Formal Dresses
Windsor's formal dresses are redefining elegance for 2025. Think illusion panels that sculpt and contour, printed mesh gowns with bold florals or swirls, and slinky jersey knits that drape like liquid luxe. Daring cutouts bring a sleek edge to eveningwear, while cascading ruffles add movement and modern drama. These trendy gowns prove that formal doesn’t have to mean predictable—they’re made for weddings, galas, and every post-worthy moment in between. Discover styles that are chic, camera-ready, and designed to make you unforgettable.
HomeFormal 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!
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Leslie Off-The-Shoulder Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Showcase elegance and glamour in the Leslie crepe mermaid dress. She features an off-the-shoulder neckline with a chic detailed overlay, short puff sleeves, a high waist seam with side pleated detailing, and a faux wrap floor-length skirt with a front slit and a mermaid silhouette. Style this dress with rhinestone earrings and new heels.
Fit & Features
- Off-the-shoulder neckline, detailed overlay
- Short puff sleeves
- Strapless or adhesive bra recommended
- High waist seam, side pleated detailing, back zipper, hook and eye closure
- Faux wrap floor-length skirt, front slit
- Mermaid silhouette
- Crepe fabric, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1229
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Ever Formal High Slit Glitter Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the glitz and glamour in a formal dress that reflects elegance! The Ever formal long dress features a sleeveless asymmetrical cowl neckline, a ruched shoulder strap, a spaghetti strap, and a high side slit to show off plenty of leg. Ever is composed of luxe glitter knit fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl neckline
- Spaghetti strap
- Ruched shoulder strap
- High side slit on the left leg
- High waist, slim-fit silhouette
- Glitter knit fabric
- Form hugging fit, moderate stretch , runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1344
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Sophia Mesh Open Back Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed to turn heads from every angle, the Sophia floor-length mesh gown glides with quiet drama and sculpted elegance. The figure-hugging silhouette is finished with ruched seams, a draped cowl neckline, and an alluring open back—perfect for your next black-tie RSVP.
Fit & Features
- Mesh-lined fabric, moderate stretch
- Cowl neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Open back
- Ruched seams
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, formal dances, black tie galas, upscale birthdays, garden parties, cocktail dinners, vacations, date nights, bridal showers, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000330
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Zoe Formal Mesh Faux Pearl Midi Dress
Special Occasion
The soft romance of faux pearls meets sultriness on the Zoe formal midi dress perfect for modern brides or banquets! She features a sweetheart neckline adorned with a cowl overlay, a padded bust, adjustable spaghetti straps, and side ruched seams that accentuate your curves along her bodycon silhouette down to the midi-length hem. The formal dress is composed of a mesh fabric with delicate faux pearl embellishments and has a sewn-in knit lining. Complete the look with earrings and heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless sweetheart cowl neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, padded bust
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Side ruched seams, bodycon silhouette, midi-length hem
- Faux pearl embellishments, mesh fabric, sewn-in knit lining
- No bra required
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1989
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Sofia Off-The-Shoulder Corset Lace-Up Glitter Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Make your entrance like the princess you are in the Sofia off-the-shoulder glitter ball gown. Designed with a sequin butterfly applique, corset lace-up bodice, and an A-line silhouette, you'll take everyone's breath away!
Fit & Features
- Glitter mesh fabric, multiple tulle and stretchy knit linings
- Off-the-shoulder sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Sequin embellished butterfly applique
- Corset bodice, flexible boning
- Lace-up back, lower zipper with hook-eye closure
- A-line silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, balls, and black-tie galas.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0146
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $249.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Tricia Formal Glitter A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Serve pure radiance in the Tricia formal dress to make a striking entrance at balls, school dances, and galas! She features a sleeveless, plunging V-neckline with adjustable spaghetti straps that cross along her sexy open back. Her empire waistband leads to the A-line, floor-length hem designed with a skin-flaunting high slit. The formal dress is composed of a star glitter pattern on tulle fabric with satin lining and no stretch. Complete your elegant look in fringe earrings and heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless, plunging V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lightly padded bust, open-back, criss-cross straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- A-line silhouette, high-cut front slit, floor-length hem
- Star glitter pattern, tulle fabric, satin lining, no stretch
- Sticky bra optional
- Fits true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2466
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Breanne Strapless Ruffled Back Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Elegantly chic, the Breanne mermaid formal dress will have you radiating red-carpet energy. She features a strapless sweetheart neckline, a fitted bodice with flexible boning inserts and a high waist, a ruffled back accent that cascades down the length of the dress, a floor-sweeping hem, and a form-hugging mermaid silhouette. The formal maxi dress is composed of a crepe fabric and offers a moderate stretch. Style with a rhinestone jewelry set and stiletto heels for a black-tie affair.
