Formal Dresses
Windsor’s fall formal dresses are redefining what it means to dress up in 2026. Unexpected details take center stage, from sleek cutouts with hardware and sheer illusion panels to dramatic side and front draping. Plunging V-necklines, sculptural cowl necks, off-the-shoulder silhouettes, and corset bodices bring a confident edge, while intentionally ruched mesh adds texture and a distinctly modern touch. For classic black-tie plans, silky satin high-neck gowns deliver polished drama without feeling predictable. Made for weddings, galas, and every dressed-up moment on your calendar, these on-trend formal dresses are elevated, camera-ready, and impossible to overlook.
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STYLE SPOTLIGHT
Formal Dresses for Fall & Winter’s Biggest Moments
Windsor’s formal dresses bring elevated style to weddings, galas, military balls, homecoming, black-tie events, and other moments worth dressing up for. Discover elegant dresses in timeless black, romantic wine, rich jewel tones, metallic hues, and soft neutrals, with silhouettes ranging from classic A-lines and columns to fitted bodycons and mermaid gowns. New styles arrive every week with appliqués, draping, hardware, ties, and adjustable details that help you find a look that feels polished, current, and confidently yours.
Find a Formal Look That Fits the Occasion
The right dress starts with the event. Long formal dresses bring classic elegance to black-tie weddings, galas, military balls, and upscale evening celebrations, while polished midis and select short formal dresses can suit events with a less traditional dress code. For dressy occasions that call for something elevated without a full-length gown, explore formal cocktail dresses for another way to match your look to the invitation.
How Should I Dress for a Black-Tie or Formal Wedding?
Start by checking the invitation for the exact dress code. Black-tie events traditionally call for an elevated evening look, making floor-length gowns and refined silhouettes strong choices. Consider a column, A-line, or mermaid gown, then use color and details to make it your own. Black and navy offer timeless sophistication, while shades of red, green, purple, or gold can bring more personality to the occasion. Draping, appliqués, and polished necklines add another layer of interest without losing the formal feel.
What’s the Difference Between a Cocktail Dress and a Formal Dress?
The biggest differences are usually the dress code, overall level of polish, and length. Cocktail dresses commonly fall around the knee or midi length and work well for semi-formal parties, receptions, and dressy dinners. Formal dresses tend to feature longer hemlines, more structured silhouettes, or elevated details suited to galas, formal weddings, and black-tie occasions. If the invitation has you second-guessing your choice, The Windsor Edit’s guide to cocktail dresses vs. formal dresses breaks down the differences with styling examples.
Can Formal Dresses Be Short?
Sometimes—the invitation and venue should guide your choice. Short formal dresses with structured silhouettes, elevated fabrics, appliqués, or polished details can work for certain dressy events, but traditional black-tie occasions generally call for an ankle-length or floor-length gown. When the dress code feels somewhere between cocktail and formal, consider the event time, setting, and host guidance before choosing your hemline.
Which Formal Dress Fabrics Work Best for Fall and Winter?
Fabric can change both the look and feel of your dress. Richer, more substantial materials create a seasonally polished effect for cooler-weather occasions, while fluid fabrics add movement to long gowns and draped silhouettes. Your event setting, desired structure, and comfort preferences can all help narrow the choice. For a deeper look at how materials affect your outfit, explore Windsor’s guide to formal dress fabrics.
How Do I Find a Formal Dress That Feels Secure and Comfortable?
Look for design details that let you personalize the fit instead of spending the evening adjusting your dress. Lace-up backs can help fine-tune the bodice, corset construction adds structure, wrap designs offer flexibility, and adjustable or removable straps can change how a neckline fits and feels. Halter, cowl, off-the-shoulder, plunge, scoop, and square necklines also give you options depending on the coverage and support you prefer.
What Should I Wear to a Winter Formal?
Winter is your moment to lean into deeper color, shine, and elevated details. Explore Windsor's 2026 winter formal dresses in shades like plum, hunter green, chocolate, ruby, and copper, or make the night feel extra special with rose gold and other metallic finishes. Prefer a lighter palette? White and ivory can create a striking winter look, especially with appliqués, draping, or dimensional details. Finish with a silhouette you feel confident in, from fitted columns and mermaid gowns to flowing A-lines.
Make Your Formal Moment Your Own
Whether you’re shopping for special occasion dresses, an affordable bridal look, bridesmaid style, party gown, or military ball dress, Windsor gives you options that balance current trends with timeless silhouettes. New styles arrive every week online, in the Windsor app, and at more than 350 stores across North America, making it easier to find the dress that fits both your event and your personal style.
