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

Product Recommendations
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!
-
Jayleen Formal Sequin Lace-Up A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Captivating swirls of sequins give the Jayleen formal dress endless sparkle! It's your time to shine at school dances, banquets, and weddings. She features a sleeveless square neckline, halter spaghetti straps with button closure, a lace-up open back with tie closure, and a flattering A-line silhouette designed with a skin-baring high front slit along her floor-length hem. The formal long dress is composed of a sequin-embroidered mesh fabric with a stunning iridescent hue and includes a knit lining. Finish the look with a glam necklace and earrings set.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline
- Halter spaghetti straps with button closure
- Lace-up open back with tie, lower back zipper and hook and eye closure
- A-line silhouette, high front slit, floor-length hem
- Sequin-embroidered mesh fabric, iridescent hue, knit lining
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-3181
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Kirsten Formal Heatstone A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the sparkle to your evening with a formal dress that makes a wow-worthy entrance. Kirsten features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline and mesh shoulder straps. The bodice features dazzling heat stones, a padded bust with a supportive underwire, and flexible boning to enhance your figure. The slim-fit bodice leads to a flowy a-line silhouette with a high side slit. Complete look with rhinestone heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline
- Heat stones on bodice, flexible boning
- Padded bust with underwire, no bra required
- Mesh shoulder straps
- Back zipper, hook and eye closure
- A-line silhouette, high side slit
- Lined mesh fabric, minimal stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1221
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Jolene Formal Glitter Velvet Dress
Special OccasionStrike a sultry impression in our mesmerizing Jolene dress! She features a sleeveless cowl neckline, spaghetti straps, a mermaid silhouette, and composed of a velvet glitter fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with a faux fur wrap.
Fits & Features
- Sleeveless cowl neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Mermaid silhouette
- Lined velvet glitter fabric
- Form hugging fit, moderate stretch, runs true to size
- Runs true to size
The saturation of glitter varies. Glitter may transfer.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6093
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $56.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
- Sleeveless cowl neckline
-
Jane Satin Lace-Up Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed to linger in their memory long after the last toast, the Jane satin bodycon midi dress glides with intention—finished with a sultry slit and lace-up back that feels both refined and just a little risqué.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, knit lining
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Wide shoulder straps
- Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette
- Front slit, midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, weddings, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, date night, birthdays, black tie galas, dinner parties, cocktail soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000223
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $64.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN, NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M
-
Trista Formal Long Sleeve Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Step out in a formal dress that is perfect for your cocktail events! Trista features a plunging V-neckline, long chiffon sleeves, a high side slit, and a midi-length silhouette. The dress is composed of a lined crepe fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with pumps and a rhinestone choker.
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-neckline
- Long chiffon sleeves
- High side slit
- Midi length silhouette
- Lined crepe fabric
- Form hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0737
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $46.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Evelyn Formal Plunge A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
A floral flocked velvet design brings drama and sophistication to the Evelyn formal dress perfect for leaving an impression at school dances or weddings! She features elegant peasant long sleeves, a plunge V-neckline, empire waistband atop her flowy, A-line silhouette leading to the floor-sweeping hem. The formal dress is composed of sheer tulle fabric with knit lining with dual slits. Complete your dressy look in a dainty lariat necklace.
Fit & Features
- Plunge V-neckline, peasant long sleeves
- Empire waistband
- Back zipper, hook and eye closure
- A-line silhouette, floor-length hem
- Floral flocked velvet, sheer tulle fabric, knit lining with dual slits
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7109
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Zosia Formal Ruffled Bodycon Dress
Special Occasion
Make a stylish statement with a formal bodycon dress that brings the elegance! The dress features a sleeveless V-neckline with a spaghetti strap, a cap sleeve on the left shoulder, a ruffled bodice, and a midi-length silhouette. The dress is composed of a crepe fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, cap sleeve
- Spaghetti strap
- Ruffled bodice
- Midi-length silhouette
- Crepe fabric
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0751
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $36.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Julietta One Shoulder Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Radiate elegance and modern style in the Julietta formal dress to make a memorable statement. The gown boasts a sleek one-shoulder design and a tasteful cutout that contours your silhouette with a flattering mermaid fit.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit fabric, stretchy knit lining
- One-shoulder neckline
- Side cutout with attached sash
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black tie galas, formal events, cocktail soirees, big birthday celebrations, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000124
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS
-
Ellie Formal Damask Sequin Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the sparkle and glow to your evening with a formal dress! Ellie features a wired V-neckline, padded cups, spaghetti straps, lace-up back, a damask sequin pattern, and a mini-length silhouette. The dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with minimal stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels and an anklet.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless wired V-neckline
- Padded cups, spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back
- Damask sequin pattern
- Mini length silhouette
- Lined mesh fabric
- Form hugging fit, minimal stretch, runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-1125
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Abbey Lace-Up Slit A-Line Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Make a special event even more memorable in the Abbey a-line satin formal dress showcasing the prettiest lace-up back every guest will swoon over and a sultry high slit for effortless movement.
