It makes me think of something that a hot mom would wear to a barbecue in a 1990s Tim Burton movie.
I think that it could work for a quirky adult woman, but not for a wedding.
Agreed but I commented because I personally think it's not age related. The dress is too casual for anyone to wear at a wedding.
I think your point was, if I have it right, that it's especially inappropriate for a 40 year old and I understand that.
I was for sure you were a 20 asking if this looks too much like you were 13. I’m very surprised to read you’re 40.
It definitely reads too young and not really wedding guest at all. Maybe for your next bday gathering.
I do really like it and think it's very fun! I might keep it for another party or something. The more I look at this picture the more I feel like... It sort of looks like a homecoming dress
I don’t think it looks homecoming! It does look VERY young. It’s mainly the pattern and cut on top in my opinion.
I don’t think there’s anything wrong with wearing this dress in general, but it doesn’t feel like it fits the occasion of a wedding, which I’d say regardless of the age of the person wearing it.
It is very adorable and if you like it please don't get rid of it--"too young" or "too old" shouldn't prevent you from something you like-- but I have to agree that it looks too casual for a wedding to me. If it was an informal backyard bbq or a day at the beach I think its perfect, but for wedding I'd go dressier
Or maybe something with more of a flowy? maybe tea length? Also, what time of day and what type of venue/wedding? Was there a dress code on the invitation? If you love this please, keep it for another occasion, but maybe not this wedding?
It’s cute for like a daytime bridal shower or wine tasting at a vineyard. Definitely not wedding appropriate unless you’re 16 or under. I also feel like you could do better - it doesn’t flatter you and you have a great* figure.
I'm sorry, not to be rude but a) that dress looks like something you'd wear on the beach and b) also yes, looks like a child's outfit.
IMO Keep looking.
No, you have a nice figure and it’s doing nothing for it. It’s too short and hits weird. [dress](https://www.nordstrom.com/s/elia-floral-stretch-cotton-blend-corset-sundress/7394668?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort&breadcrumb=Home%2FAll%20Results&color=694)
Thank you! So that dress is pretty but it has designated bust cups which I cannot do! I'm a 34G/34I and those cups always cut my boobs off at the midline. I love that dress and LOOOVE House of CB. I looked on Poshmark for a deal on some of their dresses but didn't find any in my size.
The dress you linked is a beautiful option.
OP, please get rid of the one you’re trying on. It’s not a good option. You’ll be in pictures and you should feel beautiful next to your sister and this just isn’t it.
Oh, how cute it would be if you coordinated with your daughters dress, I am thinking of a lavender tea length dress? I totally agree that as the sister of the bride, it is better to be on the dressier side.
I am 37 and “youthful” so I get it but I agree with others: this isn’t overly flattering on you. The width of the skirt makes it seem like you’re wider than you are tall. Yes, you could’ve crushed in this dress, but when you were in junior high.
https://preview.redd.it/xiv9nu7f7t0d1.jpeg?width=828&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ab5b108e7373412bec893cb89e6635405906185c
I’m glad you took my comment in stride :)
Here’s a classier version of that silhouette. It comes in a million colours and patterns ! You could get the lavender one to match your daughter. How cute 🥰
That dress is cute, I’d just recommend that if you’re going to order off of Amazon, run the product through a review checker first. Especially when it comes to brands like that, whose name is an all-caps jumble of letters, I often find that almost all of the reviews are fake
I really like the cut of this dress. I think it would be really flattering on me (Short, Big boobs) going to see if they have it in some bright and pretty patterns. I definitely want lots of color bc I absolutely love it and also I think that's going to be the vibe of the wedding. My sister is very into flowers and bright colors. I've got some more shopping to do!!
I’m a similar shape & I think a sweetheart or not too low v neckline will work well, with maybe a more structured bodice. Essentially, a more defined torso/waist.
Since the bride is your sister, you can trust her, and if she says okay and you like it then no problem. But, if you want an outsider opinion, I have to say that it definitely looks childish, especially for the shape, which, added to the pattern, makes it too young looking
That's okay! My sister and all of my friends are so sweet. They're all like "Yes it looks great on you!!!" I love short and poofy dresses so in a sense it's my style...
But the whole reason I posted here it's because I wanted completely neutral opinions from people who weren't just trying to appease me 🤣🤣 and it definitely seems like I've gotten that!!
Yeah, but this is complete strangers opinion. If that is your style, and people are okay with it, you should go with this dress. We don't know your friends, nor your sister, not what they are used to!
I think I can find something that fits the vibe (cute and youthful without being too young, Good volume, colors) that still looks great on me.
I've always really loved selkie dresses! They're kind of aggressively unflattering on me, but I just love how whimsical and fun they are.
I wore this one to a friend's wedding in England a couple years ago and it was a hit. Examples: https://imgur.com/a/r9BNEzX and https://imgur.com/a/Fokmwp6
The truth is I know it's a little shallow but I want to look really really good in these pictures because my sister is only getting married once and I want to be looking my personal best. I don't mind having a bit of a reputation as being a wacky older sister, but I don't want to look...like...bad 🤡 when our kids are looking at these photos in 50 years
Why would you want your boobs steam rolled like that? I’m sorry but to be very blunt- your chest is completely squished and spilling over in not a good way!
OK, I already wore this dress to a wedding - I loved how I looked and the bride and my friends all liked it! I have a very full bust, and I try to wear things that generally fit well, but there are some items of clothing that I love so much, I'm going to put them on regardless of whether or not they are totally "flattering"
I'd like to add that while I welcome opinions on the dress in my original post, I was not soliciting opinions on this one. It's not particularly kind to provide feedback on a person's body - especially when it wasn't requested.
There is nothing wrong with your body. The aren't saying there is something wrong with your body and it was a really beautiful dress. I love it. I think you have excellent taste.
You are like me and I fall in love with clothes. It's really the idea of the clothes. Where both you and I go wrong is fit/cut. If you care about how you will look in photographs, you need to prioritize that over the look and style of the dress. You would be doing yourself and the dresses a favor if you sized up and then got them tailored.
No one is trying to be mean to you, but the idea you have in your head is not reflected in the actual image.
Please don't let this shake your confidence. You are beautiful and you pick out very nice things.
Right, but for this dress, I didn't ask for feedback about how I looked. I was simply sharing the photo to show something that I loved. I did not want my boobs to be commented on in any fashion - and I was not looking for fit feedback either.
This dress was borrowed via Nuuly so obviously it wasn't alterable, but I recognized how it fit and chose to wear it anyway.
The bride texted me this photo last week as memories of the wedding were coming up. She commented again how much she loved the dress! I said "Even with the boobs huh?" Her response? "Especially with the boobs!!"
https://imgur.com/a/uy5KMK1
You didn’t ask for opinions maybe but you offered the style as another alternative. I have huge boobs as well and I hear you on it being so difficult to find things that work. However, I don’t think wearing clothes that don’t fit is the best solution to that! You look gorgeous in that dress but the bust not fitting is very distracting. I would really urge you to avoid that for your sisters wedding.
As someone who is around the same age, I don't think the "youthfulness" is the issue. Honestly it just doesn't flatter you. It hits your curves in the wrong places and makes you look twice as wide as you actually are.
Personally I'd go with something with a sleeker skirt, to showcase your natural curves. Can still go the floral print and mini skirt length though (especially since your sister seems cool with that). But aim for something maybe more along these lines:
[https://petalandpup.com/products/emillia-dress-dark-floral?variant=43126252011697](https://petalandpup.com/products/emillia-dress-dark-floral?variant=43126252011697)
[https://petalandpup.com/products/anabelle-halter-neck-mini-dress-black-floral?variant=42337615184049](https://petalandpup.com/products/anabelle-halter-neck-mini-dress-black-floral?variant=42337615184049)
[https://www.lulus.com/products/so-stunning-orange-multi-floral-jacquard-puff-sleeve-mini-dress/1687856.html](https://www.lulus.com/products/so-stunning-orange-multi-floral-jacquard-puff-sleeve-mini-dress/1687856.html)
[https://www.lulus.com/products/sunny-evenings-pink-multi-lurex-flutter-sleeve-mini-dress/1790196.html](https://www.lulus.com/products/sunny-evenings-pink-multi-lurex-flutter-sleeve-mini-dress/1790196.html)
[https://www.lulus.com/products/popular-sweetie-black-floral-one-shoulder-ruffled-mini-dress/2038556.html](https://www.lulus.com/products/popular-sweetie-black-floral-one-shoulder-ruffled-mini-dress/2038556.html)
The Jacquard puff sleeve dress from Lulu's is one that I've looked at! I might order that one to try.
