Any Algerian Muslims here? I need your help!

[PendingMessagesZero]

Sorry about the awful title!

I'm white British. Been invited to an engagement event of a lovely British Muslim couple whose families originate from Algeria. Men attending at one venue, women attending at another. Both events appear to be a mix of the couples British culture along with their families more traditional Algerian culture.

I'm attending the women's event - it's a sit-down meal followed by a party with music, dancing etc

I've been told to wear any party outfit, but I'd love to wear something that isn't exactly a traditional Muslim outfit (as I'm not Muslim, so would be inappropriate) but has elements of something arabic iyswim, and would fit in nicely with the integrated cultures. Can anyone tell me where I can find a dress/outfit that would tie in with this?

Also, I'd like to get them an engagement greetings card that celebrates their Islamic engagement, rather than getting any old standard engagement card from Clintons, or the like! What is the engagement event called? What messages are appropriate on a Muslim engagement card? I've looked online but there's lots, but I'm unsure what is right. I would be mortified to offend by giving them something that didn't actually mean "congratulations on your engagement"

I'd be so grateful for your help, this couple mean a lot to me

Hi @PendingMessagesZero just bumping this for you so hopefully some Mumsnetters will be along soon with some useful advice.

We've also moved it over to the Weddings section.

Sorry no advice but hopefully bumping for you

DH is Muslim, but not from that part of the world. As you are going to the women's part, you can wear any party outfit and it doesn't have to conform to traditional Islamic dress. However what is appropriate usually depends on your age and marital status. As a married middle aged woman myself I would probably wear a below the knee dress and some form of light jacket to cover my arms. Bling is good - sequins or other sparkly fabrics.

Don't expect alcohol at the venue - but do expect to dance!

Do you know what you should give as a gift?

Can't help with an Algerian engagement (though moving there very shortly) but most Arabic weddings I've been to have been very glam, blingy long dresses or cocktail dresses, lots of bling generally. In many cultures the reception was traditionally seen as a place for mothers to check out suitable girls for their sons to marry so it was important to be 'done up.

As for a card...in my experience cards aren't usually given.

I bought a full length ball gown from a shop that sold sarees. It was absolutely gorgeous and had lots of bling. I did try on a saree but I couldn't walk in it and I wanted to dance! I wore lots of bangles, a pair of sparkly heels, full on face of make-up, big earrings and a necklace. I was lucky as it was reduced to £50 and I persuaded the shop to alter the bust to fit for £5 for me. Normally the dress would have been £300, so be prepared to shop around or spend a lot.