It Fit Like A Glove!
I was worried this dress would be too tight based on other reviews, and I didn't pick a backup size to come with. When I tried this dress on, I was pleased with how it fit + flared. It hid my problem area (large hips) perfectly. Only cons: if I had eaten a cheeseburger, it probably wouldn't have zipped up. It is quite tight against the rib cage. If you have a large chest (I definitely don't) I recommend going up a size or two. Also, it was a tad too short for my comfort level.. so beware of the backside and squat very carefully if you drop your napkin ;-) That being said, I received SO many complements the entire night, including the MOB. Loved it and would wear it all over again if I could. (Plus.. pockets!)
Size Worn: 36
Usual Size: 2
JessicaTop Contributor
Size 2
5' 7"
125 lbs
Pear
32A
27 yrs
Wedding Guest Favorite
I loved this dress! It hugged tightly on the top- no bra needed- and then puffed out around the legs offering a lovely breeze in the summer sun. The fabric is a bit thicker but very well made, it seemed like this dress has been worn quite a few times but not in a bad way, it actually softened the stiff fabric nicely. Also POCKETS! No need for a purse, so convenient. Dozens of compliments on this cute number.
Size Worn: 38
Usual Size: 4
KelseyTop Contributor
Size 4
5' 8"
135 lbs
Athletic
34B
30 yrs
8th Grade Dance
We rented this for an 8th Grade Dance and my daughter wasn't so keen on a rental & bought her own dress from UO. She's got a DDD & decided to wear the Carven the night before and loved it! She told me not to say I told her so :) This dress is super cute & comfortable. The pockets!!!!
Size Worn: 40
Usual Size: 6
SarahTop Contributor
Size 6
4' 11"
120 lbs
Petite
34C
34 yrs
THIS DRESS!!!!
Ok, this might be one of the BEST dresses I've ever rented. The colors are gorge. The fabric is so rich. And it fits like a glove!!! I cannot wait to rent this again. I wore it to a holiday party at Christmas time. I wore no jacket b/c I was in CA, but you could totally wear this with a cute blazer. The only thing I'd say is that personally, it's really short. So I'd only be comfy wearing it with tights / booties. But that's my 40 year old self talking ... if I was 20-something, I'd totally wear it with no-tights. The reviews are right ... it's short ... so either pair with tights or rock it bare legged if you are ok with short skirts. Either way, this dress is a MUST rent!
Member Fit Notes
Size Worn: 38
Usual Size: 6
JudiTop Contributor
Size 6
5' 6"
145 lbs
Full Bust
34D
40 yrs
Unbelievably beautiful!
A serious contender for favorite dress I have ever rented! Beautiful fabric, a super flattering cut and expensive detailing make this dress an absolute pleasure to wear. I have no negatives! So good!
Size Worn: 38
Usual Size: 4
CarolynTop Contributor
Size 4
5' 4"
126 lbs
Athletic
34C
46 yrs
Loved the dress- perfect for almost anything.
The dress is perfect, the zipper is difficult but that is the only con to this dress. I was worried the 34 would be too small but it was just right.
Member Fit Notes
Size Worn: 34
Usual Size: 4
Sarah Top Contributor
Size 4
5' 3"
130 lbs
Petite
34C
20 yrs
Wonderful dress!
The dress fits perfectly and is extremely flattering.
Size Worn: 40
Usual Size: 6
RTR MemberTop Contributor
Size 6
5' 6"
145 lbs
Hourglass
36C
30 yrs
I wore this to a charity event and it was perfect.
The dress has a flattering shape and nicely structured. The weight of the material is heavier and perfect for an evening in early spring.
Member Fit Notes
Size Worn: 36
Usual Size: 2
ElishaTop Contributor
Size 2
5' 6"
120 lbs
Straight & narrow
34C
35 yrs
Felt like a princess running errands
Structured material and cut, ideal for petite figures. Got tons of compliments from strangers, and felt comfortable, confident and covered. Could be dressed up or down easily, based on accessories
Size Worn: 36
Usual Size: 4
MelissaTop Contributor
Size 4
5' 5"
115 lbs
Athletic
32C
30 yrs
Super cute! Love pockets! Great for spring
Wore this to a coed baby shower and loved it! It was beautifully made, however it was fraying and was evident it has been worn a few times. It fit like a glove and was the perfect length. If you are busty I suggest sizing up. Thick material, so perfect for spring but may be too hot for summer. Another RTR success!!
Size Worn: 36
Usual Size: 2
ChereTop Contributor
Size 2
5' 7"
120 lbs
Straight & narrow
32C
34 yrs
Beautiful fabric
A little boxy, but still feminine and beautiful. I wore with flats on a date.
Size Worn: 40
Usual Size: 6
ShayleeTop Contributor
Size 6
5' 9"
136 lbs
Hourglass
34C
29 yrs
Super Cute - Good for day or night
I got this dress through the Unlimited program so I wore it a few times. The fabric is nice and thick, without being heave and hot, and the dress fits true to size. The pattern is really pretty. I wore it to work and then a post-work event with black tights, black pumps, and a black blazer and god tons of compliments. I also styled it twice with a crew neck sweater over it (once black, once white) and a coral chunky necklace, so it looked like a fun skirt. The dress could also be dressed up for something more formal, like a cocktail attire wedding or event. Overall, highly recommend!
Member Fit Notes
Size Worn: 36
Usual Size: 2
GwyneddTop Contributor
Size 2
5' 3"
115 lbs
Petite
34C
27 yrs
This is my favorite dress I've worn!
Loved this dress. It was unique and different from what I have worn before. Loved the dress and received compliments all night. In the listing there are black darts on the bodice, in my pic you will see they are actually ivory.
Size Worn: 40
Usual Size: 6
RTR MemberTop Contributor
Size 6
5' 7"
150 lbs
Hourglass
36C
31 yrs
The dress was beautiful, had character and was so comfortable. Once it was on, I had no worries.
The dress is a pretty simple A-line, with a textured material. It reminded me a lot of the Valentino baby doll dress. It was comfortable, did not have to wear a bra and for a wedding, just the perfect fit. You can absolutely dress it up or down. I was at a black tie wedding so I feared I would be the only person in a short dress, but with the right heels and diamonds :) it was so great and worked so wonderfully...especially because I love to wear short.
Member Fit Notes
Size Worn: 40
Usual Size: 6
SamanthaTop Contributor
Size 6
5' 8"
147 lbs
Athletic
34C
24 yrs
Great dress!
Wore this for a work holiday party. It was the right mix of conservative and cute. Could have worn either size, but the 36 was a little too loose at the bust. Pockets were big enough for my phone, lipstick and a few cards. Very comfortable all night.
Member Fit Notes
Size Worn: 34
Usual Size: 2
KatherineTop Contributor
Size 2
5' 7"
115 lbs
Athletic
32A
27 yrs
Beautiful construction - can be dressed up or down!
I rented this through the Unlimited program. I was really happy with the rental. The dress's material and construction is top notch, and the pockets are a definite plus. It's rather fitted at the waist, but I took my usual size and I think it fits TTS. Too bad I don't have a better occasion to wear this - I paired the dress with gray suede flats and wore this to work, but a pair of heels would make this fall-wedding ready. Although as other reviewers noted - the ribbons on the waist of the dress I received was also white, and not black. It didn't bother me, but wanted to point it out in case it's an issue for you. Maybe I can rent it again for another event :)
Member Fit Notes
Size Worn: 38
Usual Size: 4
MelodyTop Contributor
Size 4
5' 6"
128 lbs
Hourglass
34D
29 yrs
Stylist Review
A dark floral print and structured cut make this Carven a must for fall. Running true to size with no stretch in the fabric we recommend sizing up one size for backup. If you're a 36C cup or higher you may want to consider sizing up for your primary size as the bust is more fitted with little room for movement. As for undergarments, we recommend a strapless bra to avoid any straps showing. At 5'7" this style hit at about mid-thigh. Pair with heeled boots for a more casual look or simple heels for a dressier vibe.
Member Fit Notes
Size Worn: 36
Usual Size: 2
AmandaTop Contributor
Size 2
5' 7"
122 lbs
Straight & narrow
32C
24 yrs
Great fit!
This dress fit perfectly. I don't usually wear pattern dresses & you couldn't really see the details on the website so it was kind of a gamble! It looks so much better in person than the website. It was my back up to my back up dress and I'm so glad it worked out!
Size Worn: 40
Usual Size: 8
AbbyTop Contributor
Size 8
5' 3"
140 lbs
Straight & narrow
36C
26 yrs
Great dress!
Loved the dress! Great material, fit true to size and got several compliments! The only downfall was it was a little short (I'm 5'5 135#) . Otherwise great dress!
Size Worn: 36
Usual Size: 4
RTR MemberTop Contributor
Size 4
5' 5"
135 lbs
Straight & narrow
34A
Really chic and beautiful pattern
I loved this dress for a multitude of reasons, but mainly the print and the pockets. It was an evening event that I was hosting and so I needed to have my phone (and my lipstick) with me at all times. The pockets were a godsend. My only "complaint" was the way the arms were cut-in. I'm not a fan of my arms and so I wore a short jacket over this and it helped cover, but also dress me down just a notch which was appropriate. I also wore tights because it is a tad short for me.
Member Fit Notes
Size Worn: 42
Usual Size: 10
KathyTop Contributor
Size 10
5' 6"
150 lbs
Straight & narrow
46 yrs
Adorable but short!
Adorable! Loved it but definitely too short for me! I wore tights and it was still a little questionable. If it was a little longer it would have been my favorite dress ever!
Size Worn: 42
Usual Size: 10
MeghanTop Contributor
Size 10
5' 10"
160 lbs
Pear
34C
28 yrs
Very flattering dress!
This dress ran small especially through the chest and lung area, but made for a really flattering fit! You may want to order one size up for a more comfortable fit. Photographs very nicely!
Size Worn: NONE
Usual Size: 4
LauraTop Contributor
Size 4
5' 10"
140 lbs
Hourglass
36C
25 yrs
Pockets on fleek
I loved this dress although I think I could have ordered a size up but it still worked beautifully. The best part was the dress has pockets! I loved the length and the cut. I received so many compliments on it and I'm so glad I decided to rent this selection.
Size Worn: 36
Usual Size: 4
KikiTop Contributor
Size 4
5' 6"
126 lbs
Hourglass
32A
28 yrs
Wedding dress
The dress fit true to size in the waste but it was definitely suited for a woman with a larger bust. Be warned if you have a smaller chest, you will have to find a way to fill it out. Otherwise, great cut and length. Loved the interesting fabric pattern. The material seemed a little worn.
Size Worn: 36
Usual Size: 0
MonicaTop Contributor
Size 0
5' 6"
120 lbs
Straight & narrow
32B
26 yrs
Perfect fit, very flattering and great print!
This dress fit like a glove. The flare and fitted top is very flattering. The brocade fabric is a bit heavy for spring, but the color palette is light and fun so it actually worked with bare legs and heals. Highly recommend for a formal work outfit or a cocktail party.
Size Worn: 36
Usual Size: 2
RTR MemberTop Contributor
Size 2
5' 4"
112 lbs
Pear
47 yrs
Unique party dress
Fit like a glove. Nice length and liked the pockets!!
Size Worn: 36
Usual Size: 6
DeniseTop Contributor
Size 6
5' 4"
135 lbs
Full Bust
30F
37 yrs
Tons of compliments!!!
I ended up wearing this for 2 weddings...one in Savannah and the next in New Jersey the following weekend. The first weekend I paired it with some pale pink suede sandals, gold necklace with grey pearls and an ivory leather bag & for the second wedding I used the same purse, just with silver earrings and necklace, black pumps and a black wrap. Both ways it looked fantastic! It's fitted throughout the torso, and waist, but the full skirt is very forgiving on the tummy. Oh, and it has pockets!!!
Member Fit Notes
Size Worn: 42
Usual Size: 12
SarahTop Contributor
Size 12
5' 8"
180 lbs
Hourglass
36D
38 yrs
It fits exactly how you would expect, and has such a flattering waist and neckline.
The neck and shoulders are great. I wore it with an updo, and got so many compliments. Pockets are awesome too.
Member Fit Notes
Size Worn: 36
Usual Size: 6
ElisabethTop Contributor
Size 6
5' 5"
145 lbs
Athletic
29 yrs
Wow!
