Need a dress but lost confidence

[Sundayrain]

I really need suggestions for a dress for a close friend's 40th birthday party. It's not a fancy venue (nice pub) but I really want to feel good for once. I've gone from a size 10 to a 14 since having kids and it's mostly around my middle, I've had people think I'm pregnant a couple of times which is super embarrassing, but I've always had a big tummy even when a size 10 due to PCOS.

I'm 5'5" and pretty slim around the shoulders/arms/legs, I just need something that covers my tummy without being completely shapeless! Hair is mid-brown and I'd really like something a bit edgy (style has always been a bit rock). Budget is up to £100 ish. Can anyone help?!

@veryfluffyfluff - You are clearly here to display sheer idiocy.

😂

Kemi Telford dresses are gorgeous.

The All Saints is gorgeous (despite fabric), but I’m not sure it would sufficiently skim over the area the OP is nervous about?

This … This is edgy perfection. It’s a bit over budget … (And would need trousers.)

https://teurnstudios.com/collections/shirts-blouses/products/sleeve-less-shirt

I am not pregnant (last pregnant 10 years ago) but I sometimes buy maternity dresses because the cuts are good for my boobs and tummy.

@WhatWillIWear I love your choices! Very tempted by the YMC dress, it'll look fab with clogs and socks 😍

I don't mind that actually. Would you wear it with those trousers? Or some longer ones?

A wrap dress is brilliant for hiding a tum! I swear by them. Try Boohoo.

Would you go jumpsuit? This is so flattering, front opening. With sandals and slightly messy hair and you'll be rock but dressy. People Tree Women's Oliana Jumpsuit Jumpsuit https://amzn.eu/d/9jQuwKL

Bargain …

https://www.matchesfashion.com/products/Emporio-Sirenuse-Elena-cotton-poplin-midi-dress-1484913

(If you look closely this seems to have a lot more actual material than similar, but much cheaper, dresses of a similar structure. Looks like the only one left is in your size.

Thanks so much everyone, some great ideas!

Surely if you've got a big tummy then a satin bias-cut skirt won't help?

OP, if you like your arms and legs would you consider a mini a-line swing style dress? Perhaps in leather or denim if you like the rock look.

Some of you have never been clubbing and it shows

This is from New Look and you could wear it with your sandals

Oops wrong thread 🤣

@Bearpawk a bias cut done properly gives more elasticity to the fabric, so should skim and drape better, I'd recommended anyone with a tummy to try it, especially in a two piece. Done well, it will smooth out your lumps and bumps, not accentuate them.

I recently discovered Nobody's Child, who've done a range with Fearne Cotton that might appeal to your edgier side? It's quite smocky / loose fitting generally - I'd actually come across it looking for bump friendly early pregnancy attire, pre-proper maternity wear! Like this animal print one, but there are quite a few nice options and really good on budget.

https://www.nobodyschild.com/fearne-cotton-animal-spot-print-ayla-midi-dress.html?queryID=2e85f241d90210edb56ccf5834e7d2f7&objectID=49206&indexName=nc2-produkk_products

Or something like this could be really cool with a lightweight black blazer or even a wee leather jacket?

www.mintvelvet.co.uk/products/haithe-print-midi-dress

Check out Shein. They do lovely floaty dresses on there.

Don't

Second this - I am a bit of a wrap dress evangelist - no need for a shapeless smock or #50's style' dress - wrap all the way! I was 5ft 1 and a 14 post kids and I always felt sexy in one - good if you have boobs and covers bellies

https://www.johnlewis.com/ro-zo-abstract-spot-print-angel-sleeve-maxi-dress-black-multi/p109102771

I have this in a 16 and love it!
They have it in stock in the 14.

Seconded.

I actually love this, thanks so much!!

https://roandzo.com/products/abstract-spot-angel-sleeve-maxi-dress?_pos=3&_sid=13ff85fe4&_ss=r
Ro and Zo actually have it for £29 on their site. An absolute bargain!

I've just ordered it! Amazing, thanks so much!