Dress advice - afternoon wedding - XL glam

[Downdog]

I'm going to a wedding in a couple of months & I want to MAKE a glamerous dress to wear. Although I'm an adequate sewer I'm not too great on style! Need some help please.

There is a loose theme of 1970's african inspired, so I'm thinking something a little floaty/glam, perhaps a maxi dress? I'm not afraid of colour.

I'm size 18 & 42 so I have a few requirements:

Mini is not an option - must be at least below knee length.
I'd prefer some coverage of top of arms.
Boobs are quite good so gotta work in a little cleavage.

Any plus size sewers out there who can recommend a good pattern/style?

I would love to make the dress but would consider something off the peg if I found the right dress.

what about Size Petite Dress etc Khaliah Ali Simplicity Pattern 2947. Size 18W to 24W this

Buy a 1970s pattern on ebay.

And knock me one up while your at it

that would be you're, of course.

Ahem.

Thanks Sweetpea - I like the look of that dress.

tethersend - I've looked online for retro patterns but the 70's one all seem to be quite prim, rather than flowing. Oh & they are all size 8 or 10 too!