Formal Dresses

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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.

  • Chrysta Formal Satin Corset Midi Dress

    Special Occasion

    Love your curves in the Chrysta formal satin dress for a stunning bridesmaid dress or cocktail soiree! She features a sleeveless cowl neckline adorned with adjustable spaghetti straps, a padded bust, flexible boning along the bodice to help snatch your figure, and a flattering bodycon silhouette, center back slit, and midi-length hem. The formal dress is composed of a silky luxe satin fabric that brings chic allure and offers minimal stretch. Complete the look in classy block heels and a necklace.

    With a smooth, luminous finish, this dress was made to shine. Keep the luxe look going with breathtaking satin prom dresses or go for a sophisticated statement with our wedding guest dresses.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless cowl neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Padded bust, flexible boning
    • Bodycon silhouette, center back slit, midi-length hem
    • Satin fabric, minimal stretch
    • Bra optional
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1953

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Liza Corset Tulle Skater Dress

    Special Occasion

    Cue the curtain call—the dreamy Liza corset mini dress brings all the ballet-core magic. A sheer mesh bodice shimmers with sequins and faux pearls, while the layered skater tulle skirt floats with every step, giving you that effortlessly en pointe vibe.

    Fit & Features

    • Sheer tulle and mesh fabric, multiple satin and tulle linings
    • V-neckline, padded bra cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Sheer mesh corset bodice, sequins, faux pearls, flexible boning
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Drop waist seam, skater silhouette, mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, birthday events, glam cocktail receptions, engagement parties, night at the ballet or theatre

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000095

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $119.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Olympia Glitter Full A-Line Dress

    Special Occasion

    Flow through the dance floor in a dazzling display of shine! Olympia's sweeping hemline adds a lovely touch of regal elegance. Everyone's eyes will trail you as Olympia leaves behind a twinkling shine and changes color in the light!

    Fits & Features 

    • Dual Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
    • V Neckline I Padded Bust I Princess Seams
    • Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure 
    • Hidden Hand Pockets 
    • Floor Length Skirt I A Line Silhouette
    • Glitter Woven, Lined Fabric I Changes Color In The Light
    • Moderate Stretch 

     

    Model is 5'6" with a 31" bust, 26" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small. 

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0578

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $109.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Blanca Formal Glitter Lattice Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Bring the glamour with our dazzling Blanca glitter dress! She pairs perfectly with rhinestones and glam heels for a head-turning look!

    Fit & Features 

    • Square Neckline | Tank Straps
    • Princess Seams
    • Lattice Back 
    • Lined Glitter Knit Fabric 
    • Mermaid Silhouette
    • Form Hugging Fit 
    • Moderate Stretch 

     

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0713

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Plus Set In Heat Stone Dress
    Up your sultry sparkle factor in a major way with this glam mesh mini! Dress features all-over heat-stone and embroidery-texture detail, a round neckline, a deep V leading to a back zip, and long semi-sheer sleeves. Dress is lined and made from a woven mesh material with moderate stretch.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 15001-0040

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $31.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Seraphina Formal Caged Back Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Make an unforgettable entrance in our timelessly gorgeous Seraphina dress! She features a sweetheart neckline, built in boning for support, padded cups, a double row of straps and an open back with multi strap caged design with fish hook closure. Her slim fit bodice leads to a floor length silhouette with ruching on the left side seam and an asymmetrical high slit. Dress is composed of a lined crepe fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Includes an additional mini skirt length knit lining.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6680

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Toni Open Back Mermaid Glitter Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Shimmering glitter catches the light on the Toni long formal dress perfect for galas or fancy parties! Crafted from glitter knit fabric, this mermaid dress will make you stand out. She features a V-neckline and spaghetti straps to flatter your bust, while the back ruched seam and open back with crisscross straps add a touch of allure. Complete the look with rhinestone hoop earrings.

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter knit fabric with plenty of stretch
    • Spaghetti straps
    • Open back, crisscross straps
    • Back ruched seam
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • Pasties recommended
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7853

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Chloe Rhinestone Mesh Party Dress

    Special Occasion

    Shimmering rhinestones make the Chloe party dress stand out from the rest! Unveil flawless glam for birthdays and bachelorette weekends. She stuns in a sleeveless plunge V-neck with a sheer mesh insert, spaghetti straps, a lace-up back with tie closure, and a bodycon short-length hem. The formal dress features all-over rhinestone embellishments with an iridescent hue and is composed of a sheer fishnet mesh fabric with a stretchy knit lining. Style with platform stiletto heels to complete the look!

