Which top?

[OldGrannyish]

Friend's 50th birthday. DH doesn't like one because it's too grannyish and MIL says that one is better (but then, she is a granny!)
Which is better? I prefer one over the other, but my fashion sense is questionable

Black jeans and probably a dark blue (or black?) cardigan with it

The thing is, there’s thousands of dresses, different brands etc. there will be cuts and styles that will suit you.

What words would you use to describe how you want to look? I don’t want to lead you too much by giving too many examples, I think it should come from you.

This?

What words would you use to describe how you want to look?
not like an idiot and not out of place!

@Rainraingoaway21 yes, I think that's ok, not sure about the colour.
also the Wallis one it can't find something similar that will deliver.

@OldGrannyish what colours suit you best?

OP, out of your two originals, I like the second one but agree with others that it's not very dressy. But why are loads of people then suggesting white or beige blouses that look like workwear from the 1980s?! Clearly the ones you are posting are more your style, don't be persuaded to wear something that just isn't you. Out of second lot you posted, the top right one is the best.

I struggle too though with finding dressier tops in non-artificial fabrics that hide my tummy, so don't have any alternative suggestions. I tend to look at Mistral, Seasalt or White Stuff, but am sure those are hated by most of the people on this board and they'd definitely say not dressy enough.

I have this top, it’s flattering, can dress it up or down and wear a thin strappy black vest top underneath to keep you warm, would look good with jeans and a blazer or a leather jacket. A leather jacket is a great investment for your wardrobe, can wear it all year round.

OP can't wear synthetic. ( Neither can I).

@OldGrannyish
what about something like this Leopard
would go well with black jeans - as per the model. And a casual black blazer (I’ll try and find one to link)

I tend to wear blues and pink, red or orange sometimes. I was once told Not to wear yellow and burgundy/claret absolutely doesn't suit me. Usually dark colours day to day like black, navy so sweat isn't so obvious.

I was worried about the synthetic, but then if she’s going to put a cardigan on top thats probably not going to help with sweating.

A top you have on for a few hours of an early British spring evening shouldn’t be uncomfortably hot/sweaty. What antiperspirant do you use?

This Black blazer op, would go with the leopard top

I think this is a great call.

Sorry just seen your comment about claret. But it's available in navy and black too.

Do you like florals?
www.roman.co.uk/ditsy-floral-tie-neck-peplum-top-20089778

I cold sweat when I'm nervous, hot temps don't bother me! I use driclor/perspired once or twice a week and sure max protection.

Both dreadful sorry

Op.

You're only 42.

The examples you gave us, all of them are a non. No. You deserve better than an outdated, hideous, meh, great great granny in a nursing home blouse.

You can wear your black jeans if you insist (something lighter for the season would be nicer), but make the outfit more springy with strappy sandals, they don’t even have to have a heel if you’re not comfortable with that, and add a really pretty feminine top. I’m in USA so not sure what your favorite brands are.

Something like this? It would go with your black jeans. Roll up the sleeves a bit and show your feet with sandals. Or a short sleeve of just a pretty top. Everything does seem to have puffy sleeves right now.

https://www.stories.com/en_usd/clothing/blouses-shirts/blouses/product.frilled-silk-blouse-black.1091365001.html

It's about 10 degrees in the evening, are people seriously in sandals already 😮

Everything you have linked to is very dated- you're only 42! I'm 50 and there's no way I would wear those! The first shirt would be ok if you tucked it into some high-waisted jeans, but not really for a birthday celebration. You seem to have very conservative tastes.

If you want to look more fashionable and age appropriate then shop at shops that sell clothes aimed at your age group- try And Other Stories, Jigsaw, Mint Velvet, Me and Em, Boden, Oliver Bonas, French Connection, Karen Millen, Ted Baker, Mango, Anthropologie, Whistles, Selected Femme, Hush, All Saints etc.

For a birthday meal I'd choose something a little dressy- high-waisted trousers and a silk blouse and a blazer and stylish bag and lowish heeled boots/shoes, or a dress with heeled ankle boots.

It’s spring! 😀 don’t cover yourself up from head to toe. Hey, enjoy being young.

: https://www.marksandspencer.com/plisse-wrap-top/p/clp22563337?intid=mobileappppdpshare

It might be 10 degrees outside, but for a meal you'll be inside where the temperature will be 20 degrees or more!

Sandals will be fine!

With a camisole or bandeau top underneath

OP you need to revamp your wardrobe

My DM 79 wouldn't be seen dead in any of the outfits you've chosen.

Try Boden for more cheery tops.

Tesco or Sainsbury's has better tops so mooch around your nearest superstore or Next