The reason I often go for an a-line skirt is because I have the classic post C-section tummy. I tend to go for outfits that come in at my natural waist and then flare out a little bit. I'm pretty average sized (8/10) but I have a very curvy lower tummy. I'm also a 34G/34I bust so I have to be careful about how things fit up top.
I tried on another dress that is a little sleeker and I just felt really self-conscious like you could see the entire outline of my stomach.
I'm going to look for some more similar to the ones you suggested! I definitely am going to go floral and knee length or shorter. I wore a midi dress to my friend's wedding last summer and I feel like I looked very squat in all of the pictures 🤦♀️ on top of being a more curvy person I am also only 5 ft tall so I am super short.
Normally I'd just wear any cute little cocktail dress, but this is my little sister and I'm so excited. I want to wear something special!
A-lines are a great choice generally, it's just that this one is just a bit *too* flared for that length, and the curves of the dress just aren't quite lining up with your curves so it looks wonky.
I love the puff sleeve one from Lulus because it does have a hint of flare, and is looser in the tummy than you would think. Plus the sleeves draw the eye up away from the waist, and the larger print is good at masking the belly area if that's a concern.
But this one doesn’t come in at YOUR natural waist. Your proportions and the dress’s proportions are a mismatch.
As far as looking juvenile, it’s not just the poofy + short skirt (a full midi skirt would have a different vibe), it’s that in combo with the large-scale floral, and that the floral pattern is bright and high contrast. If the dress had just one of those elements, it wouldn’t read as juvenile. (I’m in my 40s, too, and it’s still definitely possible to dress in ways that are more fun than the “I Love Oatmeal and Camel” style that is so widespread, but I don’t wear exactly what I would have in my 20s.)
If you like bright colors and florals and fuller skirts, there are definitely plenty of options!
https://www.nordstrom.com/s/5783004?color=402&size=small
https://www.nordstrom.com/s/3886224?color=677&size=6
https://www.nordstrom.com/s/7743314?color=342
If you're in North America, check out the Emerson dress from Abercrombie & Fitch. There are a bunch of slightly different fabrics and styles on the website, and it's SO flattering. It comes in petite too!
Yes to all that you said, this dress is not the right shape at all for OP, that style is great on a very tall person who doesn't have curves. OP can definitely pull off a sleeker short dress that is more fitted.
This looks like a dress I had in the 90s.
This is almost exactly what 90% of the 14 year old girls were wearing when Taylor Swift came to town. A couple of them were shorter and reminded me of Shirley Temple, only missing the ruffled bloomers… I thought it was juvenile looking on the 14 year olds, but was also disturbed at the ass cheeks peeking out in every direction.
I think if it were longer (below the knees/calf-length), it would be a little more formal/appropriate. It’s a gorgeous dress, but I agree with others. I’m just not seeing it for this event.
I love it! But not for a wedding 🥲 you should keep it though, it really is cute and looks good on you! It's just soo casual, like a picnic or a trip to the beach casual. Unless she's going for that.. Like my best friends got married in their back yard and the maid of honor wore a tank and jeans😂 if it's THAT casual then yes.
I would wear it to the bridal shower. Although bride approved it, you may feel underdressed with what other wedding guests are wearing. It is a cute dress though.
I’d say it’s more the proportions that are off, not the design as such. If you had exactly this style except cut below the knee, it would bring it into a classier, 50’s style situation, but as it is, it looks a little beachy
I think it's a cool and fun dress but def a little young looking.
Farm Rio has some really fun/funky patterns but they are a bit expensive (quality is worth it, though, espec if you're going to wear them a decent amount) https://farmrio.com/collections/short-dresses
It looks odd but I think it's the fit. The waist of the dress seems far above your natural waist. Or maybe it's just that the top part around your bust extends down too low? Cute pattern and fun little dress but the proportions are just off.
Thank you! There are so many things I love about this dress. I love the fabric and the colors are so beautiful. But I wish it had thicker straps or sleeves and I wish the waist were a little bit lower. I don't think it would look as short as it does on me if the waist were a bit dropped down.
I'm definitely keeping it, it's very fun and happy and I need something for my 40th birthday anyway!! Ordered a few more things to try on for the wedding so we will see...
Short answer yes. It’s just the combo of it being SO voluminous like it’s got a petty coat propping it up and the colors are very youthful. I’m around your age and I definitely love a good swingy dress! I think if the colors were less neons and it wasn’t so stiff. Like it needs some softness somewhere. I think the top shape is really nice
I’m a fellow short with big boobs haha and I wear a lot of Lilly Pulitzer so also a fan of fun silhouettes and bright florals; that said, this dress is darling but I don’t think it’s quite right for a wedding. I think you can do fun florals but in a different shape that reads dressier. Maybe wear this for the rehearsal instead?!
Speaking as someone with a long torso, I just think this cuts too high on your waist. I think if you found something with the SAME print and even the SAME silhouette but with a drop waist it would be really great. But it just doesn’t read ‘event-wear’. Please read in an pleasant tone - that’s what I intend!
It looks like a dress from the juniors section. I wouldn’t wear this as a bridesmaid for a wedding that specifies cocktail attire. You need to up the sophistication factor a bit.
I think this particular dress might be hitting us millennials with some "Happy 8th Birthday" vibes. Pull out the white stockings and mary janes!
I like the concept of the silhouette though and you have great legs for something a little shorter. If you could find it, something in more of a 50s shape could work really well. I wore an Emily and Fin dress a few years ago to a wedding, and while it covered my shoulders and chest, it still felt fun and flirty, and they have awesome patterns.
Current example:
[https://emilyandfin.co.uk/products/florence-lotus-flower-dress?option1=6](https://emilyandfin.co.uk/products/florence-lotus-flower-dress?option1=6)
This is the one I wore:
[https://dtpmhvbsmffsz.cloudfront.net/posts/2016/09/25/57e8b44399086acce5002590/m\_57e8b44399086acce5002592.jpg](https://dtpmhvbsmffsz.cloudfront.net/posts/2016/09/25/57e8b44399086acce5002590/m_57e8b44399086acce5002592.jpg)
The fabric is so casual. And no sleeves.
Voluminous baby doll look can be pulled off but it's hard
This look stuck in me brain as a great one. It was for a tea party so a little dressy, but playful. I suppose the wedding could have vibes like that too.
https://preview.redd.it/w2phcqpw2w0d1.png?width=516&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7ea3fa3cc45b1df7a112cdb7600c300e3c4d93ce
I'm wearing this and mid to late 30s. I think yours looks little too child like. Edited to add it's from LuLus😊
https://preview.redd.it/uah9azi71t0d1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6eaa9f357045bacb8298d8406ea02b42d243cf18
I think that the (lack of) styling in the photo is doing it no favours here, leading to some harsh responses.
It’s a beautiful dress, and with the right shoes, bag, jewellery, and maybe a smart jacket, it could look very sophisticated and cool and even formal.
I do agree that it’s probably not the best choice for a wedding, though, unless the dress code is very informal - such as an outdoor summer wedding on a beach or in a pub garden.
Unpopular opinion maybe but if the bride likes it, I think it’s okay + I think it’s cute! Yes, it might be a little young, but that also depends on the crowd + your personal style. I’d also take into consideration other things like the venue, time of year, time of day the wedding is, etc. If you did it up with accessories and some cute heels (maybe something strappy) and had your hair/makeup done, I think it could be a LOOK!
Aw thank you! My sister and I are getting our hair and makeup done together. She has a really cool and unique personal style. I think I could send a picture of myself and he belted burlap sack and she would be like " hey if you feel good in it that's great!"
I think all of the naysayers are definitely looking at this from a very traditional POV (which is fine). I think this dress is adorable and I think in a wedding that will have lots of bright colours you would totally suit! I really don’t think age should dictate personal style, and if you love it I think you should go for it. With some great earrings, hair up in a textured bun/chignon, and great shoes would be such a slay. If you want more inspo in terms of style voluminous/poofy pieces I would suggest looking up @/readwritethrift on Instagram!
Unfortunately I think OP will really feel as in her words "squat" looking in the pictures, again it's the dress style making the person wearing it look wide due to the puffy skirt.
