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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Amirah Lace Two Piece Dress
Special OccasionGrace them all in lace as you make a captivating entrance in our Amirah two piece black dress! She features a cropped lace top with a plunging V neckline, narrow shoulder straps and leads to an unlined floral lace panel. The matching skirt features a high rise waist, a ruched side seam and a high side slit. Dress is composed of a combination lace and smooth knit fabric that offers a curve hugging fit.
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size smallSpecial Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05006-0513
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Kenia Formal Velvet Midi Dress
Special OccasionWrap yourself in luxe velvet as you allure them all in our Kenia dress! She features an all over black hue, an off the shoulder neckline, a sweetheart bust, fitted long sleeves and a midi length silhouette with a high side slit. Dress is composed of a black hued velvet fabric.
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small ,,*Also available in Plus.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-4091
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Ember Satin Party Dress
Special Occasion
Keep it classy my lady! Featuring our Ember Satin Party Dress! She has a sweetheart neckline with off shoulder mini sleeves, and padded inserts. Her bodice is fitted and is structured with wiring on the sides, and a hidden zipper in the back. A line skirt meets high waist to a banded waist line. With multiple layers, including partial tulle at the trim of the inner lining, skirt has a modern ball gown vibe. She has deep pockets and her hem meets above the knee. We are obsessed with the beautiful print, and color scheme that compliments all skin tones!
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0148
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Dena High Slit Satin Formal Dress
Radiate a classic elegant vibe in our stunning satin Dena dress. She features a sleeveless bodice, adjustable spaghetti straps, a trendy square neck, an open back leading to ruched detailing, a high waist seam, a sultry thigh high front slit, and a floor length, curve hugging fit. The dress is composed of a satin-like fabric with moderate 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: 05002-0282
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $42.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Stella Satin Mini Dress with Side Sash
Special Occasion
Made to make an entrance, the Stella dress turns every step into a statement. With a cowl pleated neckline, sleek satin fabric, and a side cascading sash, this bodycon mini silhouette is pure elegance in motion.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Cowl pleated neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette, mini-length hem
- Cascading side sash
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthdays, date nights, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, bachelorettes, bridal showers, weddings, dinner parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000150
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: IVORY
Available Size: L
Product Badge:- Best Seller
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Nala Formal Ruched Strappy Back Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Make a bold statement in the elegant Nala formal long dress for banquets or cocktail parties! Constructed from a luxurious all-over ruched knit fabric, she boasts a sleeveless design, a V-neckline, and bungee spaghetti straps that extend to a striking open strappy back. The mermaid silhouette accentuates your natural curves as it flows to the floor-length hem, making it perfect for any formal event. Complete the look with teardrop earrings and rings.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline
- Bungee spaghetti straps
- Open strappy back design
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- All-over ruched knit fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7782
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Gloria V-Neck Lace Corset Slim Mesh Formal Dress
Special Occasion
A bold beauty like you deserves a look to match with the Gloria lace corset mesh formal dress! Elevate your style with adjustable spaghetti straps and a delicate lace V-neckline. Flexible boning and side ruched seams create a slim silhouette while a side slit adds a touch of allure to the long-length hem. Complete the look with earrings for any formal occasion!
Fit & Features
- Mesh and lace fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- V-neckline, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Flexible boning
- Slim silhouette
- Side slit
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8312
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Isadora Lace Two Piece Chiffon Floral Dress
Special Occasion
Glide through the room and ooze an ethereal presence in our charming Isadora! With a heavenly lace top and a dreamy floral chiffon skirt to match, these complementary pieces are the perfect fit. Our Isadora will have you standing out against the crowd in an enchanting fashion.
