Laura Corin Posted March 25, 2014 Share Posted March 25, 2014 Calvin's school leaving party is a parents-and-child do, with dinner and dancing. I haven't needed that kind of clothing.... ever. The constraints: I don't wear heels; I'm 5'4" and about 132 pounds; my Lands' End size 8s are loose on me at the moment; I'm long in the leg and don't have much waist (not much length between hips and rib cage); I like black plus cool colours; I want to look good but not in any way to look as if I'm trying to compete with the young things; I'd like something that is comfortable; I'll be wearing purple glasses and my haircut will be similar to this. I have very dark hair and eyes, and a pink-and-white complexion. What would you wear? If you have any pictures of things that would look good (with flat shoes) then I can look around locally.... Thanks L Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bettyandbob Posted March 25, 2014 Share Posted March 25, 2014 Can you look at pictures of last year's event? If I were going to something like this I think I would like to look at examples of what was previously worn to get an idea of the range I could look at. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Laura Corin Posted March 25, 2014 Author Share Posted March 25, 2014 It's black tie and I think it will be seriously dressy. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
itsheresomewhere Posted March 25, 2014 Share Posted March 25, 2014 I don't wear heels either. But look at Dansko shoes. I have some very nice dressy sandals/flats that I wear to black tie events. For the outfit, my rules are that it is comfortable and I feel good in it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
FaithManor Posted March 25, 2014 Share Posted March 25, 2014 I don't know about their shipping internationally, but I can attest to the fact that www.shoebuy.com has had some wonderful low heel and fairly flat dressy shoes. I buy all my dress shoes from them now because they also carry narrow, wide, and extra wide which isn't easy to find around here. Would a dress like this work? http://www.lightinthebox.com/sheath-column-sweetheart-spaghetti-straps-floor-length-chiffon-bridesmaid-dress_p518679.html Maybe you could ask some mothers of previous graduates if black tie also means floor length or if a really nice cocktail dress will do. If the invitations specifically say black tie, I do have to say I'm leaning towards floor length. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
FaithManor Posted March 25, 2014 Share Posted March 25, 2014 Oh, and empire waist might be the way to go if you are short waisted and have to order online because you don't have to worry so much about where the natural waist line on the dress falls on your body. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
RoundAbout Posted March 25, 2014 Share Posted March 25, 2014 I don't know enough to make recommendations for your specific body type, but having been to a number of military balls, I would say that anything black and long would probably work. If this is a one time event I would not invest in anything too splashy as a simple black gown can be dressed up or down with accessories for different occasions. The longer the dress the less shoes are going to be an issue IMHO. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Laura Corin Posted March 25, 2014 Author Share Posted March 25, 2014 I will get Calvin to check Facebook accounts for last year and see if there are helpful photos. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
indigomama Posted March 25, 2014 Share Posted March 25, 2014 I like these: https://www.jcrew.com/womens_special_sizes/sizes18and20/PRDOVR~93075/93075.jsp This This I think they are styles that would fit most body types, they are dressy and could be worn somewhere else. And you could wear ballet type flat with them. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bettyandbob Posted March 25, 2014 Share Posted March 25, 2014 If you don't have to go for floor length, I would get a basic black cocktail dress and focus on accessories to dress it up. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mrs Mungo Posted March 25, 2014 Share Posted March 25, 2014 I am only 5'1" and busty. Anything like an empire waist tends to make me look heavier than I am. The types of dresses that work best on me are actually the type that emphasize my waist. A wrap dress or faux wrap dress or dress with a wide sash around the waist is what looks best. One of my favorite recent dresses has a black fitted top with silver bottom (I know, these are technical terms from a real fashion maven, lol!). It is sort of like this one, but with long sleeves and a longer silver skirt: http://www.overstock.com/#/8689464/product.html Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mrs Mungo Posted March 25, 2014 Share Posted March 25, 2014 Something like this doesn't look too young: http://m.macys.com/shop/product/jessica-howard-portrait-collar-a-line-dress?ID=612530&CategoryID=5449&LinkType=#fn=COLOR%3DBlack;;Silver%26SLEEVE_LENGTH%3DLong%20Sleeve%3B%3B3/4%20Sleeve%3B%3BShort%20Sleeve%26SPECIAL_OCCASIONS%3DEvening/Formal%26sp%3D1%26spc%3D17 Or this: http://m.macys.com/shop/product/js-collections-dress-three-quarter-sleeve-satin-skirt?ID=864038&CategoryID=5449&LinkType=#fn=COLOR%3DBlack;;Silver%26SLEEVE_LENGTH%3DLong%20Sleeve%3B%3B3/4%20Sleeve%3B%3BShort%20Sleeve%26SPECIAL_OCCASIONS%3DEvening/Formal%26sp%3D1%26spc%3D17 Or even this: http://m.macys.com/shop/product/r-m-richards-short-sleeve-faux-wrap-gown?ID=825106&CategoryID=5449&LinkType=#fn=COLOR%3DBlack;;Silver%26SLEEVE_LENGTH%3DLong%20Sleeve%3B%3B3/4%20Sleeve%3B%3BShort%20Sleeve%26SPECIAL_OCCASIONS%3DEvening/Formal%26sp%3D1%26spc%3D17 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Laura Corin Posted March 25, 2014 Author Share Posted March 25, 2014 I love all your suggestions, Mrs Mungo. I haven't seen anything that stylish and wearable here. I will keep looking. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mrs Mungo Posted March 25, 2014 Share Posted March 25, 2014 There are some good prospective choices here, maybe? http://m.debenhams.com/women/dresses/long?pn=3 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
madteaparty Posted March 25, 2014 Share Posted March 25, 2014 The flats are limiting. Not even kitten heel? If flats, I would wear pretty ballet flats with a tea-length a line dress. I cannot paste links at work, but happy to amend later. Jcrew and Nordstrom both have decent examples. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
justasque Posted March 25, 2014 Share Posted March 25, 2014 M&S has this one, which would show off accessories really well, and a few other possibilities here. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mrs Mungo Posted March 25, 2014 Share Posted March 25, 2014 How about something like this? http://www.debenhams.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prod_10701_10001_62035+HS013260_-1 Or this? It would still be very wearable for a dinner out or things like that: http://www.debenhams.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prod_10701_10001_54510+202590050_-1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Harriet Vane Posted March 25, 2014 Share Posted March 25, 2014 I really like Mrs. Mungo's suggestions, esp in post 19. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Laura Corin Posted March 25, 2014 Author Share Posted March 25, 2014 Oooh, ooh! How about this one: http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Eliza+J+3/4+sleeve+ruched+waist+dress/144532668,default,pd.html L Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mrs Mungo Posted March 25, 2014 Share Posted March 25, 2014 Oooh, ooh! How about this one: http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Eliza+J+3/4+sleeve+ruched+waist+dress/144532668,default,pd.html L That is lovely, age appropriate and you could wear it with flats. :D Ooooh, I like this one too: http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Eliza+J+Embroidered+Hem+Cuff+Dress/180901758,default,pd.html eta: I have a ball to attend next month, so this one is tempting me a little. But, I already have a dress that none of the people here have seen, so, I probably shouldn't. It would be tea length on me because I'm so short. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Spryte Posted March 25, 2014 Share Posted March 25, 2014 Oooh, ooh! How about this one: http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Eliza+J+3/4+sleeve+ruched+waist+dress/144532668,default,pd.html L Love it! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Laura Corin Posted March 25, 2014 Author Share Posted March 25, 2014 eta: I have a ball to attend next month, so this one is tempting me a little. But, I already have a dress that none of the people here have seen, so, I probably shouldn't. It would be tea length on me because I'm so short. I loved that one too, but not so much with the purple glasses... L Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Alessandra Posted March 25, 2014 Share Posted March 25, 2014 Oooh, ooh! How about this one: http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Eliza+J+3/4+sleeve+ruched+waist+dress/144532668,default,pd.html L I LOVE that dress! I want it for myself. That said,I think the idea of looking at photos from previous years sounds good. To my mind, there is a BIG difference between a dress for black tie dinner and dancing versus an actual ball gown. Some of the one here (I goggled Harrods evening gown)are more what I mean. http://www.jjshouse.com/tag/H/Harrods-Evening-Gowns Since your example had long sleeves,I looked at this, on sale for less than $150. Or, if you don't need something so ball-gowny, you could look for something with an elaborate beaded top or even a long black skirt with a brocade jacket. I have some brocade jackets and also a close fitting, no collar, waist length black velvet jacket with gold trim that got a lot of use in the days when I gad a social life, lol. 9/11/2014 deleted photos as per SWB request The above popped up in a search, but I think collarless would be better, to allow for important jewelry. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Laura Corin Posted March 25, 2014 Author Share Posted March 25, 2014 I LOVE that dress! I want it for myself. That said,I think the idea of looking at photos from previous years sounds good. To my mind, there is a BIG difference between a dress for black tie dinner and dancing versus an actual ball gown. I had a look back through Facebook. The pictures I saw had the boys in black tie and the girls in full length but not serious ball-gowns. No pictures of parents, funnily enough.... I might try to bump into the headmaster's wife. I know her a little and her daughter left the school a couple of years ago, so she should have experience. The ticket doesn't mention dress. It just says 'XXXXX School Leavers' Ball. 7pm drinks, 8pm dinner and dancing, 12.30 carriages.' L Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Alessandra Posted March 25, 2014 Share Posted March 25, 2014 Something that start with drinks and ends shortly after midnight doesn't sound as though it truly requires a ball gown, imho. Sometimes the kids at these things put in a lot more effort dressing that do the parents. Hope you can get some reliable guidance! How stressful! ETA I remember having to get a dress for Glyndebourne once -- dressy, but not evening. It was pre-internet days, but thank goodness there were photographs in a British cookbook I had (the picnic chapter). Clothes can be such a minefield. (I say this as a non-fashionista who buys most of her wardrobe at the local camping store, lol.) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Trilliums Posted March 25, 2014 Share Posted March 25, 2014 Love it! Me too! I just had to come see what I knew would be links to great gowns. I also love lurking in posts about dresses for mother of the groom/bride. So here I am virtually window shopping with you all. :hurray: :hurray: :hurray: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chris in VA Posted March 25, 2014 Share Posted March 25, 2014 I have to go to the Birthnight Ball at Mt. Vernon every year--the gowns/dresses range from really dressy to true ball gowns. IMO, you will be fine in that lovely one you picked out, Laura. And, of course, you have to post a pic.... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Occasionally Posted March 25, 2014 Share Posted March 25, 2014 I loved that one too, but not so much with the purple glasses... L Could you get a not-purple pair from, for example, Zenni? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Laura Corin Posted March 25, 2014 Author Share Posted March 25, 2014 Could you get a not-purple pair from, for example, Zenni? I'm happy with my purples - thanks. L Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Laura Corin Posted March 25, 2014 Author Share Posted March 25, 2014 Calvin asked for me - apparently most people went floor length last year but there was a mix, with more of the non-UK Europeans going with cocktail length. I think I would be more comfortable in cocktail - I only wear dresses about once a decade and I can't imagine coping with a full-length thingy. What colour of ballet flats - black dress with diamante buttons? Black, silver, a colour? L Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Spryte Posted March 25, 2014 Share Posted March 25, 2014 I just had to come see what I knew would be links to great gowns. I also love lurking in posts about dresses for mother of the groom/bride. So here I am virtually window shopping with you all. :hurray: :hurray: :hurray: That's exactly why I had to check in on this thread! Window shopping! Fun. :) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mrs Mungo Posted March 25, 2014 Share