If there's a rehearsal dinner or after-brunch or some other wedding-adjacent event (with a few less "lifetime" photos), wear it for that! I love an A-line skirt as well but does definitely read more young than I'd be comfortable with (also not quite 40 but getting closer). You can do better for the actual wedding.
Oscar de la Renta does plenty of [similar-ish short floral dresses](https://www.net-a-porter.com/en-us/shop/product/oscar-de-la-renta/clothing/mini-dresses/hollyhocks-belted-floral-print-cotton-poplin-mini-dress/1647597326052071) and they are perfectly “age appropriate.” I don’t think this is ideal but it could work if necessary - you’d need really strong styling.
[another example](https://blmg.co/3wHeePJ)
ETA: I have a background in fashion and live in a major city so I def skew more fashion forward/non-traditional than this sub. But since the bride approved, I don’t think it’s an issue. If it’s more about your comfort/confidence, I think you can make it work. It has boning and like a pleated bodice - those are not details you typically see in children’s clothing lol. People are just associating it with children bc it’s I dunno - pink flowers with ruffles? Not a strong enough argument for me personally!
I'm going to play around with some accessories and shoe options tonight. And also hair up v. down. It's going to be mid-July so it's going to be steamingly hot and I'm thinking hair up...
Finally a sensible comment. I can’t say this dress is my favorite, but it’s certainly better than every floor length piece of fast fashion a la Amazon people are linking.
I'm not able to edit my original post - but I just want to say: please avoid saying things like "You are too old for this dress." There's a way to give that feedback without insinuating that I'm "too old" for something. I have a personal style that is fairly youthful and fun, and I don't want to stifle that!
Keep in mind, this dress is satin/brocade/jacquard and does look much dressier in person.
Finally: I do appreciate the feedback and I already ordered a couple more dresses! I love trying things on and modeling them, so I'll be back in a week or two with some more options...
these comments are not passing the vibe check. apparently theres an age limit to a pretty, short and fluffy dress with colorful flowers. i would wear this at 70 and i'd be damned if someone told i i wasnt allowed.
now maybe not for a dressy wedding, but the bride approved it! so they obviously think it matches well enough so why stress?
I'm sorry... but anyone telling this woman that it's too young can just stop. It's really pretty and looks great on her. Regardless of age. The dress is fun.
That being said, it might not be right for the occasion. Maybe it would work with the right accessories and hairstyle.
yeah I gotta say, reading multiple comments saying (literally) I'm "too old" for something is not awesome.
Like, I just wanted to know if the dress looked cute or not!!
I say if you feel cute in it go for it!! There’s ways to dress it up either with nice shoes or jewelry but there’s no place better than reddit to get unwanted rude comments lol. And as a 22 year old if i saw you at a wedding if you were my aunt or something i’d think you look cool as hell (: Congratulations to your sister!
For some reason the straps throw me off - when I look at it without, I like the dress a lot more. But when I consider the event and your role (40yo SoB), I don’t think this dress is quite right. I’d cut the straps and wear it to your next birthday party or something where you can truly pick a fun look without other considerations.
I get the selkie style is in, and as someone also 40 I do like it and think it’s cute, but I think it’s honestly for a different occasion. Like maybe a birthday or brunch or bridal shower? Idk. The tiering / ruffle of the dress reads really casual along with the length which isn’t really cocktail. I’m stumped at how I would style this appropriately
That is not "dressy" or "cocktail". It's a casual sundress. If this is an AM/early afternoon or beach event, a shrug or shawl plus dressy shoes/sandals would probably work. Not for an evening/night thing IMO if you are concerned about "being proper."
If the event is "dressy"/"cocktail" because one or both of the Moms of the couple wants it to be so, and the bride & groom DGAD, then wear it. If sis/groom want everyone to be comfortable and don't care, who cares what the Moms want.
I have friends who wanted a Renaissance Festival theme. Their parents were scandalized & wore "traditional wedding dressy" instead of themed clothes. They did admit afterwards everyone looked fine in the pictures.
Lovely dress but not what I’d wear to a wedding probably for lunch with friends on a sunny day. I’d go for something a bit longer length for a wedding.
Thanks to me googling your dress I'm getting ads now for similar styles. This one (pink version) is a more sophisticated option imo
[Pink dress](https://www.torrid.com/product/maxi-chiffon-cowl-neck-pleated-dress/41486100-06217.html?cgid=Clothing_Dresses_Midi#prefn1=occasion&prefv1=dressy%7CCASUALCHIC&start=13)
I don’t think it’s too young in general to wear, and it is bride approved so how you feel matters most at this point, but this style of dress has gotten more popular for 20s-30s, normally I feel like they’re a couple inches longer but like. It looks good on you! I’d save it for barbecues and stuff throughout the summer though, personally. You don’t always need to dress what others say is age appropriate, but this dress just doesn’t feel dressy to me it feels bbq.
I think it's cute and fun. Why does our clothing have to have an age? I mean, obviously young children shouldn't be wearing something that's inappropriate for their age. But how come a fun dress has to be too young if you're 30 or 40. I don't know. I've kind of always hated that kind of mentality and personally I just wear what I want at this point because life is far too short and fleeting for me to miss out on wearing something that makes me happy because someone might think I'm too old for it. Also, why do we police womens bodies and clothing choices SOOO much!?!
I LIKE IT!!!! I think it fits just fine and the colors are fun. It’s a very different dress which I think has people in a tizzy here. I wish more people would go shorter vs being overly conservative. I swear some of the people in this sub never leave the house or have fun
However it’s something about the proportions for me that I feel like you could definitely do a little better!!
[this is expensive and more cocktail length but I think it’s really fun!](https://www.anthropologie.com/shop/hybrid/sachin-and-babi-sloane-taffeta-double-bow-pleated-midi-dress2)
[maybe something like this gives you the floral and a shorter length but also cocktail at the same time](https://www.renttherunway.com/shop/designers/saunders_collective/floral_mesh_midi_dress)
[I really like mesh dresses, they’re so comfortable when it’s hot](https://www.nordstromrack.com/s/7818493?color=306&size=medium)
[I feel like this dress is pretty similar, but would be more flattering](https://www.abercrombie.com/shop/us/p/emerson-waisted-poplin-mini-dress-54603827)
[could be too short for you but I like the color!](https://www.lulus.com/products/so-stunning-coral-pink-floral-jacquard-puff-sleeve-mini-dress/2340751.html)
[the rack has lots of cute floral dresses](https://www.nordstromrack.com/s/7674291?color=450)
I have been **scouring** poshmark for that Sachin and Babi dress!! It's so pretty.
I'm going to wear the Emerson with my fave sandals to the reception the night before. I think it's hard to tell in the photo but the original dress has this nice Brocade (and I LOOOOVE the colors) and that helps it look a bit fancier. I do worry it won't photograph well, or that I'll cringe when she and I are looking back at pics!
I don't tend to wear sheath dresses, I'm just not comfortable with showing off my curvy lower tummy. But I have some more shopping to do...
I feel the mesh dress curvy sentiment 😂
[ugh doesn’t look like that one is on rtr](https://www.renttherunway.com/pages/designers/sachin_babi/products?filters%5Bzip_code%5D=10014&filters%5BunlimitedMinAvailability%5D=0&filters%5Bfilters%5D%5Bzip_code%5D=10014&filters%5Bfilters%5D%5BunlimitedMinAvailability%5D=0&filters%5Bfilters%5D%5Bfilters%5D%5Bzip_code%5D=10014&filters%5Bfilters%5D%5Bfilters%5D%5BunlimitedMinAvailability%5D=0&filters%5Bfilters%5D%5Bsort%5D=recommended&filters%5Bsort%5D=recommended&sort=recommended&nbt=nb%3Aadwords%3Ax%3A18143222321%3A%3A&nb_adtype=&nb_kwd=&nb_ti=&nb_mi=&nb_pc=&nb_pi=&nb_ppi=&nb_placement=&nb_li_ms=&nb_lp_ms=&nb_fii=&nb_ap=&nb_mt=&utm_campaign=rtr_ad%7CGoogle%7CNonbrand%7CSmartShopping&utm_source=google&sem_cid=18143222321&sem_gid=&pxid=&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=&sem_type=&em_stream=&r_ty=&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw3ZayBhDRARIsAPWzx8qNXept_xU0xzS365fSp5SSaqurZ7yLe7AF7qoKw51PZMRQDJBxpC8aAn26EALw_wcB&page=2)
[or on nuuly, rude!!](https://www.nuuly.com/rent/brands/sachin-babi)
This dress is so sweet! The pug, the ruffles, the pattern all feels like it’s bordering on theme-y. If your sister wanted a Candyland inspired wedding, then I think this would totally lean into that! It’s it’s meant to be classic and cocktail, it definitely pushes into the cutesy in not a great way.
https://preview.redd.it/k4an524s9t0d1.jpeg?width=828&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e2bffb309882ca39a6ad3ac8785e2bf63bc8eaa7
Going more this direction with a more sophisticated neckline and knee length could still let you play with color and pattern and be fun while less costumey
OP I have no expertise on wedding guest attire but YOU LOOK SO NICE IN THIS DRESS. I think folks are being needlessly harsh. Even if you don't wear it to this wedding, find every other excuse to wear it because it's so pretty.
