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pleeeease help - wedding guest outfit

64 replies

onezerotwo · 12/08/2023 20:02

I'm attending a family wedding in October and I'm looking for a dress. I am hopeless when it comes to shopping for clothes. Plus I hate actually going shopping and prefer to shop online.

I'm not particularly fashionable and as I've got a bit older (early 40s) I've been trying to be a bit more tasteful... I love bright colours and some patterns (love an animal print!) but I would like something elegant and classic if possible.

I really liked this: https://www.karenmillen.com/structured-crepe-forever-pleat-belted-midi-dress/BKK03446-138-16.html?&&&&gad=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw29ymBhAKEiwAHJbJ8i9VXxTU9_8UnbInNQP6Sqp1XCld2UMHPoJW1a6qrdaI7lt-yYj5mBoCRw8QAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

But my size isn't available and my figure, and height, is nothing like the models!

I'm 5'3.5" and a size 14/16, hourglass figure with big boobs and have slim legs. I'm pale skinned with blonde hair. I have stopped wearing heels but would consider a small block heel etc.

We're in Scotland so I have considered wearing tartan and liked this skirt https://britishretro.co.uk/product/royal-dress-stewart-tartan-vintage-full-circle-bonny-skirt/?attribute_pa_size=18&gad=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw29ymBhAKEiwAHJbJ8sMRt0osq0Cp-CciYKrx6VFIwFv8hhWkSQwXmSvAyIxDFzGl1U8fJxoCiYYQAvD_BwE

Those types of skirts and dresses suit me well. I need something structured/fitted/tailored.

I have no idea what people are wearing to weddings these days and I always feel that I'm just missing the mark when I buy something for a special occasion.

Can anyone help??

Structured Crepe Forever Pleat Belted Midi Dress | Karen Millen

This is a limited edition piece, created as one of just 150 styles.Called the Forever dress for a reason, this Structured Crepe midi style suits all kinds of special occasions. Designed to outlast trends and seasons, it shows off a notched neckline, el...

https://www.karenmillen.com/structured-crepe-forever-pleat-belted-midi-dress/BKK03446-138-16.html?gad=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw29ymBhAKEiwAHJbJ8i9VXxTU9_8UnbInNQP6Sqp1XCld2UMHPoJW1a6qrdaI7lt-yYj5mBoCRw8QAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

OP posts:
Thread gallery
10
Cakey46 · 13/08/2023 11:57

I’ve just bought this in the sale from Lk Bennett. I’m 5’2 and size 12 with boobs and belly, but it still looks flattering on. Might perk it up with bright accessories to go with the marble buttons. **

pleeeease help - wedding guest outfit
IlkaDoxie · 13/08/2023 15:29

OP I’m Scottish and I think the tartan is lovely and entirely suitable for a wedding. Wear what makes you feel good x

Yoyoban · 13/08/2023 15:43

I vote for the tartan skirt 😍

CherryMaDeara · 13/08/2023 15:52

NatashaDancing · 13/08/2023 05:06

The OP apparently assumes that's what's worn at weddings in Scotland.

Men sometimes wear kilts. I've never been at a wedding where women have turned up looking as if they're dressed to take part in The White Heather club. She would look ridiculous in that outfit.

OP lives in Scotland, what makes you think she assumes what’s worn in Scottish weddings, she’s probably been to loads of weddings!

Tartan is not just for men!

TizerorFizz · 13/08/2023 16:13

No tartan isn’t just for men but it’s a bit obvious. Scotland = tartan. So a bit too much - but if you have a clan tartan, it’s a possible talking point to divert from the men!

I think you are really looking for a waisted dress with a fuller skirt. Smart shirt dress style might suit. I would be careful about wider sleeves as they are impossible to stuff into a coat if it’s cold. At the moment, Liberty have a great collection of dresses. Many not too expensive and very wedding suitable. Selfridges too. Matches Fashion has a sale (as others do) and Self Portrait is great for a wedding. Apologies if prices too high but in the sales they are better value.

LocoCocoa · 13/08/2023 16:36

I actually like the tartan one, I don't think it would look out of place. I'm also Scottish if that helps.

onezerotwo · 13/08/2023 16:51

They have some lovely dresses!

