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.
Now Trending
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.
-
Tatum Satin Floral High Low Dress
Special Occasion
Grace any soiree with our charming Tatum! Her floral prints are eye-catching and a pleasant pop of color!
Fits & Features
- Spaghetti Straps I Racerback With Zip Closure
- Square Neckline I Padded Bust
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- High-Low Skirt I Pleated Accents I Mini Length Lining & Petticoat
- Woven Fabric I Floral Prints Throughout
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 35.5" hips. She is wearing a size 3.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0458
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Christine Sleeveless Satin Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Showcase major elegance this Prom season in the chic Christine sleeveless satin ball gown. She features a sweetheart neckline with a padded bust, thin halter shoulder straps, and an open-back design with a pretty back strap with sheer mesh inserts. Her high waist flows out to a floor-length ballgown skirt with pleated detailing, hidden side pockets, and a floor-sweeping silhouette. The dress is composed of a smooth satin fabric with an inner lining with a tiered tulle design. Style this gorgeous prom dress with radiant rhinestone earrings.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, thin halter straps
- Padded bust, no bra required
- Open-back design, back strap with sheer mesh inserts, hook and eye closures
- High waist seam, floor-length ball gown skirt
- Lower back hidden zipper, hook and eye closure, pleating, side pockets
- Satin fabric, inner lining with a tiered tulle design
- Flowy silhouette, no stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0128
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Linda Strapless Ruffle Beaded Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The Linda dress turns heads with its sculpted bodycon fit, intricate beaded embellishments, and romantic ruffled mesh strapless neckline, while the mini hem keeps it playful and polished!
Fit & Features
- Beaded embellishments, mesh-lined fabric
- Strapless ruffled mesh neckline
- Back zipper closure
- Bodycon silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
School dances, semi-formal events, birthdays, bachelorettes, shower celebrations, date night, rooftop dinner parties, cocktail soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000484
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $99.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Avery One Shoulder Cutout Slim Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The sleek and flattering presence of the Avery one-shoulder formal dress will make you feel your absolute best at weddings, banquets, and red-carpet events! Made from smooth knit fabric with lining, this dress is perfect for any occasion. The one-shoulder neckline and cutout bodice bring a touch of sophistication, while the slim silhouette and high side slit provide a flattering fit. to the long-length hem. Complete the look with high heels.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit fabric lined with stretchy knit
- One-shoulder neckline
- Cutout bodice
- High side slit
- Slim silhouette
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8338
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Plus Kathy Formal Off The Shoulder Bandage Dress
Special OccasionMake an entrance that will wow them all in the captivating Kathy dress! She features an off the shoulder neckline with off the shoulder strap accents, wide shoulder straps, a sweetheart bust and an inverted triangle mesh inset. Her relaxed bodice leads to a curve flattering floor length silhouette that creates an hourglass illusion. Her back features a matching mesh inset on the lower back that leads to a zipper closure. Dress is composed of a crepe fabric that offers a moderate stretch.
Model is 5'11" with a 38" bust, 37" waist and 48.5" hips. She is wearing a 1XSpecial Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 15002-0139
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Lianne Floral Skirt And Top
Special Occasion
Perk up classically elegant florals with a little sparkle-dusted lace in our lovely Lianne skirt and top set. She features a glitter-embellished tank-style top with lace crochet overlay, a lightly padded bust, and a rounded neck that closes with a single button at nape of neck. Taffeta-style floral skirt has an A-line silhouette and features a back zip and a double-layer curved hem. Lianne has a partially lined tank and a fully lined skirt with minimal stretch.
Model is 5'6.5" with a 32" bust, 23.5" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05006-0046
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Jensen Heat Stone Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Sparkle up the night in the illuminating Jensen bodycon mini dress! She features a deep V-neckline, sheer long fitted sleeves, ruching down the front and sides, and a short, curve-hugging fit. The sheer mesh fabric has all-over stunning heat stone embellishment and a knit lining. Complete the look with a sleek clutch.
