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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Rachael Lace Up Mermaid Sequin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
You're sure to be a spellbinding sight to see in the Rachael sequin formal dress at galas or fancy soirees! The cowl neckline and spaghetti straps add a delicate touch to the mermaid silhouette, while the lace-up back ensures a perfect fit. Adorned with sequin embellished mesh fabric, the floor-length hem adds a touch of luxury to your formal look. Complete the look with earrings, a bracelet, and heels for divine glamour!
Fit & Features
- Sequin embellished mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Spaghetti straps, cowl neckline
- Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8527
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Audrina Formal Sequin Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Come through with head-turning shine as you shimmy the night away in our sequined Audrina midi dress!
Fit & Features
- High Round Neckline
- Cap Sleeves
- Draped Cowl Back
- High Side Slit
- Sequins
- Lined Mesh | Minimal Stretch
- Side Zipper Closure
Model is 5'9" with 32" 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: 05001-0261
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Hyla Deep V Glitter Shine Dress
Special Occasion
You'll be captivating everyone as you twirl around in our gorgeous Hyla! Her never-ending sparkle is a magnet for attention, while her skater skirt adds dimension and flow as you dance around. Style her up with a glitzy envelope clutch and a pair of earrings to match!
Fits & Features
- Tank Shoulder Straps
- Deep V Front & Back I Padded Bust
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Mini Length Hem I Skater Silhouette
- Glitter Woven Fabric I Fully Lined
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0302
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Seraphina Formal Pearl Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the luxe and shine like the rare pearl you are in our dazzling Seraphina dress! Pair her unmatched beauty with slingback stilettos and a glitzy clutch to complete your evening look!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline | Mesh Inset
- Tank-Like Straps
- Pearl and Heat Stone Embellishments
- Mini Skirt Length Silhouette
- Lined Smooth Knit Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit | Slight Stretch
- Hidden Back Zipper Closure
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0408
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Lacie Satin V-Neck Skater Dress
Special Occasion
Perfect for parties and celebrations alike, Lacie brings head-turning style to your next event! She features a sleeveless v-neckline, spaghetti straps, lace-up open back with tie closure, high-waist seam, and hidden side pockets for keeping your hands warm. Her flirty fit and flare short-length hem is perfect for showing off new rhinestone heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless v-neckline, spaghetti straps
- Adhesive bra recommended
- Lace-up open back, tie closure
- Hidden side pockets
- Short, skater silhouette
- Smooth satin fabric
- Fits true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1066
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Hilary Tropical Floral Bead Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The Hilary mini dress is pure getaway glamour, made for warm nights and dance-floor lights. Intricate beading shimmers over a tropical floral motif, while the sleek cowl tube neckline and curve-hugging mini silhouette bring sultry sophistication to any occasion.
Fit & Features
- Tropical floral print, beaded mesh fabric, stretch knit lining
- Strapless cowl neckline, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, date nights, vacation, rooftop hotel bars, dinner soirees, cocktail parties, birthdays
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000225
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK, MINT
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Edna Glitter Ruffle Party Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Steal the show with the Edna glitter mini dress perfect for school dances or dressy parties! She features a cowl square neckline, spaghetti straps, and a bodycon silhouette for an alluring profile with a flirty ruffle trim mini-length hem. The short party dress is crafted from a glitter knit fabric with endless shimmer and has a stretchy knit lining. Sparkle on the dancefloor in this mini-dress and complete the look in a bejeweled necklace.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl square neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Bodycon silhouette
- Ruffle trim mini-length hem
- Glitter knit fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1985
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Deleah Formal Sleeveless Pearl Dress
Special Occasion
Sparkle like the queen you are in out dazzling Deleah dress! Her pearls and heat stones give her a glowing touch!
Fit & Features
- High Round Neckline | Racer Bust
- Pearls
- Heat Stones
- Lined Mesh
- Floor Length Silhouette
- Form Hugging Fit | Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0376
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Monique Formal Satin A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the luxe as you draw all eyes on you in our daring Monique satin dress! She captivates with a bold lace up back and glam satin!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline | Padded Cups
- Double Row Spaghetti Straps
- Lace Up Back
- High Slit
- Mini Skirt Lining
- Lined Satin
- Form Hugging Fit | Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0388
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $31.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Rita Floral Chiffon Dress
Special Occasion
You'll be best dressed in this flowy dress! Give a twirl in our beautiful Rita!
