Formal Dresses

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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.

  • Sequined Bombshell Halter Mini Dress

    Dress to impress in this glitzy mini dress. This dress features a halter styling with a cowl neckline. It features a fitted waist, a leg slit, allover sequin embellishment and moderate stretch for the perfect fit.

    Model is 5'3" with a 32" bust, 22.5" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size small.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0086

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $54.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Melissa Formal Metallic Party Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Make it a picture perfect moment in our Melissa dress! She features a beautiful metallic lace detailed bodice, a v-neckline, and adjustable spaghetti straps that tie in the back, her spaghetti straps meet in the back to a square back with a zipper. She has an inner lining, as well as padded cups and her chiffon skirt meets at the waist with a party length silhouette. 

    Model is 5'3" with a 32" bust, 22.5" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size small.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0042

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Gigi Formal Glitter Slit Midi Dress

    Special Occasion

    Outshine the crowd in the Gigi formal glitter dress destined to sparkle at your upcoming holiday parties, celebrations, and date nights! She features a sleeveless cowl neckline, spaghetti straps, an open lace-up back design, a form-hugging silhouette, and a sultry front slit along the midi-length hem. The formal dress is composed of a glitter fabric with a sewn-in knit lining with plenty of stretch. Style with lucite block heels to complete the look! 

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless cowl neckline, spaghetti straps
    • Open lace-up back design
    • Form-hugging silhouette
    • Front slit, midi-length hem
    • Glitter fabric, sewn-in knit lining, moderate stretch
    • Strapless or sticky bra recommended
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1221

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $54.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Yelena Chiffon Slit Gown
    Special Occasion

    Elegant and ethereal, our chiffon Yelena gown is simply stunning. She features adjustable spaghetti straps, a V neck surplice bodice, back zip with hook-and-eye closure, and a full, wrap-style skirt with front slit. Yelena is fully lined and made from a lightweight woven material with little to no stretch.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0011

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Ashley Shine Beaded Waist Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Gorgeous glitter detailing and an intricately beaded waist give our Ashley formal dress her beauty! Bring the romance with a flowy, floor length skirt paired with cascading rhinestone accessories!

    Fit & Features

    • Spaghetti straps
    • Wrap front V neckline | Pleated details
    • Scoop back
    • High belted waistband | Gemstone beaded center accent
    • Hidden back zipper | Hook and eye closure
    • Floor length skirt | Wide banded hem for support
    • Iridescent glitter woven fabric | Two layers of tulle | Woven lining

    Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0008

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $319.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Maria Evening Delicacy Dress
    Special Occasion

    Look sweet enough to eat in our delicate Maria dress! She has a conservative boat neck paired with a padded bust and a delicate crochet back detailed with sparkling beads. Her sleeveless design is composed of a lined lace that offers a moderate stretch and features a high slit. The garment closes with a basic side 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: 05002-5488

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $47.97 $129.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Lainey Floral Sequin Bow Back Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Romantic with a touch of sparkle, the Lainey strapless sequin mini dress is made for unforgettable entrances. The satin bow back detail adds a feminine flourish to the sleek silhouette, making it perfect for any occasion that calls for polished glamour.

    Fit & Features

    • Floral pattern, sequin-embellished, stretchy knit lining
    • Strapless sweetheart satin neckline, padded bra cups
    • Satin bow back detail, zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Curve-hugging, A-line fit
    • Mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, birthdays, bridal celebrations, baby showers, date nights, milestone celebrations, fancy brunches, cocktail soiree

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000206

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $69.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: IVORY

    Available Size: M, L, XXS

    Product Badge:
    • Best Seller
  • Valerie Beaded Vixen Evening Dress
    Special Occasion

    Look like a stunning Vixen in our breath-taking Valerie dress. She has a flattering V neckline paired with wide straps and a sheer, embellished bodice with built in cups. The mesh bodice is complemented with a thin knit, floor length skirt that features a revealing, side slit and offers a comfortable stretch. Valerie includes a hidden back zipper closure.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6433

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $199.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Milena Formal Off The Shoulder Mermaid Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Radiate elegance with a formal dress that truly captivates. Milena features an off-the-shoulder neckline, a pleated taffeta accent at the bodice, and a curve-hugging mermaid silhouette.  The dress is composed of a lined crepe fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with a rhinestone bracelet and heels. 

    Fit & Features

    • Off the shoulder neckline, no-slip strip
    • Pleated taffeta accent, padded cups, flexible boning
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • Lined crepe fabric 
    • Form hugging fit, moderate stretch 
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1653

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $99.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Ellie Lace-Up Sequin Ball Gown

    Special Occasion 

    Lace up in a prom ball gown that will have you camera-ready for stunning pictures at prom! Ellie features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline with a built-in no-slip strip for a secure fit, and padded cups that add support. Her bodice features a damask sequin pattern that leads to a voluminous ball gown skirt with hidden side pockets and pleats. Her back stands out with a stunning lace-up closure that provides a customized fit. She is composed of a lined woven satin fabric that offers a flowy fit with minimal stretch. Includes additional lining and petticoat. Complete prom outfit with rhinestone heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, no-slip strip
    • Padded cups
    • High waist, damask sequin print, pleats
    • Lace-up back
    • Ballgown silhouette
    • Lined woven satin fabric
    • Flowy fit, minimal stretch
    • Runs true to size 

    Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0138

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $199.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Isabelle Halter Cutout Glitter Slim Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    A sparkling glitter formal dress that features a halter neckline, a cutout back that turns heads, and a high front wrap slit along the slim floor-length silhouette. Perfect for the school dance or a black tie gala.

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • Halter neckline with tie closure
    • Cutout back, twist accent
    • High front wrap slit
    • Slim floor-length silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8654

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Della Glitter Knit Twist-Front Cutout Mermaid Dress

    Special Occasion

    Glitzy and chic, the Della formal mermaid dress is crafted with shimmery glitter knit fabric to glam up your next formal affair. It features a sleeveless V-neckline with a built-in padded bust, a dual twist-front design with a keyhole cutout under the bust, and a floor-sweeping mermaid silhouette to flaunt your stunning curves.

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter knit fabric with knit lining at the bust, plenty of stretch
    • V-neckline with padded bust
    • Dual twist-front design, ruching, keyhole cutout
    • Spaghetti straps
    • Floor-length mermaid silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8853

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Danica Pearl And Sequin Floral Embroidered Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Danica pearl and sequin floral mini dress is a stunning style for brides or birthday babes! She shines in an adorable sweetheart neckline and a flattering form-hugging fit. Pair with a necklace.

    Fit & Features

    • Sheer mesh fabric with dual knit linings, minimal stretch
    • Floral embroidery, faux pearl beading and sequin embellishments
    • Sweetheart neckline with padded bust, underbust seam
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • High waist seam
    • Mini-length form-hugging fit
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2320

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $89.90

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Ever Formal Sequin Midi Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Dazzle and impress them all as you shine in our sparkling Ever dress! 

    Fit & Features

    • Off The Shoulder Neckline 
    • Plunging Wired V-Neck Bust
    • Sequins
    • Scroll Print 
    • Lined Mesh 
    • Form Hugging Fit 
    • Minimal Stretch 

    Model is 5'9" with a 34" 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: 05001-0275

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $31.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Viviana Floral Embroidered Corset Ruffled Skater Dress

    Special Occasion

    Romance comes alive in the Viviana floral embroidered corset skater dress, designed with a tiered ruffled skirt that twirls with every step. A flattering lace-up back and structured bodice create the perfect balance of elegance and allure.

    Fit & Features

    • Sheer tulle fabric, satin woven, tulle, and stretchy knit linings
    • Sleeveless V-neckline, lined and padded bust
    • Sheer corset bodice, flexible boning, sequin and beaded embroidered floral applique
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Open lace-up back design, lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • Short skater silhouette, tiered ruffled design
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, formal birthday parties, and fancy affairs.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000111

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $119.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Danica Long Formal Gown

    Special Occasion

    Introducing our Danica gown! She has a little edge, she has a little sex appeal, and she has a lot of intricate detailing!

