I tried it on in the store, Harmonica, and if I could have used a black dress in my closet, I would have brought it home with me!
Currently a size 14, I tried on the XL and it fit well and with ease. At 5'6", the length of the hem (front and back) on me is virtually the same as in the model pic above.
The dress is very soft, and forgiving in the midsection. I would likely have added a simple belt for a bit more definition. As some have mentioned, the knit does shape around the bum a bit, even if you have plenty of room. Now, that always happens to me, because I'm, um, generous, in that area!
Hope that helps!