Flawlessly chic and bold, this dress is a statement. If strapless styles are your go-to, explore our strapless prom dresses or embrace effortless fashion with our formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Strapless sweetheart neckline
- Fitted bodice, flexible boning, high waist, back zipper, hook and eye closure
- Ruffled back accent, continues down the length of the dress
- Floor-sweeping hem, mermaid silhouette
- Crepe fabric, lined bust, moderate stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7289
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Marley Halter Ruffle Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for fluid movement and effortless drama, the Marley mesh gown is defined by cascading ruffle panels that ripple with every step. The halter neckline and floor-length silhouette create an elegant yet modern finish.
Fit & Features
- Mesh-lined fabric
- Halter square neckline, tie closure
- High side slit
- Cascading ruffles throughout
- Form-hugging silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, homecoming, black tie galas, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, birthdays, fancy date nights, milestone celebrations, charity auctions, cocktail soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000426
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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Hollie Lace-Up Mermaid Sequin Beaded Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sparkling with sequins and intricate beading, the Hollie mermaid formal dress dares to impress with a lace-up back and high slit giving major allure!
This dazzling dress was made for the spotlight! Love the shimmer? Discover more sequin prom dresses or find a sophisticated look in our wedding guest dresses.
Fit & Features
- Beaded sequin embellishments
- Mesh-lined fabric
- Cowl neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back lace-up, zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, big birthday events, fancy parties, glam functions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9213
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Luna Formal High Slit Dress
Special Occasion
Radiate elegance with a formal dress that elevates your formal wear. Luna features a sleeveless cowl neckline accented with pleats, spaghetti straps that cross at the back, and lace-up straps that create a customized fit. Her slim waist leads to a form-hugging slim fit with a daringly high side slit. Luna is composed of a lined satin stretch fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl neckline
- Adhesive bra friendly
- Spaghetti straps, cross at back
- Lace-up back
- High waist
- Sheath silhouette, high side slit
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2139
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Adrianna Strapless Mermaid Sequin Bead Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The ultra glamorous Adrianna sequin beaded formal dress is destined for party season! The dress boasts a chic pleated strapless neckline and flattering mermaid fit that gives you a dreamy silhouette.
Flawlessly chic and bold, this dress is a statement. If strapless styles are your go-to, explore our strapless prom dresses or embrace effortless fashion with our formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Sequin beaded embellished
- Mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Pleated strapless neckline, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, big milestone events, fancy date nights, formal dinner parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9259
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Rylee Floral Slit Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Rylee floral mesh gown skims your curves with artful ruching and a daring thigh-high slit. The strapless neckline and mermaid silhouette make it a flawless pick for any occasion where the dress code is “unforgettable.”
Fit & Features
- Floral print, mesh-lined fabric
- Strapless neckline
- High front slit
- Ruched mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bridal celebrations, date nights, anniversaries, black tie galas, dinner parties, birthdays, big milestone celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000520
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Brenna Halter Mermaid Sequin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Decorated in a glam sequin and beaded pattern, the Brenna formal dress will have you shimmering under any light! The formal dress boasts a flattering sweetheart halter neckline with a cutout accent and a mermaid silhouette that effortlessly puts your curves on display.
Fit & Features
- Sequin beaded embellished pattern
- Mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Sweetheart halter neckline, cutout, chiffon tie straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, red-carpet events, glam birthday parties, fancy parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9256
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Corrie Mesh Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
A dress made for grand entrances, the Corrie mesh mermaid gown skims every curve before flowing into an elegant floor-length finish. The plunging neckline and sleek ruching add the perfect balance of drama and polish for your most formal occasions.
Fit & Features
- Mesh-lined fabric
- V-neckline with wired insert
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Ruched mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, homecoming, black tie galas, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, bridal celebrations, fancy birthdays, date nights, anniversaries, red-carpet events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000295
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: YELLOW, NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Valerie Short Sleeveless Party Dress
Special Occasion
Sweet and flirty, the Valerie party dress is a must-have for Homecoming season! She features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline with a notched front design and a fold-over hem, a padded bust that eliminates the need for a bra, and adjustable spaghetti straps for a customized fit. Her pleated high waist leads to a short party skirt with a cute bubble hem and a fit-and-flare silhouette. Complete your look with sparkly rhinestone heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, notch wire front design
- Padded bust, fold-over hem
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper, hook-eye closure
- Pleated high waist, bubble hem, fit-and-flare silhouette
- Smooth taffeta fabric, knit lining, minimal stretch
- Bra optional
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1185
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Adalyn Brocade High Slit Dress
Special Occasion
Create an enchanting homecoming or prom look that radiates elegance and grace in our Adalyn brocade dress! She features a classic scoop neckline, padded cups, spaghetti straps that lead to a cross-back lattice design, a high waist seam, and a flowy, floor-length, A-line silhouette with a high slit. The dress is composed of a lined textured woven knit fabric with a minimal stretch. Her brocade print elevates and pairs beautifully with gleaming rhinestone jewelry and sleek stilettos.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless scoop neckline, spaghetti straps
- Padded cups
- Lattice back, tie closure, hidden side pockets
- High waist seam, A-line silhouette, high slit
- Metallic brocade print
- Lined textured woven knit fabric
- Relaxed fit, minimal stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0910
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $159.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Koami Formal One Shoulder Dress
Special Occasion
Make your dramatic entrance in a formal dress that showcases your iconic style. Koami features a sleeveless, one-shoulder neckline with asymmetrical dual straps, a high waist seam, and an A-line silhouette accented with a high side slit. The dress is composed of a lined crepe fabric that offers a moderate stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels and an anklet.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless, one-shoulder neckline
- Adhesive bra recommended
- Asymmetrical dual strap
- High waist seam, high side slit
- A-line silhouette
- Crepe-lined fabric, moderate stretch
- Fits true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2282
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Kristy Off-The-Shoulder Formal Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Raise a glass in the chic Kristy formal midi dress designed to flatter your curves! She features an off-the-shoulder sweetheart neckline with a wrap-front design, long fitted sleeves, ruched detailing down one side, a wrap-front skirt with a sultry front slit, and a mid-length form-hugging silhouette. Style this dress with lucite heels.
