Civil partnership outfit

[Zestro]

After 25 years other half and I have decided we really ought to get a civil partnership. It will be low/no key possibly a meal afterwards. Not booked yet. Superficial I know but one of the things putting me off, is what the heck to wear. He will probably wear a suit. I’m clueless, would like to sign and run yet at the same time I don’t want to look like I made no effort:. I’m 5ft 4. Am/was a 12/14. Broad shoulders. Have put some weight on around my stomach. Happy to spend up to £500 especially if I can wear an outfit again. Likely to be colder months. I’ve skimmed John Lewis but haven’t spotted anything. I used to wear a lot of Boden, I like Toast (but I can’t afford it in regular life), and I have real problems pulling an outfit together. I also want my 9 year old there who only wears shorts or jogging bottoms so there’s another sartorial challenge. Any suggestions? If my case is too hopeless, anyone happy to share what they wore for a very low key wedding or partnership?

Forgot to add that I’m 50. Feeling frumpy and past it. Should have done it in Vegas when I was young and pretty (ish) 😆

Can you say a bit more about your style and tastes?

What are you looking for- smart, casual, dress, suit, jeans and a nice top etc. Give us a run down of what you like to wear and what colours you'd like x

I’m dark haired, pale olive skin. Colour wise I do like something bright or strong and black or navy. No pastels.

i like jeans but probably won’t wear them as my partner is likely to wear a suit. I do like a good jacket like a blazer. So maybe a suit, maybe a dress? I rarely wear heels but I could manage it if I’m just in a taxi!

taste and style - just don’t know. Feel I’m at such an awkward age and body stage. Last time I was inspired to Google some clothes was by The Split! Loved the styling. I also quite like a 40’s vintage vibe not that I have anything like that.

And thank you!

I’m a wee bit older than you and married my long term partner this year. I found it really difficult to choose an outfit but eventually went for a pink trouser suit from Me&Em. It was fabulous and I felt like I was still me but a little bit bridal.

Congratulations OP, I'm sure you'll look beautiful.

I like a 40s vintage look too and I love Ghost dresses. They're a bit swishy and romantic without being girlish or costumy. I'd wear with Esska platforms which look high but because of the platform they're easier to wear than a high heel.

Something like this Madison dress (comes in black and navy): www.ghost.co.uk/madison-dress8-dd08ca-j23

And these shoes: esskashoes.com/collections/metallics/products/charlie-gold

I wore those shoes!

Thank you for the suggestions. The shoes are definitely something I could get along with and what a coincidence you wore them @Ancientbride Ive heard of ghost but not Esska or Me&Em so I will take a look. So many brands I know nothing about - exactly why I asked :-)

How about a wide legged jumpsuit you can wear again?

@Thefruitbatdancer that is so elegant. The drape and cut are gorgeous. I had kind of ruled out jumpsuits due to an unfortunate incident in a Next changing room but I will look again as that style is lovely. I’ve also not thought of Cos for many years so I will look at some of their other stock. Thank you.

There's a one off royal blue 1930/40s dress in the Etsy shop Fridaygirlprints . It's beautiful. I can't link due to my fire

@Thefruitbatdancer or anyone 😆 the jumpsuit linked was pistachio which I would not normally choose. There is also just one medium left in navy… both models have similar colouring to me. Sadly, that is where the similarity ends ha ha Is navy too dull for an occasion? I’m drawn to it as a safer option. Should I be a bit bolder and go for pistachio?

The Fold have lovely dresses, jackets and suits if you like The Split type clothes thefoldlondon.com/product-category/new-in/

Also recommend a John Lewis consultation (I think they are still doing them virtually or in person) as things which do not look appealing or flattering on the hanger can be marvellous- they're also great at picking accessories

The pistachio jumpsuit is more of an occasion outfit, IMO.
Sure, the navy is more versatile, but I do think it's a bit dull for such an occasion where you want to get a bit dressed up.

@twilightcafe thank you, I agree.

@Defiantlynot41 I have heard about the JohnLewis service and it sounds great. I just lack the confidence - it makes me feel anxious.

I’ve ordered the jump suit in both colours. Will report back…

I'm so excited for you OP, that jumpsuit is amazing! Such a perfect occasion outfit, very stylish. Trying not to buy it for myself...

@Zestro I'm so excited that you've ordered the jumpsuit. I think the pistachio will look fab with silver or cream accessories. Nobody ever listens to fashion advice from me 😂😁

It should be with me tomorrow!

How exciting!

Sad to report a fail. First fail, I was sent the navy blue jumpsuit and a random khaki cotton item channelling GI Jane if GI Jane was allowed a flouncy neckline. Everything was creased to hell. Second fail on the navy jumpsuit :-( I don’t look like the chic model lol. I ordered a medium. It’s just too voluminous, the neckline sags and the waist is oddly placed. I’ve heard of vanity sizing but I can’t believe a small would fit. DS said I looked like Severus Snape. Cos have actually got a store in a city not too far from me so I may try to get there in case the small would be better and the pistachio works. Ah well - you’ve got to kiss a few frogs I guess!

Would you get follow up use out of a velvet dress?

www.net-a-porter.com/en-gb/shop/product/diane-von-furstenberg/clothing/midi-dresses/tulisa-devore-velvet-wrap-dress/13452677151062095?cm_mmc=LinkshareDE--gcdL%2FATRVoE--Custom-_-LinkBuilder&utm_source=rakuten&utm_medium=affiliation&utm_campaign=EU_2523611&utm_content=EU_Lyst+UK%2FEU&utm_term=gcdL_ATRVoE-jAXLygvCLJyP5lzzAORAlA&ranMID=46256&ranEAID=gcdL%2FATRVoE&ranSiteID=gcdL_ATRVoE-jAXLygvCLJyP5lzzAORAlA&siteID=gcdL_ATRVoE-jAXLygvCLJyP5lzzAORAlA&linkshare_siteID=gcdL_ATRVoE-jAXLygvCLJyP5lzzAORAlA&linkshare_affiliate_mid=46256

or this?

www.mytheresa.com/en-gb/diane-von-furstenberg-rollins-floral-wrap-dress-2281864.html?catref=category

@waltzingparrot sadly I’m too short and fat for those!

I'm keeping my fingers crossed for the pistachio jumpsuit. Would be worth ringing the local branch to find out if they have any in store. Or it might be a good idea to order one in store to try on.