OP posts:
Optionyougot · 13/08/2023 17:03

I'm scottish and have been to a couple of weddings where women have worn some form of tartan. Not my style but it hasn't drawn any looks.

I came on to recommend the Sosander dresses but can see someone beat me to it.

BCBird · 13/08/2023 17:08

OP live the original link you put. I was like nooooo,lovely. If I had the figure,which sadly I don't, I would definitely wear it. Hope you find something.

Fightwithmyface · 13/08/2023 18:52

I actually love the tartan outfit, but might it be a bit cringe to wear non-specific tartan to a wedding in Scotland?
If not, I’d totally go for it. So fed up with flowery wedding dresses or ones that look like dressing gowns.

Weeza1 · 13/08/2023 19:11

Hi,

I bought the Karen Millen dress in black for a funeral. It was the funeral of a dear family member who was glamorous, always impeccably dressed and beautiful. I bought it and it was perfect to wear. I bought a size 14 even though normally a 12…and it fitted perfectly. And like you, I have I have big boobs! It felt classic and stylish..and whilst a sad occasion I had a couple of compliments on the dress. Not sure what they are like in different colours…but really liked the black version.

Weeza1 · 13/08/2023 19:28

Good luck with the shopping and enjoy the wedding!

GettingStuffed · 13/08/2023 20:14

This is gorgeous, I have a maxi from the same company and its nowhere near the floor

bluevanilla.com/collections/midi-dresses/products/green-shirt-midi-dress-with-godet-hem

Onedownonetogooo · 13/08/2023 22:53

Ultravox · 12/08/2023 23:08

I am of similar proportions and suit fitted dresses with a v neck. If you’re big boobed, petite and with good legs then how about this:

https://www.johnlewis.com/chi-chi-london-floral-embroidered-knee-length-dress-blue/p6160785

Love this !

whatthefreshhell · 14/08/2023 09:34

Nancy Mac do some gorgeous stuff.
I have a couple of their jumpsuits. I am a curvy 10/12. I am also petite and had them taken up but they get loads of compliments. And they have a sale at the moment

www.nancymac.co.uk/collections/jumpsuits-1

Laura0076 · 15/08/2023 13:09

BUSI8

Laura0076 · 15/08/2023 13:10

I thought the same thing! Hardly a constructive reply.

motherofgodhaudyerwheesht · 15/08/2023 14:22

I am hourglass, big boobed 14 with decent legs and spent forever looking for dresses online for a number of weddings this year.
It was a challenging experience as the quality of fabrics from the 'go to' shops was hugely disappointing - polyester nightmares and balloony elasticated sleeves - and the higher end were v v expensive and shaped for giraffes.
Two styles worked for me.

  1. Simple silk shift in a strong pattern. Vilagallo have beautiful quality silk fully lined dresses. Example attached but there are more weddingy patterns and colours, Try independents in the UK or Vinted as thanks to Brexit its £40 delivery direct from Spain. Imagine new autumn season/colours will arrive shortly.
  2. Bardot style neckline and structured body. See attached from Carla Ruiz, which is beautifully made and lined.
  3. Alternatively, and possibly your best bet, go for a midi silk or chiffon style plain straight skirt (some do exist despite the remorseless dominance of dresses) - there are some lovely ones in the sales, and team with a silk camisole or scoop neck silk top and cashmere cardi or wrap. This one is from Jigsaw which I have teamed with a silk halter tunic top.
. Good luck! And remember, nearly anything can look weddingy if you add a fascinator 😀
pleeeease help - wedding guest outfit
pleeeease help - wedding guest outfit
pleeeease help - wedding guest outfit
TizerorFizz · 15/08/2023 17:20

Please avoid a silly fascinator. They have had their day. Get something more substantial. A hat on a headband or a padded headband are fashionable. A Fascinator says you haven’t tried and are trying to tart something up!!

suzy2b · 15/08/2023 20:33

There are some god awfully dresses here the best ones are the pink

SARI86 · 16/08/2023 09:54

Hello,

My go to websites are dancing leopard, DLSB, ax paris or silk fred for dresses to weddings. We have attended 5 this year and 1 last October.

Just a thought would you consider a jumpsuit? I have worn a couple to weddings and i think they can look really stylish.

I hate heels, but settle with a wedge heel, my go to for shoes is usualy shoeaholics (in case its useful).