boldish makeup

I've got the same Ted Baker dress in red and I also love it and still wear it and think it still looks good. DH agrees although neither of us are exactly the arbiters of high fashion. think I bought it about 5 years ago.

I don't think it's at all suitable for a smart party. Not with thst zip. It isn't very sophisticated. I'm amazed everyone thinks its fine.

I love your dress OP, wish i could wear something like that.
It fits the bill for a smart party perfectly, unlike that weird and lumpy looking Zara one.

I'm sure PP looks great in the Zara dress but I wouldn't say it's 'smart' in the classic sense

An older stylish dress is like an old trusted friend. You know it fits in the right places. In addition, you feel comfortable in it and, in return, it sort of gives you a little confidence boost, almost like a hug. You’ve nailed it OP. Give the dress a treat and take it to the party 👗 .

It's classic. It looks suitable to me.

I'm sorry OP but I agree with those saying it's dated looking.
That's not to say that you can't/ shouldn't wear it if it fits & makes you feel good but y you did post asking for opinions

Its a combination of the body con shape / exposed zip / bandage effect of the layered material all pin point to a particular fashion phase.

It's not a contemporary look but that may not be important overall for the purposes of the party.

I'm 51, 5ft 9", size 12 & I wouldn't wear it

You need to think carefully around shoes & bag & jewellery. Definitely no bright colours !

Meanwhile men will turn up wearing the same outfit for the last 100 years 😂

It's fine op. No one's going to throw you out of the party for having an exposed zip and a bandage effect . Unless you're going to Kate Moss's fiftieth. Perhaps you might then.

If you feel comfortable and it suits you then wear it.

As you like it and look good in it wear it & enjoy the evening.

No need to use previous time & headspace looking for something else and how much greener to wear something you already own.