With a smooth, luminous finish, this dress was made to shine. Keep the luxe look going with breathtaking satin prom dresses or go for a sophisticated statement with our wedding guest dresses.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin fabric, lined
- Halter V-neckline
- Lace-up back
- Hidden side pockets
- High front slit, A-line silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, bridesmaids, black-tie weddings, formal parties, and balls.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8977
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $99.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Bre Satin Ruched Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Keep it sultry and stunning in the gorgeous Bre satin midi dress! She features a sleeveless cowl neckline, spaghetti straps, ruched detailing down the center, a mid-length, curve-hugging silhouette, and a front slit to showcase some leg. The smooth satin-knit fabric offers a moderate stretch. Style this dress with rhinestone earrings and a sleek clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl neckline, spaghetti straps
- Strapless or adhesive bra recommended
- Ruching down the center
- Midi-length, form-hugging fit
- Front slit
- Satin-knit fabric, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0879
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Kailany Floral Ruffle Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Let the Kailany charm you with beautiful, cascading ruffles and a delicate floral print while the high side slit offers an alluring show of leg along the floor-length silhouette.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, airy mesh fabric, smooth knit stretchy lining
- Strapless neckline
- Hidden side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Cascading ruffles
- High side slit
- Form-hugging silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, bridal showers, garden parties, birthdays, date nights, engagement photoshoots, baby showers, dressy brunches, milestone celebrations, dinner parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000305
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Cleo Formal One-Shoulder Velvet Dress
Special Occasion
Make a mesmerizing impression with a formal velvet dress that stuns! Cleo features an asymmetrical one-shoulder neckline with a cold shoulder strap, a wrap mermaid silhouette, and a high side slit. The dress is composed of a velvet fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels and a tennis bracelet.
Fit & Features
- Asymmetrical one-shoulder neckline
- Wrap mermaid silhouette
- High side slit
- Velvet fabric
- Form-hugging fit
- Moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1579
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Kimia Formal Satin Wrap Gown
Special Occasion
Wrap yourself in elegance tonight when you slip into a luxe gown! She is designed with a v neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, padded cups, and a fold-over trim. Her bodice leads to a high waistline that gathers at one side and the start of a long skirt that wraps over. Her skirt leads to a floor-sweeping length and features a high slit at the center. She is lined at the bust and has a zipper closure at the back with a hook and eye closure that keeps her in place all night! Complete your formal outfit with a satin clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, padded cups
- Ruching
- Wrap silhouette, high slit
- Lined satin fabric
- Form hugging fit, slight stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1603
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Ashlyn Formal High Slit Midi Dress
Special Occasion
A formal midi dress is the perfect go-to for that upcoming cocktail affair or as a wedding guest. Wow in the captivating Ashlyn dress features a flattering cowl neckline, spaghetti straps that lead to a cross-back design, and a high waist seam. She's designed with a gorgeous wrap bodycon silhouette with a front slit accent and a midi-length hem. The dress is composed of a lined crepe fabric with a moderate stretch. Complete your formal outfit with rhinestone heels and a tennis bracelet.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless, cowl neckline, spaghetti straps
- Adhesive bra recommended
- Criss-cross back straps
- High waist seam
- Wrap bodycon silhouette
- Front slit accent, midi-length hem
- Lined crepe fabric, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1013
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Anastasia Lace Formal Dress
Special OccasionFeel like a lost princess in this gorgeous gold dress! Anastasia features a scallop V neckline, built in cups, thin adjustable straps and a floor length sheath silhouette with a high slit. She is composed of a lined tulle fabric that features gold floral embroidery throughout. Includes zipper closure.
