While I do like it with the long vest, I have to agree with the others. I too was wondering if a size down would make a difference. Oddly, I think the fit in the back is better than from the front. It cocoons more?

Mmm, no. Prison gown.

Picklehead. That's disappointing.

Am I rude? I'm so rude. I just remember this episode of *Bewitched*, when Samantha gets all upset about a bathrobe Darren gives her. It's funny. Really(!)

I am not fond of the seam down the middle.

I liked the color on you, but I agree with what everyone else said. Which stinks because we all want it to work. But, now you have room for the awesome piece when you find it.

I love you all for your wisdom and honesty. My gut told me the dress was probably not going to work but there is something to be said for the lessons we learn through trying things. I have returned the dress and am not inclined to try the size down.

Instead I am very close to ordering this dress.... on the recommendation of the lovely Debra who posted hers here...

http://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/angies-apple

I intentionally gave this the briefest look (and avoided others' comments...though could not help but read Angie's as I passed by.)

I don't think it's anywhere up to the level of what you usually post here. I am sure others will pinpoint it better.

I admire that you are willing to go outside a comfort zone. I also think the grey color is very flattering.

Thanks for posting.

I love the idea of this but not the reality... It's just too much dress on you somehow, if that makes sense.

I love cocoon dresses myself. I don't mind the neckline/shoulder line. What concerns me is the lack of shape around the hem line I feel like there should be more shape there and a more tapered hem starting about mid hip would do that. (Though I'm not an expert sewer). I see how the pieces you layer on top "shape" the dress and I like those pics better. Sizing down may give a bit more of that structure. If that's not possible then having the skirt tapered to skim your hips I think would create the silhouette you're after. It seems as if the dress falls straight from about halfway up the sleeve and provides no definition from about the bust down.

Agree with everyone else, and if altering is a consideration, especially Day Vies. A taper may make all the difference. Also I find with cocoon dresses like this, it helps to take the hem up a bit, above knee if you are comfortable with that.

The neckline does not bug me so much, though I can see Angie's point there.