Tie-back cotton poplin mini dress

I really love this dress - in the pictures! In real life, I like it, but don't love it. First, this is not made for anyone with hips - unless you want to look like a marshmallow! I managed to tone this down a bit with the addition of a belt of all things, but considering the cute details on the back and the sash tie at the back, the belt then becomes a little overkill. The belt also helps with the next "issue" in that it is SO white! Yes I know, it's a white dress, but there is white and then there is bright white, and this is definitely bright white. I compared this to another all white dress I have, and I think it ultimately comes down to the fabric. If it were a little more cotton based/softer, I think it wouldn't actually be fine, but it's a stiffer and fabric and it just looks too bright - adding to the marshmallow effect. For reference I'm 5'2 and a solid size 4 with average build.