Made this for my youngest out of flannel. The fit is perfect. I lengthened the first tier and left off the second tier. I also didn't read the directions, I just put it together on my own so I can't evaluate that part. The dress is adorable and I'll likely make more in the future for my DD. She seemed comfortable in it and received several compliments on it at Church. Here's the best photo I could capture of my very active toddler. I made a size 86.