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.

  • Yadira Formal Satin Dress

    Special Occasion

    We envision a stunning first impression you'll make in our sultry Yadira! 

    Fits & Features

    • Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
    • V Neck & Back I Vertical Darts At The Bust
    • Elongated, Floor Length Hem 
    • Satin-Like Fabric I Fully Lined 
    • Form Flattering Fit I Moderate Stretch
    • Zipper Not Included

     

     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: 05002-0493

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Nani Formal High Slit Lurex Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Bring the glow to your evening with a formal dress that illuminates the night. The dress features a sleeveless V-neckline, a double row of adjustable spaghetti straps, a lace-up back design, a high side slit, and a flowy A-line silhouette. The dress is composed of a lined glitter knit fabric that offers a form-hugging fit. Complete the look with glitter heels and a rhinestone clutch.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless V-neckline, padded bust
    • Double-row of adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Lace-up back, back zipper and hook and eye closure 
    • High side slit
    • Flowy A-line silhouette
    • Lurex glitter knit fabric, knit lining, form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1283

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $84.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Bonnie Formal Metallic Two-Piece A-Line Dress

    Special Occasion

    Fun, flirty, and fabulous! The Bonnie formal two-piece dress set is an absolute stunner for prom, quinceaneras, and red-carpet events. She shines in a cute crop top with a sleeveless square neck, adjustable straps, and a back zipper closure. The matching skirt features a high-rise waist, back zipper closure, hidden side pockets, all-around pleating along her flattering A-line silhouette, and floor-length hem. The two-piece top and skirt formal set is composed of iridescent metallic fabric with a flawless sheen under any lighting! Complete the look in platform heels and a clutch.

    Fit & Features

    • Two-piece top and skirt formal set
    • Crop top, sleeveless, square neck, adjustable straps
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure, padded bust
    • High-rise skirt, pleating, back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Hidden side pockets, A-line silhouette, floor-length hem
    • Iridescent metallic fabric, multi-layers of tulle and woven linings
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05006-0543

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $139.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Farrah Strapless Mermaid Glitter Ombre Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    You'll be glowing all night in the Farrah glitter ombre formal dress for striking photos at prom, banquets, or red carpet events! The strapless neckline, flexible boning, and side ruching provide a flattering silhouette, while the glitter ombre mesh fabric adds a touch of luxury. Perfect for any special occasion, this floor-length hem dress will make you feel glamorous and exclusive! Complete the look with a clutch and strappy heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter ombre mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • Back zipper closure
    • Flexible boning
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • Strapless bra or sticky bra recommended
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8454

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $84.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Refined Chic Cowl Ruffled Midi Dress

    Dress to impress in this refined chic midi dress! With its flattering sleeveless cowl neckline, sleek spaghetti straps, and form-hugging design, you'll make a statement at any event. The asymmetrical ruffled midi-length hem adds a touch of feminine charm to the smooth knit fabric. Complete the look in stiletto heels for a rehearsal dinner or cocktail soiree!

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless cowl neckline
    • Spaghetti straps
    • Form-hugging design
    • Asymmetrical ruffled midi-length hem
    • Smooth knit fabric, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-2961

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $6.97 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Madi Strapless Crepe Satin A-Line Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Arrive in the Madi floor-length formal dress at the gala or black tie event! The formal dress is designed with a sleek crepe strapless bodice that leads to the A-line satin skirt that gives this dress a luxe look. Pair with a necklace.

    Flawlessly chic and bold, this dress is a statement. If strapless styles are your go-to, explore our strapless prom dresses or embrace effortless fashion with our formal dresses.

    Fit & Features

    • Knit lining with bonded edge trim
    • Strapless crepe bodice
    • Padded bra cups
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Satin A-line floor-length skirt
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9168

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $49.97 $99.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Ruby Floral Sequin Halter Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Flirt with the spotlight in the Ruby dress—a mini that shimmers with floral sequin detail and soft draping at the halter cowl neckline. The bodycon fit sculpts and shines, made for the kind of night that lingers.

    Fit & Features

    • Floral sequin pattern, mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • Cowl halter neckline, padded bra cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Bodycon fit, mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, birthdays, milestone events, Vegas, bachelorettes, glam parties, date nights

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000333

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $59.90

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Elle Ruffled Tiered A-Line Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Make every head turn in the Elle ruffled tiered formal dress designed with a flattering scoop neckline atop a fitted bodice that leads to the A-line floor-length silhouette. Pair with a necklace and earrings set for a gala.

    Make a statement in this stunning dress. Love bold details? Explore our playful ruffle prom dresses or find a sleek look in our formal dresses.

