Sadly I dont think I can swerve this.
September black tie, I suspect it will be slightly more black tie than normal events in my industry, but I am not going full evening gown, I would rather be under than overdressed and I will probably be walking/public transport to get there..
I am 55, 5ft six, bottom half 18-20, top generally 22 as so many things are cut poorly on boobs (38G) Peri, prone to overheating at the moment, hourglass with a tummy these days but have decent shape wear.
Great boob's as long as I wear a bra, hate almost everything else about my body at the moment
Ideally neef enough movement to dance after a three course dinner. Warm autumn colours.
I have a beautiful angel wing v neck velvet top in a rich blue I like, I'm thinking of that with some silk evening trousers currently in the Hobbs sale, but is velvet and silk too much? Do I go for blue trousers with the blue top or go bright?
Or I have nice but not especially glam 7/8 smart trousers from Boden (Richmond, i think) or could buy some cropped tuxedo trousers which I would probably get some wear out of afterwards. Cropped strangely suit me as I have a short torso/longer legs. Hence also no high waisted!
But the main problem is shoes. I do have many lovely pairs of heels but have not worn any since lockdown, and realised i now couldnt walk in for a wedding last year!.
What are evening wear appropriate flats? I can't do strappy sandles because my feet are revolting but I can do open toe with a pedicure and/or mule style as my heels dont shame me 😆
I am reluctant to go boots in September in case its a warm evening as I will probably just wilt. I have lots of bags I can likely use one of.
Budget - if I can wear them again £100 in the sale for shoes and same for trousers. Current sales seem to have quite a lot or good brands in my sizes reduced to £80 ish mark but i feel like I can't get the trousers without an idea of shoes.