Formal Dresses
Windsor’s fall formal dresses are redefining what it means to dress up in 2026. Unexpected details take center stage, from sleek cutouts with hardware and sheer illusion panels to dramatic side and front draping. Plunging V-necklines, sculptural cowl necks, off-the-shoulder silhouettes, and corset bodices bring a confident edge, while intentionally ruched mesh adds texture and a distinctly modern touch. For classic black-tie plans, silky satin high-neck gowns deliver polished drama without feeling predictable. Made for weddings, galas, and every dressed-up moment on your calendar, these on-trend formal dresses are elevated, camera-ready, and impossible to overlook.
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STYLE SPOTLIGHT
Formal Dresses for Fall & Winter’s Biggest Moments
Windsor’s formal dresses bring elevated style to weddings, galas, military balls, homecoming, black-tie events, and other moments worth dressing up for. Discover elegant dresses in timeless black, romantic wine, rich jewel tones, metallic hues, and soft neutrals, with silhouettes ranging from classic A-lines and columns to fitted bodycons and mermaid gowns. New styles arrive every week with appliqués, draping, hardware, ties, and adjustable details that help you find a look that feels polished, current, and confidently yours.
Find a Formal Look That Fits the Occasion
The right dress starts with the event. Long formal dresses bring classic elegance to black-tie weddings, galas, military balls, and upscale evening celebrations, while polished midis and select short formal dresses can suit events with a less traditional dress code. For dressy occasions that call for something elevated without a full-length gown, explore formal cocktail dresses for another way to match your look to the invitation.
How Should I Dress for a Black-Tie or Formal Wedding?
Start by checking the invitation for the exact dress code. Black-tie events traditionally call for an elevated evening look, making floor-length gowns and refined silhouettes strong choices. Consider a column, A-line, or mermaid gown, then use color and details to make it your own. Black and navy offer timeless sophistication, while shades of red, green, purple, or gold can bring more personality to the occasion. Draping, appliqués, and polished necklines add another layer of interest without losing the formal feel.
What’s the Difference Between a Cocktail Dress and a Formal Dress?
The biggest differences are usually the dress code, overall level of polish, and length. Cocktail dresses commonly fall around the knee or midi length and work well for semi-formal parties, receptions, and dressy dinners. Formal dresses tend to feature longer hemlines, more structured silhouettes, or elevated details suited to galas, formal weddings, and black-tie occasions. If the invitation has you second-guessing your choice, The Windsor Edit’s guide to cocktail dresses vs. formal dresses breaks down the differences with styling examples.
Can Formal Dresses Be Short?
Sometimes—the invitation and venue should guide your choice. Short formal dresses with structured silhouettes, elevated fabrics, appliqués, or polished details can work for certain dressy events, but traditional black-tie occasions generally call for an ankle-length or floor-length gown. When the dress code feels somewhere between cocktail and formal, consider the event time, setting, and host guidance before choosing your hemline.
Which Formal Dress Fabrics Work Best for Fall and Winter?
Fabric can change both the look and feel of your dress. Richer, more substantial materials create a seasonally polished effect for cooler-weather occasions, while fluid fabrics add movement to long gowns and draped silhouettes. Your event setting, desired structure, and comfort preferences can all help narrow the choice. For a deeper look at how materials affect your outfit, explore Windsor’s guide to formal dress fabrics.
How Do I Find a Formal Dress That Feels Secure and Comfortable?
Look for design details that let you personalize the fit instead of spending the evening adjusting your dress. Lace-up backs can help fine-tune the bodice, corset construction adds structure, wrap designs offer flexibility, and adjustable or removable straps can change how a neckline fits and feels. Halter, cowl, off-the-shoulder, plunge, scoop, and square necklines also give you options depending on the coverage and support you prefer.
What Should I Wear to a Winter Formal?
Winter is your moment to lean into deeper color, shine, and elevated details. Explore Windsor's 2026 winter formal dresses in shades like plum, hunter green, chocolate, ruby, and copper, or make the night feel extra special with rose gold and other metallic finishes. Prefer a lighter palette? White and ivory can create a striking winter look, especially with appliqués, draping, or dimensional details. Finish with a silhouette you feel confident in, from fitted columns and mermaid gowns to flowing A-lines.