    Fit & Features

    • Ruffled tiered mesh-lined fabric with tulle trim
    • Sleeveless scoop neckline, padded bra cups
    • Satin adjustable spaghetti straps
    • A-line silhouette
    • Floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0259

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $149.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Rosalind Mini Party Dress

    Special Occasion

    Represent in our Rosalind! She features an off shoulder neckline, long sleeves and a short hem that hits mid thigh. She showcases a dazzling heat stone pattern that is here to shine! Rosalind offers slight stretch with a form fitting silhouette.

    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: 05001-0205

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $31.97 $74.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Michelle Corset Sequin Applique Ruffle Skater Dress

    Special Occasion

    With a standout look like the Michelle sequin skater dress, you'll boast a noteworthy shine all night at homecoming, birthdays, or banquets! Made from an airy mesh fabric adorned with applique and sequin embellishments with multiple knit and tulle linings with a bonded seam for extra flounce. She features adjustable shoulder straps and a sweetheart neckline, with padded bra cups for support. The sheer corset bodice features flexible boning and scallop trim, while the ruffled skater silhouette and short-length hem add a touch of elegance. Complete the look with rhinestone jewelry and heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Airy mesh fabric, sequin embellished and applique
    • Multiple knit and tulle linings with bonded seam
    • Adjustable shoulder straps, sweetheart neckline
    • Padded bra cups, sheer corset bodice, flexible boning
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Scallop ruffled skater silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2175

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $159.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Haisley Formal Satin A-Line Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Bring the elegance and sophistication in our breathtaking Haisley satin dress! She captivates with her caged back and sweeping A-line silhouette! Pair her with dazzling rhinestones and glam heels for a luxe look!

    Fit & Features

    • Square Neckline 
    • Tank-Like Shoulder Straps
    • Open Back | Caged Strap Design
    • Hidden Side Pockets
    • High Side Slit 
    • A-Line Silhouette 
    • Satin Fabric 

    Model is 5'7" with a 34" 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: 05002-0690

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $159.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Harlow Formal Gown

    Special Occasion

    Watch heads turn in our Harlow gown. With a stunning form fitting silhouette, a deep v neckline, and spaghetti straps that cross in the back to a lace up detail. Her bodice showcases a contrasting X design at the waist, her hem sweeps the floor and she features a high thigh slit. She is composed of a crepe material that offers moderate stretch. Stunning!

    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: 05002-0203

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Nori Formal Plunging Satin Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Take the plunge in luxe satin as you wow them all in our fiery Nori dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a plunging wired V neckline with padded cups, adjustable spaghetti straps and vertical princess seams. Her slim fit bodice features a pleated detailing and leads to a sweeping floor length silhouette. Dress offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch.

    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: 05002-0237

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $89.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Hannah Sequin Lace-Up Bodycon Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Unlock a gorgeous shimmer in the Hannah sequin mini dress! Dare to stand out in this bodycon dress boasting a lace-up back that turns heads and a flirty mini-length hem perfect for the dancefloor.

    Fit & Features

    • Sequin embellished pattern, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Scoop neckline, padded bra cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Lace-up back
    • Bodycon silhouette, mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, birthdays, milestone celebrations, date night, bachelorettes, Vegas, girls' night

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000214

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Addie Formal High Slit Wrap Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Wrap yourself in a formal dress that captivates from the moment you enter the room! Addie features a plunging V-neckline, a wrap silhouette, and a high slit. The dress is composed of a ribbed smooth knit fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless V-neckline
    • Wrap silhouette 
    • High slit
    • Ribbed smooth knit fabric
    • Form hugging fit, moderate stretch 
    • Runs true to size

     

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1573

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Shelby Sleeveless Sequin Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Shelby sequin mini dress will give you a stunning look for your next night out with the girls! She features a sleeveless bodice, adjustable spaghetti straps that lead to a cross-back design, a V neckline with a bust outline and bust padding, and a short, form-hugging silhouette. The dress is composed of a sheer mesh fabric adorned with a chic sequin pattern and includes a full knit lining. Complete your outfit with rhinestone duster earrings and new heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Cross-back design
    • V neckline
    • Bust outline, padded bust
    • Back zipper and hook and eye closure
    • Mini-length, form-hugging fit
    • Sheer mesh fabric with a sequin pattern
    • Stretchy knit lining

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0544

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $44.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Patty Mesh Rhinestone Party Dress

    Special Occasion

    Both sexy and charming, the Patty mini dress is ready to party at birthdays and Vegas bachelorette weekends! She features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline, sleek bungee spaghetti straps, a padded bust eliminating the need for a bra, all-over ruched seams to accentuate your curves along her bodycon silhouette, and a mini-length. The formal party dress is composed of a mesh fabric with sparkly rhinestone embellishments and a sewn-in knit lining with plenty of stretch. Complete the look with stiletto pumps.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, bungee spaghetti straps
    • Padded bust, no bra required
    • All-over ruched seams, bodycon silhouette
    • Mini-length hem
    • Rhinestone embellishments
    • Mesh fabric, sewn-in knit lining, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1112

