Melissa in Houston's Nordstrom store helped me understand the sizing and blocking for St. John Knits. I wear a size 12 in this dress (14-18 in other manufacturers). This dress was made for me. I'm 5'11", 50+ years, with an hourglass figure that's a little lumpy/rolly. With the help of a Spanx high-waisted panty, the look is sophisticated and figure flattering on me. Some say it's a Jackie O look, some say June Cleaver (depending on the accessories). I'll take either.
If you've never tried this dress on with a Nordstrom fit specialist, you should treat yourself to this service. If you're ordering online, order 1-2 sizes smaller. Nordstrom can block the knit to fit.
This dress, with so many different St. John jackets, is the perfect little black dress, going from work to wedding with a change in accessories.
