Anyone Want to Play "Paper Doll" with Me?

Updated on October 23, 2012
X.O. asks from Naperville, IL
11 answers

I have an upcoming party that I am not sure of how to dress for it.

Background - I am 31 yrs old, plus size, and don't feel very comfortable in dresses right now. My style ranges from classic to Boho.
The party will be a "welcome to the group" party at the home of a surgeon. The home is in a very nice neighborhood.
It's a Saturday evening, no kids affair
We did get invitations, but I'm not sure if I can use the invitation as an indication on the level of formality.
It didn't say "black tie" or "formal attire" but I just don't want to show up under or overdresses.

It would be particularly helpful to share links of specific outfits that I could buy

Thanks, ladies :)

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So What Happened?

I've never met the hostess, and the only other woman I know who is going--well, let's just say that after seeing the lime green mink she wore to the last party we attended, I'm not sure I should take my cues from her ;-)

Theresa, that is really a great dress! Thanks! That could be a go-to for many different occasions.

ETA: Any thoughts on this top? http://www1.bloomingdales.com/shop/product/michael-michae... Sleeve%26spp%3D7%26ppp%3D96%26sp%3D1%26rid%3D61

...or... http://www.pyramidcollection.com/itemdy00.aspx?ID=51,615&...

Featured Answers

T.N.

answers from Albany on

How 'bout this (or something like it)? A little dressy, not too much.

http://www.cjbanks.com/product/index.jsp?productId=131573...

Is it someone you know well enough to call and ask? And do you know any other women going so you can ask what they're wearing?

:)

7 moms found this helpful

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S.S.

answers from Chicago on

I wanted to suggest that since you live in naperville you might want to go to catherines. it is on 59 on the same side of the street / strip as the portillo's they h ave beautiful plus size clothing. they have clothing for all ages and all styles. from formal to picnic lol. I had to go recently to pick out some clothing for a conference and they had everything I needed along with a swim suit which I had put off buying (because you know who likes to buy a swimsuit in a plussize lol) anyway go check them out. they have beautiful stuff.

3 moms found this helpful

C.C.

answers from San Francisco on

I'd go with black slacks, a top with some "wow" factor, and heels.

Here's a top I just got, and LOVE: http://www.cabionline.com/collection/clothes/fit-to-be-ti...

Shoes: http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/l-k-bennett-darcia-pump/33313...

Keep the accessories simple.

I think with an outfit like that, you'd be comfortable and you'd look fine whether others show up in cocktail attire or if they're more casual. You'd look festive but not TOO festive. :) Have fun!

3 moms found this helpful

L.A.

answers from Austin on

Both tops you listed are super cute...

nyandcompany.com
Cute sequin tops you could wear with pants or skirts;

newportnews.com
Good Basics.

This company has some really interesting pieces.. Their tops can be fun with pants..
http://www.pyramidcollection.com/ShopCategory.aspx?id=51,...

Talbots. com .. They have cute sweater dresses, you could wear with boots.. and a fun scarf or chunky necklace

Good Basic Little Black dresses.. or a red dress!!!
http://www1.macys.com/shop/plus-size-clothing/plus-size-d...

3 moms found this helpful
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J.B.

answers from Dayton on

I LOVE the Bloomingdale's top you found. It looks dressy & fun at the same time. Have a good time!

3 moms found this helpful
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M.R.

answers from Seattle on

I've been changing my style recently. I am also a plus size, like 16 or 1X and have actually gone back to wearing dresses, but with leggings. I feel slimmer, I'm more comfortable, they always look nice and feminine. I think we're both married to docs and attend many such events. I'm loving my new look. You can wear the dress/leggins with flats or boots, or even clogs depending upon the look of the combo.

And most importantly, wear a smile :)

3 moms found this helpful
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J.C.

answers from New York on

I'd say that if you wear nice slacks with a pretty blouse or sweater that would be fine. Wear some cute flats if that makes you comfortable. Also, wear some bold jewelery.

If this is a party at a doctors house and there will be doctor's wives, then expect a crowd who is dressed up like they were going out to eat for dinner and wearing very expensive clothes. So use your best bag - do you have a small clutch? If so, use it. If not, grab one in a bold fall color. It will dress up anything! Same with shoes.

Love this, too:

http://www1.bloomingdales.com/shop/product/jones-new-york...

***Love the top you like from Bloomies!!

2 moms found this helpful
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M.P.

answers from Pittsburgh on

Checkout this site- http://youlookfab.com/ she provides excellent 'formulas' for all occasions and addresses real women and the clothing that is within their means/styles, unlike many fashion blogs. You should join her forum and ask this there as well. Super friendly and helpful ladies there-completely supportive of one another.

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T.A.

answers from Seattle on

I'd always rather be overdressed than underdressed. And a party with doctors is likely to be pretty fancy! I'd look for a cocktail dress personally, or black slacks with heels and a dressy top with jewelry.

2 moms found this helpful

T.S.

answers from San Francisco on

You can never go wrong with nice black slacks, heels and a pretty top or sweater, something with a little sheen or shine makes it dressy without being over the top.
The slacks and heels are elongating and slimming, and the top will give you a pop of color.
V necks are always flattering (and again, elongating and slimming.)
Have fun with the grown ups!

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R.K.

answers from Appleton on

You could call the hostess and ask or call a few other friends and ask what they are wearing.

A basic skirt and sweater or blouse should work, or a pair of casual slacks such as Dockers. Dockers are a bit dressier than jeans but not dress pants. Wear a cute pair of shoes. Just taking a basic business suit and removing jacket, changing the top and shoes and you have a 'going out' outfit. Maybe adding a cute necklace and earrings.

1 mom found this helpful
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