Yeah, Modcloth sizing is really dependent upon the dress. I have a *fantastic* shirtdress that I wear all the time...I'm a XXL in it. Normal dress size? 12. Yeahhhhh...
But it's so, so pretty and so work appropriate and so comfortable.
If you wanted something completely different, my favorite splurge place is House of Fraser, a UK based department store. Definitely a little different style.
http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/women...ix&sz=200&spcl