Make Your Formal Moment Your Own
Whether you’re shopping for special occasion dresses, an affordable bridal look, bridesmaid style, party gown, or military ball dress, Windsor gives you options that balance current trends with timeless silhouettes. New styles arrive every week online, in the Windsor app, and at more than 350 stores across North America, making it easier to find the dress that fits both your event and your personal style.
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Alexis Holographic Satin A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Look sensational in satin! Alexis will take anyone's breath away.
Fits & Features
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Tank-Inspired Sleeveless Bodice I Deep V At The Front & Back
- Padded Cups I Princess Seams
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure At Back
- Side Seam Hand Pockets
- A-Line Silhouette I Self Tie At Back
- Holographic Satin Woven Fabric I Mini Length Lining
- Form-Flattering Fit I Minimal Stretch
Model is 5'7" with a 32.5" 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: 05002-0485
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Tank-Inspired Sleeveless Bodice I Deep V At The Front & Back
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Marjorie Glitter Lace Two Piece Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Glam and sweetness are two words that come to mind when we think of our gorgeous Marjorie. A pretty off-shoulder, glitter lace top adds a charming touch to the luxe and sultry satin skirt. The best part? Marjorie features hidden hand pockets for storing your beauty essentials so you can look flawless all night!
Fits & Features
- Off Shoulder Sweetheart Neckline
- No-Slip Interior Strip I Padded Bust I Back Zipper
- Sheer Fitted Long Sleeves I Glitter Lace, Lined Crop Bodice I Scallop Hem
- Floor Length, Lined Satin Skirt I Hidden Hand Pockets
- High Rise Waist I Wrap Design Opens To Front Slit
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size 3.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05006-0198
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Elida Lace-Up Skater Satin Short Dress
Special Occasion
There's so much to adore about the Elida satin short dress with the prettiest details to make every occasion cuter! the dress boasts a flirty lace-up back, corset bodice to snatch your waist, and a flattering skater silhouette.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin fabric, tulle and organza linings
- Square neckline, ruched bust
- Bow tie shoulder straps, lace-up back
- Side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Flexible boning inserts
- Drop waist seam, skater silhouette, short-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, bridesmaids, shower celebrations, garden soirees, brunch, afternoon tea, birthdays, graduations
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2792
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Skyla Formal High Slit Satin Dress
Special OccasionMake a memorable impression in elegant satin! Skyla features a wrap V neckline with ruched detailing, double row narrow straps and princess seams. Her slim fit bodice leads to a floor length silhouette accented with a ruffled high A line slit. Dress is composed of a lined burgundy hued stretchy satin fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Includes a back zipper closure with a fish hook clasp.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6168
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Bella Rhinestone Waist Crepe Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the glamour in the stunningly chic Bella dress, a perf option for a formal night out. She features a sleeveless bodice, adjustable spaghetti straps, a V neckline, and a ruched back detail. Her high waist seam features a front rhinestone trim accent, flowing out to a floor-length skirt with a fitted silhouette and a thigh-high front slit. Complete the look with rhinestone duster earrings and new heels.
Fit & Features
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- V neckline
- Back zipper closure
- Ruched back detail
- High waist with a front rhinestone trim
- Floor-length fitted and ruched skirt, high front slit
- Crepe fabric, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1256
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Ramona Formal High Slit Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Chic and sophisticated with a hint of sultriness, the Ramona formal midi dress is the perfect cocktail party attire! She features a square neckline, wide shoulder straps with shoulder pad accents, a fitted bodice, a high waist seam, a midi-length hem with a thigh-high side slit, and a curve-hugging silhouette. The scuba knit fabric offers a moderate stretch. Pair with a rhinestone necklace and earrings set for a stylish sparkle.
Fit & Features
- Square neckline
- Wide shoulder straps, shoulder pad inserts
- Fitted bodice, high waist seam
- Back zipper closure
- Midi-length hem, high-side slit, form-hugging fit
- Lined scuba knit fabric, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1376
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Shea Metallic Applique Off Shoulder Chiffon Dress
Special Occasion
Whimsical and utterly romantic, our Shea is a stunner. Your attention will quickly be drawn to the arrangement of appliques highlighted by metallic threading at her front bodice. Her flowy skirt finishes the look with a soft and dreamy touch. Put your hair in a pretty up-do and show off those sparkling earrings!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps I Off Shoulder Design & Shoulder Straps
- V Neckline I Padded Bust I Interior No-Slip Strip
- Mesh Lined Bodice I Brocade Applique
- Sheer Back I Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I Chiffon Skirt
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1003
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Brenda Back Bow Satin Train Dress
Special Occasion
Make an entrance to remember as you walk in with our gorgeous Brenda! Chic details include her deep V back and neckline and a mermaid silhouette that'll embrace your curves. As you make your exit, people will be stunned to notice the bow at back and gorgeous train trailing behind you.
