Smocked maxi dress

I ordered the newest first (the blue with flowers) to be sure about the sizing, because these ones are final sale, and for me is real size!, I ordered both colors in MEDIUM, that is my size (36C bra) and they fitted perfectly!!, I loved them for my next trip to Cancun.

This dress has so much potential but can’t seem to make up its mind. It’s categorized and described as a swim coverup but the suggested styling and social ads featuring the dress position it as something to wear for a night on the town. Not sure who would wear a coverup with strappy heels and formal jewelry, not to mention how poorly swimwear would clash with the bodice/neckline (unless maybe a strapless suit). Perhaps the swimwear categorization is a way to excuse the thin cotton of the skirt. I still made the decision to purchase because it was on super sale and for the cute details: smocking, tie straps, leg slit. All it needed to be 100% perfect is to be lined. I ordered a small in tidewater which is a gorgeous blue. I am 5’10”, 140lbs, 34b and usually take a medium but ordered down one size given the smocking.

The skirt in this dress is SEE THROUGH. There is no lining. It is completely transparent fabric. It also runs large. I learned to size down two sizes with J Crew and it's perfect. For reference, I am 5'4" 36DD, 170 lbs, Very pear shaped, tiny shoulders, large hips. I got the XS, it's perfect, not too small, but can wear this without a bra (it's fine in the smocking, it's just very thin fabric in the skirt). It is SO FLATTERING. Pretty dress, but will need a slip.