40th birthday dress/outfit. Help!

[SherbertLemons]

My partner is throwing me a not so surprise birthday party for my 40th. So lovely of him but I can't find ANYTHING to wear!

I think it's going to be in a nice rental property in the country. He has told me "smart" dress code (which isn't helpful!)

Looking for an outfit. Ideally a dress I guess.

Willing to pay up to £300 (don't mind if it's preloved).

I'm blonde, 5ft 8, size 14. Large ish boobs (32E). Had a baby 18 months ago so all the usual insecurities over a bit of a wobbly tum still. Hourglass figure otherwise.

Usually like brands like BA&SH, rixo, reiss, reformation, lk Bennett, love designers like Oscar de la renta and erdem (but can't afford them!)

Ideally something midi length.

Any ideas would be so appreciated. I feel like my brain hurts looking at all the options and have found nothing I like.

Karen Millen silk and cotton dress

There is beautiful version in another colour but it's sold out at a 14.

What time of the year is it?

Erdem dress

Not necessarily this dress (it’s a bit drab!) but you could find another Erdem dress to rent. (Other dress rental places available, obviously.)

Or … (The adjustable straps might be helpful?)

https://www.matchesfashion.com/products/Tibi-Mila-square-neck-cotton-blend-midi-dress-1526664

Phase Eight Teagan Dress - this was on a recent thread (Challenge: find dress for Friday, I think it was called) and it's beautiful, the OP ended up wearing it I think, out of all the suggestions. There were a few other suggestions there too which you might find helpful.

I think for a 40th you can definitely go a bit sparkly

Also the Phase Eight Carmen Midaxi dress looks good for a less sparkly option but still smart (and flattering on the cleavage and waist).

I think Phase Eight has some amazing occasion-dress options!