Fit & Features
- V-neckline
- Sheer long fitted sleeves
- Ruching down the front and sides
- Mini-length, form-fitting bodycon silhouette
- Sheer mesh fabric, knit lining, moderate stretch
- All-over heat stone embellishment
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0876
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Catherine Formal Tie Strap Bandage Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Major curve appeal! The Catherine formal bandage dress perfects your silhouette and flatters to give you a flawless look at cocktail parties and dressy occasions! She features a classic sleeveless sweetheart neckline with an eyelash lace trim, tie shoulder straps, a padded bust and corset-style bodice, and a midi-length bodycon silhouette with a center back slit. The formal dress is composed of a tight-knit bandage knit fabric that helps to give the illusion of an hourglass figure! Complete the look in chic lace-up heels and jewelry.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, eyelash lace trim
- Tie shoulder straps, padded bust
- Corset-style bodice, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette, center back slit, midi-length hem
- Bandage tight-knit fabric, moderate stretch
- No bra required
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1726
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Teddi Sequin Long-Sleeve Gown
Special Occassion
Catch the light and steal the spotlight in our shimmering sequined Teddi gown! She features all-over sequin embellishment atop a mesh underlay, a round neckline with back zip and hook-and-eye closure, long sleeves, and a long, slim-line skirt. Teddi is fully lined and has a bodycon construction. She's made from woven and mesh materials with minimal stretch.
Model is 5'7" with a 34" 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: 05002-0309
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $36.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Kassidy Off The Shoulder Dress
Special Occasion
Fall in love with our elegant Kassidy!
Fits & Features
- Mesh, Off Shoulder Neckline With Fold Over Accent
- Unlined, Fitted, Ruched Long Sleeves
- Crepe Crafted Bodice I Floor Length Wrap Skirt
- Fully Lined
- Curve Hugging Fit
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0372
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $20.97 $56.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Leilani Sequin Lace-Up Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Designed to dazzle from every angle, the Leilani dress brings high-shine drama with a sequin bodycon silhouette and an effortlessly sultry lace-up back. A strapless neckline completes the look with sleek, sculpted charm.
Fit & Features
- Sequin-embellished mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Strapless neckline, no-slip grip lining, padded bra cups
- Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthdays, date nights, milestone celebrations, bachelorettes, Vegas, girls night, parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000317
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Emmy Crepe Ruched Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
You'll be dressed to impress when you slip into our alluring Emmy! Her ruched bodice will have your figure looking right, while her thigh-high slit lets you show off those heels!
Fits & Features
- Plunging V Neckline
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps I Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Ruched Wrap Skirt I Floor-Length Hemline
- Thigh High Slit
- Crepe Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit
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: 05002-0667
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Diane Formal Satin Sleeveless Dress
Special OccasionEmbrace a sophisticated look in our luxe Diane dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a cowl neck, adjustable spaghetti straps, supportive padded cups and a square back. Her slim fit bodice leads to a curve hugging floor length silhouette with a flared hem. Dress is composed of sleek stretchy satin-like fabric that offers a 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: 05002-0039
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Amanda Formal Bandage Illusion Dress
Special OccasionBring your curves front and center in our captivating Amanda dress! She features an all over black hue, a partially unlined mesh bodice, a round neckline with single button closure at the nape of the neck, padded cups, ottoman banded accents that create a sweetheart bust and an unlined triangle shaped inset. Her back features a keyhole and matching triangle inset. Her slim fit bodice leads to a curve hugging floor length silhouette featuring a bandage design. Dress is composed of a ponte-like fabric that offers a moderate stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6196
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Janine Floral Chiffon High Low Dress
Special OccasionLook as beautiful and delicate as a rose in our lovely Zara dress! She features a floral print on an ivory background, a plunging wrap V neckline and adjustable spaghetti straps. Her slim fit bodice leads to an elongating floor length, high-low, wrap-like skirt. Dress is composed of a partially lined chiffon fabric. Dress offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. Includes a back zipper.
Model is 5'8 with a 33" bust, 24" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size small.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6522
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Tami Formal Wrap Chiffon Dress
Special OccasionWrap yourself in elegance as you make an entrance in our captivating Tami dress! She features a hunter hue, a plunging wrap V neckline with pleated detailing, a double row of narrow straps and a narrow tie waist belt. Her slim fit bodice leads to a sweeping floor length A-line silhouette accented with a high slit. Dress is composed of a lined chiffon fabric that offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch.
