I am a 36 FF and 5 ft 4, wear about a size 8/9 pants...this dress is amazing! covers the tummy with the draping, and NEVER have i found a dress that is actually a bit too big on top! Yes for the first time i will have to have a dress taken in about 1/2 inch on each side on top. Otherwise, i went by the guide in the pics and measured myself and still ordered a size too big...now realizing the chart was true to size. Of course as usual for formals, it is made extra long for taller ladies, and must be hemmed. it exceeded my expectations in quality as well. I don. t care for the tiny organza shawl, mostly because the color isn't a true match...so i went and bought 2 yards of satin and hand sewed my own. Came with little straps that you can sew on yourself. Arrived in 3 days. (will post pics once the alterations are complete)