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless plunge V-neck, sheer mesh insert
    • Spaghetti straps, lace-up back, tie closure, lower back zipper, hook and eye closure
    • Short bodycon silhouette 
    • All-over rhinestone embellishments, iridescent hue
    • Sheer fishnet mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Sticky bra recommended
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1116

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $99.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Gianna Halter Open Back Skater Dress

    Special Occasion

    A modern take on timeless elegance, the Gianna jacquard halter mini dress stuns with its textured finish and flirty open back. A tied bow detail and flared skirt bring just the right mix of polished and playful.

    Fit & Features

    • Jacquard woven fabric, stretch knit lining
    • High halter neckline
    • Open back with tie straps, zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Hidden side pockets
    • Skater silhouette, mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, weddings, cocktail parties, milestone celebrations, birthday dinners, date nights, holiday soirees, nights at the theatre

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000534

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Kiri Formal Floral Velvet Sweetheart Midi Dress

    Special Occasion

    Blossom beautifully in the Kiri formal floral velvet midi dress to showcase a gorgeous style at dressy parties! Featuring a classic sweetheart neckline, padded bust, adjustable spaghetti straps, a midi-length hem, and a flirty side slit, the midi dress is crafted from a delicate floral velvet pattern for the epitome of sophistication and exclusivity. Complete the look in a chic bolero and heels!

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless sweetheart neckline
    • Padded bust, adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Form-hugging silhouette
    • Side slit, midi-length hem
    • Floral velvet pattern, stretchy knit lining
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2086

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $24.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Nora Lattice Back Crepe Dress

    Special Occasion

    Make them glance again and again in our beautiful Nora!

    Fits & Features

    • Adjustable Spaghetti Straps With Lattice Detailing At Back 
    • Plunging V Neckline I Padded Bust I Princess Seaming Details
    • Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure 
    • Thigh High Slit I Floor-Length Hemline 
    • Lined, Crepe Fabric 
    • Form-Flattering Fit I Moderate Stretch  


    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0847

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Astrid Chiffon Floral Gown
    Special Occasion

    A bold black background makes the florals on our chiffon Astrid gown positively pop! She features a surplice-style V back and bodice with adjustable spaghetti straps, a self-tie belt, and a gently pleated full skirt with back zip. Astrid is lined to approximately mid thigh and semi-sheer from mid thigh to hem. She is made from a lightweight, chiffon-like material with little to no stretch.

    Model is 5’9” with a 32” bust, 24.5 waist, and 35” hips. She is wearing a size small.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0099

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $54.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Janet Sweetheart Slit Formal Dress
    Special Occasion

    A little sweet, a little naughty. Our stunning Janet formal dress charms with her sweetheart neckline, built in boning and full A-line silhouette but is ready to bring the heat with her thigh high slit! Her taffeta fabric and pleating at the bust and waist-line add the perfect amount of shimmer and texture for a uniquely elegant look. Includes banded hemline, hidden side pockets and a back zipper closure. Includes an additional bodysuit contrast bottom lining with snap button closure.

    Model is 5'7" with 32" bust, 23" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6554

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $79.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Helen Formal Bustier A-Line Long Dress

    Special Occasion

    Many kodak moments will be made while wearing the Helen formal dress! She's dressed to impress at prom in her sleeveless, bustier-style bodice with adjustable spaghetti straps, a sweetheart pleated neck, and an open back with a stunning lace-up design. Her fitted empire waist effortlessly flows in an a-line silhouette to elongate your figure and she includes side hidden pockets to keep your hands warm. Composed of a metallic woven fabric with inner tulle and knit lining with minimal stretch. Finish your radiate prom look with a chic clutch.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless, bustier-style bodice, adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Sweetheart pleated neck, built-in padded bust
    • Open-back, lace-up design, zipper closure
    • A-line silhouette, side hidden pockets
    • Floor-length hem
    • Metallic woven fabric, inner tulle and knit lining, minimal stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2104

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $119.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Sydney High Neck Scalloped Lace Midi Dress

    Special Occasion

    Make a stunning entrance in our gorgeous Sydney midi dress! She features a flattering high neck with an open back and a curve-hugging mid-length silhouette. The dress has pretty scalloped lace detailing and a chic back slit. Pair this pretty dress with some clear heels for your next date night with bae.

    Fit & Features

    • High neck
    • Open back
    • High waist seam
    • Mid-length form-hugging fit
    • Back slit
    • Scalloped lace fabric
    • Short lining that hits mid-thigh

     

    Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.

     

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0357

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $44.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Dani Sequin Corset Lace-Up Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Designed to dazzle after dark, the Dani mesh mini dress features a bodycon silhouette, sweetheart neckline, and a sultry lace-up back that turns heads everywhere you go.