Fit & Features
- Off-the-shoulder, sweetheart wrap neckline
- Strapless bra friendly
- Long sleeves, side ruching
- Form-hugging silhouette
- Wrap-front midi skirt, slit accent
- Lined knit fabric, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0873
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $46.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Selene Mesh Strapless Slit Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made for unforgettable evenings, the Selene strapless gown skims the figure with refined ease. The ruched detailing and high slit add just the right amount of drama to a timeless silhouette.
Fit & Features
- Mesh-lined fabric
- Strapless neckline, flexible boning inserts
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, weddings, black tie galas, formal birthdays, milestone celebrations, red-carpet occasions, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, opera
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000317
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK, HUNTER
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Jayla Long Sleeve Sequin Feather Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Showcase a trendy-glam style in the stunning Jayla sequin feather mini dress. She features a sweetheart neckline with padded and molded cups that eliminate the need for a bra, long sheer fitted sleeves, a high waist seam, and a short, curve-hugging, bodycon silhouette with a chic feather hem. The mesh fabric features all-over sequin embroidery. Complete your look with strappy stilettos for a night out.
Fit & Features
- Sweetheart neckline, long sheer fitted sleeves
- Padded and molded cups, no bra required
- High waist seam, back zipper, hook and eye closure
- Mini-length bodycon silhouette, feather hem
- Sequin embroidery
- Sheer mesh fabric, partial knit lining
- Form-hugging fit, minimal stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1032
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Daisy Pleated Tulle Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Dress up for prom like the princess you are with our breath-taking Daisy dress! She is a floor-length evening gown with a floral print, a plunging V neckline, and thin adjustable straps that create an X back. Her wide empire waist leads to a floor-length skirt that dances around your ankles. She is composed of pleated tulle fabric with a sheer appearance and a thin knit lining that features two front slits. Daisy offers a minimal stretch and includes a hidden zipper. Complete look with a rhinestone clutch and a dainty rhinestone bracelet.Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Adhesive bra recommended
- Cross-back straps
- Empire waist, floor-length silhouette, two high front slits
- Floral print
- Lined tulle fabric
- Flowy fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1524
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Dixie Lace Mesh High-Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Captivate in the romantic Dixie formal lace dress! Her stunning details will wow from the moment you enter your special event. Dixie features a sleeveless V-neckline with supportive padded cups, adjustable spaghetti straps that allow you to customize your fit, a bold high side slit on the left to showcase your heels, and a gorgeous floral lace pattern. Her fitted waist leads to a floor-length A-line silhouette. The dress is composed of sheer lace on mesh fabric with a full lining. Complete your outfit with rhinestone duster earrings and new heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Padded cups
- Floral lace pattern
- High side slit on the left leg
- Back zipper closure
- Fitted high waist, A-line silhouette, form-hugging fit
- Sheer lace on mesh fabric, full lining
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1252
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Adrienne Formal One Shoulder Satin Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
Get swept up in an elegant formal dress that captivates from the moment you enter the room! Adrienne features a one-shoulder neckline with two bungee straps leading to the sultry open-back. She showcases some leg in a high side slit along the wrap style skirt with ruching to enhance your curves. Complete look with rhinestone heels and a tennis bracelet.
Fit & Features
- One-shoulder neckline, adhesive bra recommended
- Two bungee spaghetti straps
- Ruching, high side slit
- Wrap skirt, form-hugging fit
- Satin fabric, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1594
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Eloise Satin V-Neck Halter Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sculpted to stun, the Eloise satin mermaid gown moves like liquid elegance with every step. Designed with a plunging halter V-neckline, it’s your secret weapon for that black-tie RSVP.
Fit & Features
- Satin fabric lined with stretch knit
- Halter V-neckline
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Formal dances, weddings, black tie galas, formal celebrations, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, fancy date nights, upscale birthday events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000050
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Best Seller