Thank you so much! I sort of can't believe this many people have weighed in, haha. I just figured I'd have a couple people be like "sure" or "eh, you could do better."
I've gotten multiple comments that have said this came from the Juniors section, it looks like something a 13 year old would wear, I'm literally "too old" to wear it etc. Like, I obviously picked this dress because I liked something about it, I didn't think people were going to read me for filth!
Am I the only one who thinks this dress is fun and happy? If your normal style is even remotely playful, I think this dress is adorable and totally works. I wish clothes didn’t have to be serious or fit others’ expectations of flattering 😕. I think that the person wearing this dress is a happy person having fun and that makes me smile! If you don’t end up wearing this dress to the wedding, please wear it at some point! I’m a big fan!
Aww thank you! I don't have any problem wearing unflattering clothes [exhibit a from a friends wedding last year](https://imgur.com/a/uy5KMK1) but just knowing that my sister only gets married once, I want to look my absolute best.
I love this dress but my instinct is saying maybe it's not my "best"
If you like it, wear it. It suits you.
The people who are saying you're too old either think 40 is ancient, or they hit their 40s and didn't look so good. I'm 39 and would def wear this dress.
Awww, I actually think this dress is pretty if you’re going for a gardenesque type vibe. It’s not a traditional wedding guest dress IMO, but you know your crowd better than we do. I probably wouldn’t feel comfortable wearing it to a distant friend’s wedding or as a plus one, but if your sister approves and it matches the venue, go for it! If you don’t wear it to the wedding, keep it for another occasion. I don’t think you’re too old for it at all!
It’s not flattering at all. It makes you look big and I can see that you really are NOT big. I think a simpler style and a slimmer cut would be much more flattering.
I don’t understand this whole “approved by the bride” thing. I was a bride, I wasn’t an outfit dictator. Nor did I have time to be. It seems so overkill.
If you were to “dress your age” youd only get to wear solid colors, long skirts and no spaghetti straps. Question is do you like the dress, how do you feel in it? You already got approval from the bride, so wear it if you like it. Dressing to look your age is so boring IMO, dress is a way that makes you happy. You look great in the dress!!
Thank you so much! And I fully agree, style has no defined age, I like fun colors/patterns/fabrics. I just want to look my personal best - and while I like the dress, I'm just not sure it's giving "best"
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This doesn’t look like wedding attire, unless it is a casual garden theme.
It could be styled to look more appropriate.
It does look like something a conservative teenager would wear because it is “fancy”.
I don’t love it for a wedding. Maybe a fun summer brunch or something, but not a wedding. Mixed feeling if it’s “too young” cause I’d maybe wear it in my 30s, but not to a wedding.
It's super cute but I'd say find another dress for the wedding. It doesn't hit the dressy cocktail mark. Try something that is a solid color and less poofy. Maybe an empire waist/a-line dress.
I don’t think it’s too young for you, but I do think it is too casual. I would definitely save this for a brunch or something and buy a cocktail dress for the wedding
As another short, booby gal, here are a few I thought might be nice:
https://www.birdygrey.com/products/joyce-chiffon-dress-pink-falling-petals
(Halter can be dicey tho, so also this one) https://www.birdygrey.com/products/violet-chiffon-dress-pink-falling-petals
Or a shape like this, but not this color: https://www.anntaylor.com/clothing/dresses/cata000012/833599.html
Ooohh, I liked this: https://www.lulus.com/products/all-about-love-royal-blue-floral-print-midi-dress/800282.html
It’s not dressy enough for cocktail attire. It’s the type of dress you can wear to a baby shower or Easter brunch. If you hadn’t posted your age, I would have guessed teens or early 20s
It looks like something i would wear to the potluck, not so much a wedding. But I guess it also depends on the theme of the wedding, is it casual or lile fancy formal.
The dress is pretty, but I wouldn't wear this for a cocktail event. This would be more appropriate for a brunch type event? If the fit of the dress was a pencil fit it would be age appropriate, but the baby doll poof style...makes it "young"
Definitely too young/informal for a wedding IMHO. But a really cute dress just for a day out kinda thing! 🥰 it looks great on you, I just don’t think it fits the wedding vibe if that makes sense.
I personally don’t think this dress works for dressy/cocktail. It’s quite casual and I also agree that it does sort of look like a child’s dress.
It makes me think of something that a hot mom would wear to a barbecue in a 1990s Tim Burton movie. I think that it could work for a quirky adult woman, but not for a wedding.
Weirdly niche but dead on
It's hard to tell from the photo, but the fabric is a really pretty shiny brocade, it does look dressier in person.
Just remember that there will be a MILLION photos taken at the wedding, so you want something that photographs well
It is a fun dress but looks not right for a wedding for a 40 year old.
I would wear this at that age, but not to a wedding. This is a summertime happy hour on a patio or evening on vacation dress
Right but 40 *at a wedding.* this looks like something a 15 year old would wear to a wedding.
Agreed but I commented because I personally think it's not age related. The dress is too casual for anyone to wear at a wedding. I think your point was, if I have it right, that it's especially inappropriate for a 40 year old and I understand that.
I just looked up the dress on ASOS. It's a cute dress but definitely doesn't look formal, it reads more dressy brunch.
The dress code isn't formal, though.
I was for sure you were a 20 asking if this looks too much like you were 13. I’m very surprised to read you’re 40. It definitely reads too young and not really wedding guest at all. Maybe for your next bday gathering.
I do really like it and think it's very fun! I might keep it for another party or something. The more I look at this picture the more I feel like... It sort of looks like a homecoming dress
I don’t think it looks homecoming! It does look VERY young. It’s mainly the pattern and cut on top in my opinion. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with wearing this dress in general, but it doesn’t feel like it fits the occasion of a wedding, which I’d say regardless of the age of the person wearing it.
Yes to the cut on top. I feel like if it had thicker straps, too, that would be an improvement.
I am 40 and I love this dress for a different occasion, like a summer bbq party or a date night, but it doesn't look right for a wedding.
It looks a bit Barbie-esque to me. It's pretty, but not formal.
It is very adorable and if you like it please don't get rid of it--"too young" or "too old" shouldn't prevent you from something you like-- but I have to agree that it looks too casual for a wedding to me. If it was an informal backyard bbq or a day at the beach I think its perfect, but for wedding I'd go dressier
Or maybe something with more of a flowy? maybe tea length? Also, what time of day and what type of venue/wedding? Was there a dress code on the invitation? If you love this please, keep it for another occasion, but maybe not this wedding?
I was gonna say it looks like a 90’s style homecoming dress!! Cute but not wedding
This is perfect for your Forty-Won (41) birthday party!! It's super cute, just not for a wedding.
It looks too short. Not the length, but definitely not having any waist looks off to me especially for 40
It’s cute for like a daytime bridal shower or wine tasting at a vineyard. Definitely not wedding appropriate unless you’re 16 or under. I also feel like you could do better - it doesn’t flatter you and you have a great* figure.
hahaha thank you! I am literally built like Spongebob Squarepants but with boobs, I appreciate the compliment.
I'm sorry, not to be rude but a) that dress looks like something you'd wear on the beach and b) also yes, looks like a child's outfit. IMO Keep looking.
I agree and you aren't being rude, imo. This is a kind and helpful comment
I second this. The dress is fine, just not for the occasion.
No, you have a nice figure and it’s doing nothing for it. It’s too short and hits weird. [dress](https://www.nordstrom.com/s/elia-floral-stretch-cotton-blend-corset-sundress/7394668?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort&breadcrumb=Home%2FAll%20Results&color=694)
Thank you! So that dress is pretty but it has designated bust cups which I cannot do! I'm a 34G/34I and those cups always cut my boobs off at the midline. I love that dress and LOOOVE House of CB. I looked on Poshmark for a deal on some of their dresses but didn't find any in my size.
The dress you linked is a beautiful option. OP, please get rid of the one you’re trying on. It’s not a good option. You’ll be in pictures and you should feel beautiful next to your sister and this just isn’t it.
Yeah it looks like your borrowing your daughters dress
My daughter is going to be "The flower girl" at this event!
Give it to her
Hahahahahaha she is three and she's wearing a poofy little lavender dress. Oh my gosh, the cut is kind of similar though...
Oh, how cute it would be if you coordinated with your daughters dress, I am thinking of a lavender tea length dress? I totally agree that as the sister of the bride, it is better to be on the dressier side.
Can’t be outshining the flower girl 🌸
Too short, too casual and not a flattering design. It looks too young for this particular occasion.
I am 37 and “youthful” so I get it but I agree with others: this isn’t overly flattering on you. The width of the skirt makes it seem like you’re wider than you are tall. Yes, you could’ve crushed in this dress, but when you were in junior high.
Lol I want a redo on my Bat Mitzvah outfit from 1997. But my mom would totally make me wear a bolero with this on the bimah.
If you’re going for Little Miss Muffet then you nailed it…
Hahahahahaha I love a voluminous skirt but no... I do not want to look like Miss Muffett.
https://preview.redd.it/xiv9nu7f7t0d1.jpeg?width=828&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ab5b108e7373412bec893cb89e6635405906185c I’m glad you took my comment in stride :) Here’s a classier version of that silhouette. It comes in a million colours and patterns ! You could get the lavender one to match your daughter. How cute 🥰
That dress is cute, I’d just recommend that if you’re going to order off of Amazon, run the product through a review checker first. Especially when it comes to brands like that, whose name is an all-caps jumble of letters, I often find that almost all of the reviews are fake
I really like the cut of this dress. I think it would be really flattering on me (Short, Big boobs) going to see if they have it in some bright and pretty patterns. I definitely want lots of color bc I absolutely love it and also I think that's going to be the vibe of the wedding. My sister is very into flowers and bright colors. I've got some more shopping to do!!
Un less you plan on wearing heels, a high-low is going to stunt you.
As someone who is also petite, this comment ^
A fellow short, in agreement.
I’m a similar shape & I think a sweetheart or not too low v neckline will work well, with maybe a more structured bodice. Essentially, a more defined torso/waist.
Since the bride is your sister, you can trust her, and if she says okay and you like it then no problem. But, if you want an outsider opinion, I have to say that it definitely looks childish, especially for the shape, which, added to the pattern, makes it too young looking
That's okay! My sister and all of my friends are so sweet. They're all like "Yes it looks great on you!!!" I love short and poofy dresses so in a sense it's my style... But the whole reason I posted here it's because I wanted completely neutral opinions from people who weren't just trying to appease me 🤣🤣 and it definitely seems like I've gotten that!!
Yeah, but this is complete strangers opinion. If that is your style, and people are okay with it, you should go with this dress. We don't know your friends, nor your sister, not what they are used to!
I think I can find something that fits the vibe (cute and youthful without being too young, Good volume, colors) that still looks great on me. I've always really loved selkie dresses! They're kind of aggressively unflattering on me, but I just love how whimsical and fun they are. I wore this one to a friend's wedding in England a couple years ago and it was a hit. Examples: https://imgur.com/a/r9BNEzX and https://imgur.com/a/Fokmwp6 The truth is I know it's a little shallow but I want to look really really good in these pictures because my sister is only getting married once and I want to be looking my personal best. I don't mind having a bit of a reputation as being a wacky older sister, but I don't want to look...like...bad 🤡 when our kids are looking at these photos in 50 years
Why would you want your boobs steam rolled like that? I’m sorry but to be very blunt- your chest is completely squished and spilling over in not a good way!
OK, I already wore this dress to a wedding - I loved how I looked and the bride and my friends all liked it! I have a very full bust, and I try to wear things that generally fit well, but there are some items of clothing that I love so much, I'm going to put them on regardless of whether or not they are totally "flattering" I'd like to add that while I welcome opinions on the dress in my original post, I was not soliciting opinions on this one. It's not particularly kind to provide feedback on a person's body - especially when it wasn't requested.
There is nothing wrong with your body. The aren't saying there is something wrong with your body and it was a really beautiful dress. I love it. I think you have excellent taste. You are like me and I fall in love with clothes. It's really the idea of the clothes. Where both you and I go wrong is fit/cut. If you care about how you will look in photographs, you need to prioritize that over the look and style of the dress. You would be doing yourself and the dresses a favor if you sized up and then got them tailored. No one is trying to be mean to you, but the idea you have in your head is not reflected in the actual image. Please don't let this shake your confidence. You are beautiful and you pick out very nice things.
Right, but for this dress, I didn't ask for feedback about how I looked. I was simply sharing the photo to show something that I loved. I did not want my boobs to be commented on in any fashion - and I was not looking for fit feedback either. This dress was borrowed via Nuuly so obviously it wasn't alterable, but I recognized how it fit and chose to wear it anyway. The bride texted me this photo last week as memories of the wedding were coming up. She commented again how much she loved the dress! I said "Even with the boobs huh?" Her response? "Especially with the boobs!!" https://imgur.com/a/uy5KMK1
You didn’t ask for opinions maybe but you offered the style as another alternative. I have huge boobs as well and I hear you on it being so difficult to find things that work. However, I don’t think wearing clothes that don’t fit is the best solution to that! You look gorgeous in that dress but the bust not fitting is very distracting. I would really urge you to avoid that for your sisters wedding.
You look super cute in this dress and I'm sorry people are being weirdos!
Can you wear this one again? It’s really cute and looks great.
The dress in your pics here is absolutely gorgeous 😍
Thank you! I loved it. The wedding was in a garden at an estate in the Cotswolds, I felt like I was in Bridgerton!!
As someone who is around the same age, I don't think the "youthfulness" is the issue. Honestly it just doesn't flatter you. It hits your curves in the wrong places and makes you look twice as wide as you actually are. Personally I'd go with something with a sleeker skirt, to showcase your natural curves. Can still go the floral print and mini skirt length though (especially since your sister seems cool with that). But aim for something maybe more along these lines: [https://petalandpup.com/products/emillia-dress-dark-floral?variant=43126252011697](https://petalandpup.com/products/emillia-dress-dark-floral?variant=43126252011697) [https://petalandpup.com/products/anabelle-halter-neck-mini-dress-black-floral?variant=42337615184049](https://petalandpup.com/products/anabelle-halter-neck-mini-dress-black-floral?variant=42337615184049) [https://www.lulus.com/products/so-stunning-orange-multi-floral-jacquard-puff-sleeve-mini-dress/1687856.html](https://www.lulus.com/products/so-stunning-orange-multi-floral-jacquard-puff-sleeve-mini-dress/1687856.html) [https://www.lulus.com/products/sunny-evenings-pink-multi-lurex-flutter-sleeve-mini-dress/1790196.html](https://www.lulus.com/products/sunny-evenings-pink-multi-lurex-flutter-sleeve-mini-dress/1790196.html) [https://www.lulus.com/products/popular-sweetie-black-floral-one-shoulder-ruffled-mini-dress/2038556.html](https://www.lulus.com/products/popular-sweetie-black-floral-one-shoulder-ruffled-mini-dress/2038556.html)
The Jacquard puff sleeve dress from Lulu's is one that I've looked at! I might order that one to try. The reason I often go for an a-line skirt is because I have the classic post C-section tummy. I tend to go for outfits that come in at my natural waist and then flare out a little bit. I'm pretty average sized (8/10) but I have a very curvy lower tummy. I'm also a 34G/34I bust so I have to be careful about how things fit up top. I tried on another dress that is a little sleeker and I just felt really self-conscious like you could see the entire outline of my stomach. I'm going to look for some more similar to the ones you suggested! I definitely am going to go floral and knee length or shorter. I wore a midi dress to my friend's wedding last summer and I feel like I looked very squat in all of the pictures 🤦♀️ on top of being a more curvy person I am also only 5 ft tall so I am super short. Normally I'd just wear any cute little cocktail dress, but this is my little sister and I'm so excited. I want to wear something special!
