I bought a 2XL. Because I'm a large to extra large depending on clothing brand. My sister is a medium to large. And it was too small for both of us. But it is still very pretty. And not cheaply made. I thought it was great. Just have to get a size up or 2. So yes this does run pretty small. But most corsets you buy will run pretty small. Since they are made to be pretty tight. It's the whole purpose. I recommend it. Not all bars are metal. Just the 2 in the front are. The sides are still made of plastic.