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Original poster

Dress for 40th birthday gathering

26 replies

orangemouth · 25/09/2023 20:36

I'm 40 in a couple for weeks and am reluctantly having a small gathering in a private room in a restaurant, so not a party as such. I'd like something new to wear but have scrolled so many websites I'm not sure what I like anymore! I did like this https://www.zara.com/uk/en/printed-midi-dress-with-cut-out-detail-p08665201.html?v1=296946650&v2=2290847 but it's slightly too long I think. I'm 5ft 6ins and a size 10 but can't wear anything snug around the middle. I'd like a dress I can wear with DM style boots rather than heels so I don't feel too dressed up. Any suggestions??

OP posts:
Noclothestowear · 25/09/2023 20:41

This would go with DMs and isn't tight around the middle. What colours suit you? And what's your budget?

www.debenhams.com/product/boohoo-cheesecloth-ruffle-tiered-maxi-dress_gzz39001

Original poster
orangemouth · 25/09/2023 20:44

I've got a thing for burnt orange at the moment but tend to wear dark or muted colours, nothing too bright. I also think I'd like sleeves as it will be chilly at the end of October.

OP posts:
Original poster
orangemouth · 25/09/2023 20:53

I really like some of those, especially the zebra print

OP posts:
Rellotello · 25/09/2023 21:13

Please go with your original choice, it’s lovely, has an edge with the cut outs and perfect for a 40th with boots. Most of these other suggestions are horrendous! Can’t understand the taste of so many mumsnetters 🙈

clowniform · 25/09/2023 21:20

Your original dress is miles better than the other suggestions. Taking up the hem should be very straightforward; if you can't do it yourself or know anyone who sews, any dry-cleaners could manage the alteration and well within time.

DresdenDoll · 25/09/2023 21:26

I agree the first one is lovely and can easily be taken up.

Poachedeggs1 · 25/09/2023 21:45

The Zara dress you suggested looks nice. Try All Saints - especially if you want to wear some DM style boots with it. I have a few of their dresses that I wear with my grensons when I don’t want to wear heels.

LivelyBlake · 25/09/2023 21:50

Your original choice from Zara is by far the best OP.

LivelyBlake · 25/09/2023 21:53

This is a bargain and might look nice too https://www.oasisfashion.com/product/oasis-dobby-mesh-zebra-bardot-tie-neck-midi-dress_baa03326?colour=blue

faffadoodledo · 25/09/2023 22:01

Stick with your original choice OP! It's great.

nutmegnook · 25/09/2023 22:03

orangemouth · 25/09/2023 20:36

I'm 40 in a couple for weeks and am reluctantly having a small gathering in a private room in a restaurant, so not a party as such. I'd like something new to wear but have scrolled so many websites I'm not sure what I like anymore! I did like this https://www.zara.com/uk/en/printed-midi-dress-with-cut-out-detail-p08665201.html?v1=296946650&v2=2290847 but it's slightly too long I think. I'm 5ft 6ins and a size 10 but can't wear anything snug around the middle. I'd like a dress I can wear with DM style boots rather than heels so I don't feel too dressed up. Any suggestions??

This dress is stunning!

Chickenpie35 · 25/09/2023 22:43

Get your first choice taken up an inch or 2 it's gorgeous x

Flyinggeesei234 · 25/09/2023 22:50

Rellotello · 25/09/2023 21:13

Please go with your original choice, it’s lovely, has an edge with the cut outs and perfect for a 40th with boots. Most of these other suggestions are horrendous! Can’t understand the taste of so many mumsnetters 🙈

Agree! OP the Zara dress is really good. You could have it taken up if necessary.

Flyinggeesei234 · 25/09/2023 22:52

Sorry cross posted with a few PPs.

EdmontinaDonsAutumnalHues · 26/09/2023 09:27

I sometimes think only Zara and Raey @ Matches make a certain tone of dress … Your original choice is fine, @orangemouth, and can obviously be taken up at the hem or even shortened at the waist if necessary.

But if you haven’t already, do take a look at the Raey dresses, in case you want something more luxurious in the future - or simply some bolstering inspiration!

https://www.matchesfashion.com/search?text=Raey+Dresses&q=l2%3Acatalog01_womensshop_womensclothing&pageOffset=0#1350641

Original poster
orangemouth · 26/09/2023 21:33

Thanks all, I might just go with the Zara dress then!

OP posts:
RemusLupinsBiggestGroupie · 26/09/2023 21:43

There are some truly horrible dresses on here imo. Sorry but there are.

The original Zara one is by far the nicest.

EdmontinaDonsAutumnalHues · 27/09/2023 07:20

I’m wondering if you generally wear dresses yourself, @Noclothestowear?

Also wondering what proportion of 40 year olds in the UK would look for (or want) a birthday party dress costing less than £15, from Amazon … I mean, wouldn’t you borrow something, search on Vinted or just wear your jeans?

Lamelie · 27/09/2023 07:41

LivelyBlake · 25/09/2023 21:53

I clicked on this because I was intrigued by the name. Just ordered it for £17 with free postage! Thanks!

Agree with pp @orangemouth your original is lovely and some of the other suggestions, not

Original poster
orangemouth · 27/09/2023 08:35

I do like the Oasis one but I don't think the neck tie would suit me

OP posts: