This dress feels a tad like a costume in person. I think its the white collar type thing on the bodice. Couple it with a small white sweater and it might over ride the costume feel. But the color is gorgeous. It fits well. I am 57 and Im not a thin woman and the 3x fits perfectly. This one still looks like a retro dress even without the petticoat. But again I think thats because of the collar thing on the bodice.