“Black Tie” dress HELP fashionistas

[Firkinhavinalaugh]

Lovely peeps of style and beauty. I need a black tie/formal dress for a work event. I have a few coming up so it will be worn - I might also require shoes so that needs to be included in the budget.
Total £250 Inc shoes

So, I’m 5:6 nearer 50 than 40 and I’m not currently in the best shape, big boobies, short neck (so v neck preferred or something that lengthens), Apple shape with bloating issue (being investigated) that can sometimes make me look a pregnant in a non flattering way, but relatively good legs.

I can no longer abide anything too tight (the bloating) and will be seated for a great part of the events it will be worn at. Needs to be below knee and possibly full length but definitely no minis! It also needs to “work” appropriate so no large slits or too much boob, elegant enough to be taken seriously and not too standoutish. (Am accompanying my boss so professional is important but a bit of boob is ok!)

I’m not asking much am I 🤣.
TIA

I am exactly the same age and height as you. Also have the boobs and bloating... I recently wore this to a black tie event and it was fabulous!

www.phase-eight.com/product/lilibeth-wrap-midi-dress-220892700.html#q=Wrap%20dress&is=false&sz=60&start=0&isSecondPage=false&pid=220892700&pos=5

It comes in different colours so if purple isn't your colour you can get try another colour.

Ooh I’ll go and have a look, definitely not a violet girl I love the colour, just not on me :)