I ordered a large in the dress, because other reviewers said it was fitting small.  I normally wear a size 10, but I'm busty (36DD), so a medium usually works for misses' size things.  I am 4 months post baby, so I'm a little closer to a 12 right now, but basically I'm glad I ordered a large, because it is still quite fitted.  It's not tight, but I'll definitely have to wear smooth undies with this one, because it's tight enough that it would show lumps from the waistband of your undies.  I think an XL would have been too big overall, because I'm also 5'2".  So I'm happy with it.  It's not a 5-star outstanding fit, but it's a cute dress that I plan on throwing on for hot summer days and of course, it's cute for a summer party or vacation.