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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Jaclyn Long Sleeve Sequin Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Dazzle them all away in our beyond gorgeous Jaclyn sequin mini dress! She features long fitted sleeves, a deep V neckline, and a high banded waist with a mini length curve-hugging silhouette. Pair this stunning dress with strappy heels for an elongated look.
Fit & Features
- Long fitted sleeves
- V neckline
- Back zipper closure
- High rise banded waist
- Short, form-hugging fit
- Allover sequin detailing
- Knit lining
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0479
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Bertha Rhinestone Lace-Up Party Dress
Special Occasion
Steal the show and look stunning in the Bertha rhinestone mini party dress! She shines in a sleeveless V-neckline with a sheer mesh insert, spaghetti straps that lace up along the open back sure to turn heads, a bodycon silhouette, mini-length hem. The formal party dress is composed of a glam rhinestone embellished mesh fabric with a stretchy satin knit lining. Complete the look with earrings for a Vegas weekend!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, sheer mesh insert
- Spaghetti straps, lace-up open back
- Lower back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette, mini-length hem
- Rhinestone-embellished mesh fabric, satin stretchy knit lining
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1628
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Eden Lace-Up Layered Skater Dress
Special Occasion
Light on its feet and big on charm, the Eden dress brings flirty movement to every step with its layered skater silhouette and soft, swirling hem. A lace-up back adds just the right touch of drama for your most RSVP-worthy moments.
Fit & Features
- Organza woven fabric, crinoline and woven linings
- Cowl neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Layered voluminous skater silhouette
- Short-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, weddings, birthdays, milestone celebrations, engagement parties, shower celebrations, date night, garden parties, cocktail soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000071
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.97 $159.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Bella Formal Sequin Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
Radiate a captivating look as you dazzle in our mesmerizing Bella dress! Her sequins sparkle from all your best angles!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline
- Draped Strap Accent
- Long Sleeves
- Sequins
- Lined Mesh
- Wrap Silhouette
- Relaxed Fit | Slight Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0486
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Amber Formal Floral Wrap Dress
Special OccasionWrap yourself in captivating florals to create a naturally gorgeous look! Amber features a sleeveless bodice, a scoop neckline, padded cups and adjustable straps that lead to a lattice back. Her slim fit bodice leads to floor length wrap skirt accented with hidden side pockets and a high side slit. She is composed of a lined ivory textured satin fabric adorned with a yellow and purple hued floral print. Dress 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 three.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6556
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Blanca Formal Sequin Halter Gown
Special OccasionBring the white heat in Blanca, a showstopping sequined gown with plenty of sizzle. She features a dramatic, choker-style high neck, open back, a sequined mesh overlay, and zipper closure. Blanca is a bodycon style through the bodice and hips with a gently fluted lower portion, pooling at the hem.
Model is 5'9" with a 32" 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: 05002-6492
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Maple Pleated Satin Cross Back Dress
Special Occasion
Crafted from a lightweight satin fabric, our gorge Maple will have eyes trailing your every move! A deep plunge neckline falls right into her flowy floor-length hem. Her pretty sheen finish creates an everlasting glow that can be seen from miles away!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
- Plunging V Neckline I Lightly Padded Bust
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Sweeping Floor-Length Hemline I Pleating Details
- Satin-Like Fabric With Pretty Sheen Finish I Partial, Mini Length Lining
- Form Hugging Fit
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: 05002-0404
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Ramona Rhinestone Cross Back Crepe Dress
Special Occasion
At first glance, our Ramona showcases a streamline and lovely silhouette. Her floor-length hem features a sultry front slit, letting you show off those heels. But on the back, sparkling and glowing rhinestones add a glamorous factor to the look. We picture you wearing our Ramona with soft curls and twinkling jewelry to match!
Fits & Features
- Rhinestone Encrusted Shoulder Straps | Cross Back | Dual Bar Accents
- Cowl Back
- Scoop Neckline
- Floor Length Hem | Front Slit
- Crepe Lined Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit | Moderate Stretch
- Side Zipper
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0875
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Tatiana Formal Floral High Slit A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Make a head-turning entrance with a breathtaking formal dress that draws all eyes on you. Tatiana features a sleeveless V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, a floral print, hidden side pockets, a high side slit, and a flowy A-line silhouette. She is composed of a lined satin fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with minimal stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels and a satin clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, open back design
- Floral Print
- Hidden side pockets
- High side slit
- A-line silhouette
- Satin fabric, form-hugging fit, runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1220
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Elissa Sleeveless A-Line Ruffle Pleated Tulle Gown
Special Occasion
Take a risk and be the center of attention in the Elissa tulle gown as a stunning prom or birthday princess! Twirl and dance the night away in her airy ruffled tulle silhouette with delicate pleating for extra drama plus, she has a full woven lining to give you coverage. The ruffle-trim V-neckline and adjustable straps enhance your curves, while the A-line silhouette and floor-length hem create an elegant and timeless look. Perfect for a special occasion or formal event, you'll feel like a beauty in this formal gown! Complete the look with an elegant necklace and earrings.
Fit & Features
- Pleated tulle, ruffles, full woven lining
- Ruffle trim adjustable straps and V-neckline
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- A-Line silhouette
- Bra-friendly design
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0113
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $209.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Sherry Sequin Halter A-Line Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Built for your slow-motion entrance, the Sherry A-line dress catches every glimmer with its all-over sequin detailing. The halter sweetheart neckline adds just the right amount of drama to this event-ready silhouette.
Fit & Features
- Sequin-embellished pattern, mesh-lined fabric
- Sweetheart halter neckline, tie closure, padded bra cups
- Curve-hugging, A-line silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, big birthday events, bachelorette, date nights, cocktail soiree, GNO, rooftop hotel bar, Vegas
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000156
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Lena Floral Two Piece Dress
Special OccasionCreate a romantic look in gorgeous florals! Lena features a combination red with black hue and a two piece design. Her floral lace crop top features a high round neckline with a double button closure at the nape of the neck, a sweetheart neck bust, padded cups and dazzling sequins throughout. Her matching skirt features a high waist, vertical seams, a flared mermaid silhouette and a floral print pattern. Her multi-tiered skirt is composed of a textured satin-like fabric and accented with a voluminous petticoat. Dress offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch and includes zipper closures.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05006-0506
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $49.97 $134.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Grace Two Piece Lace & Chiffon Dress
Special Occasion
Make a standout statement in our gorge Grace! Her solid glittery top and flowy floral skirt is just the combo you need for all your special soirees!
Fits & Features
- Sleeveless Lace Crop Top I Padded, Lined Bust I Glitter Throughout
- Crew Neckline I Back Zipper
- High Waist Skirt With Floral Prints Throughout
- Flowy, Floor Length Hem I A-Line Silhouette
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 35.5" hips. She is wearing a size 3.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05006-0509
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $124.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Marianna Strapless Embellished Velvet Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Showcase a fiery look in the sultry and stunning Marianna formal mini dress! She features a strapless neckline with an angled design, a ruched bodice with gorgeous faux pearl and iridescent rhinestone embellishments, a sheer mesh insert at the hem with matching embellishments, and a short, curve-hugging silhouette. The luxe velvet fabric includes a knit lining and offers a moderate stretch. Style with rhinestone fringe earrings and strappy stilettos for a glam night out.
Fit & Features
- Strapless neckline, angled design, flexible boning, no-slip strip
- Strapless or adhesive bra recommended
- Ruched bodice, faux pearls, iridescent rhinestones
- Back zipper, hook and eye closure
- Sheer mesh insert at the hem, matching embellishments
- Mini-length hem, fitted bodycon silhouette
- Smooth velvet fabric, knit lining, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1329
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Evie Sequin Floral Embroidered Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Delicately detailed with floral embroidery and shimmering sequins, the Evie mini dress brings a touch of romance to a chic bodycon silhouette. Elevated yet effortless, it’s a look destined to be remembered.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with knit lining
- Floral embroidery with sequin accents
- Sleeveless square neckline, underbust seam
- Tank shoulder straps
- Back zipper closure
- Mini-length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, wedding guests, dinner parties, birthday celebrations, and fancy date nights.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000108
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: L, XL
Product Badge:- Best Seller
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Delani Sequin Corset Tulle A-Line Party Dress
Special Occasion
Make an entrance in the Delani corset party dress at homecoming, birthdays, or dressy banquets! She features adjustable spaghetti straps a V-neckline, and padded bra cups for added support. The sheer corset bodice and flexible boning create a flattering silhouette, while the sequin embellishments add a touch of glamour. Completed with a short-length tulle hem, this dress is perfect for any special occasion. Style with heels and jewelry for a jaw-dropping finish!
This dress proves that short and stylish is always a vibe. Want more? Discover our bold short prom dresses or find a celebration-ready fit in our party dresses.