If you like showing off your shoulders and cinch your waist -- this is the dress! It had such a beautiful shape and was perfect for my pear shape. It's thick enough that it keeps a great shape and long enough that it isn't scandalous. It can be dressed up or down, I wore it for my birthday dinner and a work event.
Member Fit Notes
Size Worn: 42
Usual Size: 8
VictoriaTop Contributor
Size 8
5' 6"
150 lbs
Pear
36B
29 yrs
Beautifully made
I love the details and the cut of this dress. It runs small so I ordered a size up. there was a little room but nothing to substantial. I love that it has pockets, my only advice is that the dress is a little heavier than perceived and if you are dancing all night you may get a little hot !
Size Worn: 40
Usual Size: 4
ColleenTop Contributor
Size 4
5' 4"
130 lbs
Pear
34B
25 yrs
Fun cocktail dress. great cut around the shoulders.
flattering.
Member Fit Notes
Size Worn: 40
Usual Size: 6
MarcieTop Contributor
Size 6
5' 1"
34B
43 yrs
Lots of compliments!
Fit perfectly. Didn't need to wear a bar (I am a 34 B)
Member Fit Notes
Size Worn: 34
RTR MemberTop Contributor
28 yrs
Beautiful dress great quality. I wore out for my boyfriends birthday dinner and it was perfect
Fit true to size and perfect for my frame
Size Worn: 40
Usual Size: 4
JessicaTop Contributor
Size 4
5' 10"
145 lbs
Pear
34C
28 yrs
Fun & easy
This dress was very fun and comfortable. Love that it has pockets. The fabric is heavier, so probably best for spring/fall. It was a bit big on top (I am small chested, so I have that problem a lot). Unfortunately, I was unable to wear due to a broken zipper (I was able to slip over my head to try it on). I will definitely rent again! I was sad to have to send it back without wearing it!
Member Fit Notes
Size Worn: None
Usual Size: 10
TanyaTop Contributor
Size 10
5' 5"
165 lbs
Pear
34B
37 yrs
Fun, flirty dress with gorgeous fabric and pockets
Fit nicely and I'd think flattering on a lot of shapes. I'm small chested and this fit well on top with no need for a bra- the shoulders cut in a little too so traditional bra straps would show. If you larger chested I'd reco ordering a size up.
Member Fit Notes
Size Worn: 38
Usual Size: 4
MeganTop Contributor
Size 4
5' 5"
128 lbs
Athletic
36A
36 yrs
Size up for larger bust
I didn't wear this dress because it was too tight in the bust. I'm between a size 8-10 with a 34-36DDD and I ordered the 42. It fit everywhere but the chest (a problem I have often). The material is adorable and it's a super fun dress. Wish I could have worn it!
Member Fit Notes
Size Worn: 42
Usual Size: 8
SuzanneTop Contributor
Size 8
5' 5"
Full Bust
34D+
31 yrs
Cute but hard to get into
I got as a back up, it's a nice dress but the phot doesn't show how casual it is, it almost looks denim. I also had to put over my head instead of walking into as I am curvier on the bottom. I would rent again for something more casual
Size Worn: NONE
Usual Size: 10
EmilyTop Contributor
Size 10
5' 3"
Pear
34C
33 yrs
I wore this for my sons school auction. So comfortable and I got so many compliments!
I will slay the zipper is a little tight through the waist but it was with the fight to get this.
Member Fit Notes
Size Worn: 38
RTR MemberTop Contributor
34 yrs
I received so many compliments on this dress!
It fit tight on the top (32c); however if I went up a size I think the skirt would have been too poofy. Length was perfect (5'7") and the fabric/pattern were beautiful. The dress photographs really well - one of my favorite rentals!
Member Fit Notes
Size Worn: 36
Usual Size: 0
ChelseaTop Contributor
Size 0
5' 7"
125 lbs
26 yrs
Great texture of the fabric!
Great dress! I am pear shaped and have a C cup, and I struggled to get the zipper over my head, but once I did it fit well!!
Size Worn: 42
Usual Size: 8
AlyssaTop Contributor
Size 8
5' 6"
Pear
36C
26 yrs
