Henley - help!

[Binmaggeddon]

Hi, I’ve been invited to Henley, never been before. I won’t be in the Steward’s Enclosure, so not a strict dress code, but I still want to look nice and appropriate. I’m thinking it’s maybe a bit like wedding guest or races type attire from googling but pretty clueless - I don’t own anything remotely appropriate as I’m very much a casual dress with trainers person. Can anyone please advise where I can browse online for suitable but maybe a bit quirky summer dresses? I’d be wearing tan leather chunky sandals, probably with a tan cross body bag. Not elegant but I don’t want the expense of a new tiny bag I’ll never carry again!

Have already searched:
Coast
Hobbes
John Lewis
M and S
Next (so Inc brands they carry like Nobody’s Child, Seasalt, Fatface, Lipsy)

There’s a few things I’m ’hmm maybe ok’ about but nothing persuading me to part with money just yet.

I’m 40, tall, size 12 (maybe 14 depending on brand), prefer non tiered and non floral as I look daft and twee, my arms look too flabby and matronly in strapless or sleeveless, ideally want midi length and would also prefer cotton if possible as it’s going to be boiling.

If anyone can help I’d be very grateful as I’m driving myself mad!

Not sure on your budget but Me & Em ,Hush or Boden might work .

Thank you @blizymitzyI’ll have a look! Budget is open - In my head I don’t want to spend more than £100-150 if possible, but also don’t want to limit myself in the search so keeping an open mind. For the perfect dress I could stretch higher.

you don’t have to be super smart for Henley if you’re not in the enclosure - a nice sundress with your sandals and bag will be fine!

I agree with @PlainJaneSuperbrainthe2nd . Even the steward's enclosure didn't seem as dressy as I expected. Do take a hat - and wear suncream - as there's probably limited shade!

I wore a navy pleated skirt and white jacket last time. I have a Ralph Lauren dress for this year.

Oh really @PlainJaneSuperbrainthe2ndthank you, that’s good to know! The dresses I own are all very, very casual - think tatty old New Look shirt dresses I chuck on for working with toddlers. So I will need a new one anyway, but good to know I don’t need anything too special. However I really dread turning up too underdressed if everyone else is looking glam and smart.

@RollerSkateLikePeggythanks a new hat is also on my list! I only have a suncream stained 90s bucket hat I wear round the pool on holidays, so guessing I do need to upgrade that for being seen in public 😂

@Doggymummarwould you mind linking to your dress if possible please? Just so I have an idea what type of thing people wear. Thanks.

Just to add, very good luck on finding a cotton dress. What you are describing sounds like the holy grail now. So many dresses are tencel or any number of other fabrics which aren't cotton and are so sweaty on hot days!

I know, every time I see a potential one it’s either got some weird cut outs, flounces, frills or tiers, or is backless, or cheap fabric I’ll sweat through in an instant! They’re not even cheap. I don’t mind paying £££ if I’m getting something that’s well made with decent material which will wash well, but it seems like everything is just expensive crap lately.

Linen Short-Sleeve Shirtdress for Women | Ralph Lauren® UK https://share.google/DF2rkcYHbiEhkCPic. This one I still have the white jacket if the weather is iffy. I will have a wicket picnic basket rather than a handbag. !

Thank you @Doggymummar that’s exactly my usual style of dress, really helpful to see!

I really like that dress too @Doggymummar and I don't even have a regatta to go to

It's the kind of dress that could be worn for so many things. Simple and elegant but the fabric makes it a cut above high street. I did pay sale price too.i.dpmt like to buy occasion outfits. I like to be able to get lots of wear out of things.