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

That's exactly it, my aim is definitely to blend in, I don't want to stand out. Anything very bright or large prints or very tight or very low cut etc would not be for me (these things do look nice on others obviously, just not my style).

I do wish people would fuck off with all the ageism,

100% polyester... enough said

I’m 72 and I wouldn’t wear it but TBH I’m no fashionista. Go with your daughter’s advice and see if she can find you a dress.

It would do the job but looks it bit like a uniform for a bank (I think it's the colour/pattern)

I find teens hate anything with print, especially ditsy!
Mine used to say the same 😁

I’ve started to buy more plain things and some stripes - I actually feel a lot more fashionable so it looks like they were right!

Meant to add floral print in my previous post of teen hates!

Something like these with a cinched in waist to show off your figure.

At least it's not flowery. It's OK but I don't know. It's a bit frumpy for a young person. I'm in my 60s but if I'm going to an event I like to look a bit more cutting edge without being mutton dressed as lamb.

I think it should either have long sleeves or no sleeves and a much more exciting neckline.

Can you stretch to Me+EM OP? Some nice options in the sale: https://www.meandem.com/sale/dresses-and-jumpsuits

Generally speaking the likes of Phase 8 and Hobbs and even Boden are a bit passe and not very stylish for any age group, dare I say

I’ve actually bought this dress to wear to my children’s graduation this summer. It’s nice for a summers day event but I wouldn’t wear it to a black tie event

The pictures don’t really do it justice, it has a decent weight to it and skims well for those of us who are not skinny ( I’m an apple shaped steroid dependent asthmatic)

I’ve teamed it with some Tan Radley wedges and matching bag. Adult DD and DS like it so I’m happy

OP, unless your 16-year-old has experience of what is appropriate for a law firm's retirement party, I would tend to pay her no attention. 😉It looks fine to me - plus (controversially for this thread) I rather like it.

I suppose if you're really concerned - and given the occasion, I don't see why you would be - you could always have a word with one or two of the other women going to the dinner. I wouldn't bother, though. You like it and it fits and is comfortable, go for it.

I worked for a City solicitors for years, and nobody ever noticed (let alone cared) what people were wearing, unless it was really wildly inappropriate - think jeans in a corporate client meeting or a skin-tight scarlet leather mini-skirt to meet an elderly widow.

I am sure it looks great on you. I agree that the photos on the website don't really do it justice.

My event is not black tie, I wouldn't wear it to a black tie event either.

The tan wedges and bag will be lovely with it.

I like it but it’s not formal more regular work day

Fit dress just need big yellow bead necklace and wide yellow belt. Fab u.less

Just looking on Phase Eight website only I would suggest this or similar style the length, sleeves will suit a petite - the slightly puff sleeve is on trend and would look fabulous with gold Jewellery. Or you could add colour/interest with bag or shoes. Bare look legs and flat sandals or tights and heels - depending on your preference. And the shift style very flattering if you’re feeling self conscious about your weight. I’ve worn a similar style from Phase Eight (size 14) and feel great in it relaxed yet looks effortlessly formal for your event.

https://www.phase-eight.com/product/dannie-textured-tunic-dress-222265351.html#isSecondPage=false&start=60&sz=60&is=true&imageType=model&cgid=day&pid=222265351&pos=107

I love that dress. It’s gorgeous. IMO I think it’s perfect for any number of occasions. Please don’t let it languish in your wardrobe. 🙂

I'm a lot older than you and I'd feel ancient wearing that.

Hmmm. We will have to agree to disagree about that suggestion.

Most important thing is how you feel about it.
However I'm inclined to agree with your daughter.
I can't decide if it looks like it's from Damart, or if it looks like a Safeway manager uniform from 1991.

I'm sorry, but I don't like the dress. It's giving me British Home Store vibes.

When I saw the first photo you posted of the Phase Eight dress I thought "Meh", but I think it looks absolutely fabulous on Holly Willoughby. (Of course, some women could wear a bin bag and still look amazing - it's something about their innate style that lifts everything out of the ordinary.) If it fits you well and you feel comfortable in it ignore any nay-sayers (including your DD) and wear it.
And you're right about Jolie Moi - it's a cheap brand which uses inferior fabrics (hence the cheap prices). I wouldn't wear anything by them and certainly not to a dinner event.

@CluelessStyle I've looked at your dress again on a laptop and it looks much nicer on a bigger screen.
I see exactly what you mean about a Monet painting .
It looks lovely and floaty and swishey and with it being a good fit I think you've made a great choice .
I don't like the shoes and bag in the photo and ,as another poster chose ,think tan wedges would work better .
You'll look lovely and feel comfortable.
Think you should change your user name !

@Whattodowiththesewindows
thank you for your lovely post, it really cheered me up today.