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Is this too casual for a wedding?

144 replies

Jillwiththefrill · 25/02/2026 09:46

Attending a spring wedding and trying to get sorted rather than leaving too late like I usually do.

Me - 40, Mum of 2 under 5 (who will be present and DH is best man so I need to be wearing something I can "run around" in while he's on duty, size 12/14, 5"2, wide at the hips, small waste, ugly legs.

The wedding venue is a big garden space (with inside area) so it's basically flowers and greenery everywhere.

Would this dress be suitable, or is it too plain? I could possibly wear this on other occasions and the price tag is just right.

Everything I'm finding that I like is over £100, which just isn't in my budget unfortunately, not for something I'll get little wear out of.

I'd welcome other suggestions if there's something else you think would be better.

(please don't suggest Vinted. I've given up trying to buy anything other than kids stuff on Vinted due to the wardrobe full of clothing that doesn't fit and now needs to be re-sold).

https://www.nobodyschild.com/products/willow-midi-dress-2614657001?variant=55134018470273&utm_source=paid_social&utm_medium=Facebook_Desktop_Feed&utm_campaign=Nobody%27s+Child_UK_RT_ASC_DPAs+Confect+BAU+%3A+17.02.26_FPA_FBM%2BIGM_All_All_Viewed+Similar+Products&utm_content=Nobody%27s+Child_UK_PG_ASC_DPAs+Confect+Frames+%28Confect+Test%29+%3A+19.01.26_FPA_FBM%2BIGM_All_All_Viewed+Similar+Products+1+Image+BAU+%2B+Logo_Product-BAU+Frame-PG+Copy_MCA&utm_id=120239780098900510&utm_term=120239780098970510&fbclid=IwY2xjawQLmj1leHRuA2FlbQEwAGFkaWQBqy2LeXf7nmJyaWQRMGZNZVFXTnRJZ3I1QjA0cENzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeN9vJ-HbhwgddkEAsK0QUJuPDsaXPSgl-oTOBT-ngtMRKrtlHTvySfsmKVvI_aem_r2Gqtg6nxbKnsQT592T6ng

Green Polka Dot Willow Midi Dress

Willow Midi Dress

https://www.nobodyschild.com/products/willow-midi-dress-2614657001?fbclid=IwY2xjawQLmj1leHRuA2FlbQEwAGFkaWQBqy2LeXf7nmJyaWQRMGZNZVFXTnRJZ3I1QjA0cENzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeN9vJ-HbhwgddkEAsK0QUJuPDsaXPSgl-oTOBT-ngtMRKrtlHTvySfsmKVvI_aem_r2Gqtg6nxbKnsQT592T6ng&variant=55134018470273

OP posts:
Thread gallery
24
EleanorMc67 · 25/02/2026 22:53

I'm not usually a Phase 8 fan but I really liked the retro but contemporary look of this dress - another green one, OP!!

https://www.phase-eight.com/product/bella-floral-midi-dress-100115569312.html

Bella Floral Midi Dress | Phase Eight UK |

Bella Floral Midi Dress

https://www.phase-eight.com/product/bella-floral-midi-dress-100115569312.html

EleanorMc67 · 25/02/2026 23:06

I don't know the brand but maybe this?

https://www.johnlewis.com/raishma-darcie-floral-maxi-dress/green/p111671695

Is this too casual for a wedding?
EleanorMc67 · 25/02/2026 23:09

This is very pretty too.

https://www.otrium.co.uk/product/jem-meadow-midi-dress-multicolor

Is this too casual for a wedding?
EleanorMc67 · 25/02/2026 23:09

EleanorMc67 · 25/02/2026 23:09

Oops - only left in 8 & 10 - sorry, didn't notice that at first!

EleanorMc67 · 25/02/2026 23:14

Polyester, as seems to be the norm (but it's a pretty style &, like the other dresses I just posted, is maybe more in line with your own preferences OP than my first two posts).

https://www.next.co.uk/style/su824165/h88497

Is this too casual for a wedding?
cherrycherryblossom · 25/02/2026 23:22

I quite like the one you posted OP, it suits the setting you’ve described. I would add some nice jewellery and a little bag and definitely a different style of shoe. A nice wedge sandal or sling-back with a pointy toe and kitten heel. Also hair up if it’s long enough to show off the back and shoulders.

