Outfit for a “casual” work dinner

[FreshStart2025]

My company are taking us overseas for a work-do, staying overnight. In the evening, there will be a dinner. I’ve asked what the dress code is (my wardrobe is seriously bare) and have been told nothing too fancy, a dress/jeans and a nice top. I’m in my 40s and a size 10. Got to be chilled but smart. Any ideas? I’m stressing already as I don’t get out much / spend much money on myself (single Mum 4 kids!). Budget £100. Any style gurus out there?!

I like Dancingnotdrowning's suggestion of an attractive top and silky trousers with flats. In your position I would dress up in a discreet, sophisticated, manner, rather than down, and definitely not wear jeans or trainers. Unless you work in the creative industries or tech, it is always best to look well turned out. You could probably get simple flats, trousers and blouse from Zara for your £100 from their basics range, and if you could manage £120 I would have thought that that budget would definitely cover it. Also Next or M & S, but Zara clothes do have a more European feel as the brand is Spanish, and you will fit in at the restaurant. Then you will have a great outfit for future smart events, job interviews etc. Enjoy!

As suggested previously, and if you have time, get on Vinted. Good items to be had at a fraction of cost. Don’t be afraid to negotiate. I’ve had great buys and noone has ever noticed nor thought they weren’t bought from a store. Also you can resell them after if you don’t need them again. Good luck xx

Think it might be an idea to consult with others.

Otherwise, think it better to dress up, its rarely a mistake. Someone could be encouraging down dressing for a reason.

As a non woke male, personally I believe a dress is always preferably.

My go to outfit is jeans, a shirt and a blazer with trainers. You can jazz it up with some smart jewellery.
There are some similar jeans on Sainsburys for £28
Wide leg jeans

M&S have an oversized 'boyfriend' shirt at £25. You don't want a fitted one as it's too 'worky'.
M&S oversized shirt

Then some sort of jacket/ blazer/tweed cropped jacket
For £50 I'd be looking in say Sainsburys. They have a selection at round about that price.
Sainsburys blazer

The trainers dress it down so that it's not too smart. And you can use all the pieces again mixing and matching with other items.

I’d wear corduroy wide leg trousers. Comfy, casual but smarter than jeans.
www.johnlewis.com/john-lewis-wide-leg-cord-trousers/p112018405

Oh just saw your update! Glad you found something OP

I bought the "asymmetric draped dress" when it got cheap enough for me in a sale. I can see why Cos is so popular. My dress is made from a pretty uninspiring plastic fabric - but it's thick enough to drape well - and is miles too big, really. BUT it's structured, which means it looks intentional as soon as you put it on: no faffing around wondering if you should add a belt or what shoes/top/jacket to wear with it; it'll look fine with anything.

I only own one other Cos item so far - an oversized jacket which, as I definitely wanted oversized, I ordered in my correct number instead of sizing down. It's vast 😂 but, again, looks entirely meant because it's very structured. I've got my eye on a couple of knitted skirts, which probably won't be as definitively shaped, but I'm betting they're much less floppy than similar ones from cheaper shops.

I've been a Joseph fan ever since I used to shop there regularly - long ago, when I had money - and still examine each season's collection in detail. Cos strikes me as a more accessible take on Joseph.

Anyway, I hope @FreshStart2025 had a good time on her work beano, and wonder what she wore?

I saw the asymmetric draped dress in the sale but the material was really thin and shiny. Didnt hang well. I don't think Cos quality is what it used to be.

I look back and think of all the times I've been concerned about wearing the appropriate outfit, still do. Every single time I've observed others who have worn more casual attire which I would have preferred. I always seem to have my go to outfits, having bought other clothes. Smart but casual, some jewellery, the same 2 pairs of shoes, although I have tonnes!

The thing is, no one even notices or cares! I couldn't recall what anyone else was wearing, can you? As long as you don't turn up smelly, greasy hair and scruffy, no one notices and even then I have friends who never change their casual appearance and I don't bat an eyelid because I like them. Xx

The thing is, no one even notices or cares!

Shall we ask MNHQ to shut down the Style & Beauty board - now you’ve explained that it’s pointless?

Glad you found something OP

I actually do wear a lot of blazers - from formal tailored clothes to blazers with wide leg trousers or over a dress and casually with jeans too. I didn't realise this was such a controversial topic!