Dress as a investiture guest

[Starlin]

Hi everyone,
I've been invited as a guest to Buckingham palace for an investiture in November and desperately need some advice for an outfit. I'm a red head so would like advice for something that won't make me look too washed out.

Dress code says; ladies should wear a day dress (ideally with a hat) or trouser suit. I've heard that the room can be very cold?

I'm size 14-16, bit of a chest, bigger arms and a bit of a tummy but I do have a waist.

Budget is 100-150€.

Any pointers/links would be appreciated. Thank you!

I would start by thinking about shoes, as there is always a lot of walking to get to the Palace.

Then think what you might wear to a Winter wedding.

What kind of neckline do you like?

If you like high necklines, this is nice. Bold colour to not wash you out, sleeves, makes the most of a waist. https://www.next.co.uk/style/su089396/980792#980792

Great point. I hadn't thought about that. I was thinking of pumps/heel but maybe a decent flat shoe would be better?

@TimelyIntervention that's a really lovely dress. I don't mind necklines but would expect it to not be too "revealing" (considering the location). I'm only worried about the arms and if they'd be too tight

How about… https://www.monsoon.co.uk/lyra-embroidered-midi-dress-green-20000260008.html

V neck, but not too low, full arms with plenty of room to move. You could go for it with cerise hat and shoes!

Thanks everyone. Has anyone been to one before and can let me know if hats are "the done thing"? Does everyone wear one? Or is it just a select few?