Is this dress nice?

[CluelessStyle]

I bought this dress to go to a formal occasion. I was happy to get something I felt relatively good in but my daughter (16) thinks it's horrible so now I have second thoughts. I usually trust her judgement. What do you think? I am in my 40s, size 12, pear shape.

https://www.phase-eight.com/product/amelia-ditsy-shirt-midi-dress-221466493.html#q=Amelia&is=true&sz=60&start=0&isSecondPage=false&pid=221466493&pos=4

Dressing formally is so tricky isn't it

I don't dislike the dress, it's just a bit average. But ultimately if you feel comfortable in it then wear it. It's definitely not horrible.

https://www.silkfred.com/womens/clothing/dresses/day-dresses/girl-in-mind/isabella-flora-chiffon-tie-front-shirt-dress

This one is simple and still a shirt dress but a little something extra. Not a bold print or colour. Would something like this work if you do want to opt for something else?

It depends. I've been to at least one where the dress code was black tie but as OP's isn't, that dress will be fine.

Posters have said it looks like work wear, well so do the men's suits.

The length is unflattering but the print is ok.

Thanks, I know many petites do suit bold prints but they really overwhelm me. It's probably a combination of my size, colouring and personality. I don't like to stand out.

I have a teenage daughter and never ask her for an opinion. She would not be seen dead in anything I would wear. Likewise, I would not be seen dead in anything she would wear.

If you like it and it makes you feel good - WEAR IT. Who cares what others think.

Totally agree!

Thank you, that's a lovely dress.
Yes, I am finding is very difficult.
I think it's the occasion that has me a bit stuck and I am not fully sure how the other women will be dressed. I just want to blend in. If it was a wedding etc it would be easier.

Very granny-ish.

What about something like this? Bit more glam?

It’s a bit old school dinner lady for me.

Now i've read more about the event, I think your original choice is absolutely fine. I think i'd add some colour with shoes and accessories. Most colours would go nicely :)

Think it's probably one of those items that looks better on!

It might look better in real life but the print for me looks awful, makes me feel a bit sick.

Thank you but the link didn't work for me.

I like it OP, if that’s what you’re comfortable wearing then wear it.
You’ll be more confident than if you were wearing something that wasn’t your usual style.

Yes that’s really nice in both colours too.

https://www.debenhams.com/product/jolie-moi-metallic-spot-chiffon-midimix-dress_p-a83a0d49-b30e-4d4f-b5a9-e995c0a65603?colour=Burgundy

This is the dress on Holly Willoughby

https://fashionyoureallywant.com/2023/03/27/holly-willoughby-navy-floral-shirt-dress-this-morning-march-2023/

Yes, but probably only of it comes in a petite sizing.

How about something along these lines?
https://www.johnlewis.com/reiss-aubrey-waisted-detail-dress/navy/p113272195
classy but doesn’t scream for attention

Dress suggested by SiobahnRoy

Tbh I prefer your choice OP.

Thank you, that's lovely

https://www.debenhams.com/product/jolie-moi-metallic-spot-chiffon-midimix-dress_p-a83a0d49-b30e-4d4f-b5a9-e995c0a65603

Ha, I think a few of us like that one.

It looks better on Holly Willoughby than the model. It's nicer than the Jolie Moi dress.

I think the dress is ok. If it makes you feel good when you try it on, then go for it. I don't think there's anything wrong with it at all.