Posted March 25, 2014 Calvin asked for me - apparently most people went floor length last year but there was a mix, with more of the non-UK Europeans going with cocktail length. I think I would be more comfortable in cocktail - I only wear dresses about once a decade and I can't imagine coping with a full-length thingy. What colour of ballet flats - black dress with diamante buttons? Black, silver, a colour? L How would you feel about a shiny red for a pop of color? I think I tend to feel that metallic flats look a little juvenile, but I might be sensitive to that because I'm only 5 feet tall, lol. These flats are fun with the cutouts: http://www.zappos.com/johnston-murphy-tami-laser-ballet-black-suede Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Laura Corin Posted March 25, 2014 Author Share Posted March 25, 2014 How would you feel about a shiny red for a pop of color? I think I tend to feel that metallic flats look a little juvenile, but I might be sensitive to that because I'm only 5 feet tall, lol. These flats are fun with the cutouts: http://www.zappos.com/johnston-murphy-tami-laser-ballet-black-suede I could always go with purple.... I like the cutouts though. L Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mrs Mungo Posted March 25, 2014 Share Posted March 25, 2014 These are cute (it also comes in silver or black): http://www.amazon.co.uk/Dessy-Matte-Ballet-Pleated-Detail/dp/B00DRFWU8A/ref=sr_1_3?s=shoes&ie=UTF8&qid=1395788349&sr=1-3&keywords=dressy+flat+purple Or if you are a sparkle fan (they would go with the buttons): http://www.amazon.co.uk/WOMENS-LADIES-GLITTER-BALLERINA-Glitter/dp/B00DYVQ0VU/ref=sr_1_13?s=shoes&ie=UTF8&qid=1395788411&sr=1-13&keywords=dressy+flat Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Laura Corin Posted March 25, 2014 Author Share Posted March 25, 2014 I suspect I'll end up going with black patent flats - keep it simple and classy. L Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bettyandbob Posted March 25, 2014 Share Posted March 25, 2014 I have no events to go to, but I think I will hire Mrs. Mungo to be my personal shopper when I get to that station in life where I need one. She's got some good picks. Of course she's got other skills and probably won't want that job. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mrs Mungo Posted March 25, 2014 Share Posted March 25, 2014 I have no events to go to, but I think I will hire Mrs. Mungo to be my personal shopper when I get to that station in life where I need one. She's got some good picks. Of she's got other skills and probably won't want that job. I've attended a LOT of events over the years. I know what looks good on real people in real life. If you become a megastar or hit the lotto and need a stylist, then I would be happy to help. Can I do all of the shopping online though? I really don't like dealing with salespeople, lol. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bettyandbob Posted March 25, 2014 Share Posted March 25, 2014 I've attended a LOT of events over the years. I know what looks good on real people in real life. If you become a megastar or hit the lotto and need a stylist, then I would be happy to help. Can I do all of the shopping online though? I really don't like dealing with salespeople, lol. You got it. Now, to buy those lottery tickets... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Audrey Posted March 26, 2014 Share Posted March 26, 2014 Oooh, ooh! How about this one: http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Eliza+J+3/4+sleeve+ruched+waist+dress/144532668,default,pd.html L That is classic and lovely. Look for pointy-toe flats with a thin ankle strap, or d'Orsay flats. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AmandaVT Posted March 26, 2014 Share Posted March 26, 2014 You can check out renttherunway.com too if you're not likely to wear the dress again. I haven't used them, but I have a few friends that have for fancy events that they won't need the dress for later. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
FaithManor Posted March 26, 2014 Share Posted March 26, 2014 I've attended a LOT of events over the years. I know what looks good on real people in real life. If you become a megastar or hit the lotto and need a stylist, then I would be happy to help. Can I do all of the shopping online though? I really don't like dealing with salespeople, lol. If I ever get to coordinate high end weddings within the black tie crowd, I'm hiring Mrs. Mungo to help me shop for clothes! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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