Fits & Features
- Tank Shoulder Straps
- Wire Trim Plunging V Neckline I Lightly Padded I Princess Seams
- V Back I Decorative Bow I Train Detail At Back
- Floor Length Mermaid Silhouette I Petticoat
- Satin-Like Fabric I Fully Lined
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1010
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $139.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Lille Bow Back Satin Strapless Skater Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for nights that deserve a little extra, the Lille satin skater dress pairs a sleek strapless bodice with a full, twirl-ready skirt. The oversized bow back—removable for when you want to switch up the vibe—lets you choose between playful drama or chic style.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin fabric, woven and tulle linings, no stretch
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, no-slip strip
- Padded bust, flexible boning, hidden back zipper with hook-eye closure
- V-shaped waist
- Removable back bow accent, button attachments
- Short skater silhouette, pleating
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthday celebrations, fancy parties, and formal date nights.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000097
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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McKayla Bow Sequin Bead Tie Back Dress
Special Occasion
A dazzling statement in motion, the McKayla mini dress blends sleek glamour with playful romance. Featuring a bow-patterned sequin and beaded embellishment, a bodycon mini silhouette, and a chiffon open tie back, this dress is made for unforgettable moments.
Fit & Features
- Bow patterned sequin and beaded embellished pattern
- Mesh fabric lined with stretch knit
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Chiffon tie-back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthdays, bachelorettes, date nights, milestone celebrations, bridal showers, rooftop hotel bars, GNO
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000197
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Bria Formal One Shoulder Heat Stone Dress
Special OccasionBring the glamour as you command the room with gleaming heat stones! Bria features a black hue, a one shoulder neckline, an unlined fitted long sleeve and a interlocked knit lined bodice adorned with heat stone accents. Her waist features sexy cut outs for a pop of skin and leads to an elongating floor length silhouette with vertical seams and a godet detail with heat stone accents. Dress is composed of a combination sheer mesh and crepe fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Includes a back zipper closure. Back is unlined.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6413
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Danilynn Formal Sleeveless Mermaid Dress
Special OccasionRadiate elegance and grace in the ever so gorgeous Danilynn dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V neckline and princess seams. Her back features a matching plunging V back and bar strap accent. Her slim fit bodice leads to a curve hugging mermaid silhouette accented with a high center slit. Dress is composed of a lined crepe fabric that offers a moderate stretch.
Model is 5'9" with a 32" 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: 05002-6780
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Brittany Beaded Faux Pearl Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Made for the spotlight, the Brittany mini dress clings and glistens in every light with its beaded faux pearl mesh, curve-hugging bodycon fit, and softly draped cowl neckline. A forever-glam mini built for unforgettable entrances and even better exits.
Fit & Features
- Beaded, faux pearl embellishments
- Mesh fabric lined with sewn-in mesh, high stretch
- Cowl neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, bachelorettes, bridal showers, engagement parties and photoshoots, birthdays, fancy brunches, date night, cocktail soirees, anniversaries, milestone celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2723
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $129.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Paola Strapless Twill Party Dress
Special Occasion
Sleek and streamlined, our pretty Paola twill dress will let you dance the night away! She features a strapless neckline, a seamed bodice with back zip, and a swing-y A-line mini skirt with inverted pleats and pockets at either hip. Paola is lined and made from a mid-weight woven material with a touch of stretch.
Model is 5'3" with a 32" bust, 24.5" waist, and 35 hips. She is wearing a size 3.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0062
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Christine Formal Halter Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the dazzle with a sequin dress that elevates your special evening. The dress features a halter neck, sequins, an open back, and a mini-length silhouette. The dress offers a form-hugging fit with minimal stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels.
