This dress runs very large. I usually wear a 10 in dresses (hips), so I went with a backup size of 8 since other reviewers commented on the dress running large. My 'magical fashion experience' was rather hilarious as it looked like I was a kid wearing my mom's dress. With the magic of pins, I was able to cinch about 5 inches around the rib cage. This pulled the bodice up better (no more j-lo circa 1999) and made the dress look fantastic. The color is definitely dark navy. It was the most comfortable dress I've ever worn to a formal function, and it photographed well. My husband said that I looked amazing. I would definitely recommend on the caveat that you order down on the size, especially if you have a smaller bust/rib cage.