Where to find an affordable full-length evening dress for a military event

[EveningDressSuggestionsPlease]

I have just had an invite to a military 'do' at the start of November. I need to find an evening dress (has to meet mess dress standards so must be full length, must cover the shoulders, can't be hugely low cut/ high split). I'm 55 5'10 size 16 (thanks unshiftable menopause weight) hour glass/ big bust (so no high necks) and suit jewel colours.

I've found a few options on vinted but I would like to buy somewhere physical or online with easy returns so I can try a few options to see which looks/feels best. Budget is as low as possible (so I'm guessing I will end up on vinted after all) but is there anywhere I should look for a dress or jumpsuit that fits the brief and won't break the bank? My confidence is at a low so I want something that makes me feel a special as it will be a big night for DH and I'd like to look presentable.

Another suggestion, have you thought of Long Tall Sally? They do a twist front midi dress in a sort of garnet colour. Their dresses are very reasonably priced but sometimes I find that the cut and fabrics are not that great. But worth a look maybe?

And finally, even though you are only a size 16 op, you may find that high street plus size shops are worth investigating as their cut will be more forgiving on the bust and the fuller cut and extra fabric tends to hang a bit longer on a standard size and it’s easier to have a larger dress tweaked and taken in than vice versa if it needs adjusting on the bust. HTH anyway.

A little bit random but have a look on Amazon. Lots of budget evening and bridesmaid dresses on there.

A friend had a lovely evening gown from Temu at a ball i went to recently... if you dont mind fast fashion and the ethical concerns.

Ever Pretty has lots of choice and good size ranges although I have never ordered from there so no idea on quality

Hope you find something that makes you feel fabulous x

I also recommend checking out some charity shops. Especially as time is on your side. I got a fab dress for an investiture from one and then splashed out on some fabulous brand new accessories to go with it. Good luck.

You could trawl though Ebay/Vestaire. Some good finds, especially if you are a smaller size, as people tend to grow out of stuff, & evening styles have a long shelf life with dress usually seeing little wear....apart from a possible wine spill to check for!