Handsome, hardworking dresses for the cooler weather.

[Vaguelyclassical]

I'd love to diversify my cool weather wardrobe a little. I'm looking for dresses that hit mid calf or a bit lower but are not full length (this is non-negotiable); I'm a little busty so variations on v necks or bodices with buttons you can unbutton are best. Long sleeves or 3/4 length sleeves; these would be day dresses. Very very strongly prefer a gentle A line that isn't interrupted by a waist seam. Size 14, but tallish with the weight spread reasonably evenly. Autumn/winter weight, please. (I fantasize about the perfect needlecord dress.) Can't wear yellow/orange/brown/lime green/olive drab colours. Strong blues, teal, dark green, dark red, dark purple, and even black especially welcome!
And I'd love to pay less than £150 (per dress, that is!). (Not asking a lot, am I? 🙂) Suggestions?

I guess you mean hardwearing, rather than hardworking! This is lovely and the green is reduced: https://www.nobodyschild.com/products/riley-cord-shirred-waist-midi-dress-2613631009?_gl=1uxhodi_upMQ.._gs*MQ..&gclid=CjwKCAjw3NHWBhANEiwAtpwId1zwYKjemgSTCf-0A2xhbOGblHmAcloiQjNomP9xfaxZoY2ig5wKRxoCZhEQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds&gbraid=0AAAAADQCJIVN0AVcZSR5yO4TDZElueMqw

Actually, I absolutely meant hardworking; I would work the right ones very hard indeed! But thank you for the suggestion.

You're welcome!

I really like this and I'm busty too. Love the colour .
https://www.marksandspencer.com/pure-cotton-cord-checked-midi-waisted-dress/p/clp23095174?extid=ps_ps-gen_ggl_ngs_ch_dressesandskirts_-UK-_-_modernsearch&cq_src=google_ads&cq_cmp=22829958653&cq_con=185979959474&cq_term=midi%20dresses&cq_med=&cq_plac=&cq_net=g&cq_plt=gp&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22829958653&gbraid=0AAAAAD7g6bQJK5jvzI58KBpz-kf8VTK72&gclid=CjwKCAjw3NHWBhANEiwAtpwId2A6fu0zhjen4v7F_MdX-eK2RLvesEBAzHKoRDwLuzj1BYO33o2kwBoCigIQAvD_BwE

There's a discontinued Seasalt needlecord dress called the Clove Hitch that might meet your requirements: mid-calf, 3/4 sleeves, shirt collar and buttons top to waist. And pockets! It does have a waist seam & tie though.

Often available good quality on eBay and Vinted for ~£25-35. I've seen at least four patterns, all navy or black background with part of the pattern in a lighter colour. Sizing possibly a bit small compared to e.g. M&S or White Stuff. E.g.: https://ebay.io/m/2AtBug

Handsome is an odd adjective to use for a dress. I'd go for a shirtwaister or pinafore in plain needlecord or twill in a fairly neutral colour. Try WOMEN'S DRESSES - Community Clothing, Toast, Finisterre, etc.
Don't rule out high street shops.