No cleavage at work, right? But what about at a work gala?

[Anonymous]

I'llb e a voice of dissent, and would just say: is your work related to her conservatism? If you are working for, say an organization funded by a ver conservative base/religion, that's one thing. But if not, she can't be surprised that everyone doesn't live like she does and be shocked/judemental.

It's always good to err on the side of conservative, but if we're talking nun-conservative in a moderate world, that gets tricky.

Good luck.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:OP here. I wanted to add a little more information that's adding to my concern. My boss is pentecostal and is incredibly conservative in the way she dresses. (and very vocal about her opinions!) I try to respect that at work, but for this type of event I don't want to wear a mother of the bride dress, which is probably what she'll be wearing. I'm going as a guest to the event and not as a representative of our office, so I'd prefer to be able to wear whatever is most flattering on me. Thoughts?

Despite the fact that you are not actually working the event, all employees of the hosting organization represent the organization while there. You may not be expected to work, but you are a part of the organization and are one of the faces of the organization while there. So, dress in a way that leaves a good impression of both you and the organization. Second, you've already expressed that your boss is conservative. Do you really want to show up in something that she does not approve of? If she feels that you are disrespectful of the organization that can have an impact in your interaction with her in the future. She may never say something, but do you really need to have a few points against you in her mind? There are many choices that are neither mother-of-the-bride and are still attractive. Save the killer outfits for when you are out for yourself and not any work-related function.

If you only have necklines that reveal some cleavage, there are some nice even some trendy wide chokers and necklaces that can be worn to help cover a bit of cleavage. You can even find some in costume jewelry, so it doesn't have to break the bank. Here are some examples.

[Anonymous]

OP here. I really don't want to show off my breasts. I just have a hard time finding things that are flattering on me that aren't v-neck. I'm absolutely going to pick something conservative at this point. I ordered two cocktail dresses that are pretty covered up and come just below my knee. Now I'm concerned that knee length won't be appropriate for a gala. I mentioned it to my boss, and she didn't think that a knee length cocktail dress would be appropriate. I'm going to have to go back to the drawing board.

Thanks again for the feedback. I will most definitely be going conservative although I have no idea what I'm going to wear at this point.

[Anonymous]

OP. Google and search for the types of outfits that look good on you and we can provide some suggestions. Also, what is your budget for an outfit? That will help. There are a lot of people home from work today, so there's a good chance you'll get more suggestions today than you otherwise might.

[Anonymous]

It's tough to find things that don't look mother of the bridey when you're plus sized.

I'm considering this dress, although I don't think it's dressy enough: http://www.kiyonna.com/Merchant2/images_products/thumbs/12060902-3zm.jpg

I like this dress, but I can tell that it would be way too revealing:
http://www.igigi.com/plus-size-dresses/plus-size-evening-dress/garbo-gown.html

And, yes, I know that there are much more important things to worry about in life than a dress, but I always feel stressed out about dressy events due to my size. (14/16)

Thanks again for everyone's feedback.

[Anonymous]

OP what about some one of the options a pp posted for you?

[Anonymous]

I second the Nordstrom dressed that the pp suggested.

[Anonymous]

OP, look at the Nordstrom dresses the pp suggested. Both of the dresses you posted are inappropriate. Lace is not going to be a good material for you and the second dress is way too much.