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size smallSpecial Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6643
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Kristin Formal Embroidered Glitter Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Make your evening an enchanting one with a ball gown that makes an ethereal entrance! Kristin features a sleeveless V-neckline with supportive tank shoulder straps, padded cups, and an embroidered glitter leaf pattern throughout. Her slim fit bodice leads to a voluminous ball gown silhouette, hidden side pockets, and a petticoat for added drama. She is composed of a lined tulle mesh fabric that offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels and a sphere clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, tank shoulder straps
- Padded cups
- Embroidered glitter leaf pattern
- Hidden side pockets
- Ball gown silhouette
- Lined tulle mesh fabric, petticoat
- Hidden back zipper closure
- Form hugging fit, minimal stretch, runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0132
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $41.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Annaliese Velvet Pearl Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Made for the spotlight, the Annaliese velvet bodycon mini dress turns every entrance into a moment. With a sweetheart neckline and delicate faux pearl and rhinestone accents, it’s the kind of dress that feels as unforgettable as the night itself.
Fit & Features
- Velvet fabric with knit lining, moderate stretch
- Faux pearl and mini rhinestone embellishments
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, padded bust, draped cowl neck overlay
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon fit
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, weddings, date nights, bachelorettes, date nights, milestone celebrations, birthdays, red-carpet events
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000153
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Bella Sequin Mesh Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Sparkle with confidence in the Bella sequin mesh mini dress, designed with a curve-loving fit and strappy tie-back detail. Flirty yet polished, it’s the perfect piece to own the night at parties, birthdays, and every celebration in between.
Fit & Features
- Sequin-embellished mesh-lined fabric
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Spaghetti straps
- Open strappy back design, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon fit, mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, bachelorettes, date nights, cocktail soirees, birthdays, Vegas, parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000322
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK, YELLOW
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Best Seller
-
Amber Formal Satin Halter Open Back Long Dress
Special Occasion
Take everyone's breath away in the Amber formal satin long dress. This chic maxi dress features a luxe halter neckline, secure hook and eye back fasteners, an eye-catching open back, a slim silhouette, and an elegant floor-length hem. The formal long dress is composed of a smooth and silky satin woven fabric. Complete the look with earrings for a black tie gala, banquet, or anniversary party!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless halter neckline, hook and eye back fasteners
- Open back, side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Slim silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Satin woven fabric, no stretch
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7621
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Cecelia Formal Satin Ruffle High Low Dress
Special Occasion
Crafted from luxurious satin, the romantic Cecelia formal high low dress is the perfect style to make an entrance at holiday galas or weddings. She features a V-neckline, spaghetti straps, an underbust seam, and a flattering bodycon silhouette and high low hem with a cascading ruffle that brings the drama! Complete the look in strappy rhinestone heels and a clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, spaghetti straps
- Underbust seam
- Bodycon silhouette
- High low hem, cascading ruffle
- Luxe satin fabric, bust knit lining, minimal stretch
- Strapless bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7840
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Flawless Shine Glitter Knit Midi Dress
Let it shine in this glitter midi dress for a flawless shimmer this season! The midi-length dress features a sultry V-neckline, spaghetti straps, chic underbust seams, and a flattering bodycon silhouette. Complete the look in glam earrings and heels for a party or date!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Underbust seam
- Bodycon silhouette
- Midi-length hem
- Glitter knit fabric, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-2952
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $5.97 $42.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Kristina Sequin Blazer Mini Party Dress
Special Occasion
Your next jazzy affair demands the Kristina sequin blazer dress to strike the crowd with your modern shine! She features long sleeves, shoulder pads for a structured fit, a lapel collar V-neckline, hidden front snap-button closures, a slim-fitting silhouette, and a mini-length hem. The formal party dress is crafted with a gorgeous array of shimmering iridescent sequin-embellishments all over and has a woven lining. Complete the look in sassy lace-up heels for a dressy occasion!
Fit & Features
- Long sleeves, shoulder pads
- Lapel collar V-neckline
- Hidden front snap-button closures
- Slim-fitting silhouette, mini-length hem
- Iridescent sequin-embellishments, woven lining, no stretch
- Bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1507
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $49.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Felicity Scallop Neck Taffeta High Low Dress
Special Occasion
From top to bottom, our Felicity brings flair and drama with her scalloped neckline and full high-low hem. Crafted from taffeta fabric, a glowing pretty sheen gives her a luxe vibe. Compliment her with some gorgeous drop earrings and a sparkling clutch!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Scalloped V Neckline I Princess Seams
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- High-Low Hem I Partial, Mini Length Lining I Petticoat
- Tafetta Fabric I Pretty Sheen Finish
- Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 36.5" hips. She is wearing a size 3.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0938
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale