I attended a wedding with the mysterious dress code of "dressy casual/semi-formal" which ran from noon to midnight and this somehow checked all the boxes. Very flattering and forgiving. I normally never go braless but I did here and felt like the dress had enough structure that it worked. Definitely size down.

Betsy Lace Sheath

Saylor

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Size Worn: S

Usual Size: 6

Height: 5' 7"

Weight: 140lbs

Can't go wrong with this dress - seems universally flattering and like it would work on pretty much any body type. It was surprisingly comfortable and forgiving for a formal dress, and I appreciated that I didn't have to wear a strapless bra with it (I went with racerback and it worked well). Also could easily dress it up or down and I think it would work for a wide range of events. Beautiful color.

Ruby Red Gala Gown

Badgley Mischka

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Size Worn: 6R

Usual Size: 6

Height: 5' 7"

Weight: 140lbs

This was way too body-hugging for what I got it for - my rehearsal lunch and welcome party for my wedding. While it would have been appropriate for, say, a bachelorette party, it was not appropriate for anything with family involved. Every contour of my butt was visible, and sizing up did not help because the fabric was too stretchy. I would recommend this only for those who don't have as much in the curve department.

White Tex Dress

Rachel Roy

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Size Worn: 6

Usual Size: 6

Height: 5' 7"

Weight: 140lbs

I usually wear a 6, but RTR only had the 8L left and I wanted to give the dress a try. Since it's pretty stretchy, the fact that it was a little roomier wasn't a problem, and it's structured enough on top that it stayed up just fine. The only complaint was the small train in the back - didn't like having to gather my skirt when i walked. But it was totally worth it.

Belle of the Ball Gown

Badgley Mischka

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Size Worn: 8L

Usual Size: 6

Height: 5' 7"

Weight: 140lbs