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.

  • Raegan Formal Sequin Midi Dress

    Special Occasion

    Bring the glitz and shine in our dazzling Raegan dress! She features a plunging V neckline, vertical princess seams along the bust, a double row of spaghetti straps, padded cups and a partially open back. Her slim fit bodice leads to a curve hugging midi length silhouette. She is composed of a lined mesh fabric adorned with sparkling sequins throughout. Dress offers a curve hugging fit with a minimal stretch.

    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: 05001-0216

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $54.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Carine Metallic Glitter Ruched Mini Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Almost instantly, Carine's glitter metallic shine will draw eyes your way. You'll be loving her figure-flattering fit that'll have you look and feel amazing. Don't forget to include some stiletto heels and earrings to really finish the look! 

    Fits & Features 

    • Adjustable Spaghetti Straps 
    • V Neckline I Padded Bust 
    • Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure 
    • Mini Length Silhouette 
    • Ruched Down Center Front, Back & Sides 
    • Smooth Woven Glitter Knit I Fully Lined
    • Form Hugging Fit I Minimal Stretch 

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0326

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $36.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Viona Floral Sleeveless Lattice Dress

    Special Occasion

    Bring the charm in our lovely Viona floral lattice dress! She features a sleeveless scoop neckline with padded cups, adjustable spaghetti straps leading to a lattice back design, a high waist with a fit and flare party skirt silhouette, and a chic all-over floral print. Style the dress with twinkling earrings for an elevated look!

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless scoop neckline 
    • Padded cups 
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps, lattice back design, tie closure
    • Pleated mini-length flared silhouette, hidden side pockets 
    • Floral print 
    • Lined woven satin fabric, relaxed fit, minimal stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0422

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $10.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Julia Formal Heat Stone Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Dazzle under the lights as you twirl the night away in our Julia dress! Her dreamy heat stones and sequins are all you need for a glam look!

    Fit & Features

    • Round Neckline
    • Unlined Long Sleeves
    • Heat Stones
    • Sequins
    • Mini Skirt Lining 
    • High Center Slit
    • Form Hugging Fit | Moderate Stretch

     

    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: 05002-0327

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $44.97 $119.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Lucy Formal Satin Wrap Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Wrap yourself in luxe satin as you make a head-turning impression in our classically gorgeous Lucy dress! 

    Fit & Features

    • Plunging Wrap V-Neckline
    • Adjustable Spaghetti Straps 
    • Lined Satin Fabric
    • A-Line Silhouette | Pockets
    • Pleats 
    • Relaxed Fit 
    • Minimal 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: 05002-0399

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $57.97 $109.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • 50% Off
  • Maliya Long Slim Satin Dress

    Special Occasion

    Introducing our stunning Maliya dress! She is designed with a high boat neckline, long sleeves, a slim form fitting silhouette with a horizontal seam mid waist that leads to a floor sweeping hemline. She features a high slit cut out at one side that showcases a sparkling rhinestone detailing, includes a zipper closure mid back, and is composed of a satin material that offers a form fit with moderate stretch and includes a full lining.

    Model is 5'9" with 32" 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: 05002-0361

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $25.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Madilyn Sequin Beaded Halter Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    When the vibe calls for all-out glam, the Madilyn sequin beaded mesh mini dress pairs a curve-hugging fit with a chic tie-back halter neckline. Every detail is designed to catch the light, making it ideal for nights that deserve a little extra shine.

    Fit & Features

    • Sheer mesh fabric with sewn-in knit lining, high stretch
    • All-over sequin and beaded embellishments
    • Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, padded bust, cowl neck overlay
    • Chiffon tie-back halter straps, partially open back, zipper with hook-eye closure
    • Ruched detailing
    • Mini-length bodycon silhouette
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, birthday celebrations, brides-to-be, bachelorette parties, dressed-up dinners, romantic date nights, and glam nights out.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000236

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $129.90

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Allison Satin Ruched Formal Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Stun and make a grand entrance in our gorgeous Allison dress! She features a deep V neckline, long fitted sleeves, center front ruched detailing to provide a flattering hourglass effect, and an exposed back zipper closure. Her floor length skirt has a sexy front slit to show some leg. The burgundy dress is composed of a smooth satin-like fabric that offers moderate stretch and an overall curve hugging fit.

    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: 05002-6695

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Joesphine Glitter Crepe Deep V Formal Dress

    Make some a serious sultry statement in our Joesphine deep V formal dress!

    Fit & Features

    • Tank-like shoulder straps
    • Plunging V neckline
    • Low back | Zipper and hook and eye closure
    • Ruched back detailing
    • Curve hugging floor length fit
    • Glitter crepe fabric

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0668

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Sandrine Keyhole Satin Gown
    Special Occasion

    Rendered in a rich emerald-green satin, our Sandrine gown pulls out all the stops. She features a seamed bodice with a high, halter-style neckline, zipper and crisscross straps at back, plunging deep V keyhole detail at front, and a long, gently fluted skirt with a high side slit. Sandrine is fully lined and made from a soft, shiny woven material with ample stretch.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0157

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Stacey Formal One-Shoulder Mermaid Dress

    Special Occasion

    Show off your curves in the Stacey formal dress designed in a flattering mermaid silhouette! Perfect for homecoming, anniversary parties, and fancy soirees. She features a sleeveless one-shoulder neckline, dual spaghetti straps, a sultry high front slit, and a floor-length hem. The formal dress is composed of a slinky knit-lined fabric with a sheen effect and plenty of stretch. Complete the look with a statement bracelet and earrings.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless one-shoulder neckline
    • Dual spaghetti straps
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • High-front slit, floor-length hem
    • Lined slinky knit fabric, sheen effect, moderate stretch
    • Strapless bra or sticky bra recommended
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7531

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Patsy V-Neck Corset Slim Glitter Mesh Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Spark a shimmering rarity in the Patsy corset glitter mesh formal dress at upscale birthdays or prom! Made from glitter mesh fabric, this dress exudes luxury and sparkle. The V-neckline and adjustable spaghetti straps flatter your figure, while the padded bra cups provide comfort and support. The sheer corset bodice with flexible boning and side ruched seams creates a slim silhouette, accentuated by the high side slit and long length hem. Complete the look with a clutch.

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • V-Neckline, padded bra cups
    • Sheer corset bodice, flexible boning
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • High side slit. slim silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8435

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Lilah Beaded Scallop Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Vintage glamour with a modern twist—the Lilah strapless sequin mini dress features a scalloped hem and art-deco inspired beadwork. Designed to shimmer with every step, it’s the perfect piece for chic soirées and unforgettable celebrations.

    Fit & Features

    • Sequins, beaded embellished mesh-lined overlay
    • Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Bodycon fit
    • Scallop trim mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    HOCO, bridal celebrations, receptions, bachelorettes, date nights, birthday dinners, cocktail parties

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000265

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $99.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: WHITE, LIGHT, BLUE

    Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Cindy Embellished Satin Ball Gown
    Special Occasion 

    Our classic Cindy ball gown will make sure you meet your prince before midnight! Cindy is a classic fairytale beauty with a square neckline, padded cups, double shoulder straps that cross at the back, a plunging back with a hidden zip up closure, and a high waist seam leading to a sweeping A-line skirt. Cindy has side pockets with gemstone embellishments. She is composed of a satin fabric that offers a form hugging fit with minimal stretch.

    Model is 5'7 with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size three.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0524

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $199.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Astrid Floral Beaded Strapless Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Effortlessly striking, the Astrid floral beaded strapless dress is designed to shimmer with every step. The bodycon silhouette and cutout back detail create a chic, polished look that feels unforgettable for any occasion.

    Fit & Features

    • Floral pattern, beaded-embellishments
    • Mesh-lined fabric, moderate stretch
    • Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
    • Cutout back
    • Bodycon silhouette
    • Mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, birthdays, date nights, fancy brunches, baby showers, bridal showers, bachelorettes, rooftop hotel soirees, milestone celebrations

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000232

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $89.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: LIGHT, BLUE

    Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXS

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Hallie Formal Satin Lattice Dress

    Special Occasion 

    From the moment you enter the room, Hallie captivates with elegance and grace! She features a sleeveless bodice, a scoop neckline, padded cups, vertical princess seams and adjustable spaghetti straps that lead to a lattice back. Her slim high fit waist leads to an A-line silhouette  accented with a high side slit. She is composed of a lined satin fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a minimal stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0077

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $89.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Brielle Formal Floral Satin Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Bring the charm in radiating florals as you create a twirl-worthy moment in our Brielle satin dress! 

