I normally would wear a 14 in pants, 16 in tops.  I ordered this dress in 2XL.  It is very well made, is more beautiful than the picture is able to convey, and the eyelash lace is beautifully done.  I could have ordered this in an XL and probably gotten away with it, but I am keeping this.  Who doesn't want to be really comfortable at an elegant affair?  Order it if you are on the fence.  You will LOVE IT.