EleanorMc67 · 25/02/2026 23:22

A bit over budget, but a petite fit maxi (well, above ankle). The kind of fit I'd possibly size up in - & definitely wear big suck-it-all-in knickers under!

https://www.johnlewis.com/ro-zo-petite-belle-short-sleeve-maxi-dress-green/p114464337

Is this too casual for a wedding?
EleanorMc67 · 25/02/2026 23:25

As you liked another Love & Roses dress, OP, what about this one?

https://www.next.co.uk/style/su894624/y26975

Is this too casual for a wedding?
EleanorMc67 · 25/02/2026 23:29

Not my own type of thing, but I actually think this looks great on the model! Too much, I'm going to be told ...

https://www.otrium.co.uk/product/dr-meerim-multi

Is this too casual for a wedding?
EleanorMc67 · 25/02/2026 23:36

Also slightly over budget but one left in your size, OP.

https://www.otrium.co.uk/product/hermia-v-midi-dress-green

Is this too casual for a wedding?
Whatwouldnanado · 25/02/2026 23:51

The first green one is gorgeous. If it fits you will be more than fine. Gold accessories would look lovely with it. Ankle length great too. I am 5’2 and think I might order one for a graduation in the summer!

pouletvous · 26/02/2026 00:06

Starlight1979 · 25/02/2026 10:50

These are better

EleanorMc67 · 26/02/2026 00:29

A last (green) one ... Hope you find something lovely, @Jillwiththefrill !!!

https://www.ghost.co.uk/georgia-tiered-floral-midi-dress-d10g038-z78

Is this too casual for a wedding?
CallItLoneliness · 26/02/2026 01:11

If you don't mind a shorter midi, check out Dolly and Dotty on Vinted. Too expensive new, but they make lovely fit and flare dresses in a variety of fabrics, and one of my favourites that I have is green polkadot. I'm a couple of inches taller than you and mine fall just below the knee.

DeftGoldHedgehog · 26/02/2026 01:24

Starlight1979 · 25/02/2026 10:50

Some people like to buy dresses they don't just wear once for a wedding. Plus the ones you posted are rather too dark, fussy and less suitable for the occasion and circumstances the OP describes.

SouthernNights59 · 26/02/2026 05:30

I think it's lovely, and much prefer the green to the pink.

Duckies · 26/02/2026 07:26

It is lovely OP, if it fits and suits you that is the one. Not too casual. I don't think you bring married to one of the wedding party means you have to be trussed up on satin.

Your choice is fresh and classy. Makes me think of Four Weddings and a Funeral (it is a bit 90s, in a good way!)

Glycolic · 26/02/2026 08:38

I am short and an odd shape so have an alternative view. I struggle with dresses and go for separates at weddings instead. Just a thought!

www.debenhams.com/product/yumi-mesh-tulle-skirt_p-b0b36c2c-b350-41a3-ae9a-8432e5727b6b?colour=Green&size=10&srsltid=AfmBOorW6X92sVJDm8U-mlVEsHh_rlhC2KXUBf9bdB8FHA57hg4Q3NTv084

TheApocalypticiansApprentice · 26/02/2026 08:42

Perhaps you could provide a source that is not that entity, @Glycolic?

Mumofoneandone · 26/02/2026 08:53

I love it in the green. Think it's absolutely fine for a wedding - lots of options for 'dressing it up' a bit more if needed with accessories and maybe a cropped jacket. But equally could be worn more casually with sandals and simpler jewellery for a more relaxed occasion.

putthehamsterbackinitscage · 26/02/2026 09:16

I think your original post and choice is a great option for the setting you described and for running around after DC….

you would also be able to wear it for casual lunches or days out etc post wedding so it wouldn’t need to be a one off….

Don’t be driven by “wedding” style - your own style and comfort matter more.

Advocodo · 26/02/2026 09:22

I think it will be perfect. Love love green. Enjoy the wedding.

Glycolic · 26/02/2026 09:33

TheApocalypticiansApprentice · 26/02/2026 08:42

Perhaps you could provide a source that is not that entity, @Glycolic?

Sorry I don’t understand?

OhDear111 · 26/02/2026 09:34

It’s a work dress or holiday dress. You will blend into the background. Ok if that’s what you want and you see your mum role above your guest role.

CointreauVersial · 26/02/2026 09:40

@EleanorMc67 you've found some stunning dresses! Sadly I have no weddings in my diary at the moment....