Downing St Garden Party - HELP

[DowningStDesperation]

I've been asked to a garden party at 10 Downing St at short notice and I have no idea what to wear. For various reasons, opting out isn't on.

I have a lovely Hobbs dress that I wore to a very posh wedding a couple of years ago - would that do? Mid-calf, navy with spots, very elegant, matching classy cardy. I have a navy Mac that is in good shape that I could take if it looks like rain. I think I've still got the court shoes somewhere...

Do I need a hat? I have one (navy, matching trim that I did myself). And tights (bleurgh - not sure I have any aside from woolly ones). do I have to wear them?

Or do I need to devote a day to finding myself an outfit?

I live in jeans and similar, and this sort of do is well above my stylistic pay grade.

I've also realised - this is how often I wear my smart clothes - that I have a maxi Brora dress with a floral pattern, bought for a graduation.

The Hobbs dress is fine. No hat. Smart flats shoes, not heels, unless you particularly want to wear heels.

I would wear good quality, sheer tights. Personally I think bare legs and formal dress is far more "bleurgh" than tights.

What’s the dress code ? Garden party at Buckingham Palace is hats for ladies for example.

If not then what you’ve described sounds perfect!

Yes to tights. No to heels. Unless you go for the maxi then no to tights too of course!

No dress code. So I don't want to be standing there togged up the nines if Kier wanders in wearing chinos and an open-necked shirt...

The forecast is cooking, so I think I'll go for the maxi which is quite formal and very elegant but cool to wear, no hat (don't have one that will work with it except a Panama, which isn't really suitable), no tights (hurrah!), low heels. I also don't want to be struggling home on tube and train with a bloody hat...

hobbs dress sounds perfect

I think you will fit in well. I also reckon it will be an amazing experience as not many people are given that opportunity. Enjoy yourself indeed.