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Cassia Formal Rhinestone Bustier Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Ready to get dressed up? The Cassia formal rhinestone mini dress will take your party look to the next level! She showcases a sexy bustier sweetheart bodice with a padded bust and structured underwire, rhinestone embellished adjustable spaghetti straps, and a bodycon silhouette that flaunts your curves. Crafted from a lightweight lined mesh fabric, this formal mini dress features all-over rhinestone embellishments in clear, pink, and iridescent hues in an intricate design. Complete the look in sleek silver heels for a bachelorette or a party!

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless sweetheart bustier bodice, padded bust, structured underwire
    • Adjustable rhinestone embellished spaghetti straps
    • Side zipper, hook and eye closure
    • Bodycon silhouette, mini-length hem
    • All-over clear, pink, and iridescent rhinestone embellishments
    • Lightweight sheer mesh fabric, full-length stretchy knit lining
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1925

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $49.97 $109.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Julina Wrap Satin Dress

    Special Occasion

    Elevate your OOTN with our sultry Julina! Add a pair of rhinestone heels to really amp up your look. 

    Fits & Features

    • Adjustable Spaghetti Straps 
    • Surplice V Neckline I Low Open Back With Zipper 
    • Floor Length Skirt With Wrap Skirt Design 
    • Lined, Stretch Satin Fabric 
    • Form Hugging Fit 

     

    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: 05002-0448

      Category Name: Formal Dresses

      Price: $27.97 $64.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Ships Free
    • Tessa Formal Sleeveless Glitter Dress

      Special Occasion

      Bring the shine to your evening with our shimmering Tessa dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V neckline with padded cups and spaghetti straps that cross at the back. Her relaxed fit bodice leads to a curve hugging mermaid silhouette that brings the flare! Dress is composed of a lined glitter knit fabric that offers a 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: 05002-0369

      Category Name: Formal Dresses

      Price: $20.97 $59.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Clearance
    • Samantha Glitter Knit Formal Dress

      Special Occasion

      Showcase a stunning sparkle in the gorgeous and glam Samantha formal dress! She features a sleeveless high neckline, a sexy keyhole cutout at the bust, an open back with straps in a cross-back design, and a floor-length, slim-fit silhouette. The dress is composed of a glitter knit fabric for a pretty shine. Style this dress with rhinestone statement earrings and heels.

      Fit & Features

      • Sleeveless high neckline
      • Keyhole cutout at the bust
      • Open back, cross-back straps
      • High waist seam
      • Floor-length, slim-fit silhouette
      • Glitter knit fabric
      • Runs true to size

       

      The saturation of glitter varies. Glitter may transfer. 

      Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0918

      Category Name: Formal Dresses

      Price: $14.97 $62.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Sale
    • Caroline Sequin Lace-Up Mini Dress

      Special Occasion

      Made for the moments that call for shimmer and confidence, the Kennedy dress stuns with all-over sequins, a sculpted bodycon silhouette, and an open lace-up back that brings just the right touch of drama.

      Fit & Features

      • Sequin embellished, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
      • Square neckline, padded bra cups
      • Spaghetti straps
      • Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
      • Bodycon silhouette, mini-length hem
      • Runs true to size

       

      Where to Wear:

      Homecoming, birthdays, date nights, milestone celebrations, bachelorettes, Vegas

      Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000315

      Category Name: Formal Dresses

      Price: $29.97 $59.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Sale
    • Avah Formal Boucle Mermaid Dress
      Special Occasion 

      Enchant and allure them all in our unforgettable Avah dress! She features an all over ivory hue, a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V neckline, padded cups and wide tank-like straps that lead to a a double row of straps. Her slim fit bodice leads to a curve hugging mermaid silhouette accented with vertical seams to create an hourglass illusion. She is composed of a lined woven bocule fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Includes a smooth knit lining and back zipper closure.

      Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

      Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6306

      Category Name: Formal Dresses

      Price: $19.97 $84.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Clearance
    • Karlie Formal Ruffled Rhinestone Dress
      Special Occasion

      Charm in ruffles as you radiate in our Karlie dress! She brings the magic in her lavender hue, sleeveless bodice, a sweetheart neckline, padded cups narrow shoulder straps and princess seams. Her waist features a dazzling rhinestone trim and leads to a multi-tiered ruffled skirt with gorgeous shades of lavender for an ombre effect. Dress is composed a combination lined lurex and mesh fabric that offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. 

      Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

      Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6352

      Category Name: Formal Dresses

      Price: $19.97 $79.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Clearance