35 year old frump seeks outfit for posh dinner - help me for the love of god

[ColumboGoesBananas]

Me - 35, 2 stone overweight mostly over bosoms and tummy (babyweight) but still a bit of a waist, 5'4". Usually to be found wearing jeans and a baggy top. Last time I wore a skirt was to a wedding 4 years ago. Ditto heels, so the fact that I will feel like an 8 year old tomboy dressed up in mummy's clothes is a given. Also will feel like a clown in makeup.

Have to go to a posh dinner next week (corporate event) the dress code is jacket and trousers for men and equivalent for ladies.

What should I wear? Where should I buy from? Price range is high end high street/department store (ie John Lewis, East, Austin Reed. Boden maybe). Did I mention I HATE shopping?

Aaaargh. Please advise.

you don't have to wear a dress if it's just jacket for blokes... you could wear trouser suit or more dressy trousers and top?

Monsoon? There is a thread on here today with 25% off voucher which is valid until tomorrow.

Nice things in Marks & Spencer Autograph collection

Really? I don't even have to wear a skirt? Oh joy!

Also have a phobia of fancy things and think I only look good in very plain stuff.

I'm no etiquette expert but these days I think dresses are only required if it's a black/white tie do

like for example these trousers would do for an evening event with the right top and some heels

and maybe this or this if you only want to shop in one place!

I don't work for M&S btw!

Thanks for the tips, am trying to decide whether I can hack going into town with baby and grumpy DP today...

BTW you can order stuff from places like M&S online (also Boden), choose express delivery and if you don't like it, send it back! Order a few things, even in more than one size if you're unsure.

Bingo: no trudging round the shops...

did you go shopping?

if not this top would look dressy with those white trousers but only if you're the right shape (not too busty!)

You could find a wrap or bolero to wear with it if you don't do bare arms...?

I am completely determined to find someone to buy this top as I have no excuse at the moment! www.anusha.co.uk/product.cfm?id=1916&p=4.

It would look fab with trousers and will flatter your shape (I know because it's the same as mine!).

Patsy

I did go shopping but John Lewis was packed, DS was sick on DP while waiting for me outside the changing rooms...I ended up panic buying and coming home with a skirt, square neck top that shows too much cleavage for my liking and a drapey handkerchief hem cardigan thing all by Fenn Wright Mason....what have I done? I don't DO skirts...the cardigan is the only nice thing and it will be a bugger to get something smooth enough to go under it.

Will have to do an online haul and then return as you said Monkeybird.