Formal Dresses

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Formal Dresses That Make Every Moment Feel Major

Windsor’s formal dresses are designed for those unforgettable nights when your look has to be flawless. From sweeping formal gowns to sleek short silhouettes, this collection delivers drama, polish, and trend-right details that set the tone for any occasion. Think structured corset bodices, adjustable straps, lace-up backs, and high slits that blend comfort with high-impact style.

  • Heading to a big event? Explore Winter formal dresses in luxe fabrics like velvet, satin, and crepe that feel rich and elegant.
  • For December celebrations, our formal holiday dresses sparkle with sequins, rhinestones, and glitter mesh, while bold jewel tones and classic black create timeless appeal.
  • Looking to ring in the New Year? Formal NYE dresses with metallic finishes and statement cutouts are made to shine under the lights.

If you’re planning a gala, wedding, or milestone party, Windsor offers a range of formal party dresses in both fitted and flowy silhouettes to match your vibe. Go for a strapless satin gown with a sweetheart neckline for timeless elegance, or choose an asymmetrical hemline or bow-back detail for a fresh twist that feels modern and fun.

No matter where the night takes you, Windsor’s formal dresses give you options that feel special, stylish, and photo-ready. Shop Windsor’s formal dresses near you, online, in-app, or at one of 350+ stores nationwide, and find the look that will make your night unforgettable.

Tips for Choosing the Best Formal Dress for Your Body Type

  • Hourglass: Slay those curves with a fitted corset bodice and flowing skirt.
  • Pear‑Shaped: Balance out your look with a structured top and full skirt.
  • Rectangle: Create curves with a cinched waist and flared hem.
  • Apple‑Shaped: Draw eyes upward with a V‑neckline and empire waist.

For more styling inspo, hit up our blog guides like “The Ultimate Gala Dresses Guide” or “Sexy Formal Dresses – Create an Eye‑Catching Look” and get ready to own every moment.

What’s the Difference Between a Formal and a Semi-Formal Dress?

Formal and semi-formal dresses differ based on event dress codes and styling. Formal attire, often called black-tie, features glamorous floor-length gowns with luxe details like rhinestones, lace, and beading—perfect for galas, weddings, and proms. Popular silhouettes include mermaid, ball gown, and A-line styles.

Semi-formal dresses offer more variety in length and design, making them ideal for homecoming, weddings, and cocktail parties. These styles range from midi to short lengths.

The venue and occasion can also guide your choice—an upscale wedding may call for a floor-length gown, while an outdoor event might be perfect for a sleek midi dress with a stylish neckline.

Are Formal Dresses Always Long?

Not always! While long gowns are classic for formal events, modern formal attire includes various lengths and styles. Windsor’s collection of women’s formalwear features short, midi, and long dresses. Explore dramatic mermaid and column silhouettes for timeless elegance, or opt for trendy alternatives like high-low hemlines and two-piece designs for a fresh take on formal fashion.

Find your perfect formal dress at Windsor any time of year, available online, in-app, and in over 350 stores across the U.S. and Canada. Shop now for trend-driven styles that make you shine and every event unforgettable!

  • Kerry Formal Velvet Midi Dress

    Special Occasion

    Luxurious velvet creates the elegant Kerry formal midi dress destined to be the hit at every party! She features a sleeveless cowl neckline, spaghetti straps that cross along the back, and side ruching to accentuate your curves along the bodycon midi-length hem with a high-cut side slit. The formal dress is composed of a soft velvet knit fabric with minimal stretch. Complete your dressy look in glitzy strappy stiletto heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless cowl neckline, spaghetti straps
    • Side ruched seam
    • Bodycon silhouette
    • Midi-length hem, high-cut side slit
    • Velvet knit fabric, minimal stretch
    • Strapless or sticky bra recommended
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1255

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Frida Strapless Mermaid Lace Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Celebrate the beauty of the moment in the Frida lace formal dress. Capture the romantic feel of this chic dress designed with a curve-hugging mermaid silhouette and floor-length hem that brings a hint of drama.

    Fit & Features

    • Floral lace pattern fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Flexible boning inserts in the bodice
    • Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, brides, weddings, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, bridal showers, wedding showers, formal occasions and events

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9146

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $89.90

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Riley Glitter Ruffle Slit Mermaid Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Glide through the night in the Riley glitter knit gown, detailed with a rosette accent and cascading ruffle slit that adds movement with every step. The strappy open back and curve-hugging silhouette make it equal parts timeless and daring.

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter knit stretch fabric
    • Cowl neckline
    • Dual spaghetti straps, strappy back detail
    • High front ruffled trim slit and rosette insert
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • Floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, weddings, black tie galas, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, milestone celebrations, fancy birthdays, date nights, red-carpet occasions

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000350

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $64.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: RED

    Available Size: M, L

  • Keanna Formal Sequin Mermaid Long Dress

    Special Occasion

    A gorgeous pattern of sequins adorns the Keanna formal dress to make your perfect entrance at galas or as a bridesmaid! She stuns in a sleeveless square neck with sleek bungee spaghetti straps, a form-hugging mermaid silhouette that effortlessly flows into the floor-length hem. The formal dress is composed of a sequin-scroll pattern mesh fabric with a stretchy knit lining. Complete the look with a rhinestone choker.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless square neck
    • Bungee spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper closure
    • Form-hugging, mermaid silhouette
    • Floor-length hem
    • Sequin-scroll pattern, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6982

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $24.97 $139.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Erina Formal Woven Glitter And Lace Dress

    Special Occasion

    Bring on the shine with a formal skater dress that creates those twirl-worthy moments! Erina features a sleeveless V-neckline, padded cups, adjustable spaghetti straps that cross at the back, a sheer scalloped lace back, hidden side pockets to keep your hands warm, and a flattering fit and flare skater silhouette on a short-length hem. The skater dress is composed of a woven sparkling glitter fabric that offers a stretchy knit lining. Complete the look with heels.

    Fit & Features

    • V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Built-in padding, sticky bra optional
    • Cross-back straps, sheer scalloped lace back design
    • Hidden side pockets, back zipper, hook-eye closure
    • Empire waist, short skater skirt
    • Lined woven glitter fabric, minimal stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0945

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Ilana Satin Column Gown

    Special Occasion

    Streamlined in design and simply stunning on you, our satin Ilana gown is effortlessly sophisticated. She features a seamed, deep V bodice with darting at bust and a back zip, and a long, straight, curve-hugging slim skirt. Ilana is fully lined and made from a shiny satin fabric with ample stretch.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0052

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $20.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Kiana One-Shoulder Open Back Slit Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Sleek, striking, and made to command a room—the Kiana one-shoulder dress flows into a floor-length skirt with a daring side slit, while the open back tie adds an unexpected twist of allure. It’s an effortlessly chic gown for your most glamorous occasions.

    Fit & Features

    • Slinky knit stretch fabric
    • One-shoulder neckline
    • Open tie-back design
    • High side slit
    • Curve-hugging silhouette, floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Weddings, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, black tie galas, red-carpet occasions, cocktail parties, formal milestone celebrations, fancy date nights, anniversaries, holidays

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000249

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $69.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: BLACK

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

  • Mila High Slit Ruched Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Show off a hint of leg in our sultry Mila dress! She features a sleeveless trendy square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, ruched side seams, and a floor-length, curve-hugging silhouette with a thigh-high side slit. Style this dress with a pair of sleek stilettos and lots of shine for an A-list look!

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless square neckline
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Ruched side seams
    • Floor-length, form-fitting silhouette
    • High side slit
    • Lined smooth knit fabric, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0880

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $46.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Araceli Plunge Neck Satin Formal Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Own the night in the stunning Araceli satin formal dress. She features adjustable spaghetti straps for a customized fit and a plunge V-neckline with padded cups. The structured bodice has flexible boning to highlight her figure while the tulip wrap skirt adds the perfect finishing touch. Complete your look with a glittery clutch and heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless deep V-neckline, built-in padded bust
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Structured bodice, flexible boning
    • Back zipper, hook and eye closure
    • Mini-length tulip wrap skirt
    • Satin fabric
    • Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0992

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Plus Roxy Sweetheart Dress

    Special Occasion

    Keep it classy for your next formal event! Our Roxy floor length dress features an off the shoulder sweetheart neckline that creates short sleeves, light pleating along the bodice to create a flattering hourglass silhouette and a large front slit to provide a tease of leg leading to a trumpet skirt. She is composed of a crepe fabric that offers a luxurious feel and offers plenty of stretch.  