Fits & Features
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Surplice V Neckline
- Unlined, Long Sleeves With Button Cuffs
- Elastic, Narrow Waistband I Waist Tie
- Floor Length Skirt I A-Line Silhouette I Mini Length Lining
- Chiffon Fabric With Floral Prints Throughout
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0630
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $24.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Surplice V Neckline
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Harlie Formal Tulle Bow Sequin Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Step out of the pages of your favorite fairytale book in the Harlie formal long dress and down the aisle to your forever! She features a wired sweetheart neckline and a padded bust for structured support, adjustable spaghetti straps with feminine tulle bows that elegantly frame the mermaid silhouette. Her floor-length hem is designed with sheer tulle inserts for a stunning voluminous effect perfect for dancing! The formal long dress showcases a shimmering sequin scroll pattern creating an opulent look on lightweight mesh fabric with a stretchy knit lining. Complete the look with faux pearl earrings and heels!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless wired sweetheart neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, tulle bows
- Padded bust, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem, sheer tulle inserts
- Sequin scroll pattern, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Bra optional
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7307
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Sofia Long Sleeve Rhinestone Mesh Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Luxe with a chic sophistication, the Sofia long sleeve rhinestone mesh mermaid dress will bring the wow factor to your next formal affair. The airy sheer mesh fabric is accented with stunning iridescent rhinestone embellishments in an alluring asymmetric design across the full length of the dress. The high crew neckline and long fitted sleeves add that touch of elegance, and the sheer cutout inserts at the bodice and waist as well as the sheer back add a sexy detail. The mermaid silhouette will flaunt your gorgeous curves. Style this formal long dress with a sleek clutch for your next black-tie gala!
Fit & Features
- Stretchy sheer mesh fabric with partial knit lining
- Iridescent rhinestone embellished asymmetric design
- Crew neckline, long fitted sleeves
- Back zipper, hook and eye closure
- Sheer cutout inserts, high waist seam
- Mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8109
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Gracie One-Shoulder Glitter Column Dress
Special Occasion
Make it a glitzy affair in a long glitter slim dress that features a one-shoulder neckline, a double-row rhinestone strap, ruching, and a daring high-side slit accented on the floor-length column silhouette. Complete your formal outfit with a luxe rhinestone bracelet.
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit fabrication with knit lining, plenty of stretch
- One shoulder neckline, padded bust
- Double-row rhinestone shoulder strap
- Back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Ruching, high side slit
- Long-length hem, column silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Formal weddings, black-tie events, and fancy dinners.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8692
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Karly Sequin Halter Mesh Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Bold yet refined, the Karly sequin mesh mini dress stuns with its halter neckline and intricate floral beading. Its sleek, body-hugging silhouette was made for captivating entrances and unforgettable nights.
Fit & Features
- Sequin-embellished pattern, mesh-lined fabric
- Halter neckline, tie closure, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthdays, date nights, cocktail soirees, bachelorettes, formal celebrations, gala after parties, semi-formal wedding
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000123
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Jeanette Starry Night Ball Gown
Special OccasionLight up the night like a twinkling star under an enchanted sky! Jeanette features a black hue, a halter neck with a racer bust and an open back. The slim fit bodice leads to a voluminous ball gown silhouette accented with a petticoat to bring the drama! Her all over tulle fabric is adorned with speckles of shimmering dotted sequin accents throughout! Dress is composed of a lined tulle fabric that offers a form hugging fit with minimal stretch.
Model is 5'9" with a 33" 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: 05004-0553
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $36.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Sutton Sequin And Glitter Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Bring the glitz to your special event with a ball gown that makes those special events all the more glamourous. The dress features a sleeveless V-neckline, a double-row of spaghetti straps, padded cups, and a high waist. The slim-fit waist leads to a voluminous ball gown that is accented with hidden side pockets. Sutton features a gorgeous glitter and sequin leaf pattern. The dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline
- Double-row of spaghetti straps
- Padded cups
- High waist, hidden side pockets
- Glitter and sequin leaf pattern
- Lined tulle mesh fabric
- Form hugging fit, minimal stretch, runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0131
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Blakely Satin Gown
Special Occasion
Twirl around in our Blakely satin gown! She has a deep curved V neck, wide straps, and padded cup inserts. Her bodice is fitted and has seams that lead down vertically for a form fitting effect that is flattering. Her skirt is pleated and includes party pockets! Blakely is fully lined and includes a partial tulle trim on the lining for a little extra poof. Her hem meets above the knee, and she is composed of a satin like material that offers no stretch.
Model is 5’7” with a 32” bust, 23" waist, and 34.5” hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0058
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Sami Sequin And Lace Party Dress
Special OccasionCreate a twirl worthy moment in the ever so glam Sami dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a V neckline, a floral lace bodice and adjustable spaghetti straps. Her slim fit bodice leads to a double layered skater length silhouette. Dress is composed of a lined lace and crepe fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.
Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24.5" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size three.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0035
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Indy Rhinestone Mini Party Dress
Special Occasion
Best believe everyone will be bejeweled at the sight of you in the Indy party dress for bachelorettes or a chic Vegas weekend! She features a striking rhinestone-embellished bodice with a sleeveless sweetheart neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, a built-in padded bust, a sheer mesh waist with rhinestone stripes that leads to her flattering bodycon silhouette with a striped rhinestone skirt, and a flirty front slit along the mini-length hem. The short party dress is composed of a rhinestone-embellished mesh fabric that brings the glam factor and a stretchy knit lining. Complete the look in nude platform heels for a seamless chic style!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless rhinestone-embellished bodice
- Sweetheart neckline, built-in padded bust, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Hidden side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Sheer mesh waist, rhinestone stripes
- Bodycon silhouette, rhinestone striped skirt, front slit, mini-length hem
- Rhinestone-embellished mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1421
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Joelle Wrap-Front Glitter Knit Formal Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Slip into the Joelle wrap-front glitter knit formal midi dress for weddings or dressy parties! Designed with a glitter knit fabric with plenty of stretch, this dress will gorgeously glimmer as you dance all night long. She features a sleeveless cowl neckline to give that chic draped design, spaghetti straps, and a high waist seam with ruching to accentuate your curves. Her faux wrap-front creates a stylish front slit to showcase some leg along the slim-fit silhouette. Complete your look with metallic heels and a sleek clutch!
Fit & Features
- Stretchy glitter knit fabric with knit lining
- Sleeveless cowl neckline, spaghetti straps
- High waist seam, ruching
- Faux wrap-front with slit
- Slim-fit silhouette
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2057
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Almira Satin Wrap Evening Gown
Special Occasion
Command the room when you walk in wearing the stunning Almira satin evening gown! She is an eye-catching piece that will have all heads turning your way babe!
Fit & Features
- Fold over V-neckline | Padded cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Cinched wrap waistline
- Floor sweeping hemline
- Dramatic slit detail | Unlined
- Satin material | Moderate stretch
- Hidden zipper center back + Hook and eye
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0391
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $27.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Sydney Sequin Bead Lace-Up Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Shimmer with every step in the Sydney sequin bead mini dress that pairs a sleek, fitted silhouette with a striking lace-up back. Designed to catch the light and highlight your shape, it’s a true showstopper from every angle.
Fit & Features
- Sequin, beaded, embellished, mesh-lined fabric
- Square neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon fit, mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthdays, milestone celebrations, date nights, bachelorettes, bridal showers, fancy brunches, rooftop hotel bars, parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000308
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Lauren Rose Tulle Dress
Special Occasion
Dark and sleek, our Lauren Rose gown shows a little edge. She features a v neckline, double spaghetti straps that lead to a cross over back detail. Zipper closure is located low back and she is fully lined with a nude knit material that offers moderate stretch. Her middle layer is a leafy lace material and top layer is a mesh material. Her layers give her dimension that will flow when you are on the dance floor!
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: 05002-0235
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Roseanne Formal Chiffon Rosette Dress
Special OccasionYou're a one of a kind type of beauty, radiate that confidence in our Roseanne burgundy dress! She features a high round neckline with a racer bust, padded cups and princess seams. Her back features a two button closure at the nape of the neck, an open back with unlined scalloped lace trim and a row of rosette accents with a sheer chiffon train. Her slim fit bodice leads to a floor length silhouette. Dress is composed of a burgundy hued chiffon fabric that offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6065
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance