Black Tie Optional Dress Code Question

[Indianamom2]

Dh is an attorney. He informed this evening that we are invited (read: required) to attend a symphony "gala" with some of the other attorneys that he works with. There will be a dinner, silent auction, music, etc...

The dress code is black tie optional. He's already spoken to another attorney or two and they will not be in tuxes. I, however, will have to find a nice dress.

I'm assuming a longer dress would be more appropriate? It's been a LONG time since I've really dressed up for anything. I've got about a month to find something, and frankly, my body isn't in great shape at the moment. I'd love to lose some weight and I will work on that, but I have to be realistic and dress what I have. Would long and kinda flowy be an acceptable look? I cannot do a sheath style!

I was thinking something like this:
http://www.davidsbridal.com/Product_Long-Iridescent-Taffeta-Mock-Two-piece-Dress-F23052_Special-Occasions-Shop-By-Occasion-Mothers-Special-Guests Either the wine or blue color

[smiles33]

Black tie optional makes me think floor-length dresses. If you don't want a sheath or column dress, what about one with a slight A-line cut or even a full skirt? Do you have nice shoulders? Nice arms? A long neck? Picking a feature to highlight may make you more confident and comfortable. I feel self-conscious about my lack of a defined waist (not helped by the fact that I appear to have no hips) so I often try to draw the eye up to my shoulders or long neck.

What about these dresses?

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/js-boutique-cutaway-shoulder-beaded-waist-gown/2943214?origin=category&resultback=0

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/bcbgmaxazria-strapless-silk-gown/2920433?origin=category&resultback=0

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/amsale-empire-waist-jersey-dress/3166323?origin=category&resultback=0

[Indianamom2]

I like the first two you listed, and I'll keep those styles in mind.

I just don't have a Nordstrom anywhere close by and I've never ever been able (no matter what size I was) to order a dress online. I'm all leg and very short waisted....with a now-thick waist. I rarely wear dresses because I've always been hard to fit.

[HonoluluMom]

Can you do an empire waist dress:

http://www.davidsbridal.com/Product_Two-Tone-Matte-Jersey-Dress-with-Brooch-Detail-639517

http://www.davidsbridal.com/Product_Flower-One-Shoulder-Mesh-Gown-8420Y033

http://www.davidsbridal.com/Product_One-Piece-Metallic-Chiffon-Halter-Dress-with-Scarf-F23545

[DrSally]

I'd say floor length as well. Something fitted and flared/A-line would prob be good for your shape. Sounds liek fun!

[MamaMolly]

Buy some Spanx briefs/shorts (or a knock off) before you go shopping and wear them to try on dresses. They make a HUGE difference in the way things fit. You will probably surprise yourself with how pretty you look! :)

[katydid1971]

I know you said you didn't want to mail order but I think this one is beautiful and would be very figure flattering http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/tadashi-shoji-asymmetrical-ruched-mesh-gown/3129719?origin=related-3129719-0-0-1

[eh613c]

Definitely a long dress. PPs have given you great ideas to look good (e.g. spanx and empire waist dresses). Have fun shopping!

[kdeunc]

I agree with a long dress. I think the one you posted would be great. It is very pretty. Have fun!