Ideas for a dress for Chelsea Flower Show

[LysistrataSusanCarter]

I am joining a group of (well-off, pretty stylish) friends at Chelsea Flower Show this year, the. Then for supper at Daphne’s. A normal May day out for me is more paddleboards and dog walking.

I am 48, quite short and with a bit of a tum and size 12. Soft neutral colouring so I get lost in anything too bold. I don’t mind florals but not if they are too froufrou. I much prefer natural fibres. I wear far fewer dresses than when I was younger as I often feel mumsy (sorry for the word!) in them. but I’d love to find something beautiful and flattering for a special day out. Last time I was there, a Boden cotton shirt dressed worked really well (before Boden went downhill.)

Corresponding shoe/bag/cover up guidance also appreciated.

Budget up to £400. Any ideas very welcome

Last year I wore dark navy jeans, a white button up shirt and a colourful silk scarf (for a bit of colour!) with a blazer (only just incase of the weather turning). Honestly it was comfortable and easy to wear!

If you’d prefer a dress it might be worth looking on reselling sites for a Zimmerman or similar?

I’d look in ba&sh and Me&Em, starting with the archive/sale sections.

Baukjen & Wyse also worth a look probably.

Wear whatever is suitable for dinner with the consideration that it might be unbearably hot/wet/sweaty in Chelsea for the show.

Something you can walk comfortably in for sure!

I wear jeans and a T shirt (it can be hot) with a lightweight smart jacket if it’s cooler, and I keep a waterproof in my bag. It’s way too crowded for an umbrella.

I am going to the members day this year so bumping this thread for a few more ideas. I'm a similar height but a size 10/12 depending on the brand. Floral swamp me completely so block colours look better on me.