I've coveted many of Belle Poque's dresses for quite some time, both for work wear and as part of a costume (wouldn't the long-sleeve "Steampunk Gothic Victorian Swing Dresses High Waist Midi Dress" in blue make a great base for a Wonder Woman costume?!).

I bought this dress VERY last minute for a fund raiser event, and it arrived on time, and nicely packaged. It didn't smell weird, and I was immediately struck by the quality and feel of the dress. It's constructed in what I would describe as a lighter ponte knit, stretchy enough to be comfortable and cover any problem areas, but still substantial and silky to the touch. It feels as though it will last far longer than expected, and is far better designed and made than I expected it to be. The interfacing at the neck and arm holes is a bit strange, but it lays flat when worn and feels totally fine against the skin. The belt is cute, with a sort of pewter-colored buckle (at least on the black dress), but don't expect real leather at this price. The belt loops are inconspicuous, but still well made enough to hold the best in place.

I washed this dress according to the instructions, and though it came out wrinkled, they all disappeared as it dried - absolutely no ironing needed! I also didn't notice ANY static cling; I danced the night away, and it stayed as flippy and flirty and floaty as when I first put it on. I did put it in the dryer briefly - while it was still damp - with a wet towel and a dryer sheet, so this may have helped, but I also didn't notice any shrinkage from tumble drying (another pro).

I think the most important part of any review are the measurements, so here are mine: 37" (bust), 32" (high/natural waist), 42" (hips), 47" (hips/butt). I ordered a large and it fit comfortably. I could have probably worked with a medium, given the stretch in the fabric, but I'm glad I went with a large as it was a little longer, and I prefer knee-length dresses (I'm 5'2" and it hit me right at the knee).

If I had to list ONE con - and it's totally a personal one, not an actual problem with the dress itself - it's that the neck line is closer to boat than crew, which isn't super obvious from the picture. For someone like me, who prefers to wear racer-back bras, this means wearing a cardigan over the dress, but if you haven't already guessed it's totally worth it. :) I plan to get this in all the colors.