Natalie's Reviews
All reviews by Natalie
TOP CONTRIBUTORTOP CONTRIBUTOR
25 reviews
"You look like summer"
For a perfectly comfortable work dress, I got a huge number of compliments on this one. It really is the perfect summer work dress!
Member Fit Notes

Short Sleeve Midi Dress
Polo Ralph Lauren
Size Worn: XS
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 3"
Weight: 118lbs
Bust: 32B
Just a little short for a mid-30 gal
Cute, relatively comfy (maybe a little tight across the chest if I'm being picky), but really the notable issue was that if I lifted both arms up, I felt the entire dress raised up to an uncomfortable thigh level.
Member Fit Notes

Fair Isle Sweater Dress
Madewell
Size Worn: XXS
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 3"
Weight: 118lbs
Bust: 32B
Stand-out dress, colors best seen in person!
Frilly, "girl pretty" kind of dress with light airy, but high quality, material that makes it a perfect summer evening dress. The single sleeve comes together daintily at the wrist and is secured with quality buttons. The diagonal cut is interesting to the eye and not overly sexy for an event where family will be present. The color is chartreuse with hot pink accents, and you'll be the eye of the party in it!
Member Fit Notes

One Shoulder High Low Maxi
One33 Social
Size Worn: 0R
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 3"
Weight: 118lbs
Bust: 32B
Model photograph is misleading: this is a long dress
The colors are rich, the material is thick and full, and the cut is interesting. This was a back-up dress, and my normal size (0) was not available so I tried on the 2, which was too baggy. I'm sure the dress would fit properly to size. However, the length went all the way down to my ankles!! Of course I'm much shorter than a model, but this dress is not tea length at all. Potential renter, beware or be prepared.
Member Fit Notes

Ombre Floral Dress
Marchesa Notte
Size Worn: 2R
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 3"
Weight: 118lbs
Bust: 32B
The first awful dress I've rented (and I've been doing this since 2014)
Another reviewer put it similarly, but I want to reiterate: it is somehow both too small (tight in the hips) and absolutely enormous (waist to shoulder length, bust) to even be worn. I was so disappointed. Would not recommend renting, ever.
Member Fit Notes

Crossover Halter Mini Dress
Slate & Willow
Size Worn: XS
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 3"
Weight: 118lbs
Bust: 32B
Slimming fit!
Loved the way the scuba material added the right balance of compression without restriction. Flowing in all the right ways. Length was perfect for my height with 2" heels. Mesh was subtle and hard to tell in the dark at night event, but I loved the different effect.
Member Fit Notes

Olanda Gown
Chiara Boni La Petite Robe
Size Worn: 38R
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 3"
Weight: 118lbs
Bust: 32B
Flowing and perfect for dancing, bold color combo was perfect for an Indian wedding!
The keyhole was subtly sexy and tasteful, which I was worried about. I could easily pair it with a normal strapless bra. It's just a stunner of a dress. Upon finding out it was a RTR dress, my friends demanded I buy it :) It's one of the best dresses I've rented.... and I've rented a lot!
Member Fit Notes

Pleated Quinn Dress
DELFI Collective
Size Worn: XSR
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 3"
Weight: 118lbs
Bust: 32B
Central Park Wedding, Black Tie Perfect Fit
I'm 5'4", and the dress was a little long even in my 3" heels. Perfect fit in the bust, waist, and hips.
Member Fit Notes

Purple Orchid Gown
Badgley Mischka
Size Worn: 0R
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 3"
Weight: 118lbs
Bust: 32B
Perfect for warm summer day and working in AC
Loose and flowing, this dress was professional and comfortable enough to wear all day at work and yet still perfect to transition to an evening casual outdoor concert event after work. It's light and airy-- great for hot summer days/nights. Only down side: the waist couldn't be tightened enough to highlight any curves so it laid a little boxy on my frame.
Member Fit Notes

Astrid Floral Apron Wrap Dress
B Collection by Bobeau
Size Worn: XS
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 3"
Weight: 118lbs
Bust: 32B
Light, bright, and fun!
A bit shy of 5'4", the sleeves just reached my wrists (unlike model shown), but I thought that still looked great. The torso portion was a bit boxy, and the dress rode up at times throughout the day (thus the 4 star rating). Overall, the fabric is light and of a bright/shimmering fabric with a paisley pattern. I would recommend this is best for warm spring, cool summer days.
Member Fit Notes

Rocco Printed Dress
Derek Lam 10 Crosby
Size Worn: 0
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 3"
Weight: 118lbs
Bust: 32B
Perfectly classic for work!
A bit shy of of 5'4", the dress came down to just below my knees, which makes it a perfect work dress. The material was silky and of good quality. I was comfortable all day at work while moving up, down, all around seeing patients in clinic, and I never had to worry about the dress riding up or revealing more than is appropriate.
Member Fit Notes

Knotted Ellis Dress
Of Mercer
Size Worn: 2
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 3"
Weight: 118lbs
Bust: 32B
Classy and slimming!
PROS: The material is thick and ruched, which was slimming and helped to hide imperfections like belly fat. The mermaid shape gave the illusion that I had more "curves" than I really do. The sleeves/ cut of the dress was very appropriate for a formal, corporate work event for my husband's company. CONS: The dress was pretty difficult to get into, and it required a full on "head dive" and the assistance of my husband to pull it down appropriately. Honestly, I never tried on the alternative size because I didn't have the energy to try to get in and out of this thing! If you have your hair done up- THIS DRESS IS NOT FOR YOU. This was my first mermaid style gown, which as a personal preference I likely will avoid in the future because I like to walk fast and use my full stride. I felt silly as the dress forced me to take tiny little steps and stand with my foot in front of the other.
Member Fit Notes

Black Nasira Gown
Chiara Boni La Petite Robe
Size Worn: 40R
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 3"
Weight: 118lbs
Bust: 32B
Flare of fun! Highly recommend!
I agree with many others: 1. Runs a tad on the small side. (I use RTR frequently, and I ended up wearing the 2 instead of my usual 0.) 2. I recommend using your favorite pair of Spanx, which helped me smooth out those unflattering aspects that a tight dress like this one illuminates. If you're self-conscious about showing off a "food baby" after dinner, then this may not be the dress you pick. 3. I wore a strapless bra, and the top of the dress fit well/ hugged close to prevent any bra exposure/ need to "pull up." I felt confident I could dance freely at the wedding without worrying how the dress would look. People seemed to love the dress, and I definitely enjoyed renting something a bit out of the ordinary! I've used RTR more times than I can count over the past 3 years, and I will note this is the first time a dress arrived to me damaged. The size 0 was delivered with a black stain almost like it was run over by a tire. Luckily the size 2 fit better so it wasn't an issue, but I guess we should all remember that we should have a back-up plan!
Member Fit Notes

Blue Jerard Dress
Elizabeth and James
Size Worn: 2
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 3"
Weight: 118lbs
Bust: 32B
My first romper experience
For a recent bridal shower, I decided to try my luck with a romper. The fabric is light at airy (excellent for a hot, humid summer afternoons), and the waist is cinched to help highlight curves. While I loved the idea of the daisy pattern, it seemed a little more like Grandma's bathroom curtains than I hoped for. Generally when I RTR, I have loads of compliments, but this one seemed to be a flop. Oh well, it was just a day, and this is why we use RTR!
Member Fit Notes

Daisy Dot Crepe Romper
kate spade new york
Size Worn: 0
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 3"
Weight: 118lbs
Bust: 32B
Delicately feminine and flattering
I was looking for a dress that would work perfectly for a hot summer night work event. The fabric is soft, and light, and the pattern is feminine (without looking like your grandmother's old curtains). I loved the flowing effect of the fabric that hangs over the shoulders and then fitting that highlights the waist. The length was just above the knee for me, which makes it perfect for a work even with conservative colleagues.
Member Fit Notes

Blue Flower Print Dress
Slate & Willow
Size Worn: 0
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 3"
Weight: 118lbs
Bust: 32B
So much sparkly fun!
This dress is exactly why I love Rent The Runway: I don't exactly want to spend the money to own a sequin dress, but I loved wearing it for one night! The dress sparkled and shimmered in the evening lights, and I received many compliments from friends and strangers. It was fun, festive, and flattering with its gorgeous A-line cut. I normally rent size 0 and 2 for my two dress sizes, but I read many reviews that said this dress runs large so I decided to rent 00 and 0. The 0 (size I usually end up wearing to the events) fit well in the bust/ shoulders/ arms, but it was a little tight in the waist. Honestly, I wish I would have ordered the 2 instead of 00. I also have read that sometimes the sequins can rub/irritate the skin, but I didn't have a problem in this dress.
Member Fit Notes

Celebrate Good Times Dress
kate spade new york
Size Worn: 0
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 3"
Weight: 118lbs
Bust: 32B
Feeling fancy!
Unfortunately, our formal event was cancelled due to weather so the only photo I have is at home (hair and makeup half done). BUT I know if the event would have gone on, I would have felt fancy and confident all night long! The dress is actually heavier than I expected, but the top has a perfect "stick" to keep the sleeves and collar sitting just right. One potential downside: I have a small chest, and my husband struggled a bit to zip up the size 0 (but I drowned in a size 2P). The length for 0P was perfect (5'3", wearing about 1.5" heels in photo, dress just skimmed the floor). For my next formal event, I'll definitely consider re-ordering this dress!
Member Fit Notes

Belle of the Ball Gown
Badgley Mischka
Size Worn: 0P
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 3"
Weight: 118lbs
Bust: 32B
Lovely for a winter holiday party!
I rented this dress for our work holiday party, and (like all RTR dresses that I rent) the dress was a hit! It struck a nice balance of conservative cut (hit right above the knee, long sleeve for the cold evening) and a bit of sass (deep V cut in the back). The reason I can't give it a full 5 stars: The waist was a little higher than usual, cinching just under my rib cage. If you're a short-torso'ed gal, then I think this is going to look great and flatter your figure. My favorite part? POCKETS!
Member Fit Notes

Polly Dress
ERIN erin fetherston
Size Worn: 0
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 3"
Weight: 118lbs
Bust: 32B
Shimmery fabric, bold color, flounce skirt, and pockets!
As always, RTR is awesome. This dress was perfect for a Catholic wedding (conservative length and coverage), and it was festive and fun for the reception. I loved the light, though durable and high quality feel of the fabric, which photographs nicely with a shimmer. The top of the dress cuts inward like a halter cut, and I stupidly didn't pack a strapless bra. Don't make the same mistake and have your bra straps sneaking out all night!
Member Fit Notes

The Vote Is In Dress
Tracy Reese
Size Worn: 0
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 3"
Weight: 118lbs
Bust: 32B
Excellent quality, but beware of a short slip!
I wore this for a rehearsal dinner in a Northern Woods weddings, which fit perfectly with the rustic style. The fit, overall, was right on. My only complaint was that the slip (built in) was too short and rode up when sitting down for dinner.
Member Fit Notes

Lily of the Valley Dress
ERIN erin fetherston
Size Worn: 0
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 3"
Weight: 118lbs
Bust: 32B
Perfect for a black tie event!
Just like so many have commented, every aspect of the dress fit beautifully! I wore 1" heels, and no one accidentally stepped on my dress at any point in the night (a common problem for me at 5'3")! The only negative aspect is that the bust seemed somewhat stretched out/ever so slightly loose (another common problem for me), and I did spend a small portion of the night ensuring the dress was pulled over my strapless bra.
Member Fit Notes

Royal Treatment Gown
ML Monique Lhuillier
Size Worn: 0P
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 3"
Weight: 117lbs
Bust: 34A
Power shoulders & pockets!
Wonderful thick, rich fabric (though not too hot for an 80 degree sunny wedding day)! Size 0 fit incredibly well though it was somewhat tighter fit when I placed my hands in my pockets (Size 2 may have been little looser in hips, but it didn't cinch the waist as well). Bonus: iPhone easily slipped into pocket without being noticeable!
Member Fit Notes

Teal Envelope Dress
Carmen Marc Valvo
Size Worn: 0
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 3"
Weight: 116lbs
Bust: 32A
Pizzazz for a terrific price!
Warning: giving hugs does cause pain to others! Opps!
Member Fit Notes

Luncheon Necklace
Slate & Willow Accessories
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 3"
Weight: 116lbs
Bust: 32A
Comfortable yet sassy
I must say this dress was not my first choice for a Valentine's Day gala, but I had slim pickings when I decided to order somewhat late. The gown enhances a small bust, but it does not highlight your bottom. It is very comfortable to walk, dance, and eat in (without fear of growing a food baby)! Like many RTR reviewers, I received many compliments all night. The dress does run just a tad long, and I wore 3" heels to have the dress skim the ground. The size 0 gown I had sent came with some fabric displaced so the back zipper wasn't fully covered so hopefully that gets repaired prior to the next rental!

Ruby Red Gala Gown
Badgley Mischka
Size Worn: 0R
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 3"
Weight: 116lbs
Bust: 32A
An easy, elegant gown!
Like others who've reviewed the dress, it fits wonderfully! This was my first time renting from Rent The Runway, and I'm very thankful for receiving two dress sizes (since I had to pick the slightly bigger 2R versus 0R). Details you can't appreciate from the photos: there is a corset (so no need to worry about which bra will work), there is a belt (to help cinch the waist in a perfect spot), and the gold pattern is a sheath overlying a silky black gown with a small train in the back. Be sure to tell your date to mind the train-- it's easy to accidentally step on or get wrapped into your heels! I wore a pair of black 2" heels, and you can see the dress just skimmed the floor.
Member Fit Notes

Edinburgh Gown
Theia
Size Worn: 2R
Usual Size: 0
Height: 5' 3"
Weight: 115lbs
Bust: 32A