help! what cardigan/jacket can I wear with this dress?

[AuldAlliance]

I have this dress and want to wear it to a fairly formal work event (I'm an academic, not a cutting edge styist or power dressing business woman, though).

It hangs beautifully and cinches in my post-baby muffin tummy perfectly. But even here in Provence I can't wear short sleeves.

I can't find a nice fitted cardigan or jacket to go over it, which could be delivered by Thursday evening. I'm 5'5, size 10, have hazel/green eyes, light brown/reddish/fairish hair and the haggard face of a mother who hasn't slept for 7mths.

A bit of colour to liven it up would be nice, but not too much (we academics are seeerious, you know). I suit reds, greens, beiges and greys. I think.

Any good ideas?

TIA

Franca, the thing about teaching literature is that you cannot (well, I cannot, anyway) get round the fact that if they haven't read the book, your class is pretty much doomed to failure.

Do you live in Milan? Or have I got that wrong? Is everyone elegant and well-dressed? I have a slightly preconceived idea about the chicness of Milan.

This thread is in most active. Must be a quiet evening on MN.

Auld, do you mean that your students won't read the book you are analyzing together?

I'm in Milan yes. Some people are very elegant. Most aren't though

Have to go and watch an episode of The wire...

(in fact, I'm not elegant at all)

I think a long length cardi - maybe crochet style.

Could you wear a shirt underneath?