    *Web exclusive - online returns only* 

    Model is 5'11 with a 47" bust, 40.5" waist and 57.5" hips. She is wearing a size 1X.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 15002-0001

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Quincy A-Line High Slit Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Slip into the simple yet chic Quincy formal dress! She features a sleeveless cowl neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customizable fit, an open back with a lace-up tie design, and a fitted, floor-length, A-line silhouette with a high side slit. Style this dress with rhinestone heels to add a hint of sparkle.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless cowl neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Built-in padded bust, no bra required
    • Open back, lace-up design, tie closure
    • Back zipper closure
    • Floor-length, A-line silhouette, side slit
    • Smooth knit-lined fabric, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7880

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $24.97 $99.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Lily Off-The-Shoulder Mermaid Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Designed to own every entrance. The Lily formal dress features luxe ruching, a sheer lace bodice, and an off-shoulder neckline, making this mermaid gown your RSVP to being the best-dressed.

    Fit & Features

    • Smooth knit stretchy, lined fabric
    • Off-the-shoulder folded neckline, padded bra cups
    • Sheer lace bodice
    • Ruched mermaid silhouette
    • Floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Weddings, black tie galas, formal celebration events, fancy date nights, rehearsal dinners, anniversary parties, charity auction dinners

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000182

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $59.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: BLACK

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

    Product Badge:
    • Best Seller
  • Carissa Formal Open Back Sequin Mini Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Shimmer in a formal sequin mini dress that dazzles under the spotlight. The Carissa formal sequin dress features a crew neckline, cap sleeves with shoulder pads, and a mini-length silhouette with slightly ruched side seams. The back features a daring keyhole cutout with single-button closure. The mini dress is composed of a sequin-adorned lined mesh fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with slight stretch. Complete the look with rhinestone stilettos and a dainty rhinestone bracelet.

    Fit & Features

    • Crew neckline, cap sleeves, shoulder pads
    • Adhesive bra recommended 
    • Keyhole cutout, back zipper closure
    • Subtle ruched side seams
    • Mini-length silhouette
    • Lined sequin-knit fabric, no stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0523

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $56.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Priscilla Scalloped Lace Boat Neck Mermaid Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Stun in a timeless lace dress that stuns from the moment you enter the room. Priscilla features a gorgeous partially lined lace bodice, boat neck, a sweetheart bust lining, and unlined floral lace long sleeves. Her fitted bodice leads to a curve-hugging mermaid silhouette that brings the flare to your evening outfit. Complete your special occasion outfit with rhinestone duster earrings and stiletto heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Boat neckline
    • Scallop lace bodice 
    • Partially lined bodice, sweetheart bust lining
    • Unlined floral lace long sleeves
    • Sheer unlined back with a zipper closure
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • Form-hugging fit
    • Sheer floral lace fabric with a knit lining
    • Moderate stretch

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1075

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $79.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Petra Formal Iridescent Sequin Dress

    Special Occasion

    Make a dazzling entrance in a formal dress that enchants from the moment you enter the room of your special event! Petra features a plunging sleeveless V-neckline with a padded bust, corded spaghetti straps that lead to a lace-up back design, and iridescent sequins throughout. She is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with minimal stretch. Complete the look with a sphere clutch.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless V-neckline, corded spaghetti straps
    • Padded bust, no bra required
    • Lace-up back design, lower back zipper closure
    • Iridescent sequins
    • Lined mesh fabric
    • Form-hugging fit, minimal stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6870

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $159.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Amal Open Back Mermaid Bead Sequin Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Designed to dazzle, the Amal beaded sequin formal dress is ultra glamorous in a flattering mermaid silhouette and a sultry open back.

    Fit & Features

    • Beaded sequin embellishments, mesh fabric lined with stretch knit
    • Scoop neckline, padded bra cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Open back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • Floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, weddings, big birthday events, red carpet functions, black tie galas

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9266

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $59.97 $119.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Cecilia Off-The-Shoulder Ruffle Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Ethereal and elegant, the Cecilia mesh off-the-shoulder dress is made for entrances that linger in memory. The cascading ruffle detail and sleek silhouette bring soft movement and romantic polish to every occasion.

