This dress is so beautiful and pictures truly don't do it justice. It's slightly shimmery and the fabric is slightly embossed or raised, and the intricate details on the swans and bows and blue flowers are just exquisite. The round neckline is flattering and the frilled, layered sleeves echo a swan's wings. SO beautiful. I have found this dress to be very versatile: it works for casual events and more dressy events. It runs large because it's smocked, so I sized down one size from my usual size.