Sharma Short Sleeve Silk Maxi Dress

Buying this dress felt a little risky to me, since the photos are not very clear and the description was so limited. But I like this brand, and have been looking for a formal dress that was just a little different from the usual. To my surprise, this one works really well. The fit is hourglass, and a little snug around the waist and rib cage. It relaxes across the hips a little, then flares in a sort of mermaid style. Combined with the broad shoulders and flutter sleeves, it gives a really nice silhouette. The decorative elements hit me at all the right points, which almost never happens off the rack (I'm 5'4"). Even the length works for me, hitting about an inch from the floor in bare feet. It's extremely well made and very soft, although the silk is not quite as thick as the 25 momme silk of my pillowcases. The only thing I don't like about this dress is that the peephole at the bust opens up all the way down to my sternum. I'm going to ask the tailor to stitch it up so less of my chest is exposed.