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

I tried on the dress again this evening and I feel it does look quite nice on, it fits nicely. But the comments here have turned me off it tbh.

I have tried a few Hobbs dresses but found them ill fitting for me because the 10s were a bit tight and the 12s were too big.

I am not concerned about looking "fashionable" just want to blend in and not stand out as "frumpy". Love it in Holly Willoughby and she's younger than me and a lot more stylish!

I tried on the Jolie Moi dress too and it's a no for that, the fabric is not great, it looks a bit cheap. It really highlights my chest which is not what I want at what is a work event.

Just noticed you said it appealed to you as to you the print was like an impressionist painting. I think that’s very special, while a lot of people may be fairly indifferent to the dress, it’s giving you some beautiful thoughts so why not get it and enjoy wearing x

@CluelessStyle, I’d go with either the impressionist dress from your OP, or the blue size 10 you’ve had from before if it genuinely still fits comfortably.

Sorry OP you haven't had much help from this thread. The dress is nicer than most of the alternatives suggested- go with it.

You're right about polyester. There absolutely is polyester and polyester. And you're right about the print.

I think this thread proves how hard it is to find a decent dress. Not hard to find something really casual, but very difficult to find something a bit more formal.

@Newmeagainit really is, and the quality for the price is dreadful

When questions like this come up I go with my first reaction. I have to add I agree with your daughter.

To be fair this was my first thought 🤔

I like the shape and the skirt, I don't love the colour or pattern it's a bit dull, but depending on your colouring it might work .

It really isn't hard.

I've changed my mind I saw the pic on Holly Willoughby and the colour looks much nicer I think it's lovely- are you blonde?

I like your original dress and for what it's worth unless you're really underdressed or really overdressed NO ONE will notice what you wear.
If you like it and it fits you well then WEAR it. What does a teenage girl know about what to wear at at retirement event!!

Agree with this totally.

wear it OP!

I liked Phase 8 normally but that is pretty uninspired. Reminds me of what my late granny used to wear in the 90s.
I think you can do better. Hope you can find something else.

Really? Most of Phase 8 dresses are stuff I'd refuse to leave the house in but whilst I wouldn't choose that dress myself I thought it was nicer than most.

It’s definitely better than the clingy bright print ones, but a bit drab. Fine for a work event. Maybe with a bright suede bag to lift it a bit?

I think it's the floaty sleeves that date it.

I agree with others - its older than you are and 40 is not old! I think you could get something so much nicer. Have you looked at Love and Roses in Next? They always have some lovely dresses for Summer. It looks too plain and sensible (perhaps a dress you would wear to work on a Summers day).

The dress doesn't grab attention, especially in a small picture, but up close the print is attractive (and forgiving of spilt wine etc!), it's got interesting colours and a pretty, floaty vibe. I think it's a good choice from the info you've given OP, and absolutely fine for the occasion.

I get that for some people 'fine' isn't good enough, but not everyone wants to make a statement with their appearance. If it's right for you and the occasion, something you can forget about as you mingle, chat and eat with old friends and colleagues - it's the right outfit.

I love this!

I like your original dress and the blue size 10. I'm in my 40s and I'd wear both of those.

Soz really fuddy duddy. Ie for old people

Another option in the Rixo archive sale

No it's not, I'm granny and wouldn't go within a mile of it.

Its not bad but not what I would call formal. More the sort of thing to wear to the office. Could be borderline mumsy with the wrong accessories.