So...this is my second possibility, pulled from items already in the closet (except the shoes).

The plus is that it is more casual, perhaps better for daytime-into-evening (the party will run from about 4 to 10 or so.) The minus is that it is not as much fun, although perhaps if I can locate some suitable accessories I can remedy that. I DID find a cute 50s hat the other day which I did not buy, and shortie gloves are available.

Top is just a simple shell.

"Skirt" is actually a pair of gaucho pants (?) or culottes (?) - not sure what to call them. I have had these since 1990, bought second hand. Not from the 50s, for sure, but I have no idea about their actual age. The fabric is silk. They are SO much fun to wear, but I hadn't been able to wear them for about 20 years (due to weight gain) and just pulled them out again now. Again, not authentic, obviously, but perhaps they give the feel of a 50s day dress?

I'll welcome your thoughts and ideas about which outfit I should pick, or if I should trot off to the vintage store again for another peek at what might work.

Thanks!