Help finding an outfit for cocktail dress invite

[Thatwaskindoffun]

I‘m going to a party soon where invite states cocktail dress.

I never normally struggle with this sort of thing but peri meno has destroyed my confidence and completely changed my body shape. I just don’t know where to start.

I’m a size 12/14 hour glass, 30HH bra size and cool winter colouring.

How much do you want to spend?

New, pre-owned or rented?

And do they actually mean ‘a cocktail dress’ or just cocktail wear? (In my experience cocktails are early evening, so most guests would arrive straight from work, in normal clothes.)

I don’t really mind how much I spend, within reason. Invite is basically pre drinks 6.30, buffet 7.30, dancing 9pm onwards.
I have wondered about renting but nowhere local to try on and I’m not confident I know what size I am, I was always a size 10 previously. I’m still figuring out which brands I’m a 12 in and which a 14.

https://www.nobodyschild.com/products/emerald-green-balloon-sleeve-zora-midi-dress-d241960grn

https://scampanddude.com/collections/dresses/products/teal-with-rainbow-shadow-leopard-maxi-dress

www.phase-eight.com/product/amelia-navy-foil-wrap-dress-222569351.html

Love a balloon sleeve not sure about the high neck of the nobody’s child dress though, might give it a go just for the sleeves.

The phase eight link has reminded me of a midi dress they had a Christmas, I’m about to look on Vinted, thanks @HundredPercentUnsure

I'd go for something a bit 80s personally if I ever got invited to a cocktail party!

www.karenmillen.com/tailored-tuxedo-wrap-mini-dress/AKK99711.html?color=105

https://www.thekooples.com/gb/en_GB/p/long-blue-navy-pleated-dress-FROB20035KNAV01.html

balloon sleeve but better neckline for you

The Karen Millen dress is something I’d have gone for before my shape changed so much.

Not sure I love the Kooples one enough for the price.

Might go trousers and silk blouse or jumpsuit, dresses are making me feel really frumpy at the moment

Sounds like a good idea. Zimmerman and Isabel Marant often do fantastic balloon sleeved lace blouses - but & Other Stories and Sister Jane have made lovely versions at less terrifying prices.