I am looking for a dress to wear to a late August wedding. A couple of weeks ago I went shopping and tried on lots of dresses. I decided to be more adventurous and try on different styles and colors.

I learned : dresses with cuts at the waist or a set in waistband don't work well. Fit and flare dresses don't work. Angie is right--they are girlish, and even though some are knee-legnth, the still look like Grandma decided to try on an ice skating skirt again.

At the end of my day I found a dress that has a set in waistband and a full skirt, and I bought it. It isn't for the wedding but I could wear it to the rehearsal dinner, (which we will help pay for although we aren't parents of the couple. Long story.) It is even a print, and I rarely like prints. Somehow the print, the fabric and the fact that the skirt has tiny gathers and doesn't stand out makes it work pretty well. I also found a black ponte sheath with a flower panel down the front that I quite liked. It is heavy fabric and lined and I think I would faint wearing it. Also, sleeveless.

What I am looking for is a dress that is flattering, reaches nearly to my knees, doesn't show cleavage, and preferably has sleeves.

My issues: I gained 12 pounds in the last few months of 2013. Weight mostly goes on my belly and breast. (the B Bs) I've lost 5 1/2 pounds and have a devil of the time losing the rest. I will do it in warmer weather. I have a small narrow ribcage so I wear a 32 G--that's 4 Ds I think. I can't hike these ladies up any more at present. So the B and the B will soon meet up.

Next, my arms. I'd prefer not to wear sleeveless and I hate ruining a dress like the AP with a shawl or jacket. Thanks but no thanks to an injury, continuing diligently with P/T exercises has firmed up arms and mid-section. Still my arms look way too long to me.

Debora emailed me with a suggestion and I ordered this same dress. I will say it looks much better on her than me.

Dress #1 Adrienne Papel dress.

#2-3-4 Dress on me, front side and back view. I am wearing pantyhose--don't think are very much control top. Today it occurred to me that I could buy some navy chiffon or illusion fabric and have sleeves made for the dress--3/4 or even full length.

#5 Nik + Zoe dress

#6-7 dress on me. Braided belt I will replace or not wear.

# 8 Eileen Fisher top I bought on sale. New color for me. What do you think?

#9-10 Vince Camuto also bought on sale. Is it too tight to wear or wait until I get rid of the last 5 pounds?

I throw myself on your tender mercies. I did go shopping today again--two hours and found absolutely nothing. Not even a consolation prize at BR.