Work black tie

[Puppalicious]

I occasionally have to go to work black tie dinners, and have another coming up in 2 weeks time. I have reworn two dresses I got for a wedding (maje and reformation) but I’m not getting any younger and they show a bit too much flesh for me now (one shows a flash of back, the other a little strappy). I would still like to look nice though, feeling a bit old and frumpy these days! Late 40s, size 10ish but with saggy 32E boobs and a belly I’m hoping to reduce a bit in two weeks. Chat GPT has me typed as soft autumn colour wise (although I used to be deep autumn and do prefer rich colours…) Would love any suggestions!

https://www.johnlewis.com/adrianna-papell-studio-beaded-flutter-blouson-dress-olive-gold/p115322854

@TheSquareMile thanks, that’s nice but John Lewis doesn’t deliver to where I am, I think

They also do next day delivery to waitrose.

https://www.nobodyschild.com/products/sleeveless-tammy-midi-dress-2616339003

Thanks - might be a little tight, when I’m feeling a bit body conscious. What’s the quality like?

Can you say, very roughly, where you are?

https://www.phase-eight.com/product/minty-wrap-maxi-dress-100019645010.html

I’m in Ireland

I like this but a bit on the spendy side….might need to hope it goes on sale (obv not in next 2 weeks!)
https://rixolondon.com/en-ie/products/leyane-dress-layla-dot-red?variant=55959488889218

Could also be a bit tight around the bust

Couple of questions- how tall are you/do you need petite?
Do you know if Next will deliver to you?

I’m 5”5, and yes Next deliver (John Lewis are one of the few that don’t). I wouldn’t generally buy much Next for myself though (more for the kids)

Usually very good, and reliable sizing. I've had a couple of formal dresses from them.

https://www.brownthomas.com/ni/women/clothing/dresses/draped-cinched-dress/2001345215.html

Ah ok, I'll suggest a couple of Next dresses anyway, I just think they have quite a good range and often things in the less spendy category that look just as good as the spendier ones! This first one comes in 4 different colourways.
https://www.next.co.uk/style/su343448/e61988

Monsoon in a few colours.
https://www.next.co.uk/style/su614603/g81578

If you know the style you want you could get something from Vinted. I get dresses for around £5 and have got a good range of clothes suitable for most situations. I got a dress recently maxi length and glitzy dress just over £1 from Vinted.

Thanks all for your suggestions, will have a look at vinted too

@Puppalicious

In which colour do you look your best, OP?

Historically red. I think it might still be red but perhaps not quite as bright? I’ve got complements in a dark green recently too.

Would this work, or would you be looking for something plainer or with sleeves?

https://www.next.co.uk/style/sv314639/304292

Edited

https://www.hobbs.com/product/anne-satin-maxi-dress/0226-5746-9045L00-LIPSTICK-RED.html

Oh I like both of those @TheSquareMile . My arms aren’t so bad so sleeveless is fine. Will have to try them both on. Thanks!