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.

  • Juliette Formal Satin Corset Slit Long Dress

    Special Occasion

    You'll look simply irresistible in the Juliette formal satin long dress at black-tie parties and fancy events! She features a strapless V-neckline, a corset bodice with flexible boning, a slim form-hugging silhouette, floor-length hem, and an eye-catching front knot atop a high cut slit. The formal dress is composed of a silky satin fabric with a stretchy knit lining. Complete the look in a layered choker necklace.

    Fit & Features

    • Strapless V-neckline
    • Corset bodice, flexible boning, back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Slim, form-hugging silhouette
    • Front knot accent, high slit, floor-length hem
    • Silky satin fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Pasties recommended
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7253

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $89.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Jennifer Strappy Back High Slit Sequin Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Steal all the glances as you strut into your formal affair in the iconic Jennifer strappy back high slit sequin dress! Crafted with all-over glitzy sequin embroidery on mesh fabric, this fabulous formal dress will have you radiating major glam energy. Her sleeveless bodice is shaped with a chic draped cowl neckline and spaghetti straps that lead to her bold open back with a sultry cross-back strappy design. Her asymmetric high side slit will showcase some skin along her floor-length slim-fit silhouette. Complete your look with metallic heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sequin embroidery, mesh fabric
    • Cowl neckline
    • Spaghetti straps
    • Open back, cross-back strappy design
    • Asymmetric high side slit
    • Slim-fit silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7961

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $79.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Alaia Lace-Up Mermaid Ombre Sequin Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Gorgeous sequins on the Alaia formal dress make her a stunning standout at prom, banquets, or birthdays! Crafted with countless sequins with a chic ombre design, this floor-length gown is a major head-turner. Her cowl neckline and padded bra cups offer a flattering fit, while the spaghetti straps and lace-up back add a touch of allure. The mermaid silhouette hugs your curves while the floor-length hem exudes grace. Complete the look with a necklace and earrings set for extra glamour!

    Fit & Features

    • Sequin embellished, ombre design
    • Mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • Padded bra cups
    • Spagehtti straps, lace-up
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8259

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $99.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Plus Nicki Formal Glitter Dress
    Special Occasion

    Shine on through the evening in our enchanting Nicki burgundy dress! She showcases curves while featuring a sleeveless bodice, a V neckline with a lace trim, supportive padded cups and princess seams. Her back features an eye catching keyhole with a fish hook clasp closure and complemented with a lower back zipper closure. Her relaxed fit bodice leads to a flowing mermaid silhouette to bring the drama. She is composed of a burgundy hued lined scalloped lace fabric adorned with gleaming glitter details. Dress offers a relaxed fit with a moderate stretch.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 15002-0069

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $149.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Reina Stunning Satin Ball Gown
    Special Occasion 

    Simply elegant, that is what Reina brings to your special evening! She wows with a plunging V neckline, supportive tank-like straps and princess seams. Her slim fit bodice leads to voluminous ball gown silhouette complemented with hidden side pockets, pleats and a petticoat. Dress is composed of a textured satin fabric that offers a minimal stretch.

    Model is 5'7" with a 30" bust, 22" waist and 33" hips. She is wearing a size 2.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0474

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $108.97 $239.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Miranda Off-The-Shoulder Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Designed for your next unforgettable night out, the Miranda turns up the charm with a sculpted bodycon fit and romantic off-the-shoulder neckline.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleek knit fabric, sewn-in knit lining, moderate stretch
    • Off-the-shoulder neckline, padded bra cups
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Side ruched seams
    • Bodycon fit
    • Mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Weddings, bachelorettes, Vegas weekends, birthdays, date night, parties, cocktail soirees

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000134

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Adalynn Rhinestone Faux Pearl Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Dial up a glam glow in the Adalynn party dress ready for the bachelorette or a weekend in Vegas! She features a sleeveless V-neckline with a sheer mesh insert, and spaghetti straps that create the alluring lace-up back with tie closure, a sexy bodycon silhouette, and a mini-length hem. The party dress is composed of all-over rhinestone and faux pearl embellishments for a luxe style and has a stretchy knit lining. Complete the look with earrings and heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless V-neckline, sheer mesh insert
    • Spaghetti straps, lace-up back with tie closure
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Bodycon silhouette, mini-length hem
    • Faux pearl and rhinestone embellishments, stretchy knit lining
    • Stick bra or pasties recommended
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1573

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $99.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Hannah Formal Pleated Chiffon Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Enchant as you make a dreamy entrance in the ever captivating Hannah dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a plunging halter neck with V bust and pleated detailing. Her single halter strap features a double row design and leads to an open back. Her relaxed fit bodice leads to a sweeping floor length silhouette. Dress is composed of a lined airy chiffon fabric that offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6618