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Cosima Plunge V Ruched Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Ruched detailing gives this mermaid dress a sleek, sculpted finish. The plunging V neckline and halter tie frame the fitted silhouette, while the open twist back adds a striking contrast. It’s an elegant choice for a wedding guest.
Fit & Features
- Plunging V neckline
- Halter neck tie
- Ruched bodice and waist detailing
- Open back with twisted strap detail
- Fitted mermaid silhouette with floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, Prom, formal events, black-tie and galas, and wedding guest.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-002211
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- New Arrival
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Mazie Lace Corset Satin Bodycon Dress
Special Occasion
A little lace, a little satin, and a very polished point of view. This bodycon mini dress balances a structured corset bodice with a smooth satin skirt and lace-up back for a look that feels classic with a current edge. The finish is elegant, sleek, and quietly statement-making.
Fit & Features
- Knit lining with stretch
- Lace corset bodice, flexible boning
- Square neckline, padded bra cups, adjustable straps
- Satin bodycon mini skirt
- Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, birthdays, date nights, bachelorettes, Vegas, cocktail parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001405
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Mary Skeleton Siren Rhinestone Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The skeleton detailing brings the drama, and the rhinestones make sure it sparkles. This formal mermaid dress pairs an embellished skeleton pattern with long sleeves and a floor-length silhouette for a striking Halloween look. Style it with heels and let the shimmer do the haunting.
Fit & Features
- Rhinestone-embellished skeleton pattern
- Sheer mesh fabric with stretch
- Crew neckline
- Fitted long sleeves
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
- Please note undergarments not included
Where to Wear:
Themed parties and events, cocktail soirees, upscale birthdays
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-002093
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $139.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NUDE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Ceri Sequin Floral Sweetheart A-Line Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Floral print, sequins, and a ruched satin bodice give the Ceri mini dress a polished, playful finish. The sweetheart neckline, fitted waist, and A-line silhouette balance structure with movement, while the open back adds a chic detail.
Fit & Features
- Ruched satin bodice
- Sweetheart neckline with adjustable tank straps
- Floral print mesh fabric with knit lining, sequin embellishment, moderate stretch
- Open back, strap with bar closure, lower zipper with hook-eye closure
- Fitted waist
- Mini-length A-line silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, dances, formal parties, birthday celebrations, date nights, and dressy dinners.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001358
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Avelina Beaded Floral Halter Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Florals, sparkle, and a fitted shape make a polished statement. The Avelina beaded floral halter bodycon mini dress combines sequin embellishment with a sleek silhouette and an open back for a look that feels fresh and refined. The finish is playful, glamorous, and confidently current.
Fit & Features
- Floral-printed mesh fabric with knit lining, moderate stretch
- Beaded and sequin embellishment
- Sleeveless halter neckline
- Side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Open back
- Mini-length hem
- Bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Cocktail parties, nights out, date nights, vacations, and birthday parties.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001359
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PURPLE, PRINT
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Dana Glitter A-Line Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The Dana mini dress captivates with its shimmering glitter finish and timeless A-line silhouette. The sweetheart neckline and lace-up back strike the perfect balance between elegance and allure—ideal for any RSVP that calls for turning heads.
Fit & Features
- Glitter fabric, sewn-in knit lining
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Cap sleeves
- Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- A-line silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, weddings, cocktail parties, birthdays, formal celebrations, rehearsal dinners, and date nights.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000789
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: LIGHT, BLUE, BLACK
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Sale
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Marianna Rhinestone Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
This mini is all about a close, streamlined silhouette. A draped cowl neckline balances the bodycon shape, while slender straps keep the look light through the shoulders. Rhinestone embellishment adds texture and shine across the fitted form.
Fit & Features
- Allover rhinestone embellishment
- Abstract pattern, sewn-in satin woven lining
- Cowl neckline with adjustable spaghetti straps
- Side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette
- Mini length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthday dinners, date nights, Vegas, bachelorettes, cocktail parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001340
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $65.96 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: GOLD
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Sale
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Odessa Side Slit Lace Column Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The column silhouette keeps this long dress sleek and streamlined. This lace column long dress follows the figure through the body, while ruched detailing and a side slit add shape and movement without interrupting the clean line. The result feels polished, sculpted, and refined.
