Wanting a dress for a wedding reception

[GloryDias]

I've been invited to a friends wedding reception, I've always been overweight and never wear skirts or dresses but have recently lost 3 stones and would like to be brave and wear a dress (I went to a wedding reception last year and felt so awkward when everyone was in dresses and there I was frumpy in black trousers and a top!).

I'm in my early 50's, 5'6" and have no idea what to wear or where to shop. I don't like flowery floating dresses, was thinking of something a bit more fitted and not with an open back...I definitely can't go braless 😂I've looked at M&S, Next & Monsoon and have ordered a couple of dresses but wondered if anyone can recommend any other online shops to view as I'm clueless!

Congratulations on your weight loss - but you have left out:

Your clothing size

The context + degree of formality/ informality of the reception. Black tie? Dress to impress? Whatever you like?

Your maximum budget.

Ah yes, forgot the main details 😂

I'm probably 14/16 now, nothing overly formal and not a dress to impress reception. I'd say max budget is £200, thanks :)

Have you got a department store near you? I wouldxreally recommend getting an appointment with a personal dresser.

We have a couple in our town, I've used both and been really pleased with what they have had me try on and what I've ended up buying.

Both of our stores offer it as a free service and there is no pressure to buy.

They can sort all accessories too.

Honestly I sound like an advert, but well worth an hour or two of your day.

Also, try stuff you wouldn't normally as you can be really surprised how good it looks.

If it were me - newly thinner and ready to have fun with clothes - I’d want something like this but better quality as I know this will be thin fabric, poorly finished. Or maybe I’d buy it and get a dressmaker to reinforce the edges and add a lining.

https://www.zara.com/uk/en/gold-applique-satin-midi-dress-p02774898.html

If you browse here you’re sure to find some brands unfamiliar to you, or newness from brands you know. Prices range from supermarket to couture:

https://www.collagerie.com/en-gb/collections/dresses

Not kind to the upper arms, especially with a big weight loss!

I was just thinking I need something to cover my upper arms and my bingo wings are quite saggy!

How about a good wrap dress with three quarter sleeves?

I love this dress. Unfortunately I'm not going anywhere that I could wear it

https://www.monsoon.co.uk/sarah-embellished-wrap-dress--green-5408060164.html

How about Roman, they have a shop as well as an on line business. They sell classic dresses which are reasonably priced and wash well.