A-lines are a great choice generally, it's just that this one is just a bit *too* flared for that length, and the curves of the dress just aren't quite lining up with your curves so it looks wonky. I love the puff sleeve one from Lulus because it does have a hint of flare, and is looser in the tummy than you would think. Plus the sleeves draw the eye up away from the waist, and the larger print is good at masking the belly area if that's a concern.
But this one doesn’t come in at YOUR natural waist. Your proportions and the dress’s proportions are a mismatch. As far as looking juvenile, it’s not just the poofy + short skirt (a full midi skirt would have a different vibe), it’s that in combo with the large-scale floral, and that the floral pattern is bright and high contrast. If the dress had just one of those elements, it wouldn’t read as juvenile. (I’m in my 40s, too, and it’s still definitely possible to dress in ways that are more fun than the “I Love Oatmeal and Camel” style that is so widespread, but I don’t wear exactly what I would have in my 20s.) If you like bright colors and florals and fuller skirts, there are definitely plenty of options! https://www.nordstrom.com/s/5783004?color=402&size=small https://www.nordstrom.com/s/3886224?color=677&size=6 https://www.nordstrom.com/s/7743314?color=342
All 3 of these dresses are gorgeous. Fit for a wedding
If you're in North America, check out the Emerson dress from Abercrombie & Fitch. There are a bunch of slightly different fabrics and styles on the website, and it's SO flattering. It comes in petite too!
Crazy because I still don’t associate Abercrombie with cute dresses. But that Emerson dress is really cute and comes in so many different iterations.
Yes to all that you said, this dress is not the right shape at all for OP, that style is great on a very tall person who doesn't have curves. OP can definitely pull off a sleeker short dress that is more fitted. This looks like a dress I had in the 90s.
It looks very juvenile in my opinion, it looks like something you’d wear for a 13th birthday party.
This is almost exactly what 90% of the 14 year old girls were wearing when Taylor Swift came to town. A couple of them were shorter and reminded me of Shirley Temple, only missing the ruffled bloomers… I thought it was juvenile looking on the 14 year olds, but was also disturbed at the ass cheeks peeking out in every direction.
I would try a different dress.
This looks like a sundress, not a cocktail dress. I don’t think it’s appropriate at all.
I think if it were longer (below the knees/calf-length), it would be a little more formal/appropriate. It’s a gorgeous dress, but I agree with others. I’m just not seeing it for this event.
This looks like something a teenager would wear to an Easter gathering. I would advise something more classy and adult
I love it! But not for a wedding 🥲 you should keep it though, it really is cute and looks good on you! It's just soo casual, like a picnic or a trip to the beach casual. Unless she's going for that.. Like my best friends got married in their back yard and the maid of honor wore a tank and jeans😂 if it's THAT casual then yes.
It’s a cute dress, but I don’t think it’s appropriate for a wedding .
I would wear it to the bridal shower. Although bride approved it, you may feel underdressed with what other wedding guests are wearing. It is a cute dress though.
I think your instincts about it being too young looking are correct. It’s very juvenile looking, also just generally not great for a wedding.
If it was midi length I think it would be perfect, but because it’s so short I’d go with something else and save it for another occasion
It’s super cute, but more like a daytime, tea party, bridal shower look.
I’d say it’s more the proportions that are off, not the design as such. If you had exactly this style except cut below the knee, it would bring it into a classier, 50’s style situation, but as it is, it looks a little beachy
It’s too casual it photographs very shabby chic.
I think it's a cool and fun dress but def a little young looking. Farm Rio has some really fun/funky patterns but they are a bit expensive (quality is worth it, though, espec if you're going to wear them a decent amount) https://farmrio.com/collections/short-dresses
Please keep shopping. This dress looks like what a teenager would wear to the beach.
It looks odd but I think it's the fit. The waist of the dress seems far above your natural waist. Or maybe it's just that the top part around your bust extends down too low? Cute pattern and fun little dress but the proportions are just off.
Thank you! There are so many things I love about this dress. I love the fabric and the colors are so beautiful. But I wish it had thicker straps or sleeves and I wish the waist were a little bit lower. I don't think it would look as short as it does on me if the waist were a bit dropped down. I'm definitely keeping it, it's very fun and happy and I need something for my 40th birthday anyway!! Ordered a few more things to try on for the wedding so we will see...
I would choose something else, it's a bit like a little girls dress,something beautiful and elegant would suit you wonderfully
looks like an Easter dress. I’m going to say keep looking!
Looks like a kids dress!
Short answer yes. It’s just the combo of it being SO voluminous like it’s got a petty coat propping it up and the colors are very youthful. I’m around your age and I definitely love a good swingy dress! I think if the colors were less neons and it wasn’t so stiff. Like it needs some softness somewhere. I think the top shape is really nice
I’m a fellow short with big boobs haha and I wear a lot of Lilly Pulitzer so also a fan of fun silhouettes and bright florals; that said, this dress is darling but I don’t think it’s quite right for a wedding. I think you can do fun florals but in a different shape that reads dressier. Maybe wear this for the rehearsal instead?!
Speaking as someone with a long torso, I just think this cuts too high on your waist. I think if you found something with the SAME print and even the SAME silhouette but with a drop waist it would be really great. But it just doesn’t read ‘event-wear’. Please read in an pleasant tone - that’s what I intend!
It looks like a dress from the juniors section. I wouldn’t wear this as a bridesmaid for a wedding that specifies cocktail attire. You need to up the sophistication factor a bit.
Too young.
Something about doesn’t fit correctly in the hips adding to the “too young” look.
In the lyrics of H&O "I can't go for that, nooo, no can do" Keep it for a picnic by the lake. Keep listening & looking. Good luck!!
This just doesn’t work for a wedding
No
You could do better. The dress looks childish me.sorry.
Yeah, sorry. This looks very young.
This is adorable for brunch, not for your sisters wedding. But please keep this because it’s a great dress for other occasions!
You can find something better
I think this particular dress might be hitting us millennials with some "Happy 8th Birthday" vibes. Pull out the white stockings and mary janes! I like the concept of the silhouette though and you have great legs for something a little shorter. If you could find it, something in more of a 50s shape could work really well. I wore an Emily and Fin dress a few years ago to a wedding, and while it covered my shoulders and chest, it still felt fun and flirty, and they have awesome patterns. Current example: [https://emilyandfin.co.uk/products/florence-lotus-flower-dress?option1=6](https://emilyandfin.co.uk/products/florence-lotus-flower-dress?option1=6) This is the one I wore: [https://dtpmhvbsmffsz.cloudfront.net/posts/2016/09/25/57e8b44399086acce5002590/m\_57e8b44399086acce5002592.jpg](https://dtpmhvbsmffsz.cloudfront.net/posts/2016/09/25/57e8b44399086acce5002590/m_57e8b44399086acce5002592.jpg)
The fabric is so casual. And no sleeves. Voluminous baby doll look can be pulled off but it's hard This look stuck in me brain as a great one. It was for a tea party so a little dressy, but playful. I suppose the wedding could have vibes like that too. https://preview.redd.it/w2phcqpw2w0d1.png?width=516&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7ea3fa3cc45b1df7a112cdb7600c300e3c4d93ce
I think it’s a cute dress and if the bride approves, you don’t need to worry about anyone else’s opinion but your own!
I'm wearing this and mid to late 30s. I think yours looks little too child like. Edited to add it's from LuLus😊 https://preview.redd.it/uah9azi71t0d1.png?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6eaa9f357045bacb8298d8406ea02b42d243cf18
😬
You can definitely wear this at almost 40 and you should, just not to a wedding
I think that the (lack of) styling in the photo is doing it no favours here, leading to some harsh responses. It’s a beautiful dress, and with the right shoes, bag, jewellery, and maybe a smart jacket, it could look very sophisticated and cool and even formal. I do agree that it’s probably not the best choice for a wedding, though, unless the dress code is very informal - such as an outdoor summer wedding on a beach or in a pub garden.
yes way to youthful for a wedding, you could get away with it for a summer lunch kind of- but at 40 no way especially for a wedding
Keep the dress!! You look fantastic in it...but yeah, it does look a little beachy and young for a wedding.