    Fit & Features

    • Mesh-lined fabric
    • Off-the-shoulder neckline, ruffled short-sleeve cuffs
    • High side slit
    • Ruffled form-hugging fit
    • Floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Weddings, black tie galas, fancy brunches, bridal showers, baby showers, garden parties, date nights, milestone celebrations, birthdays, dinner parties

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000303

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $69.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: PINK, LIGHT, BLUE

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

  • Scarlett Sequin Marabou Party Dress

    Special Occasion

    This body-hugging beauty showcases a glamorous sequin design and diva-liscious marabou trim perfect for a dressy night out! Step out in the Scarlett party dress featuring a sleeveless square neckline, tank-style straps, a bodycon silhouette, and an asymmetrical hem. The formal dress is composed of sequin knit fabric with lining and minimal stretch. Complete the look with a glam hair accessory

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless square neckline, tank-style straps
    • Bodycon silhouette
    • Marabou trim asymmetrical mini hem
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Sequin knit fabric, lined, minimal stretch
    • Bra-friendly design
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1193

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Deirdre Sequin Mesh Slit Gown

    Special Occasion

    Shine all evening long in our dazzling bodycon Deirdre gown! She features all-over patterned sequin embellishment, adjustable cross-back spaghetti straps, a V-neck bodice with beige mesh panel at bust and back zip with hook-and-eye closure, and a high-seam waist leading to a long skirt with high side slit. Deirdre is fully lined and made from a woven mesh blend with minimal stretch.

    Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0283

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $99.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Francine Formal Open Back Glitter Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Make an illuminating entrance with a formal dress that glows under the spotlight. Francine features a crew neckline, long fitted sleeves, a daring open back, tie-back ties, ruching at the lower back, and a mermaid silhouette. The dress is composed of a glitter knit fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with moderate stretch. Complete the look with rhinestone heels and a clutch.

    Fit & Features

    • Crew neckline, single-button closure at the back of the neck
    • Long fitted sleeves
    • Open back, tie-back ties
    • Ruching at the lower back 
    • Mermaid silhouette, form-hugging fit
    • Glitter knit fabric, lining at the bust, moderate stretch
    • Sticky bra recommended
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1713

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $72.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Kylie Rhinestone Mesh Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Elevate your night out look with the glamorous Kylie mini dress! She features a sleeveless V-neckline, dual spaghetti straps, a cross-back design, ruched detailing, and a mini-length, curve-hugging silhouette. The mesh fabric has all-over rhinestone embellishments for a gorgeous sparkle. Style this dress with clear heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless V-neckline
    • Dual spaghetti straps
    • Cross-back design
    • Ruching
    • Short, form-hugging fit
    • Mesh fabric, rhinestone embellishments
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1109

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Beverly Halter Slit Long Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    It's the minimalistic-chic style and curve-creating silhouette that makes the Beverly formal dress so special! Its cowl halter neckline exudes elegance while the form-hugging fit accentuates your curves and shows skin with the side slit accent.

    Fit & Features

    • Smooth knit fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Halter cowl neckline with tie straps
    • Padded bra cups
    • Form-hugging silhouette
    • Side slit accent
    • Long-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Weddings, birthdays, black tie galas, formal dinner parties, milestone celebrations, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, date night, cocktail soirees, garden parties

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000273

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $59.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: BURGUNDY

    Available Size: M, L, XL

  • Yelina Formal Sequin Short Dress

    Special Occasion

    Bring the sparkle to your event with a formal bodycon that dazzles under the spotlight. Yelina features a pretty sequin pattern, sleeveless scoop neckline, bungee spaghetti straps, and a bold open back that is accented with bungee bar straps along her short, bodycon silhouette. The formal dress is composed of a sequin pattern mesh fabric with a knit lining and minimal stretch. Complete the look with rhinestone heels and a sphere clutch

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless scoop neckline
    • Bungee spaghetti straps
    • Open back, bungee bar straps
    • Bodycon silhouette, short-length hem
    • Sequin pattern, mesh fabric, knit lining, minimal stretch
    • Sticky bra or pasties recommended
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1033

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Riley Ruched Velvet Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Showcase an elevated and chic style in the gorgeous Riley ruched velvet formal dress! She features a sleeveless cowl neckline, spaghetti straps that lead to a cross-back design, a hip-hugging silhouette with ruching at the waist, and a floor-length hem with a sultry thigh-high front slit. The velvet fabric gives off a luxe vibe. Complete the look with strappy heels and an embellished evening bag.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless cowl neckline
    • Spaghetti straps, cross-back design
    • Hip-hugging silhouette, ruching at the waist
    • Floor-length hem, high front slit
    • Velvet fabric, lined bust, moderate stretch
    • Strapless or sticky bra recommended
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7374

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $54.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free