Fit & Features
- Halter neck
- Sequins
- Mini length silhouette
- Form hugging fit
- Minimal stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0553
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Anita High Slit Crepe Dress
Special Occasion
Simple and classic, eyes will be trailing you in our elegant Anita!
Fits & Features
- Wide Shoulder Straps
- V Neckline With Princess Seams I Empire Waist
- Slim Bodice I Floor Length, Wrap Skirt
- Thigh High Slit
- Fully Lined I Crepe Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
- Zipper Not Included
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0422
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $39.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Courtney Formal Crepe A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Keep it graceful and elegant as you stun with our captivating Courtney dress! Her pockets and A-line silhouette bring the charm!
Fit & Features
- Off The Shoulder Neckline | Fold Over Accent
- Padded Cups | Vertical Princess Seams
- Pockets
- A-Line Silhouette
- Crepe
- Bodysuit Bottom Lining | Snap Button Closure
- Form Hugging Fit
- Moderate 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: 05002-0389
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Palmer Lace A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Take the plunge in stunning lace as create a captivating entrance in our Palmer dress! Her floral lace enchants and stuns!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline | Pleated Bodice
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps | Cross-At-Back
- Floral Lace
- A-Line Silhouette
- Full Length Lining
- Mesh
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0817
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Bonnie Satin A Line Dress
Special Occasion
Our beautiful Bonnie dress will make you feel like a vision of perfection! She features a flattering V-neckline, a sweeping A-line silhouette with a high slit, and pleats. She is composed of a fully lined satin-like fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete your special evening outfit with a sleek clutch.
Fits & Features
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- V neckline, back zip with hook & eye closure
- Pleating details, front slit
- Sweeping floor-length hem, A-Line silhouette
- Satin-like fabric, fully lined
- Moderate stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0401
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $40.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kiki Formal Off The Shoulder Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
Glow in our shimmering Kiki dress that elevates your formal evening with her enchanting sequins. Kiki features a flattering off the shoulder neckline with off shoulder straps, glitzy sequins throughout and a mini length silhouette with a mini side slit detail. Complete your A-list worthy evening outfit with a rhinestone hairpin to style hair with and metallic platform heels.
Fit & Features
- Off the shoulder neckline with off shoulder straps
- Sweetheart neckline
- Relaxed fit waist
- Sequins
- Mini length silhouette
- Mini side slit
- Form hugging fit
Model is 5'8" with 32" bust, 24" waist and 36.5" hips. She is wearing a size three
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0402
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $30.97 $56.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Clarissa Rhinestone And Pearl Mini Dress
Special Occasion
All eyes on you—exactly where they should be. With iridescent rhinestones and chic pearl embellishments that catch every light, this curve-hugging mini dress is your RSVP to being unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with knit lining, high stretch
- All-over faux pearl and iridescent rhinestone embellishments
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, structured and padded bust, flexible boning
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Mini-length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthday celebrations, bachelorette parties, and formal nights out.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000036
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Irina Formal High Slit Velvet Dress
Special OccasionStrike a pose in luxe velvet as you make your alluring entrance in our Irina dress! She features a rich royal blue color, a plunging V neckline, fitted long sleeves and a cinching oversized tie waist belt. Her relaxed fit bodice leads to an elongating floor length silhouette that is accented with a high side slit. Dress is composed of a lined velvet fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6711
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Jamie Lace Floral Applique Mesh A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Dainty lace floral appliques are decked beautifully along Jamie's front bodice. As you sway and glide along the dance floor, her ethereal, mesh-lined skirt will have you feeling like a goddess. Complement your look with a pair of rhinestone heels and earrings!
Fits & Features
- Sheer Mesh Tank Shoulder Straps
- Plunging V Neckline
- Lace Floral Appliques At The Front Bodice I High Waist Band
- Floor Length Hem I A-Line Silhouette
- Mesh Lined Fabric
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: 05002-1001
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Keyla Formal Glitter Dress
Special OccasionShine on under spotlight as you dazzle in our Keyla dress! She features an all over hunter green hue, a boat neckline, padded cups, princess seams and an open back with a multi-strap design. Her slim fit bodice leads to an elongating floor length silhouette that is accented with vertical seams to create an hourglass illusion with a flared hem. Dress is composed of a lined glitter knit fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Includes a lower back zipper closure. Glitter may transfer.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6218
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance