I got in on the Boden fall collection and ordered both the Eden (maroon) and Magnolia (navy) dresses. I was expecting the Magnolia to not work, based on the garment measurements (small hip and fully lined), but that the Eden would be great.

It turns out I love the Magnolia. The skirt isn’t as full as I thought it was, but it’s still a good size. The colors and design are terrific. And there’s no fit issue, since both dress and lining are knit. It stretches slightly at the hip and all is well. Since the red is tomato, none of my red shoes or belts will work; but I have navy options as well.

The Eden didn’t quite thrill me like I expected. It’s super comfortable and again, I love the design. The skirt is definitely flared, too. But the waist is high. I already have a high waist, and a very long rise. This is at least an inch higher. That means the skirt flares out above my hips. It’s an awkward feeling. I tried belting below the loops and waist seam, but because of it the skirt fullness that looked worse. It’s hard to see in pictures. For the last two I put on my Wolford hose, since they fit very well and the band is appropriately at my waist. In one of the pictures I am pointing to where that band is.

So I am leaning toward keeping the navy but not the maroon. I am so confused, though! I didn’t expect to have this issue. And it looks so nice, and feels so nice on, except for that whole waist thing.