Fits & Features
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Off Shoulder Scalloped Neckline & Sheer Short Sleeves
- Lace Crafted Crop Top
- Fully Lined, Chiffon Skirt I Pleating Throughout
- Floor Length Hemline I Wrap Skirt With Slit
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05006-0326
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $42.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Off Shoulder Scalloped Neckline & Sheer Short Sleeves
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Mina Formal Heat Stone Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Illuminate the evening in our dazzling Mina dress that brings glamour to your special evening. She features a partially sheer bodice with an unlined mesh lining, a crew neckline, a sweetheart bust, and sparkling heat stones throughout. Complete your special evening outfit with a dainty rhinestone bracelet.
Fit & Features
- Crew neckline
- Partially-lined bodice with unlined mesh
- Sweetheart bust
- Heat stones
- Long sleeves
- Mini length silhouette
- Lined mesh fabric, form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0517
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $84.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Catalina High Slit Heat Stone Dress
Special Occasion
You'll be competing with the fireworks when you show up to the party in our stunning Catalina!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Plunging V Neckline I Square Back
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I High Side Slit
- Lined Mesh Fabric With Heat Stone Embellishments Throughout
- Curve Hugging Fit
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0333
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Mira Sequin Bead Strappy Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Made for nights that call for all eyes on you, the Mira sequin bead mini dress shimmers with every step. The bodycon silhouette pairs a draped cowl neckline with a delicate strappy open back for an unforgettable finish.
Fit & Features
- Sequin, beaded embellishments, mesh-lined fabric
- Cowl neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Strappy open back
- Bodycon fit, mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Formal dances, bachelorettes, date nights, birthdays, milestone celebrations, rooftop hotel bars, glam soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000247
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: YELLOW, PINK, BLACK, MINT, LIGHT, BLUE
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Jenna Formal Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
Shine on like the life of the party in our sparkling Jenna silver dress! She features a sweetheart neckline, narrow straps, padded cups and princess seams. Her slim fit bodice leads to a curve loving floor length silhouette. She is composed of a lined mesh fabric adorned with dazzling sequins for plenty of shine from your best angles! Dress offers a moderate stretch.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6251
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $24.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kehlani Taffeta A-Line Dress
There's something oh-so-glamorous about the Kehlani dress. This classic dress features a fully lined, scalloped lace bodice with a plunging neckline and A-line waist. It also includes a long taffeta skirt that falls elegantly. Pair with your most alluring drop earrings and encrusted clutch for a glitzy evening look.
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: 05002-6762
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Arianna Sleeveless Cutout Long Slim Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Achieve endless elegance in the gorgeous Arianna sleeveless long formal dress as a bridesmaid, wedding guest, or attending a banquet! Featuring a square neckline and adjustable spaghetti straps for a customizable fit. The cutout front and back design with an elasticized back strap with hook closure provides a perfect fit, while the high side slit and slim silhouette flatter your figure. Complete the look with earrings, a clutch, and heels!
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Cutout front and back
- Elasticized back strap with hook closure, zipper and hook-eye closure
- High side slit
- Slim silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8535
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Alayah Floral Satin Ball Gown
Special OccasionStun like one in a million as you charm in florals! Alayah features a strapless neckline, a sweetheart bust, a no-slip silicone strip, padded cups and built in boning for structure. Her slim fit bodice leads to a voluminous ball gown silhouette accented with hidden side pockets and pleating detailing. She is composed of a white hued textured satin fabric adorned with romantic red roses and green foliage. Her multi layered skirt features a smooth knit lining and petticoat. Dress offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0516
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Kiki Formal Neon Sequin Dress
Special OccasionDazzle as you glow in our spotlight ready Kiki dress! She features a combination neon coral with beige color, a high round neckline and tank-like straps. Her slim fit bodice leads to a curve hugging mini length silhouette to show off your heel game! Dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that is adorned with sparkling sequins set in a baroque inspired pattern. Garment offers a slight stretch and includes a back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-4058
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Jenelle Glitter Sequin Corset Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The Jenelle mini dress catches every glimmer with its glittering sequin mesh. The structured corset bodice and sleek bodycon fit create a striking silhouette that feels as effortless as it looks unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Sequin glitter embellished, mesh fabric, stretch knit lining
- Cowl neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spagehtti straps
- Sheer corset bodice, flexible boning
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette, mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthdays, date nights, bachelorettes, cocktail soirees, rooftop hotel bars, big milestone celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000067
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY, BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Star In Sequins Wrap Midi Dress
The dreamy Star In Sequins midi dress puts you right into the spotlight.
Fits & Features
- Plunging V Neckline
- Scoop Back
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Gathered Design At The Wrap Front I Midi Length Silhouette
- Mesh Knit With Sequin Accents Throughout
- Zipper & Hook And Eye Closure At Back
- Form Hugging Fit I 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: 05001-0277
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $27.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kimberly Sequin One Shoulder Dress
Special Occasion
Kimberly is here for your dramatic entrance into every holiday party! She glistens and gleams in a shimmering array of sequins that dance along her one-shoulder neckline, flowy kimono-style sleeve leading to her draped bodice, and short bodycon silhouette. The formal dress is composed of a sequin-knit fabric with a sewn-in knit lining and minimal stretch. Style your hair with a glamorous comb or barrette to create a flawless side part!
Fit & Features
- One-shoulder neckline
- Kimono-style sleeve
- Draped bodice
- Bodycon silhouette, short-length hem
- Sequin-knit fabric, sewn-in knit lining, minimal stretch
- Strapless bra or pasties recommended
- Fits true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1559
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Gigi Formal Sequin Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
Wrap yourself with shimmering sequins in our glowing Gigi dress! She features a plunging V neckline, fitted long sleeves and wrapped mini length silhouette with a tie waist accent. Her dazzling sequins are set in a floral and leaf print. Dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a form hugging fit with minimal stretch.
Model is 5'9" with a 32" 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: 05001-0164
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Quinn Cross Back Satin Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
Stand out in satin in our luxurious Quinn!
Fits & Features
- Spaghetti Straps Lace-Up & Cross At Back
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Square Neckline I Padded Bust
- Floor Length Hem I Wrap Skirt
- Stretch Satin Fabric
- Curve Hugging Fit
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: 05002-0446
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $27.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Jessica Glitter Knit Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Make a gorgeous and glitzy entrance at your next formal soiree in the stunning Jessica glitter knit mermaid dress. She features a sleeveless square neckline, bungee spaghetti straps that lead to an open back with a lace-up strappy design, a high waist seam, and a floor-length fitted mermaid silhouette. Style this dress with sparkling rhinestone earrings to add all the more glamour to your look.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline
- Bungee spaghetti straps
- Open back, cross-back, lace-up strappy design, tie closure
- High waist seam
- Floor-length fitted mermaid silhouette
- Glitter knit fabric, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
The saturation of glitter varies. Glitter may transfer.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1201
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Lisette Glitter Shine Pleated Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Outshine them all in our gorgeous Lisette! With glitter embellishments from top to bottom, you'll be surprised to see that she'll subtly change hues in the light. The best part are her hidden hand pockets for storing your essentials. Add some extra shine by pairing her with a rhinestone cuff and chandelier earrings!
Fits & Features
- Dual Spaghetti Straps That Crosses At The Back I Buttoned Bar Accent
- Plunging V Neckline I Padded Bust I Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Hemline I Pleated I Petticoat
- Glitter Woven Fabric I Subtly Changes Hues In The Light
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0049
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Aylin Floral Sequin Corset Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Delicate florals meet shimmering sequins in the Aylin corset mini dress, designed to turn elegance into ease. With its curve-sculpting fit and lace-up back, it’s equal parts romantic and chic.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with knit lining, moderate stretch
- Floral print, all-over clear sequin embroidery
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, padded bust
- Corset-style bodice, flexible boning
- Spaghetti straps, open lace-up strappy back, lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Mini-length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthday parties, bridal showers, and formal date nights.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000321
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale