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Original poster

I’m in tears and don’t want to go to an event I’ve been looking forward to for months because I have nothing to wear

403 replies

CultureAlienationBoredomandDespair · 12/08/2025 17:34

Please help!

I’ve put on weight and generally feel awful. I had an outfit planned that I wasn’t 100% happy with because everyone has seen my wear hundreds of times but it was ok. Problem is there’s now a heat wave and it’s a long sleeved maxi dress so no good.

I’m 5ft 3, blonde, massive boobs, big hips and huge belly but with a defined waist. If I don’t have definition I look like a weeble.

The event is like a hen do with a daytime party boat, DJ, afternoon tea and then an evening do in a pub. Daytime is mainly women 35-45 then spouses and wider group in the evening. Even if was happy with my body I think I’d struggle to know what the right kind of thing to wear was.

Please help me enjoy myself and not feel awful. Budget would be a max of £200 but that would have to include shoes/ accessories.

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Original poster
CultureAlienationBoredomandDespair · 12/08/2025 21:01

I know most people love linen in the heat but I find it stiff and itchy and think I’m too short and round to carry off the creases. I just look disheveled.

OP posts:
PeonyPatch · 12/08/2025 21:03

Lovely with gold accessories and tan wedges:

www.johnlewis.com/live-unlimited-curve-floral-sleeveless-midi-dress-and-neck-scarf-pink/p113626506

PeonyPatch · 12/08/2025 21:08

Are there any particular colours you do or don’t like? Xx

Itsnotrainingatleast · 12/08/2025 21:14

Hi! What’s your body shape? Pear?

Catinthehay · 12/08/2025 21:18

Scarlet and Jo do great flattering dresses. John Lewis stock their dresses too.

TryingAgainAgainAgain · 12/08/2025 21:21

It's really lovely to see so many MNers making suggestions, giving thoughtful advice, and sharing solidarity and empathy. Quite like the old days!

Barrenfieldoffucks · 12/08/2025 21:26

This is a gorgeous colour, and comes in a 20. Shirt style like the one you have.

https://www.wolfandbadger.com/uk/midi-short-sleeve-dress-flora/

Barrenfieldoffucks · 12/08/2025 21:28

Cuteness, may not be a good size

https://www.wolfandbadger.com/uk/lisbon-mini-jungle-book/

Katie0909 · 12/08/2025 21:34

Scamp and Dude dresses are great. I've bought 2 recently as I was so happy with how flattering they are. They do mostly leopard print but have quite a lot on sale. They are easy to dress up or down with shoes/jewellery so you.would wear them over and over and they don't shrink in the wash.

Carly1000 · 12/08/2025 21:37

Try looking at asos. they have lots of pretty dresses and in plus size. They also deliver quickly and have shoes for wide feet. I think this dress is super pretty. Maybe with metalic shoes/sandals and bag.
www.asos.com/prd/208281316?acquisitionsource=pasteboard

MelliC · 12/08/2025 21:38

You sound a similar size to me
Whistles do Petite up to Size 20 now.

I saw this one in the shop yesterday. It looked fab
https://www.whistles.com/product/zebra-texture-midi-dress-40114.html#navAjax=true&imageType=model&is=false&sz=60&start=-1&cgid=Petite_Clothing_WW&isSecondPage=false&pid=zebra-texture-midi-dress-40114&pos=5

But it may be that you'd just be better off going for something plain, elegant and beautifully accessorised if you are not feeling bold. I have this one which is very comfortable, easy to wear and feels right whatever I am doing

https://www.whistles.com/product/avery-smocked-dress-38610.html#isSecondPage=false&start=59&sz=60&is=false&imageType=model&cgid=PetiteClothingWW&pid=avery-smocked-dress-38610&pos=79

HollyGolightly4 · 12/08/2025 21:43

@CultureAlienationBoredomandDespair are preschoolers susceptible to sweet treats whilst walking round the supermarket and promise of bubbles or ice cream after? 🤣

FanofLeaves · 12/08/2025 21:43

I used Simpy B to order a dress for the first time recently, ordered it around 8pm on the monday night, paid the extra £1 for express over standard delivery, and I had it in my hands by 2pm on the Tuesday! Was really impressed.

Notashamed13 · 12/08/2025 21:48

https://www.newlook.com/uk/womens/clothing/playsuits-jumpsuits/yumi-black-geometric-print-wrap-jumpsuit/p/935386401
Way "fatter" than you and I think jumpsuits are actually super flattering.

OudLady · 12/08/2025 21:51

Can recommend @carys.whittaker on Instagram - take a look. Sounds like she has a similar body shape. I don’t think you’re alone at all. Good luck!

ImNotWhoYouThink · 12/08/2025 21:54

What about a summer jumpsuit instead of a dress? Karen Millen do size 18/20 with next day delivery

Original poster
CultureAlienationBoredomandDespair · 12/08/2025 21:59

Thank you all for your help. DH saw me go through all the links and has offered to come home early tomorrow so that I can do into town to have a look and try some things on. Planning to do that and then if I don’t find something I’ve still got time to order some things on Thursday morning with next day delivery.

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