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Original poster

I am really picky and need help with a black tie outfit

34 replies

user1477249785 · 15/04/2023 13:18

Hi I'm really hoping someone can help with what are quite tight parameters.

I need an out fit for a black tie event. Here are the criteria:

  • I'm short. So it either needs to be petite or not full length
  • I'm also perimenopausal and while I'm not overweight, my body is changing and my stomach isn't as flat as it always was. At the same time I carry my weight on my legs and thighs. I think this means I need structure rather than cling but who knows.
  • I don't want anything too 'safe' but at the same time I don't want to look like I'm trying to be too young. I'd like something with a bit of interest.

Any suggestions would be hugely appreciated. Budget is probably up to 300 but obviously less is always good.

Thank you!

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Original poster
user1477249785 · 15/04/2023 13:57

Thanks for the suggestion. I like that it isn't a boring chiffon number but it's too much material for me. I'm short and reasonably slight so ii get lost in things that are big.

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MetaDaughter · 15/04/2023 14:13

What size are you? This dress, for instance is massively reduced at Net-a-Porter, (tap for details, but only in a size 12. (Could be excellent with some silk trousers.)

I am really picky and need help with a black tie outfit
MetaDaughter · 15/04/2023 14:14

(Sorry, now £62!)

StreamingCervix · 15/04/2023 14:17

That pink top would look beautiful with a tulle skirt maybe too

Original poster
user1477249785 · 15/04/2023 14:23

Thanks for the suggestion! I'm a size 8 usually.

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fruitbrewhaha · 15/04/2023 14:28

Where do you usually shop op? What’s your style?

Redstopgreengo · 15/04/2023 14:28

I don't know if this is the sort of thing you'd like (they do it in black too)

I am really picky and need help with a black tie outfit
MetaDaughter · 15/04/2023 14:29

Although, tbh, for a one-off stylish outfit - wouldn’t you do better to hire somthing?

fruitbrewhaha · 15/04/2023 14:38

Do you like colour? As you may have guessed I do. Or would you prefer black/something dark. You said something a bit different so I was looking for something colourful.

Original poster
user1477249785 · 15/04/2023 14:42

Thanks for all the suggestions! Going to look through now.

In terms of where I usually shop, I think I've lost my way a bit because my body is changing and I haven't yet learned how to dress this new one. I'd say I like structured rather than floaty but I also want to look modern (and find a lot of the black tie dresses a bit cliche).

I can't rent unfortunately because I don't live in the UK. I need to buy something on line and then have a friend ship it to me.

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Original poster
user1477249785 · 15/04/2023 14:43

fruitbrewhaha · 15/04/2023 14:38

Do you like colour? As you may have guessed I do. Or would you prefer black/something dark. You said something a bit different so I was looking for something colourful.

I really like your suggestions but I worry about the floaty aspect of them. It really will drown me. I'm happy with colour though!

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Original poster
user1477249785 · 15/04/2023 14:44

fruitbrewhaha · 15/04/2023 14:33

This one I like but I think it's a bit too revealing on the chest for me...

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Girlattheback · 15/04/2023 15:08

I’m the same proportions as you and oasis petite occasion wear has been my go to for evening wear for a few years now. You liked the pink dresses others suggested so how about this? Pink dress

Petite Halter Neck Midi Dress | Oasis

Style: Bridesmaid DressDesign: PlainLength: MidiNeckline: HalterneckSleeve Length: StrappyDiscover our full range of women's bridesmaid dresses Check out our wedding guest dresses range.

https://www.oasisfashion.com/petite-halter-neck-midi-dress/BAA03933.html

Original poster
user1477249785 · 15/04/2023 16:35

fruitbrewhaha · 15/04/2023 15:03

I think the pink one would need to fit really well or you’d be hitching up all night potentially.

So not floaty like this one
https://www.anthropologie.com/en-gb/shop/bhanuni-sheer-applique-dress?category=dresses&color=066&type=REGULAR&quantity=1

Thanks. I think that's both too floaty to suit me and more boho than what I like

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Original poster
user1477249785 · 15/04/2023 16:36

Girlattheback · 15/04/2023 15:08

I’m the same proportions as you and oasis petite occasion wear has been my go to for evening wear for a few years now. You liked the pink dresses others suggested so how about this? Pink dress

I like this one a lot and had looked at it but it's sold out in my size :(. That seems to be the case with all of the oasis dresses that I like.

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fruitbrewhaha · 15/04/2023 17:26

Have a look on John Lewis website, so many brands you can chose from.

Original poster
user1477249785 · 15/04/2023 17:30

Girlattheback · 15/04/2023 15:08

I’m the same proportions as you and oasis petite occasion wear has been my go to for evening wear for a few years now. You liked the pink dresses others suggested so how about this? Pink dress

@Girlattheback I'm wondering whether it's worth chancing that oasis dress in non petite sizing given that it isn't floor length. Don't suppose you've tried any of their regular length dresses and have any thoughts on whether this would work? It's risky because I can't send it back if it's wrong

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