Fit & Features
- Tulle fabric, woven and stretchy knit linings with tulle trim
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- V-neckline
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Padded bra cups
- Sheer corset bodice, flexible boning, sequin embellished
- A-line silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2357
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Lhea Satin Floral A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Show your feminity in our lovely Lhea! Her flowy silhouette features romantic floral prints throughout.
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Plunging V Neckline
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Side Seam Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Hemline I A-Line Silhouette
- Lined, Satin Fabric I Floral Prints Throughout
- Form-Flattering Fit I Moderate Stretch
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: 05002-0414
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $37.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Angeline Formal High Slit Dress
Special OccasionMake an entrance for the ages in our captivating Angeline dress! She features a sweetheart neckline, a built in no slip strip and off the shoulder strap accents. The slim fit bodice leads to a curve hugging floor length silhouette with an asymmetrical high side slit. Dress is composed of a lined crepe fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch.
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size smallSpecial Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6735
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $46.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Billie Pleated Floral Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Stun in florals as you make an enchanting entrance in our captivating Billie ball gown! Her florals charm while her dramatic ball gown silhouette brings the drama! Pair hair with a rhinestone headband and glitzy heels to complete her look!
Fit & Features
- V-Neckline | Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Mesh Waist Insets
- Hidden Side Pockets
- Pleated Ball Gown Silhouette
- Floral Print
- Petticoat | Wide Banded Hem
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0112
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Anika Glitter Bow Skater Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Made for the RSVP that calls for turning heads, the Anika glitter dress is equal parts flirty and refined. Cut from shimmer-kissed knit with a twirl-worthy skater silhouette, its dramatic back bow makes every exit feel like a moment.
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit fabric
- Halter square neckline
- Open back with bow
- Hidden side pockets
- Skater silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, weddings, birthdays, date nights, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, cocktail soirees, milestone celebrations, rooftop hotel bars
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000020
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XXS
Product Badge:- Best Seller
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Hayde Formal Floral Lace Up Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Flaunt your florals in the stunning Hayde ball gown at prom! She's designed with side pockets for keeping your hands warm in between dancing and taking amazing prom pics. Her sleeveless boat neck features a built-in padded bust and adjustable spaghetti straps that shape the open-back lace-up detail perfect for showcasing some skin. She has a structured bodice with flexible boning inserts, a high-waist seam, and pleats along her A-line silhouette. The ball gown is composed of a floral printed woven fabric with multi-layers for a voluminous effect. Complete the look in statement earrings.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless boat neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Built-in padded bust, adhesive bra recommended
- Back zipper and lace-up closure, side pockets
- Structured bodice, flexible boning, high-waist seam
- Pleated A-line silhouette
- Floral printed woven fabric, multi-layers, no stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0141
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $139.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Ariana Strapless Ruffled Mesh Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Feel like absolute royalty in the dreamy Ariana ruffled mesh formal dress that will create an enchanting look for any fancy affair! She features a strapless sweetheart neckline, a fitted bodice with flexible boning inserts to provide structure and ruched detailing, a high waist seam, a floor-sweeping hem with a tiered ruffled mesh design, and a flowy A-line silhouette. The airy lightweight mesh fabric includes a full-length knit lining. Complete the look with radiant rhinestone earrings.
Fit & Features
- Strapless sweetheart neckline
- Fitted bodice, flexible boning inserts, ruching
- High waist seam, back zipper, hook and eye closure
- Floor-sweeping hem, tiered ruffled mesh design, A-line silhouette
- Sheer mesh fabric, full-length knit lining, minimal stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7080
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kayley Formal Metallic Slit Long Dress
Special Occasion
Shimmery metallic shines bright on the sultry Kayley formal dress to capture every eye at the school dance or banquet! She features a sleeveless one-shoulder with a spaghetti strap, a front ruched seam to accentuate your curves, and a high-cut front slit to show some skin along the curve-hugging, slim long silhouette. The formal dress is composed of a metallic knit fabric with moderate stretch. Complete the look in lace-up heels and a clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless, one-shoulder neck, spaghetti strap
- Front ruched seam, high-cut front slit
- Curve-hugging, slim silhouette
- Long-length hem
- Metallic knit fabric, moderate stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7150
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Gracie Velvet and Bow High Slit Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Dare to attract attention in the Gracie velvet formal dress with a chic satin bow, high front slit for movement, and a flattering mermaid silhouette. Complete the look with heels.
Fit & Features
- Velvet fabric with knit-lined bust, moderate stretch
- Sleeveless square neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Satin bow accent trim at the bust
- High front slit
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8618
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free