I’m in between sizes , between size 12 and 14 and I choose to buy size 12. My waist is about 33 inches, and it is very snug but does zip up. It looks exactly like the model, very body hugging, a little stretch. If you are in between sizes and you bought the dress to look sexy and wear to a fancy event I would size down. But if you bought the dress to wear to the office and want to be comfy, size up. Very good quality, this dress is quite heavy and thick good quality material.