What do people wear to go out??

[Newmum110]

OK I haven't been out out since pre covid & have to go to a birthday party in a few weeks but at a loss when it comes to what to wear (to the point where I don't want to go.) Happy to spend money on something decent.
About me:
Size 16/18, short, big belly.
Do people wear jeans & tops? I'm not mad about jeans due to big belly, could I wear trousers or would that look too much like work wear?
Would prefer to stay away from dresses & skirts.
Can anyone advise on a nice outfit? River Island was always my go to so if anyone has suggestions for there
Please help, I'm turning old before my time with my fear of going out......

I honestly think it’s best to wear whatever you feel comfortable in. I like long dresses or high waisted trousers / leggings with a top to cover a mum tum and as I hate my legs. I would rather have my hair and nails done than have a new outfit as I would feel more polished. I generally shop in Next or Zara. Can you go and have a try on of some outfits in a few stores?

I wore this, with flip flops and matching necklace
https://www.massimodutti.com/gb/wideleg-waffleknit-linen-blend-trousers-l05003529

Dresses can be difficult and frumpy looking. Wide pants are in, wear with comfortable wedge sandals.
Have you tried magic pants? They are ultra comfortable, ultra stretch, rolled up at ankles to suit and come in many shades. Wear with longline top to hide belly + jacket.

New Look have a great range for petite size. https://www.newlook.com/uk/womens/petite-clothing/c/uk-womens-petite-clothing

Depends on the party.

Is it at a glitzy nightclub?
An afternoon BBQ at someone's house?
Buffet and dance at a local pub?

I had an aunt’s 60th party recently and wore cigarette style trousers with a fancier top - didn’t look like work wear at all

Next have got some gorgeous Bo-ho patterned wide leg trousers. They’d look lovely with a coordinated top and some sparkly sandals/flip flops/

A jumpsuit?

Thanks everyone for the advice. I think I probably need to go into some shops because it's impossible to know what online stuff is actually like.
@Scottish1990 any recommendations for nice cigarette trousers?
@Hobbes8 I would love a jumpsuit but have yet to see one that would suit me

Maybe something like this:
https://www.newlook.com/uk/womens/clothing/playsuits-jumpsuits/black-floral-plisse-wrap-jumpsuit/p/874692109

I’m similarly sized and bellied and find a wrap front flattering.

Lots of stuff on asos curve might suit, and the models are curvier so you’re not trying to figure out how that size 6 model’s outfit might sit on you.

I think cigarette trousers on an apple shape are a terrible look. Makes your legs look even thinner with a big round body plonked on top. Doesn’t matter how floaty the top, the first thing you see is the contrast of legs and big belly. Especially if you’re short and don’t have much leg to start with.

Much better the loose trousers and show off some arm/shoulder/cleavage and nice shiny hair.

Being a 16/18 isn’t a problem, you can look great. I think looking polished, happy and dress for your size is key.

I think @Hobbes8 has the right idea. A good jumpsuit looks amazing. A bit dressy without looking fussy. Sexier than dresses for some reason too.

I've just ordered the jumpsuit from New Look - absolutely gorgeous. I have this style in black and also pink and it is very forgiving. Love the pattern.

Just no.

Yes…clearly a ridiculous suggestion for someone who doesn’t want to wear jeans, trousers, skirts or a dress. Thank goodness you were here to wade in.

I'd say post Covid people are more casual even when going out, certainly where I am in London. I tend to under dress than over dress. It's a shame really but at least everyone is comfortable I guess! Also people dont need to buy lots of special clothing.

Whats in at the moment is bright trousers (often with a matching blazer). That stops trousers and a top looking to office-y imo. You can get all different colours. I'm planning to wear a red pair to a wedding I've got coming up, with a fancy shirt.

I find it easier to dress up in summer as there are loads of lovely sandals around, including plenty of flat ones. I like to wear gold ones.