Late to the thread, but I do think you look stunning in this dress. Satin never photographs well, you know, and the shine can be lovely in a banquet hall with nice lighting.
This is an extremely flattering and lovely dress, but it's true it's not speaking your native style language. This same dress in matte blues or in shiny tonal taupes would be an absolutely perfect find. That said, I think this is far better than a backup, and the fact that it's a little bolder than typical for you could be a good thing in this environment.

I think you would adore the Pappell dress I linked. It's like this dress in matte black.

I think it looks fantastic on you and it is very flattering. You look gorgeous in blue. While it may be a departure style wise, it is still relatively simple in design. And the shine is appropriate for a gala. What you said about about the sit test is important. Not being distracted by something fussy means you can relax and allow your warm personality to outshine the dress.

I don't think you would be settling if you choose to wear this one....YLF!

Thanks, Beth Ann and Angie and Sara and Caro!

I do think the flash makes it seem more...flashy!...than it looks IRL, especially by candlelight, one can only assume.

I feel well sorted now -- at least I won't be going naked to this event! And I still have a bit of time to look for something different.

The colors and shape are stunning on you! I do see what you are concerned about with the "is it me?" factor, and I am holding out high hopes for the AP dress that has yet to arrive, but you would you do look smashing in this!

It sounds like you have things sorted, I really think this looks lovely on you (if it is a bit of a reach stylewise)... I am glad you have a plan and dont have to feel terribly stressed if you dont come by another perfect frock for your big event.

Hah, I was going to say what Angie said, but of course she beat me to it. You're sorted as far as this dress is concerned. Now, fingers crossed for the other options.

Una, I was really hoping to avoid black. I can wear it, but it's not my best colour and feels especially unfab for spring, somehow. But maybe I should reconsider. Susie, Shevia, Sarah and Sarah, thank you!

I do really love this for you, Suz. If you find something even better, hooray, but if not, like you said, you're more than well covered!

PS - I didn't have a chance to comment on the thread, but I loved your Banff outfits so much.

Love this one, too! Fits you perfect, but the taupe israelian dress is more you Suz...(?)
(now off to read other's comments)

Late here but wanted to say that I really like it on you. This is a good backup option and the color is gorgeous on you -not too much at all.

I like it too, but... to my eye, it is not long enough for the event. Something below the knee would look better suited to the occasion.

Of course you are stunning in it, and it showcases your great body.

But... for a gala, where you will receive an award, I would do a different length especially with heels.

Suz, the colour and fit are extremely flattering on you. I know you are thinking about keeping it as a second option which is a great idea. But the fit is lovely and I told you, you look absolutely gorgeous in blues.

Suz, what you see as "fit issues" are the result of you capturing a still image of the dress. i think that type of fabric and cut of dress tends to photograph that way. Unless you are concerned about how the dress photographs, I see no fit issues at all. Bust is fine, waist is fine, the wrinkle at the waist is just your hips Missyeeee... IMO, LOL. No worries! Perfect backup!

Oh my! Late to the party, but still feel I have to chime in and say how much I love this. You must be so relieved to have at least found something, even if it's a tad outside your comfort zone.

Did you try is with black sheers or did this look too bombshell?

Wow! You look so pretty in blue, and that cut is doing some amazing things for your figure.

This dress is ticking all of the Dramatic Classic boxes, the sheen, the substantial/rich fabric, clean/narrow lines of the silhouette, the geometric design, the color blocking, asymmetric neckline, but IKWYM about the 'is it me' factor. I feel it looks best with out the jacket because of the neckline, but ya gotta do what ya gotta do if it's cold. The plot thickens!

I'm late here, Suz, I did see your post earlier and was reluctant to give my 2 cents because I feel sort of "off" lately. It's extremely flattering but the fact that it doesn't feel like you makes me hesitate. I sympathize with the quest for "the dress" having just gone through the process with my MOG dress. It's good to have a back up plan and hopefully the perfect dress that "feels like you" will appear, and lets hope it's soon!

Mesmerizing! I love this dress. I love you in it better WOW!