based on how this jacket is shaped (loose but w/ shaping), i would recommend the 4x. being "between" the 3 and 4, the 4X would allow for easy movement, while still wearing a lighter piece underneath [although you could wear it alone, its style and mid-season weight would suggest "outer piece," and require something lighter underneath]. i am 5'3" and the misses length came to mid-thigh [but was not "short dress]. hope this helps you to decide!

I also am between those sizes. Because I like room in my jackets, I ordered 4X.

I ordered this in plus size and the arms are about 2 inches too long. This is easily overcome by folding them back though. If you are tall, they are probably even longer than on the plus size version as cuts for tall women usually have longer arms. These do run about 1 size large. I like oversized clothes, so I'm just fine with that.. you may not be. But any seamstress can shorten the arms for you.

I don't know the exact length measurement but I have long arms and found the length perfect. I didn't order tall - I'm a 3X/4X and I think I got a 4X.

yes I wash & dry mine all the time, they do not shrink. They do not need ironing.

I would never machine dry this although the fabric would probably hold up. The shape of the jacket would not. However, you can wash it, hang it on a sturdy hanger and allow it to air dry and it will come out nice - ironing always optional.