That's so funny. I agree that anything that's different about an item of clothing can throw a guy. Not all men, but many.

Oops, now I see it's a necklace, not a scarf (and had I read more closely, I would have been clued in, huh?). Ah well--still goes great with the shoes.

The dress is not short, I agree with those who said he probably reacted to the shirt design.
I like how you styled it with red accessories.

The dress goes down to your knees, perfectly appropriate length to not have to wear leggings with.

That's brothers for you, Helen! Your dress looks perfect to me.

I won't reply to every comment, but thanks to each of you for your replies. I was pretty sure it looks ok and I'm very conservative. Leggings or tights make me feel more relaxed about the length when sitting . No way am I going 4 inches shorter!!
I will see what outfit or item provokes the next brotherly comments : )

Brothers! Ugh! It's a good thing he stayed home to babysit because it sounds like that's where he belonged.

Staysfit, my brother is a good bloke, really : )

You look super! I really like it. And it's not short at all. What was he thinking?!