If you were 52 and invited to a cocktail party what would you wear?

[FrenchConnection1]

I have to go abroad for some work thing and at the end is a cocktail party hosted by the people who own the company

I am 52 and don't like wearing dresses that expose my neck/chest as it's all a bit wrinkly unless it's a dress that I can wear a scarf with

I also live in trainers or smart loafers and there is not a chance my feet can handle heels anymore.

I'm a size 12 but have a tummy - thinnish arms but big legs. I tend to wear long dresses that create a waist rather than having one of my own 😂. 34D boobs.

Any suggestions? In my normal life I don't go to things like this at all. I'm a drink in the pub person not a post event person so a bit clueless as to where to start!

Get some loose silky trousers and a blouse that yo like and suits you , it doesn't have to be a dress! Relax and have fun.

Try Roman, maybe?

https://www.roman.co.uk/cowl-neck-bardot-jumpsuit-14111508

This is so comfortable, no back fastening, so it’s easy to get in and out of. It’s very flattering. I also have it in Navy, which they don’t seem to do anymore.

I would wear a long satin/silk skirt with a top to match in taupe or similar. Effortless day to evening wear. Take a pashmina just in case. Sunglasses and wear with kitten heels. Dark colours may look out of place if it’s warm and sunny.

Black palazzo pants are always a safe bet and so easy to wear.

This for someone with a tummy? Absolutely not.

If you live near a John Lewis I’d highly recommend booking yourself inwity a stylist. There is nothing hard sell but they will go and get stuff (and waiting for you too based on the questionnaire you filled in).

changing rooms are nice, you are treated well and they listen. I came away with a lovely blue silk dress for a wedding complete Witt gorgeous flat ballet pumps I were regularly and a cheap but nice handbag that blended in well. And some cheap but nice jewellery. If you don’t but anything you pay nothing/. I also got about 9 free samples - moisturiser, perfume, hair oil to try out. And advice on what would suit my figure. All free unless you buy something.

Try Seasalt they do very suitable dressy up clothes with waists or not and reasonable too.

The best thing you can do is go to a good department store such as Selfridges, Fenwick group etc, and book a personal shopper. I recommended this to my friend who hates shopping and they found her great dresses in about 5 minutes. Just explain what you have said here and leave it to them to bring stuff to you while you enjoy a drink!

This brand is lovely - I am over 52 and have work things to go to that are quite smart and have bought a few things from here over the years and the rewear them a lot. They cover up and the cuts are flattering. (edited to say - they have cocktail dresses not just wedding dresses - link has picked up wrong section of site 😂😅)

https://rixolondon.com/collections/wedding-guest-dresses?gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAADh6VNZSDHpsUCcjB1CbqulSZ9Nk0&gclid=Cj0KCQjw4v6-BhDuARIsALprm30k6u2i_KiCzHIlZtV0UuMncbCeJ44X22ZkHE87xzJdeXHr0CIroSwaAk1SEALw_wcB&pg=3

I have a bag like that but I’d take it to the beach or for wandering around as a tourist, not for a dressy do.

OP says it’s inside. The bag is lovely but not for a cocktail/ evening event. Too big.

You didn’t say where so whether it’ll be hot or not. I’d say wide floaty trousers with a nice blouse from Me & Em or a long dress. Pair with smart flat sandals and a fab pedi and a clutch. Get some statement chunky gold earrings to even out the top and a bold lip and youre good to go

def Not to a cocktail party. Unless you’re planning on stealing stuff, this is a beach/shopping bag.😂

The irony!

The OP clearly feels her age is relevant, presumably because - rightly or wrongly - she adheres to social convention about dressing “for her age”. You clearly don’t believe there should be a social convention but implying the OP is sad for taking that view is the epitome of talking for everyone.

FWIW I think the chiffon jumpsuit is monstrous, but I’d reference my age because it’s shorthand for my knees can no longer cope with 4” stilettos, my 32EE tits definitely need a bra and although I’m not in bad shape, don’t bother with anything with a cut out waist or a crop top.

I live bloody miles from a JL but you've inspired me to book an appointment - I have a couple of things I need, and that will be moderately adaptable.

Quiz have some lovely dresses and often very flattering in the cut, especially their mesh dresses which would also travel well.

You seriously won’t regret it…. Make a day of it…. And do something nice after. I felt like I’d been truly looked after and listened to.. and the shoes I got I can wear with jeans if I’m dressed up. At their time I went I was unemployed so money was an issue but the kind woman still got me sorted and I still love the dress.

Depending on your shape, black tux jacket, skirt or pants. I would wear it with no bra (nothing to see here) or a sparkly one. Either way, statement choker or earrings.

I would wear a costume also known as a skirt suit knickers and tights and flats an a Cut Shampoo and Set hair style . The modern look on men .

Oh that is just lovely. I’ve ordered - thank you ☺️