I never, and I mean never, buy clothes without trying them on first. This was the first dress I ever bought online, and I'm so happy I did! I read so many reviews & looked through all the pictures, and ended up ordering a size medium. I'm 5'4", 136lbs, and the medium fit perfectly! There was no gapping up top, and the hem came to just below my knees. I was a bridesmaid in an outdoor wedding, and it was the best dress I could have chosen for a 90 degree day! The color was a beautiful blue, and the lace up top added such a classy touch. I would highly recommend this dress!