It is a pretty dress and would be great to take on a trip since it doesn't wrinkle and can be machine washed and dried. The bustline up has pretty ruffles and it ties behind the neck. I think the square knot works best but you can do it however you want. The armpit to armpit measurement is 20 inches but will stretch, the length in front is 55 inches from where I think the shoulder would be, the length in back from the elastic downs 57 inches. The polyester drapes very nicely.