Fit & Features
- Floral lace fabric, knit lining
- Square neckline, spaghetti straps
- Visible boning through the bodice
- High side slit design
- Column floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black-tie parties, galas, rehearsal dinners, formal celebrations, dressed-up date nights, fashion-forward events, cocktail parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-002043
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PLUM
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Vamp Twist Strap Off Shoulder Maxi Dress
Let the details do the dressing. This off-the-shoulder maxi dress pairs twisted straps, ruched shaping, and a draped low back with a sleek, sculpted finish. Style it with stiletto heels and statement earrings for polished evening plans.
Fit & Features
- Smooth, slinky knit fabric with stretch
- Off-the-shoulder neckline with twisted straps
- Ruched detailing through the waist and hips
- Low draped back
- Curve-hugging silhouette
- Maxi length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05102-000840
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: OLIVE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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Sweet Floral Beaded Lace-Up Bodycon Mini Dress
Sweet florals meet a seriously polished finish. This floral mini dress combines shimmering beaded and sequin embellishment with moderate-stretch knit fabric and an adjustable open back. It’s the kind of homecoming look that makes every photo count.
Fit & Features
- Knit fabric with moderate stretch
- Beaded, sequin, and faux pearl embellished floral design
- Strapless straight-across neckline
- Lace-up back design
- Side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Pleated detailing at the waist
- Mini-length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-001626
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $54.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: LAVENDER
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M
Product Badge:- Best Seller
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Kira Rhinestone Skeleton Long Sleeve Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Your look just found its easiest starting point. The Kira sheer mesh long sleeve mini dress combines a bodycon shape with a rhinestone skeleton design that keeps the sultry allure clear.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with high stretch
- Rhinestone-embellished skeleton design
- Crew neckline
- Long fitted sleeves
- Hidden back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Mini-length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Costume parties, themed events, parties, and nights out.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001319
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $119.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Lisandra Sequin Bead Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
A little shimmer, a little drape, and a silhouette that feels very now. This sequin bodycon mini dress pairs a softly draped cowl neckline with a ruched fitted skirt for a polished take on statement dressing. It’s an easy choice when your special occasion plans call for something charming with just enough sparkle.
Fit & Features
- Sequin and bead-embellished mesh-lined fabrication
- Draped cowl neckline with spaghetti straps
- Blouson-style bodice
- Ruched fitted bodycon mini skirt
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, birthday dinners, bridal showers, engagement photos and parties, fancy brunches, special date nights, cocktail parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001316
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $38.96 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: IVORY
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Sale
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Petra Glitter Leopard Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The leopard pattern gets an elevated finish with allover glitter. This mermaid formal dress pairs a fitted shape with a lace-up open back for added definition. The textured shine gives the statement print a polished edge.
Fit & Features
- Glitter leopard print mesh fabric, knit lining, high stretch
- V-neckline, padded bra cups, spaghetti straps
- Lace-up open back
- Fitted mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, cocktail soirees, formal events, anniversaries
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-002015
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN/PRINT
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Coralie Beaded Mesh Halter Dress
Special Occasion
The shape is sleek, the attitude is anything but subtle. The Coralie bodycon halter dress keeps it sultry with a plunging neckline and open back for a sassy, fashion-forward finish. It’s the kind of silhouette that knows exactly what it’s doing.
Fit & Features
- Beaded, sequin-embellishments
- Lined mesh fabric
- Zebra print
- Plunge halter neckline, padded bra cups, clasp closure
- Open back, side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, birthday celebrations, date nights, Vegas, bachelorettes
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001311
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN/PRINT
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Sabella Rhinestone Spiderweb Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
A little mystery looks even better with a sculpted silhouette. The Sabella rhinestone mermaid dress keeps the shape sleek and fitted, then adds an off-the-shoulder neckline and sheer bell sleeves for a dramatic Halloween-ready finish. The result feels elevated, sultry, and made for a more glamorous kind of haunting.
Fit & Features
- Rhinestone-embellished, spiderweb pattern
- Lined mesh fabric
- Off-the-shoulder neckline, plunge V-neckline, wired insert
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Long sheer bell sleeves
- Fitted mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Halloween parties, formal events and occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001980
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Avelisse Draped Chiffon Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Soft chiffon draping gives this mermaid dress an elegant, fluid finish. The off-the-shoulder neckline and cascading sash detail frame the fitted silhouette, while the open back adds a refined contrast. It’s a graceful choice for a bridesmaid look.