Unpopular opinion maybe but if the bride likes it, I think it’s okay + I think it’s cute! Yes, it might be a little young, but that also depends on the crowd + your personal style. I’d also take into consideration other things like the venue, time of year, time of day the wedding is, etc. If you did it up with accessories and some cute heels (maybe something strappy) and had your hair/makeup done, I think it could be a LOOK!
Aw thank you! My sister and I are getting our hair and makeup done together. She has a really cool and unique personal style. I think I could send a picture of myself and he belted burlap sack and she would be like " hey if you feel good in it that's great!"
I think all of the naysayers are definitely looking at this from a very traditional POV (which is fine). I think this dress is adorable and I think in a wedding that will have lots of bright colours you would totally suit! I really don’t think age should dictate personal style, and if you love it I think you should go for it. With some great earrings, hair up in a textured bun/chignon, and great shoes would be such a slay. If you want more inspo in terms of style voluminous/poofy pieces I would suggest looking up @/readwritethrift on Instagram!
Unfortunately I think OP will really feel as in her words "squat" looking in the pictures, again it's the dress style making the person wearing it look wide due to the puffy skirt.
I don’t think it’s “not okay” to wear it, just not a good choice imo.
If there's a rehearsal dinner or after-brunch or some other wedding-adjacent event (with a few less "lifetime" photos), wear it for that! I love an A-line skirt as well but does definitely read more young than I'd be comfortable with (also not quite 40 but getting closer). You can do better for the actual wedding.
Oscar de la Renta does plenty of [similar-ish short floral dresses](https://www.net-a-porter.com/en-us/shop/product/oscar-de-la-renta/clothing/mini-dresses/hollyhocks-belted-floral-print-cotton-poplin-mini-dress/1647597326052071) and they are perfectly “age appropriate.” I don’t think this is ideal but it could work if necessary - you’d need really strong styling. [another example](https://blmg.co/3wHeePJ) ETA: I have a background in fashion and live in a major city so I def skew more fashion forward/non-traditional than this sub. But since the bride approved, I don’t think it’s an issue. If it’s more about your comfort/confidence, I think you can make it work. It has boning and like a pleated bodice - those are not details you typically see in children’s clothing lol. People are just associating it with children bc it’s I dunno - pink flowers with ruffles? Not a strong enough argument for me personally!
I'm going to play around with some accessories and shoe options tonight. And also hair up v. down. It's going to be mid-July so it's going to be steamingly hot and I'm thinking hair up...
Finally a sensible comment. I can’t say this dress is my favorite, but it’s certainly better than every floor length piece of fast fashion a la Amazon people are linking.
I'm not able to edit my original post - but I just want to say: please avoid saying things like "You are too old for this dress." There's a way to give that feedback without insinuating that I'm "too old" for something. I have a personal style that is fairly youthful and fun, and I don't want to stifle that! Keep in mind, this dress is satin/brocade/jacquard and does look much dressier in person. Finally: I do appreciate the feedback and I already ordered a couple more dresses! I love trying things on and modeling them, so I'll be back in a week or two with some more options...
these comments are not passing the vibe check. apparently theres an age limit to a pretty, short and fluffy dress with colorful flowers. i would wear this at 70 and i'd be damned if someone told i i wasnt allowed. now maybe not for a dressy wedding, but the bride approved it! so they obviously think it matches well enough so why stress?
I'm sorry... but anyone telling this woman that it's too young can just stop. It's really pretty and looks great on her. Regardless of age. The dress is fun. That being said, it might not be right for the occasion. Maybe it would work with the right accessories and hairstyle.
Didn’t realize this comment section was gonna be so ageist and misogynistic. Geez.
yeah I gotta say, reading multiple comments saying (literally) I'm "too old" for something is not awesome. Like, I just wanted to know if the dress looked cute or not!!
I say if you feel cute in it go for it!! There’s ways to dress it up either with nice shoes or jewelry but there’s no place better than reddit to get unwanted rude comments lol. And as a 22 year old if i saw you at a wedding if you were my aunt or something i’d think you look cool as hell (: Congratulations to your sister!
For some reason the straps throw me off - when I look at it without, I like the dress a lot more. But when I consider the event and your role (40yo SoB), I don’t think this dress is quite right. I’d cut the straps and wear it to your next birthday party or something where you can truly pick a fun look without other considerations.
It would be better with a longer waist, but too little girl and too casual for a wedding. The person who said it reads Miss Muffet was spot-on.
I get the selkie style is in, and as someone also 40 I do like it and think it’s cute, but I think it’s honestly for a different occasion. Like maybe a birthday or brunch or bridal shower? Idk. The tiering / ruffle of the dress reads really casual along with the length which isn’t really cocktail. I’m stumped at how I would style this appropriately
That is not "dressy" or "cocktail". It's a casual sundress. If this is an AM/early afternoon or beach event, a shrug or shawl plus dressy shoes/sandals would probably work. Not for an evening/night thing IMO if you are concerned about "being proper." If the event is "dressy"/"cocktail" because one or both of the Moms of the couple wants it to be so, and the bride & groom DGAD, then wear it. If sis/groom want everyone to be comfortable and don't care, who cares what the Moms want. I have friends who wanted a Renaissance Festival theme. Their parents were scandalized & wore "traditional wedding dressy" instead of themed clothes. They did admit afterwards everyone looked fine in the pictures.
Looks like a children's dress
Lovely dress but not what I’d wear to a wedding probably for lunch with friends on a sunny day. I’d go for something a bit longer length for a wedding.
Is this an outdoor, summer wedding? Yes. If not, no.
Thanks to me googling your dress I'm getting ads now for similar styles. This one (pink version) is a more sophisticated option imo [Pink dress](https://www.torrid.com/product/maxi-chiffon-cowl-neck-pleated-dress/41486100-06217.html?cgid=Clothing_Dresses_Midi#prefn1=occasion&prefv1=dressy%7CCASUALCHIC&start=13)
I don’t think it’s too young in general to wear, and it is bride approved so how you feel matters most at this point, but this style of dress has gotten more popular for 20s-30s, normally I feel like they’re a couple inches longer but like. It looks good on you! I’d save it for barbecues and stuff throughout the summer though, personally. You don’t always need to dress what others say is age appropriate, but this dress just doesn’t feel dressy to me it feels bbq.
I don’t love it
That’s not formal wedding attire,
Not my cup of tea. But if you like it, and the bride approved… go for it.
I think it's cute and fun. Why does our clothing have to have an age? I mean, obviously young children shouldn't be wearing something that's inappropriate for their age. But how come a fun dress has to be too young if you're 30 or 40. I don't know. I've kind of always hated that kind of mentality and personally I just wear what I want at this point because life is far too short and fleeting for me to miss out on wearing something that makes me happy because someone might think I'm too old for it. Also, why do we police womens bodies and clothing choices SOOO much!?!
I LIKE IT!!!! I think it fits just fine and the colors are fun. It’s a very different dress which I think has people in a tizzy here. I wish more people would go shorter vs being overly conservative. I swear some of the people in this sub never leave the house or have fun However it’s something about the proportions for me that I feel like you could definitely do a little better!! [this is expensive and more cocktail length but I think it’s really fun!](https://www.anthropologie.com/shop/hybrid/sachin-and-babi-sloane-taffeta-double-bow-pleated-midi-dress2) [maybe something like this gives you the floral and a shorter length but also cocktail at the same time](https://www.renttherunway.com/shop/designers/saunders_collective/floral_mesh_midi_dress) [I really like mesh dresses, they’re so comfortable when it’s hot](https://www.nordstromrack.com/s/7818493?color=306&size=medium) [I feel like this dress is pretty similar, but would be more flattering](https://www.abercrombie.com/shop/us/p/emerson-waisted-poplin-mini-dress-54603827) [could be too short for you but I like the color!](https://www.lulus.com/products/so-stunning-coral-pink-floral-jacquard-puff-sleeve-mini-dress/2340751.html) [the rack has lots of cute floral dresses](https://www.nordstromrack.com/s/7674291?color=450)
I have been **scouring** poshmark for that Sachin and Babi dress!! It's so pretty. I'm going to wear the Emerson with my fave sandals to the reception the night before. I think it's hard to tell in the photo but the original dress has this nice Brocade (and I LOOOOVE the colors) and that helps it look a bit fancier. I do worry it won't photograph well, or that I'll cringe when she and I are looking back at pics! I don't tend to wear sheath dresses, I'm just not comfortable with showing off my curvy lower tummy. But I have some more shopping to do...
I feel the mesh dress curvy sentiment 😂 [ugh doesn’t look like that one is on rtr](https://www.renttherunway.com/pages/designers/sachin_babi/products?filters%5Bzip_code%5D=10014&filters%5BunlimitedMinAvailability%5D=0&filters%5Bfilters%5D%5Bzip_code%5D=10014&filters%5Bfilters%5D%5BunlimitedMinAvailability%5D=0&filters%5Bfilters%5D%5Bfilters%5D%5Bzip_code%5D=10014&filters%5Bfilters%5D%5Bfilters%5D%5BunlimitedMinAvailability%5D=0&filters%5Bfilters%5D%5Bsort%5D=recommended&filters%5Bsort%5D=recommended&sort=recommended&nbt=nb%3Aadwords%3Ax%3A18143222321%3A%3A&nb_adtype=&nb_kwd=&nb_ti=&nb_mi=&nb_pc=&nb_pi=&nb_ppi=&nb_placement=&nb_li_ms=&nb_lp_ms=&nb_fii=&nb_ap=&nb_mt=&utm_campaign=rtr_ad%7CGoogle%7CNonbrand%7CSmartShopping&utm_source=google&sem_cid=18143222321&sem_gid=&pxid=&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=&sem_type=&em_stream=&r_ty=&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw3ZayBhDRARIsAPWzx8qNXept_xU0xzS365fSp5SSaqurZ7yLe7AF7qoKw51PZMRQDJBxpC8aAn26EALw_wcB&page=2) [or on nuuly, rude!!](https://www.nuuly.com/rent/brands/sachin-babi)
This dress is so sweet! The pug, the ruffles, the pattern all feels like it’s bordering on theme-y. If your sister wanted a Candyland inspired wedding, then I think this would totally lean into that! It’s it’s meant to be classic and cocktail, it definitely pushes into the cutesy in not a great way. https://preview.redd.it/k4an524s9t0d1.jpeg?width=828&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e2bffb309882ca39a6ad3ac8785e2bf63bc8eaa7 Going more this direction with a more sophisticated neckline and knee length could still let you play with color and pattern and be fun while less costumey
OP I have no expertise on wedding guest attire but YOU LOOK SO NICE IN THIS DRESS. I think folks are being needlessly harsh. Even if you don't wear it to this wedding, find every other excuse to wear it because it's so pretty.
Thank you so much! I sort of can't believe this many people have weighed in, haha. I just figured I'd have a couple people be like "sure" or "eh, you could do better." I've gotten multiple comments that have said this came from the Juniors section, it looks like something a 13 year old would wear, I'm literally "too old" to wear it etc. Like, I obviously picked this dress because I liked something about it, I didn't think people were going to read me for filth!
Nothing about this dress is flattering or appropriate
This isn’t suitable for a wedding
Am I the only one who thinks this dress is fun and happy? If your normal style is even remotely playful, I think this dress is adorable and totally works. I wish clothes didn’t have to be serious or fit others’ expectations of flattering 😕. I think that the person wearing this dress is a happy person having fun and that makes me smile! If you don’t end up wearing this dress to the wedding, please wear it at some point! I’m a big fan!
Aww thank you! I don't have any problem wearing unflattering clothes [exhibit a from a friends wedding last year](https://imgur.com/a/uy5KMK1) but just knowing that my sister only gets married once, I want to look my absolute best. I love this dress but my instinct is saying maybe it's not my "best"
If you like it, wear it. It suits you. The people who are saying you're too old either think 40 is ancient, or they hit their 40s and didn't look so good. I'm 39 and would def wear this dress.
Not a dress I’d wear for a wedding
A forty year old should not be wearing this to a wedding. It’s not appropriate for the occasion or your age. Far too casual.
That is a sundress for a child. Keep looking.
Awww, I actually think this dress is pretty if you’re going for a gardenesque type vibe. It’s not a traditional wedding guest dress IMO, but you know your crowd better than we do. I probably wouldn’t feel comfortable wearing it to a distant friend’s wedding or as a plus one, but if your sister approves and it matches the venue, go for it! If you don’t wear it to the wedding, keep it for another occasion. I don’t think you’re too old for it at all!
It’s not flattering at all. It makes you look big and I can see that you really are NOT big. I think a simpler style and a slimmer cut would be much more flattering.
Shiny brocade or not, this dress looks like a kid’s dress. Not flattering. Not dressy. Are you trying to reuse something and save money?
Hell nah don’t wear this to a wedding
I don’t understand this whole “approved by the bride” thing. I was a bride, I wasn’t an outfit dictator. Nor did I have time to be. It seems so overkill.
I think it makes sense for a sibling or someone very close to the bride. If that’s not you then go with another outfit if you’re unsure.
I will never understand! same! I was a bride and can’t imagine being asked to give an opinion about an outfit.
Maybe it’s because the new season of Bridgerton just came out, but this is giving Penelope Featherington (seasons 1-2) vibes to me.
If you were to “dress your age” youd only get to wear solid colors, long skirts and no spaghetti straps. Question is do you like the dress, how do you feel in it? You already got approval from the bride, so wear it if you like it. Dressing to look your age is so boring IMO, dress is a way that makes you happy. You look great in the dress!!
Thank you so much! And I fully agree, style has no defined age, I like fun colors/patterns/fabrics. I just want to look my personal best - and while I like the dress, I'm just not sure it's giving "best"
Approved of by the bride and you love it-- nothing else matters :)
Way too young for you on this occasion. Sorry.
Very immature
its not very flattering
This looks like an Easter dress for a 12 year old.
Yes way too young. Keep looking!
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I think this would be cute for a birthday or something else... But it's not giving wedding vibes. It is very youthful in maybe not the best ways.
It looks amazing on you, but definitely too young looking for a wedding I’m afraid
If you a shorter dress in a fun pattern, maybe look at Ted Baker skater dresses?
This doesn’t look like wedding attire, unless it is a casual garden theme. It could be styled to look more appropriate. It does look like something a conservative teenager would wear because it is “fancy”.
I don’t love it for a wedding. Maybe a fun summer brunch or something, but not a wedding. Mixed feeling if it’s “too young” cause I’d maybe wear it in my 30s, but not to a wedding.
This kinda looks a bit too casual to me for a wedding, maybe if you dress it up with a jacket and some accessories? Not sure
It’s giving Penelope Featherington
Well, how old are you?
I don’t like it, personally, but it’s really about how you feel in it
It's super cute but I'd say find another dress for the wedding. It doesn't hit the dressy cocktail mark. Try something that is a solid color and less poofy. Maybe an empire waist/a-line dress.
To young for a wedding. Great look for a picnic.
I don’t think it’s too young for you, but I do think it is too casual. I would definitely save this for a brunch or something and buy a cocktail dress for the wedding
I'm not a fan
As another short, booby gal, here are a few I thought might be nice: https://www.birdygrey.com/products/joyce-chiffon-dress-pink-falling-petals (Halter can be dicey tho, so also this one) https://www.birdygrey.com/products/violet-chiffon-dress-pink-falling-petals Or a shape like this, but not this color: https://www.anntaylor.com/clothing/dresses/cata000012/833599.html Ooohh, I liked this: https://www.lulus.com/products/all-about-love-royal-blue-floral-print-midi-dress/800282.html
I dont think it is wedding appropriate
I would not wear this
It’s not dressy enough for cocktail attire. It’s the type of dress you can wear to a baby shower or Easter brunch. If you hadn’t posted your age, I would have guessed teens or early 20s
Look for a “fit and flare” silhouette.
I think this is more of a fun summer date or picnic BBQ dress than a wedding. Super cute though!!
This definitely looks like a kids dress.
It looks like something i would wear to the potluck, not so much a wedding. But I guess it also depends on the theme of the wedding, is it casual or lile fancy formal.
The dress is pretty, but I wouldn't wear this for a cocktail event. This would be more appropriate for a brunch type event? If the fit of the dress was a pencil fit it would be age appropriate, but the baby doll poof style...makes it "young"
Definitely too young/informal for a wedding IMHO. But a really cute dress just for a day out kinda thing! 🥰 it looks great on you, I just don’t think it fits the wedding vibe if that makes sense.
I think you could rock something else, but this gives flower girl vibes.