Thanks Cerinda, Helen, Joy, texstyle, poojasharma, Angie, Lyn, Karie, Sarah and Lucy.
I don't have the right cardigan/bolero/throw but could find one in black navy or cream easily enough, I could do with one for other summer dresses. I have a black crop jacket which may work but I think a knit would be better.
Brooklyn, thanks for the styling tips. I agree bracelets could be fun, I have a few that I will experiment with.
Cheryle - wise words. I am pretty sure I will keep the sandals as they will work with lots of summer looks and have a good heel for me. I will try the dress in front of DH and check his opinion. He loves the black and Bailey 44 style fitted sheaths, but I want something as a complement to those dresses. I think I will keep the dress but I agree it has to be right for me. It is affordable but with these dresses I count on two wears a season so like them to last for several years.
My black one has had two wears (purchased Feb), Bailey 44 has had three wears, grecian dress (five wears), and the skirt probably eight (over 11 years). I would wear shape wear with the skirt to smooth out my tummy area.
I do have three other special occasion dresses, two which are a great fit and one which is too tight in the shoulders and back now (gym!). One is 15 years old, one is 10 years old and one is 5 years old. I adore one of them but it won't be worn for the wedding - it is silky, blue and very cocktail party!! So I do keep these dresses a long time....at least this one is unlikely to get too tight;)