Help-What to wear to a Summer event....?

[Thistlewoman]

Hi-I wonder if any of you could give me some advice please? I've been invited to a golf club barbecue at a 5 star hotel this summer (I know😬) and I am struggling to know what to wear....
Its an afternoon into early evening event.
For context I'm 5' 7" tall, size 12, slightly apple shaped with a larger bust (38 DD). I'm 55 yrs old, prefer to keep upper arms covered, and so don't wear strappy tops. I've got quite long legs.
I'm normally quite comfortable dressing for events/activities that I go to-but these tend to be either casual dress-or very formal. This event is in the (for me) tricky area somewhere in between.
I don't generally like florals or frills-I just don't think they suit me-I like more tailored/structured clothing usually. Fave colours are olive green, coral red, yellow and most shades of blue (not all at once though obvs🤣).
I welcome new advice, hate the thought of being stuck in a style rut. I see there are some really stylish women on here with great advice and would love to get some guidance!
Apologies if this is rather a long post-it's my first time so not sure if I've rambled on too much...

Have you seen pictures of previous events?

for summer events a midi length dress is both smart and casual, wear with flat or wedge sandals. Can’t go wrong. Thousands available in olive green! Don’t overthink it, wear something you like

I know it frilly, but I honestly think this would flatter most figures and ages.

Wyse has some good options that seem to fit the bill. https://www.wyselondon.com/collections/dresses?page=1

https://www.roman.co.uk/abstract-print-chiffon-draped-tunic-dress-14417834

https://www.roman.co.uk/abstract-print-chiffon-draped-tunic-dress-14417834

@Thistlewoman have you thought about a linen jumpsuit or co-ordinates? Cos do some great options.Linen jumpsuit

What is your budget?

How much are you looking at spending?

There are some beautiful short sleeved midi dresses on the John Lewis site.
Just one thing though, are you sure your bra size is correct? A 38 back size doesn't seem at all right for a size 12.

I’m a little older than you and would be thinking of cool weekend wear, so almost certainly co-ords, like this

Alemais shirt and trousers

or this

Alemais silk set

or this one

Alemais green silk co-ords

As a pp says - you can find this sort of thing everywhere at whatever price you prefer. Add barely there flat sandals.

I definitely would not be attending in a frilly frock!

Lots of different shapes at Mango. I like this:

Printed shirt + trousers

or this is more structured:

Blue waistcoat and trousers

And this set from Cos would be very versatile:

Linen Co ords

https://www.nobodyschild.com/products/green-starlight-midi-dress?cjdata=MXxZfDB8WXww&variant=44023011737771&cjevent=8a85229e2da611f0801001b40a18b8fa&utm_source=CJ&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=Genie+Shopping+CSS

@Thistlewoman I think the Cos co-ordinates posted above would be perfect!

Up to £500

Will check out JL..
I've a v narrow back and narrow ish hips so can usually wear a well cut 12👍🏻

Up to £500

The two Roman dresses linked are way OTT for an afternoon bbq - 5 star hotel or not. They are more suitable for a wedding.

Me three!

Have you tried Reiss? They normally have things that would be suitable.

On a budget of £500 have a look at Serena Bute.
https://serenabutelondon.com/

Try me and came. I love their stuff. I have my eye on this skirt

ME and Em https://www.meandem.com/conceal-reveal-stitch-knit-maxi-dress-camellia-pink

Wyse https://www.wyselondon.com/products/saoirse-silk-dress-pink-floral

Max Mara https://gb.maxmara.com/p-5621075106002-orata-lilac

Rixo https://rixolondon.com/products/tania-miami-floral-emerald

Jasper Conran https://www.jasperconran.com/products/celia-silk-full-skirt-shirt-dress-with-belt?variant=44303570043114

Farm Rio
https://farmrio.uk/products/fresh-table-scarf-blue-midi-dress-1

I think that's perfect. A lot of the stuff posted looks far too formal for a golf club barbecue, even at a 5 star hotel.

It's also patterned and cotton so much better for hiding and washing out spilt food [or is that just me at barbecues ?]

With the right shoes and bag

https://www.poetryfashion.co.uk/product-RJ74-POEDS/colour-a-dark-olive/dresses-skirts/cotton-hemp-knitted-sleeveless-dress.htm