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: 05002-5881
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $24.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Eileen Floral Strapless Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The gorgeous Eileen floral formal dress will have everyone swooning for you! With its luxe cowl neckline and figure-hugging mermaid silhouette, this floor-length gown elevates your natural beauty with every step.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, smooth knit fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Strapless cowl neckline, padded bra cups
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, garden parties, summer galas, black tie events, rooftop dinner parties, rehearsal dinner, anniversaries, fancy shower celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000153
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Melonie Corset Ruffled Mermaid Floral Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Arrive looking blissfully chic and dreamy in the Melonie floral formal dress as a gorgeous bridesmaid, wedding guest, or attending a garden party! Her sleeveless sweetheart neckline, shoulder straps, and padded bra cups provide a flattering fit. The flexible boning and mermaid silhouette accentuate your curves, while the ruffled floor-length hem adds an elegant touch. Complete the look with dainty earrings and high heels.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, mesh fabric, sewn-in knit lining, moderate stretch
- Sweetheart neckline
- Shoulder straps
- Padded bra cups
- Flexible boning
- Ruffled mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8548
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Polly Formal High Slit Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
Make a sparkling entrance at prom in a prom dress that puts you at the center of attention! Polly features a sleeveless square neckline, a double-row of adjustable spaghetti straps that cross at the back, and a mermaid silhouette that is accented with a high side slit. The dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that is adorned with iridescent sequins set in a damask pattern. Complete the look with a sphere clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline, double-row adjustable spaghetti straps
- Padded bust, no bra required
- Cross-back design
- Mermaid silhouette, high side slit
- Iridescent sequins, damask pattern
- Lined mesh fabric
- Form-hugging fit, minimal stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1846
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Laura Sequin Strappy Back Mini Party Dress
Special Occasion
The sexy Laura sequin mini party dress will elevate your dressy occasion! With a luxurious sequin scroll pattern on chic mesh fabric, this dress will have you turning heads. A flattering sleeveless plunge V-neckline with sleek bungee spaghetti straps, a built-in padded bust, a strappy open back, and a mini bodycon silhouette provide a beautiful style you're sure to love. Complete your showstopping look in this mini-length dress with lace-up heels and earrings.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless plunge V-neckline, built-in padded bust
- Bungee spaghetti straps, strappy open back
- Bodycon silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Sequin scroll pattern, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Bra optional
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1827
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Lola High Slit Velvet Dress
Special Occasion
Flaunt your natural beauty in our fabulous Lola dress! She features a trendy pleated cowl neckline with a slim fit bodice, a floor-sweeping silhouette with a sultry high slit, and a form-hugging fit. Pair this gorgeous dress with a sleek ring set to add some glamour to your look for your special occasion.
Shop Lola In More Colors: Lola Dress Collection
Fit & Features
- Spaghetti straps
- Pleated cowl neckline and square back
- Slim fit bodice
- Floor-length silhouette with a thigh-high slit
- Fully-lined stretchy velvet fabric
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1491
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $56.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Liliana Corset Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The sleek Liliana knit gown sculpts every curve with a strapless twist corset bodice and a dramatic mermaid silhouette. The floor-length hem flares softly for a finish that’s equal parts timeless and alluring.
Fit & Features
- Sleek knit fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Strapless sweetheart twist neckline, no-slip grip lining, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Corset bodice, flexible boning inserts
- Contoured mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem with flared design
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black tie galas, charity events, red carpet occasions, fancy date nights, formal parties, rehearsal dinners, big milestone celebrations, dressed-up birthdays
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000222
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $84.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN
Available Size: S
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Drea Formal High Slit Ruched Dress
Special Occasion
Radiate timeless elegance with a formal dress that makes an enchanting entrance from the moment you enter the room. Drea features a sleeveless cowl neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, a ruched drawstring, a high side slit, and an A-line silhouette. The dress is composed of a stretchy satin fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels and a clutch for your special evening.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Adhesive bra recommended
- Ruched drawstring
- High side slit
- A-line
- Lined satin fabric
- Form hugging fit, moderate stretch, runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2508
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Annika Pearl And Rhinestone Ruched Mesh Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Enchant with your glamorous aura in the Annika formal mermaid dress crafted with airy lined mesh fabric embellished with dainty tonal faux pearls and mini rhinestones. It features a sleeveless square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, ruching to accentuate your gorgeous curves, and a floor-length mermaid silhouette with a high front slit to showcase your stiletto heels.
Make your entrance unforgettable in this dress. For more glam styles, explore intricate embellishments on beaded prom dresses or be ready to celebrate in wedding guest dresses.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with knit lining, plenty of stretch
- Tonal faux pearl and mini rhinestone embellishments
- Square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Ruched detailing
- High front slit
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8784
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free