This dress does run big. I'm a size 12 and the medium was the correct size for me. The large was way to baggy at the top. But I didn't really like the way this dress fits. The bottom is a nice straight, fitted skirt, but the top was baggy, loose and didn't really define my figure because it "bloused" and hung over the belt. I felt like I looked thick and heavy on the top -- not flattering. It was a bit like wearing a belted garbage bag with holes for my head and arms. Maybe this dress is best for the taller, slender figures.