In addition to NAS I did some dress hunting and thought I'd report on these. Length is always a problem, plus sleeves.
The floral was SO CLOSE and I was done - in by a small detail. Though I don't like cap sleeves, I was so eager to try to have a small summer frock capsule for weddings, showers and such that I ordered this one . It has a great skimming fit and the colors are nice and the cap sleeve per se was not really a deal- breaker BUT-- somehow the armhole is cut forward just a little and it actually highlights some squidgy under arm bits that, wow, in other clothes I thought were not too bad. It's not even really tight. Hard to explain but I can't get past it, it's the first thing I see. So, back it goes.

The next one I think I'm keeping, for a fall evening dressy event and hopefully other occasions. I'd prefer if the tie were removable so I could wear it a little lower or try belts, but it's integral to the dress, almost a reverse wrap. I think I can wear the tie knotted and hanging down rather than in a bow, which I think looks too young or too fussy.
I almost wish I'd tried a size down as well but it's sold out and think my usual AP size is best, rather than being too snug. The boatneck does not gape at all, it has a low V - back but still works with a regular bra, though I might either use my little back band adapter or overlap the back a little more. Not sure the photos show but the sleeves have ? cutouts down the arm, which I think is less " trendy" or noticeable than a cold- shoulder. This is an extremely comfortable dress which would be forgiving of small weight changes or eating dinner! It has pockets, though, why?
Does it strike anyone as too girlish? I would wear with black closed- toe dressy pumps, not sandal styles.

Then- a Reiss dress I liked when at an actual Reiss store, but could not justify the price for an olive polyester summer dress. Perhaps I should have given thought to " fall- erizing" it. I'm not actively stalking but could be tempted if it were on big sale.

Also-- not a dress, but AT skirt with high waist for those that like them. I am a sucker for seersucker in the summer and this is neutral, versatile so it came home with me.

Showing these in case someone with similar " figure requirements" is interested.