I am 5'4" and weigh about 178lbs. I've gained 30lbs in the last year or so and tend to have an apple shape when I gain weight (I know lucky me, right?)�. I wanted a dress that would maybe hide me a bit because I have a wedding to go to and I wanted to be comfortable. I hate wearing dresses and omgosh can I say this flatters me so much!! I am incredibly happy with this simple dress and it hides the area's I needed to most to make me comfortable with myself. I loved it so much. It's simple and to stress it up I plan on wearing cute shoes and jewelery. I'm actually excited to go to the wedding now because of this dress, other wise I would be dreading going because hello!!... When ya gain weight ya don't feel good about yourself!