    Fit & Features

    • Sequin-embellished pattern, lined mesh fabric
    • Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
    • Spaghetti straps
    • Corset bodice, flexible boning
    • Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Bodycon mini-length silhouette
    • Runs true to size


    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, birthdays, bachelorettes, clubbing, cocktail events, dressy soirees, and date nights.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000284

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Bella Sequin V-Neck Party Dress

    Special Occasion

    Designed with sparkling sequins, the Bella party dress is sure to turn heads at rehearsal dinners or formal celebrations! She features a sleeveless V-neckline, sleek bungee spaghetti straps, a padded bust, and a high-waist seam that leads to her flared short-length hem. The party dress is composed of a sequin-embroidery on mesh fabric with a stretchy knit lining. Complete the look with statement earrings and heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless V-neckline, bungee spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Padded bust, high waist seam
    • Flared, short-length hem
    • Sequin-embroidery, mesh fabric, stretch knit lining
    • Bra optional
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1460

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $39.97 $74.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Britney Formal Open Back Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Create a head turning moment as you stun in our Britney dress! She features an all over teal hue, a boat neckline, padded cups and princess seams. Her open back features a plunging V shape and is complemented with godet seams. Her slim fit bodice leads to a floor length silhouette with a flared hemline. She is composed of a lined crepe fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Includes a lower back zipper closure. 

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6177

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Carly Formal Illusion Mermaid Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Allure in the ever stunning Carly illusion dress! She features a hunter green color, a high round neckline, padded cups, narrow straps and unlined illusion stripes. Her relaxed fit bodice leads to a flaring mermaid silhouette with unlined illusion stripes and a dramatic flared hem. Dress is composed of a lined crepe fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.

    Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size small.
     

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6483

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $32.97 $89.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Liv Formal High Slit Velvet Dress

    Special Occasion

    Make a dazzling impression with a formal dress that brings the elegance to your evening! Live features a sleeveless square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, and an A-line silhouette with a high side slit. The dress is composed of a velvet fabric that offers a form hugging fit. Complete look with rhinestone heels and an anklet

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless square neckline
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Padded cups, flexible boning 
    • A-line silhouette. high side slit
    • Velvet fabric
    • Form hugging fit, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1545

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $79.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Step Out In Glamour Satin Lace-Up Midi Dress

    Step out in this glam satin midi dress sure to capture the spotlight! The dress features a sleeveless square neckline, spaghetti straps that create the lace-up back design, a cutout bust, and a flattering bodycon silhouette with a center-back slit accent. Complete the look in strappy rhinestone heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless square neckline
    • Spaghetti straps, lace-up back
    • Cutout bust, center back slit
    • Bodycon silhouette
    • Midi-length hem
    • Silky satin knit fabric, bust lining, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-2680

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $39.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Katherine Halter Open Back Mermaid Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Step out in the sultry and sensational Katherine mermaid formal dress for black tie parties and formal events! Crafted from a smooth knit lined fabric, this dress offers both comfort and chic style. She features a plunge halter cowl neckline with a bar strap accent, spaghetti strap tie, and a revealing strappy open back to show skin. Her form-flattering mermaid silhouette effortlessly gives you an hourglass appearance while the floor-length hem adds a hint of drama. Complete the look with earrings.

    Fit & Features

    • Smooth knit lined fabric, moderate stretch
    • Halter plunge cowl neckline, bar strap accent
    • Spagehtti strap tie
    • Open strappy back
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • Sticky bra or pasties recommended
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8672

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Fairy Glow Rhinestone Mini Dress

    Giving glass-slipper sparkle but make it ethereal. This fairy dress turns up the charm in a rhinestone-embellished, bodycon silhouette that hugs in all the right places and brings enchanted energy to every Halloween party!

    Fit & Features

    • Rhinestone, mirror bead-embellishments
    • Mesh fabric, sewn-in knit lining
    • V-neckline. adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Sheer side mesh inserts
    • Bodycon fit, uneven mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000175

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $39.97 $109.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Vada Lace-Up Formal Midi Dress

    Special Occasion

    Create a polished yet sexy look for yourself in our Vada! She features a wired deep v neckline, spaghetti straps that lead to a lace up back detail and a lower back zipper closure with a hook and eye to keep her in place. Bodice is designed with a gathered pleating at the bust, and leads down to a mid length hemline and a high slit at one side. She is fully lined and composed of a crepe material that offers moderate stretch and a form fitting silhouette. 

    Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust,  23" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.  

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0259

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $44.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free