    Fit & Features

    • Sweetheart neckline
    • Deep V notch | Padded cups
    • Crepe
    • Side slit
    • Long hemline
    • Back keyhole cut out I Adjustable self-ties 
    • Fitted silhouette | Moderate stretch

    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: 05002-0371

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $20.97 $54.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Cecilia Formal Sequin Mermaid Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Dazzle and shine in shimmering sequins! Cecilia features a deep navy blue hue, a partially lined bodice, a high round neckline with beaded trim detailing, a sweetheart bust lining and a floor length mermaid silhouette. Her skirt is partially unlined to create a dramatically flared effect. Her all over mesh fabric is adorned with sparkling sequins and beaded detailing throughout. She 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: 05002-6205

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $99.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Casey Bodycon Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    A sultry statement made for the spotlight, The Casey turns heads with its sleek knit finish, sculpting bodycon silhouette, and effortlessly draped cowl neck. Built for after-dark entrances and unforgettable exits, this mini is your RSVP-ready moment.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleek knit fabric, moderate stretch
    • Cowl neck, padded bra cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper closure
    • Bodycon silhouette
    • Mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, weddings, dinner parties, date nights, birthdays, bachelorettes, milestone celebrations, engagement parties, cocktail soirees

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000131

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $49.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: YELLOW

    Available Size: XS, S, M, L

  • Jolie Formal Lace Up Gown

    Special Occasion

    Compliments will be coming at you from left to right. Look absolutely dreamy and breathtaking in our stunning Jolie! 

    Fits & Features

    • Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
    • Plunging V Neckline I Lace Up Detail At Back 
    • Hidden Hand Pockets 
    • Floor Length Skirt I A-Line Silhouette 
    • Lined, Woven Fabric I Slight Sheen 
    • Form Hugging Fit 

     

    Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size 3.

     

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0073

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $136.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Mary Formal Sequin Lace Dress
    Special Occasion

    Sway under the lights in our glamorous Mary dress! She features an all over navy blue hue, a sleeveless bodice, a square neckline, a racer bust with a scalloped lace trim, padded cups, adjustable narrow straps and princess seams. Her slim fit bodice leads to a floor length silhouette. She is composed of a lined floral lace fabric adorned with dazzling sequin details for plenty of shine! Dress offers a form hugging fit with minimal stretch. Includes a lower back zipper closure with a fish hook clasp. 

    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: 05002-6584

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $32.97 $89.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Charlie Lace-Up A-Line Pleated Satin Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    It's impossible to be anything but graceful in the Charlie A-line satin formal dress at galas, black-tie weddings, or soirees! The luxurious pleated satin fabric adds an elegant touch.  With a V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, and a lace-up back, this floor-length gown creates a sophisticated A-line silhouette. Complete the look with earrings and a clutch purse.

    Fit & Features

    • Pleated satin fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • V-neckline
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
    • A-line silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7985

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $109.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Emmaline Lace Trim Cutout Crepe Mermaid Dress

    Special Occasion

    Showcase your stunning curves in the Emmaline mermaid dress at your next formal affair. The crepe dress is designed with a sleeveless sweetheart neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customized fit, a sheer lace back leading to a lower back cutout with a dainty lace trim, and a floor-length mermaid silhouette to flaunt your gorgeous figure.

    Fit & Features

    • Crepe fabric, moderate stretch
    • Sweetheart neckline, structured bust
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Sheer lace back design, hook-eye closures
    • Lower back cutout, lace trim, zipper closure
    • Floor-length mermaid silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8767

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Briella Sequin Beaded Bodycon Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Built for the spotlight, the Briella beaded sequin bodycon mini dress is glam allure in motion. The fitted silhouette and lace-up back detail promise a show-stopping entrance for any night made to be remembered.

    Fit & Features

    • Sheer mesh fabric with knit lining, moderate stretch
    • Sequin and beaded embroidery, swirl pattern
    • Sleeveless V-neckline, padded bust
    • Spaghetti straps, open cross-back lace-up strappy design
    • Lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • Mini-length bodycon silhouette
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, birthday festivities, bachelorette parties, and glam nights out.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000181

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $79.90

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Riley Lace Floral Two Piece Dress

    Make it a night to remember in our beyond gorgeous Riley two piece dress! She features a lace top with a square neck and back, long fitted sheer sleeves, and a cropped hem. Her foiled floral printed satin party skirt has a high rise waist and a woven lining with a tulle hem for added flare.

    Model is 5'3" with a 32" bust, 22.5" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size three.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05006-0023

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $79.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance