Baltic Born Dress Review: Size-Inclusive & Versatile

When you’ve spent over a decade dressing for high-definition cameras and the unforgiving lights of a TV news studio, you develop a sixth sense for clothing that flatters, fits well, and feels effortless. That’s why I was eager to try Baltic Born—a brand my family photographer friends mention repeatedly and recommend to clients. Baltic Born also pops up frequently in fashion circles known for approachable elegance and size-inclusivity. Spoiler alert: I was not disappointed.

In this Baltic Born dress review, I’ll share why this brand should be on your radar—whether you’re shopping for the perfect wedding guest outfit, planning a family photo session as a busy mom, expecting a little one, or simply looking for clothing that embraces every frame, from petite to plus sizes.

What is Baltic Born? Mixing Heart & Heritage

Before I dive into specifics about the dresses, a quick note on the brand’s origin story. Baltic Born was founded in 2016 by three sisters—Angela, Allison, and Marianne—who started the business as a side hustle in their basement (read more on their “about” page). With Scandinavian roots and a passion for empowering women through fashion, the sisters named their brand after the Baltic Sea, a nod to both their heritage and the strength and beauty it represents.

Today, Baltic Born ships thousands of orders each month and was ranked the 14th fastest-growing company on the Inc. 5000 list in 2022. Their mission is simple but powerful: to create occasion-worthy clothing that helps women feel beautiful, confident, and strong no matter what stage of life they are in. Furthermore, they believe fashion should feels as good as it looks.

As someone who regularly travels to Sweden for work and felt an instant connection to the Nordic aesthetic, I see the influence in every detail—from the flowing fabrics to the clean lines and timeless femininity. Now, let’s dive into that Baltic Born Dress review…

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Emily Smocked Tier Dress

My Baltic Born Dress Review: 5 Styles I Wore and Loved

I added five Baltic Born pieces to my wardrobe this summer and brought several of them along on a trip to Scandinavia. Here’s a look at each style, how it fit my 4’11” frame, and where I’d recommend wearing it.

Clementine Tulle Dress 

1. Clementine Tulle Dress

This dress made me swoon. Layers of soft tulle give the Clementine Dress an ethereal quality, while the square neckline and stretchy, smocked bodice keep it grounded. It’s one of those pieces that makes you feel like the main character the moment you slip it on. The floaty sleeves can be worn on the shoulder or off – and there are so many prints and colors to choose from. Sizing from XS to 3XS. It’s fully lined and bump friendly. I’m wearing the XS and thought the fit was perfect! Click here for a video try-on.

Best For: Formal weddings, maternity photos, or holiday portraits.
Bonus: Despite its drama, it packed surprisingly well for travel with minimal wrinkling.

Luciana Dress

2. Luciana Dress

If romantic elegance had a signature look, the Luciana Dress would be it. With its floaty and flowing chiffon, elongating high neckline, and smocked ruffle cuffs, this dress is ideal for women looking for a modest option. It’s great for wedding guests, bridal showers, and church events. The elastic waist helps create shape without clinging, and the floaty skirt moves beautifully with every step. If you’re under 4’11, you may need alterations. Those 5′ and above should be good to go!

Best For: Fall weddings, engagement photos, or a dressy dinner on vacation.
Petite Tip: Add a heeled platform sandal to elongate the legs and avoid hemming

Emily Dress | Block Heel Pumps

3. Emily Dress

The Emily Dress is the definition of cheerful charm and laid back appeal. The stretchy smocked top offers a forgiving fit—ideal for those who fluctuate in size or are early in their pregnancy journey. The flutter sleeves and tiered skirt add just the right amount of femininity. As a bonus, it’s 100% cotton, keeping you cool and comfortable even on hot summer days. Has hidden side pockets and a smocked bodice for stretch. Click here for a video try-on.

Best For: Baby showers, bridal brunches, or a family photo session.
Mom-Friendly Features: Nursing-friendly neckline + comfortable enough to chase toddlers.

• Did those peachy block heels catch your eye? Read my review of ALLY shoes here.

4. Montgomery Romper

Yes, you read that right—romper. Baltic Born does more than dresses, and the Montgomery Romper is proof. It’s chic, breathable, and designed to look as feminine as a dress thanks to its ruffled sleeves and zip front. Comes in five other colorways. I especially loved this piece for days when I wanted to feel pulled together without fuss. This one runs on the small side making it ideal for petites. I’m wearing size small.

Best For: Travel days, city exploring, casual events.
Carry Into Fall: Layer this romper with a bodysuit or lightweight turtleneck to extend your wear into autumn. Just add cozy boots!

Jodi Dress | Wedges | Pottery Barn Bed

4. Jodi Off Shoulder Dress

The Jodi dress is made for hot summer days and evening events. Its natural color makes it supremely versatile. If you’re into making a subtle statement or hunting for a family photo dress that meshes with your home’s neutral color scheme, this is the piece for you.  The off shoulder neckline is flattering and has elastic for comfort. There are hidden pockets and lining from the waist down. Isn’t the white accent stitching gorgeous? Great length for petites!

Best For: Beachy or seaside travel, family photos, or holiday portraits.
Laid back charm: The linen like material offers a relaxed vibe and the neutral color makes it so easy to style

One Thing to Know: Baltic Born’s Return Policy

While my personal experience with Baltic Born has been overwhelmingly positive, there’s one detail that all shoppers should be aware of—the return policy.

Unlike larger retailers, Baltic Born currently only offers store credit for returns, not refunds. Additionally, your return may be subject to a restocking fee of up to $25, depending on the item. This policy is outlined on the brand’s Returns Page, but some customers have voiced concern that it’s not made clear enough at checkout. Personally, I think it’s hard to miss. If you click into the “Shipping and Returns” note on any item, the brand states in ALL CAPS that it offers store credit only.

Bottom line? Always read the fine print before purchasing—especially if you’re buying multiple sizes to try on. In response to these concerns, the Baltic Born founders have shared the following:

“Thank you so much for reaching out and we are extremely sorry to hear about this… Since January of 2020, our official return policy for all customers has been returns for store credit only. As a smaller, sister-run business, we found that in order to continue offering our products to our customers throughout the world, we would need to enforce some stricter return policies due to the rampant issue of unsustainable returns being sent back in worn or damaged condition. We’ve seen competitors of our size adopt similar policies as of late, in fact.”

As a creator and former journalist, I believe transparency builds trust—so I wanted to share both sides of this conversation in my Baltic Born dress review. I think it’s important to consider that while we’ve grown accustomed to the convenience of Amazon type returns, it’s not a sustainable model for small, independent businesses. Thankfully, Baltic Born’s detailed size charts and model photos make it easy to order confidently, but if you’re someone who values a flexible return window or prefers refunds to credit, this may be something to weigh in your decision.

Baltic Born Dress Review: Works for Every Woman

What stood out to me most during this Baltic Born dress review is the versatility baked into each design. Whether you’re:

• A petite woman looking for flattering proportions (raises hand),
• A pregnant mom needing stretch and comfort,
• A plus-size shopper searching for something that celebrates your shape,
• Or a busy woman who needs occasion wear without the drama…

Baltic Born delivers. Their dresses are not only inclusive in size (XS–XXXL), but in style and purpose, too.

Final Thoughts: Is Baltic Born Worth It?

Absolutely—if you go in with eyes open. With thoughtful detailing, a meaningful origin story rooted in sisterhood and Scandinavian strength, and silhouettes that work for real bodies, Baltic Born has quickly become a go-to brand in my wardrobe. I understand why my photographer pals always suggest their clients start their wardrobe search here (read a helpful attire guide I put together with one of them here). These are pieces that work for you now—and always. They’re versatile, affordable, and beautiful too!

If you’re planning a wedding, celebrating motherhood, or simply refreshing your closet with pieces that make you feel good—Baltic Born is a brand worth checking out.

PS – Baltic Born is not sponsoring this post, but did offer a discount code: ANCHOREDINELEGANCE15 to share with you

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