    Fit & Features

    • Plunging Wrap V-Neckline
    • Adjustable Spaghetti Straps 
    • Tie-Waist Belt 
    • Floral Print 
    • Hidden Side Pockets | High Side Slit 
    • Lined Satin Fabric 
    • Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch 

     

    Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 26" waist and 38" hips. She is wearing a size 3. 

     

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0432

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $45.97 $99.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Candra Strappy Back Wrap Dress

    Special Occasion

    The strappy back design of our Candra is one of a few eye-catching features on this fabulous dress. Made from a smooth woven fabric, Candra caresses your figure yet gives you ample stretch to glide around comfortably. Highlight her subtle sheen by wearing a pair of sparkling dusters! 

    Fits & Features

    • Dual Spaghetti Straps I Strappy Back Design
    • Plunging V Neckline I Padded Bust 
    • Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure I Ruching At Center Back
    • Pleated Detail At Side Waist 
    • Floor Length Hemline I Wrap Design I Front Slit 
    • Form Hugging Fit I Ample Stretch 

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0611

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $49.97 $109.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

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

    Go for the extra touch of luxe with pearls! Jocelyn features a chic black hue, a high round neckline with a pearl embellished trim, padded cups, princess seams and an open back with tie strap detail. Her slim fit bodice leads to a curve hugging floor length silhouette accented with vertical seams to create an hourglass-like effect. Dress is composed of stretchy crepe fabric. 

    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: 05002-6485

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $25.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Paola Formal Ruched Floral Lace Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Make major waves with a formal dress that captivates from the moment you enter the room! Paola features a sleeveless V-neckline with padded cups, adjustable spaghetti straps, a floral lace back with lower back keyhole, a ruched body throughout, and a mermaid silhouette. The dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with heels and a clutch

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless V-neckline, padded cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Floral lace back, lower back keyhole
    • Ruching
    • Lined mesh fabric 
    • Form hugging fit, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1357

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Juliette Velvet Bodycon Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Romantic with an edge, the Juliette velvet mini dress features a corset-inspired bodice and flirty ruffle straps. Designed with a bodycon fit and ruched detailing, it’s the perfect blend of sultry and sweet for your next dressy night out.

    Fit & Features

    • Velvet burnout pattern, mesh-lined fabric
    • Sweetheart neckline, ruffled fringe trim
    • Ruffle trim adjustable shoulder straps
    • Corset-inspired bodice
    • Back zipper closure
    • Bodycon fit, mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    HOCO, birthdays, bachelorettes, date nights, cocktail parties, rooftop hotel bars, fancy brunches

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000418

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $59.90

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Callie High Slit Satin Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Showcase a chic allure in the sleek Callie high slit satin formal dress! She features a sleeveless square neckline, tank shoulder straps, stylish seam detailing at the slim-fit bodice, a high waist seam with pleated detailing to accentuate your curves, a floor-length, wrap-front silhouette with an asymmetrical hem creating a thigh-high side slit, and a form-hugging fit. The smooth satin-knit fabric offers a moderate stretch. Complete the look with strappy stilettos.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless square neckline, tank shoulder straps
    • Seam detailing at the bodice
    • High waist seam, pleating
    • Floor-length, wrap-front silhouette
    • Asymmetrical hem, high side slit, form-hugging fit
    • Satin-knit fabric, lining at the top, moderate stretch
    • Strapless or sticky bra recommended
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2725

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Elena High Slit Satin Wrap Dress

    Special Occasion

    Chic and so stunning, entice them all in the Elena satin formal dress! She features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline with a wired notched-front design, ruching at the bust, tank shoulder straps, a floor-length hem with a faux wrap-front design creating a thigh-high slit, and a form-fitting silhouette that will hug your curves. The smooth satin-knit fabric offers a moderate stretch. Style with rhinestone fringe earrings.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, wired notched-front design
    • Ruching at the bust, tank shoulder straps, high waist seam
    • Floor-length hem, faux wrap-front design, high slit
    • Curve-hugging fit
    • Satin-knit fabric, knit lining at the bust, moderate stretch
    • Strapless or sticky bra recommended
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2726

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Lily Bonded Velvet Mini Dress
    Special Occasion

    A rich ruby-red hue and gorgeous bonded velvet texture lend our Lily dress its effortless elegance. She features adjustable spaghetti straps, a V neckline, a seamed bodice with back zip, and a gently pleated A-line skirt with pockets. Lily is fully lined and made from a thick, heavier-weight velvet material with a touch of 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: 05001-0000

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale