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I’m 60 and my 28-year-old step-granddaughter will marry in May in a very exclusive and expensive Sunday evening venue. The MOB has chosen a custom made navy lace gown (have not seen sketches) and, good for her, she can well afford it. I, on the other hand, cannot afford such an expenditure. In addition, I am at a loss as to what to wear (I’m 5’2″ and carry my weight in the middle) and where to purchase a reasonably priced item, that does not appear “cheap.” Any help is appreciated.

By the way, my flabby arms need to be covered and I need to go with an empire waist. I’m a size 12 with no rear, no waist, a tummy, and I wear a size 38DDD bra. Oh, yes, and I have thin legs.

–Marilyn, New Jersey

Have you considered renting a new designer dress to wear to your stepdaughter’s wedding?

No one will ever know you rented your evening dress!

Go to Rent the Runway at renttherunway.com and look at the choices. Click on Dresses, click on Gowns, then click Sort by Price Low to High, then your Size.

Here are dresses that I spotted just now that might work for you. Many of the RTR dresses come in petite (meaning shorter) as well as regular and wider sizes.

The rental prices are from $100 to $150 for a long dress.

To flatten your stomach wear a full body undergarment such as a Spanx to give you a smoother line. It might feel pretty wretched at first. However, when you get used to how much trimmer you look and feel, you’ll happily suck up any initial discomfort.

Here are three evening dresses with sleeves you can rent from renttherunway.com that would be flattering on you by accentuating your curves.

I really love the classic, elegant and dignified look of Meryl Streep in the upper left corner of this q-and-a and below. Time is on your side. You may want to look into improvising with a beautiful white blouse that fits your bountiful bust and a long black skirt.

Streep’s ensemble is by Lavin, but you could easily find the same sort of combo in a department store in your area. Add faux pearl earrings, a small evening bag and ballerina flats, and you’re good to go.

~Didi