Fit & Features
- Off-the-shoulder neckline
- Draped chiffon sash detail
- Open back
- Fitted mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Wedding guest, bridesmaid, anniversaries, special formal dinners, and black-tie events.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001979
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Zinnia Chiffon Sash Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The silhouette stays sleek while the sash brings the drama. This mermaid formal dress fits close through the body before opening into a soft flare, with chiffon panels adding movement behind the shoulders. The effect is sculpted, fluid, and distinctly formal.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit-lined fabric, high stretch
- Sleeveless boat neckline with long chiffon sash detail
- Open back with tie detail, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Wedding guests, bridesmaids, black-tie events, galas, balls, red-carpet occasions, rehearsal dinners, formal celebrations, anniversaries
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001982
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Aurette Off Shoulder Satin Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
This mermaid dress balances refined structure with a sultry, curve-skimming shape. The fitted bodice and ruched detailing contour the waist and hips, while the off-the-shoulder neckline and high side slit bring elegant drama to the floor-length silhouette. The result is chic, poised, and touched with glamour.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric with sheen, knit lining
- Off-the-shoulder neckline
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Ruched waist and hip detailing
- Draped side detail with a high side slit
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black-tie galas, cocktail parties, balls, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, anniversaries, formal celebrations, upscale birthday dinners, red-carpet events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001985
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: RED, BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Aurelie Beaded Sequin Corset Bodycon Dress
Special Occasion
Sparkle, structure, and a little sheer detail make a very good trio. This beaded sequin bodycon mini dress pairs a structured corset bodice with a sweetheart neckline and mesh center inset for a look that feels polished, glamorous, and completely current. The finish is bold enough to stand out while still feeling sleek.
Fit & Features
- Beaded and sequin-embellished mesh fabric
- Strapless V-neckline, non-slip grip lining, padded bra cups
- Structured corset bodice with boning
- Sheer mesh center inset
- Bodycon glitter mini silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, birthday parties, bachelorettes, Vegas, date nights, cocktail soirees, glam red-carpet occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001292
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $129.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Avielle Short Sleeve Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
This formal dress proves that understated can still feel striking. A fitted mermaid silhouette contours through the waist and hips with gathered ruching before extending into a sleek floor-length hem, finished with a refined mock neckline and short sleeves.
Fit & Features
- Smooth lined knit fabric
- Mock neckline
- Short sleeves
- Ruched waist and hip detailing
- Fitted mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, galas, cocktail soirees, formal celebrations, black-tie events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001969
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Marceline Cross Back Sequin Lace Dress
Special Occasion
This mini keeps the shape flirty with just the right amount of drama. A fitted bodice defines the waist before opening into a swishy A-line silhouette, finished with a handkerchief hem and open cross back. The result feels glamorous, sassy, and effortlessly polished.
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-neckline with spaghetti straps
- All-over sequin lace, chiffon and knit linings
- Open cross back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Flared A-line mini silhouette
- Handkerchief mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, birthdays, date nights, fashion-forward events, cocktail soirees, glam parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001290
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Inessa Strapless Scarf Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
A sleek mermaid silhouette gives the Inessa formal dress an elegant, refined presence. The strapless neckline and attached scarf detail frame the fitted shape, while ruching through the waist and hips adds soft dimension before flowing into a floor-length hem.
Fit & Features
- Sleek knit fabric with knit lining, high stretch
- Strapless straight-across neckline
- Attached scarf detail
- Ruched waist and hip detailing
- Fitted mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Wedding guests, formal parties and dances, black-tie events, galas, date nights, and anniversaries.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001957
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Vesper Draped Halter Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Draped detailing gives the Vesper formal dress a sleek, elegant finish. The halter neckline twists into a front keyhole cutout, while the fitted bodice and mermaid silhouette create a sculpted floor-length shape, finished with a long sash and open back. It’s a polished choice for a wedding guest.
Fit & Features
- Lined knit fabric, high stretch
- Sleeveless draped halter neckline with front keyhole cutout
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Long sash detail
- Fitted bodice, ruched detailing
- Open back
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Wedding guests, anniversary dinners, special nights out, black-tie events, and galas.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001956
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: OLIVE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kierra Lace Up Sequin Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Florals with sparkle? Cute just got a little bolder. The sweetheart neckline, floral sequin embellishment, and lace-up open back give the Kierra bodycon mini dress plenty of standout detail. It’s flirty, fitted, and full of personality.
Fit & Features
- Mesh fabric with knit lining, moderate stretch
- Sequin-embellished floral design
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bust
- Short cap sleeves
- Open back with lace-up detail, lower zipper with hook-eye closure
- Mini-length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, birthday events, date nights, Vegas, bachelorettes, nights out, and cocktail parties.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001286
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE
Available Size: XS, L, XL