I am a true to size 2x across the board in most brands but I sized up to a 3x for extra coverage. I wanted to love this because it really is comfortable and the skirt is the perfect length for someone self conscious about their apron belly. BUT the panty part of this bathing suit is microscopic in ...width but miles long in length lol. There was extra fabric in all the places i didn't need it. It was basically a thong for my stomach LOL. The crotch piece is not wide enough but the actual leg openings were HUGE. They rode half way up my stomach which is obviously not ideal for my belly shape. I couldn't help but laugh. Since the openings are so large, it created sagging because mam is flat in the back. Pulling it up to compensate caused the front leg openings to ride even higher up my stomach and with the thing crotch piece being longer than hwy 40, it creates butt effect in the front. The skirt is long enough to cover the party going on underneath so without lifting it, you wouldn't know. But its not really that comfortable and if you plan on getting in the water, you know these skirt dresses like to float so be warned. The swim suit also isn't supportive (which was expected not by the style) but its super tight in my breast (D cup) and gives a pull down effect on your boobs so its definitely not flattering in that department. The padding is also very thin and being tight, you can see the padding outline + your nips. Sizing up would just creating a saggy-er situation on my backside and make this bathing suit touch my knees so sadly this is a return for me. I don't usually leave reviews but I'm trying to help my fellow c-section apron bellied, carries most weight in the tummy but none in the thighs and booty friends not be fooled by this swim dress! This is a perfect bathing suit for a straight to plus sized women who have a flatter or more round (not hanging) tummy and a flat to maybe C cup chest.