What should I wear for two party events this autumn/winter?

[Antisocial81]

I have a couple of events coming up. First is my DP’s mum’s 80th birthday party, it’s in a pretty fancy hotel, party is dinner then a band. For this I need to find something classy but cool 😎 as in looks cool rather than temperature wise as it will be in Ireland in November.

Then a 50th birthday party in December, a bit more low key as it’s in a rugby club but still want to look nice.

I’m incredibly antisocial and have avoided parties for years, so I literally don’t have anything to wear. I’ve had a quick browse but I soon lose interest as I have no idea what I’m looking for really.

I’m 5’8”, small boobs, size 10, long legs. I need help with it all please, outfit including shoes, and accessories. I’m thinking modern and chic is the vibe I’m going for. I don’t want to look like I’m going to a wedding, I’d like effortlessly classy without being over the top. And I can’t get away with wearing the same thing to both events as it will be a lot of the same people. If you’ve seen something lovely, please share. Budget - as cheap as possible but could go up to about £150 if I had to for a dress.

Oh and I have blonde/grey hair, brown eyes, I’m mid forties. And current style = non existent as I work outside and never need to look nice for anything.

You have a partner, and either friends or relatives - and never need / want to look smarter than usual? (Two upcoming events suggests otherwise!)

Renting might work best for you:

https://www.marieclaire.co.uk/fashion/online-clothing-rental-rent-dress-672014

(Obviously not just for wedding season.)

How about a long, A line, leather look skirt and top in chocolate brown or burgundy?
I might be wrong but think Zara have these.
Paired with boots.

Thanks. I hadn’t thought about renting! The only social events I’ve been to in the last few years have been weddings, and I’ve got away with wearing the same Hobbs dress at 4 weddings (and a funeral) now 😂, so I really can’t wear that one again. DP is as antisocial as me, occasionally we might go out for dinner but then I’ll usually wear smart jeans and a nice top.

I had a look on the Zara website last night but nothing screamed buy me.

Have you considered Vinted, I get all my dresses from there and usually under a tenner.

I’d definitely get something on Vinted, but it’s knowing what to search for!

Have you looked at COS? It's my go to for modern and effortless event dressing, and should work nicely with your height.

I’ve never even heard of COS but just looked at their website and yes that’s the kind of thing I think I’m looking for! They also have a store in Bath which isn’t too far away so I could go and try stuff on, thank you.

What styles and colours do you like and suit you? Would you wear something like this?

https://www.next.co.uk/style/SU923185/Y90046

How have you never heard of Cos?! 😮

My go to shops for this kind of thing would be Reiss, & Other Stories and maybe Whisltes. Can you go to a big shopping centre and try those stores? Also, depending on budget, Me and Em have some nice things

I do really like that dress, I’ve never worn anything similar but maybe I should try it. I’m not sure if it’s a bit too wedding-guesty though? Maybe 🤔

Because genuinely, I literally just wear leggings in the winter, shorts in the summer…I have a few casual summer dresses and that’s it. I very occasionally go to my local pub, but it really doesn’t matter what you wear there so I’d just wear my usual leggings. I work outside, my hobby involves wearing leggings…

Last year I thought right I need to get some nice clothes and went to see a personal shopper at Mint Velvet. Got a couple of really nice pairs of wide leg jeans, and some lovely tops and knitwear to go with them. I only bought a few items as a capsule wardrobe but most still have the tags on. I really don’t go out socialising if I can help it.

honestly i'd take a couple of outfit pics before buying anything and get outside opinions. mirrala is pretty much made for that kind of "does this actually work?" question.