This Isn't Any Party Dress Challenge....

....it's an M&S party dress challenge!
It's true I've had a bash at a lot of these kind of posts on my blog lately, but hey, I'm never one to turn down a challenge.
The remit for this one? Choose a party frock and an item of shapewear from the stunning range at Marks and Spencer's, with a budget of £85.
Could it be done within budget? Oh yes.
The challenge involved bloggers of all shapes and sizes in the hope of displaying the range of items on offer on the M and S site. And let me tell you, if you're looking for a party dress ahead of New Year, you'll most definitely not be short of choice.
I opted for this stunning lace topped little black number (seen here on a beautiful model, below) along with

And here's how I styled the dress (below), adding a festive sparkly red headband, a patent black bag and some equally shiny heels. Do you like how I've

To avoid bra straps on display (the top half already featured a strappy slip underneath, I opted for an Autograph multi-way bra at £25, which I wore without the straps.
The dress itself is stunning, a little lighter on the material than I expected but this made for a more flow-y effect to hide the Christmas pud belly over the festive season. It's a little bit pricey at £55, but a really versatile dress that'll work well for loads of occasions. And at £55 for the dress and £25 for the bra, I'm £10 short of my £85 budget - get me!
I've gone for thick black tights with this ensemble, as well, it's too cold to opt for cheer. And while it's largely an all-black outfit, I figured the headband added the right amount of colour and a good dollop of 'festive'. What do you think?
Personally, I think this is a perfect dress for a curvier figure, like mine. It's quite forgiving and teamed with the strapless bra it offers a streamlined look. Are you a fan?
Disclaimer- The party dress and shapewear were sent to me for review consideration. I have not been paid to write this post, neither am I affiliated with the brand in any way. All opinions are my own and 100% honest, as always.