Dresses with sleeves

I don't live in the Uk but when I was there a week ago the shops were awash with dresses for the under 40s. Lined as well which is awful in warm weather. I couldn't find one even to try on. I'm lucky in that I learned to sew at school amd enjoy it, and can make my own tee shirts with any length of sleeve I want, but there are no patterns for flattering dresses either!

Roma fit jeans at Per Una I find fit well but other Per Una stuff I find so fussy ...always a frill or a sparkly belt and garish colours. Bit like Mothercare for big people. Like so many other people I find M&S confusing...they clearly haven't decided who they are targetting. Interestng to read in the press today that they are planning to have special stores for particular age groups...great idea...but only if there's one for my age group near me of course.

Just want to tell you that Topshop.com has some fabulous dresses with short sleeves. Have just bought two online - lovely material, well cut and not at all frumpy. Delivered in three days. Fantastic.