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Lilia Multi Strap Sequin Formal Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Leave them breathless in our stunning black Lilia dress! She features a sweetheart neckline with double spaghetti straps that lead to a breathtaking multi strap back, padded cups and a floor length sheath silhouette. Her fabric is a fully lined sequin embellished mesh. Includes back zipper closure. Dress offers a form hugging fit with a 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: 05002-6590

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $99.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Hazel Satin Lace-Up Dress With Pockets

    Special Occasion

    Effortlessly sleek yet playfully flirty, the Hazel satin short dress stuns with a ruched bodice, corset-inspired cutout, and a lace-up back made for head-turning exits. A twirl-ready skirt adds movement, giving you the perfect mix of edge and elegance.

    Fit & Features

    • Premium satin fabric with lining
    • Sweetheart neckline
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Cutout bust accent
    • Hidden side pockets
    • Skater short silhouette
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, weddings, black tie events, birthdays, milestone celebrations, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, cocktail soirees, holidays

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000567

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $129.90

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Remi Formal Lattice Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Lace up in the appealing Remi dress to invoke glamour and sophistication. She features an all over plum hue, a sleeveless bodice, a V neckline with supportive padded cups, princess seams and an empire waist. Her back features a sexy lattice detailing to make a bold impression! Her slim fit bodice leads to a curve hugging mermaid silhouette accented with vertical seams. She is composed of a lined crepe fabric that offers a moderate stretch. 

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6163

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Polly Off The Shoulder Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Make a grand entrance in our stunningly chic Polly off the shoulder formal dress! She features an off the shoulder sweetheart neckline with short sleeves, a plunging V front mesh inset, and a back zipper and hook and eye closure. Her high waist seam leads to a floor length skirt with a high front slit, pleated details, a short knit skirt lining, and a banded hem for additional structure. The dress is composed of a taffeta fabric with a gorgeous sheen.

    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: 05002-0111

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Simone Satin Cowl Neck Gown

    Special Occasion

    Sleek and effortlessly sophisticated, our Simone gown stuns in its simplicity. Rendered in a rich red satin, she features adjustable, cross-back spaghetti straps, an elegant cowl neck bodice with back zip and hook-and-eye closure, and a long-line, curve-hugging slim skirt. Simone is made from a shiny woven material with ample stretch. 

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0280

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Ashlee Rhinestone Pearl Lace-Up Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Made for grand entrances and unforgettable exits, the Ashlee faux pearl rhinestone mini dress stuns with a bodycon silhouette and dramatic lace-up open back. A plunge V-neck adds just the right touch of daring to this show-stealing moment.

    Fit & Features

    • Rhinestone and faux pearl embellished
    • Mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • Plunge V-neckline, padded bra cups
    • Spaghetti straps
    • Lace-up open back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Side ruched seams, bodycon silhouette, mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, birthdays, bachelorettes, GNO, Vegas, date nights, parties, rooftop bars

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000026

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $52.90

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Sara Formal Chiffon A-Line Dress

    Special Occasion

    Create a princess-worthy moment in the ravishing Sara formal dress! She stuns in a sleeveless halter neckline with tie-closure that leads to her open-back with a flirty lace-up design. Showcase your curves in her form-fitting, A-line silhouette that gently sweeps in a floor-length hem with a sultry slit. The formal dress is composed of a crepe chiffon fabric with an inner lining and zipper closure. Finish the look with a tiara and earrings.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless, halter neckline, tie closure
    • Built-in padded bust, no bra required
    • Open-back, lace-up, zipper closure
    • Form-fitting A-line silhouette
    • Floor-length hem, front slit
    • Chiffon crepe fabric, inner lining, no stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2160

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $35.97 $84.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Nora Formal Cowl Neck Strappy Long Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Nora formal long dress flaunts a memorable back design sure to make heads turn at weddings or banquets! She features a sleeveless cowl pleated neckline, spaghetti straps, an open strappy back design, and a form-hugging slim silhouette flaunting a high side slit on the long-length hem. The formal dress is composed of a slinky knit fabric with a sheen effect and plenty of stretch. Complete the look with earrings and block heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless cowl pleated neckline, spaghetti straps
    • Open strappy back design
    • Form-hugging slim silhouette
    • High-side slit, long-length hem
    • Slinky knit fabric, sheen effect, bust lining
    • Strapless bra or sticky bra recommended
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7248

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Brie Glitter Polka Dot Tulle Ball Gown With Gloves

    Special Occasion

    Designed with sparkly glitter polka dots and a full skirt made for twirling, the Brie tulle ball gown brings next-level shine to prom, birthday celebrations, and balls! Crafted from a glitter polka dot tulle fabric with a full stretchy knit lining for a delicate and elegant touch to this stunning gown. Her strapless neckline, ruched bodice, and A-line silhouette create a flattering fit, while the flexible boning offers support and is complemented by the detached sheer gloves. The bonded floor-length hem adds a touch of glamour and volume to this mesmerizing gown. Complete the look with an elegant necklace and earrings set.

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter polka dot design
    • Tulle fabric, full stretchy knit lining
    • Flexible boning, back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • A-line silhouette
    • Bonded voluminous floor-length hem
    • Detached sheer gloves
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0206

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $79.97 $164.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Ariel Corset Glitter Mesh A-Line Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Sparkling glitter transforms the Ariel formal dress into a dream for prom and fancy birthday celebrations! She's crafted from glitter mesh fabric and satin lining provides a lavish finish to your evening. The cowl neckline, padded bust, and sheer corset bodice with flexible boning offer a luxurious fit, while the A-line silhouette and bonded floor-length hem create a graceful silhouette. Complete the look with elegant earrings and block heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter mesh fabric lined with satin, no stretch
    • Padded bust
    • Satin adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Sheer corset bodice, flexible boning
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • A-line silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8061

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $129.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Wendy Sleeveless A-Line Glitter Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Make every room sparkle in the Wendy glitter formal dress at weddings or black tie parties! The glitter fabric adds a touch of glamour and luxury to this shimmering dress. Adorned with a square neckline and delicate spaghetti straps, this floor-length gown boasts an A-line silhouette, accentuating your figure with every step. Complete the look with earrings, a clutch, and heels for an elegant style.

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • Square neckline
    • Spaghetti straps
    • A-Line silhouette
    • Sticky bra or pasties recommended
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8577

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Inez Iridescent Sequin Two Piece Satin Dress

    Special Occasion

    Dance the night away and look stunning doing it in our gorgeous Inez! Her sparkling iridescent top complements her luxurious satin skirt. A sultry front slit lets you move around effortlessly and show off those gams and heels!  

    Fits & Features

    • Mesh Lined Iridescent Sequin Crop Top
    • Strappy, Lace-Up Back 
    • Satin, Floor Length Skirt I Overlap Design Reveals Front Slit
    • Hidden Hand Pockets
    • High Rise Waist 

    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: 05006-0533

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $40.97 $109.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Leia Floral Sequin A-Line Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Made to turn every entrance into a statement, the Leia mini dress shimmers with floral sequin detail and a softly flared A-line silhouette. Its fitted bodice and delicate shine make it a look that radiates effortless charm.

    Fit & Features

    • Sheer mesh fabric with knit lining
    • Floral printed sequin embroidery
    • Sleeveless scoop neckline, padded bra cups
    • Thin adjustable tank shoulder straps, back zipper closure
    • Drop waist
    • Mini-length A-line silhouette
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, birthday festivities, garden parties, bridal showers, and dressy events.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000184

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Tilda Formal Velvet Midi Dress

    Special Occasion

     Put your curves on display in the gorgeous Tilda formal velvet dress destined to be your plus one for a wedding or banquet! She features a sleeveless surplice v-neckline, spaghetti straps, a form-hugging silhouette, and a faux wrap midi-length hem with a slit. The formal dress is composed of luxuriously soft velvet fabric with a bust lining and plenty of stretch. Style with fringe earrings and heels to complete the look!

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless surplice v-neckline, bust lining
    • Spaghetti straps
    • Form-hugging, front slit
    • Faux wrap midi-length hem
    • Luxe velvet fabric, moderate stretch
    • Strapless or sticky bra recommended
    • Fits true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1234

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Sabrina Rhinestone Flame Sheer Velvet Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Sultry and stunning, the Sabrina velvet mini dress features a sweetheart neckline with a built-in padded bust, an alluring asymmetric sheer mesh insert at the waist, a flame design embellished with shimmering rhinestones, and a bodycon silhouette to flaunt your curves. Style with red stiletto heels for a party! 

    Fit & Features

    • Velvet fabric with knit lining at the bust, moderate stretch
    • Sweetheart neckline, padded bust
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • Asymmetric sheer mesh insert at the waist
    • Flame design, rhinestone embellishments
    • Mini-length bodycon silhouette, short front slit
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2211

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $62.90

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Destiny Floral High Low Dress

    Special Occasion

    Let our beautiful Destiny speak for you! She's the picture-perfect addition to your wedding guest look. 

    Fits & Features

    • Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
    • Surplice V Neckline | Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
    • High-Low Style Skirt | Flowy Silhouette 
    • Lined Chiffon Fabric | Floral Prints Throughout 

    Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 35.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.

     

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0616

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $24.97 $54.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free