Purchased this for my BFF and it fit her perfect.

I’m 5’7” and can fluctuate between 163-173 pounds. 36C got a gut too, and wears a size 9 / 11 in bottoms. I can fit a medium depending on the stretch that’s offered. I read the reviews and made a mistake and ordered a medium, instead of a large. The dress is true to size and the material is comfortable. The top where the dress meets the waist has no wiggle room. The only thing that bothered me was the metal buckle would get caught on the belt when taking it off. Just be cognizant of that is my only suggestion.