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.

  • Brynn Long Sleeve Glitter Cutout Mermaid Dress

    Special Occasion

    The long glitter knit dress features a high boat neckline, fitted long sleeves, a bold waist cutout, ruching, a high side slit, and a mermaid silhouette. Complete the formal outfit with a rhinestone clutch.

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter knit fabrication
    • Boat neckline
    • Fitted long sleeves
    • Waist cutout
    • Ruching
    • High side slit
    • Long hem length
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8664

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $74.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Laney Rhinestone Pearl Velvet Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Strut into the party like the fabulous fashion babe you know you are in the luxe Laney formal mini dress! She features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline with a bustier-style bodice, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customized fit, and a back zipper closure. The dress has a mini-length hem with a fitted bodycon silhouette, an intricate faux pearl and rhinestone embellished swirl design at the side, followed by a chic high side slit with cascading rhinestone fringe. The smooth velvet fabric offers a moderate stretch. Complete the look with platform heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sweetheart neckline, non-slip grip lining
    • Strapless or sticky bra recommended
    • Keyhole mesh cutout under the bust, underwire bust
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper, hook and eye closure
    • High waist seam, bodycon mini-length hem with side slit
    • Faux pearl and rhinestone swirl design, rhinestone fringe trim
    • Velvet fabric, knit lining at the bust, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1183

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $49.97 $99.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Robyn Formal Glitter Cutout Midi Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Robyn formal glitter midi dress is perfect for making a chic statement and sophisticated style! Beautifully appointed with a cowl neckline, spaghetti straps, and a cutout bodice, this bodycon midi dress is an elegant choice for any special occasion. The glitter-lined fabric provides a touch of luxe, and the front slit details add a flirty allure along her midi-length hem. Complete the look with earrings for a banquet or cocktail party.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless cowl neckline
    • Spaghetti straps, cutout bodice
    • Bodycon silhouette
    • Front slit, midi-length hem
    • Glitter fabric, bust knit lining, minimal stretch
    • Strapless bra recommended
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1947

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Heidi Floral Embroidered Sequin Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    A sparkle moment worth remembering—The Heidi dress turns heads with its embroidered sequin floral pattern, bodycon silhouette, and sleek square neckline. Perfect for the RSVP that demands your best-dressed look.

    Fit & Features

    • Floral embroidered sequin embellished pattern
    • Mesh-lined fabric
    • Square neck, wide shoulder straps
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Bodycon silhouette 
    • Mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, birthdays, date nights, milestone celebrations, rooftop hotel bars, bachelorettes, bridal showers, GNO, dinner cocktail parties

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000107

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $69.90

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Hayden Fancy Floral Ball Gown

    Special Occasion

    Show some romantic flair in our lovely Hayden! Her voluminous ball gown and beautiful floral prints will make you the center of attention! 

    Fits & Features 

    • Adjustable Shoulder Straps
    • Wire V Neckline I Lightly Padded Bust
    • Square Back With Zipper & Hook And Eye Closure
    • Hidden Hand Pockets 
    • Floor Length Hem I Ball Gown Silhouette I Petticoat 
    • Woven Lined Fabric I Floral Prints Throughout 
    • Moderate Stretch 

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0012

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $139.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Camille Formal High Slit Glitter Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Make it a gleaming glitzy affair in our glowing Camille dress! She features an all over silver hue, an off the shoulder neckline, a wired sweetheart bust, padded cups, princess seams and short sleeves. Her slim fit bodice leads to a floor length silhouette accented with a high side slit. She is composed of a lined mesh fabric adorned with floral lace and glitter details. Dress offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Includes a back zipper closure with a fish hook clasp. Glitter will transfer.

    Model is 5'7" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 37" hips. She is wearing a size small

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6672

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $32.97 $89.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Jacinda Lace Cutout Waist Gown

    Special Occasion

    Show a hint of skin in our elegant lace Jacinda gown! She has a curve-flattering cut and features adjustable cross-back spaghetti straps anchored by a V-neck bodice with scallop trim, a cutout panel at front waist, and a long, slim-line skirt. Jacinda is fully lined, slips on, and is made from lace mesh and woven materials with a hint of stretch.

    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: 05002-0243

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Mildred Off-The-Shoulder Floral Satin Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Mildred floral satin formal dress was made to celebrate enchanting evenings in the most lovely fashion! Designed with a sweetheart neckline and short-sleeve cuffs, this dress features a built-in padded underwire bust and flexible boning for a flattering fit. The high front wrap slit adds an alluring touch to the slim silhouette, crafted from luxurious floral printed satin fabric. Complete the look with earrings, heels, and a clutch!

    Fit & Features

    • Floral print, satin fabric, sewn-in knit lining
    • Off-the-shoulder sweetheart neckline
    • Built-in padded underwire bust
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Flexible boning
    • Slim silhouette, high front wrap slit
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8510

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Kia Magical Evening Glitter Gown
    Special Occasion

    Have the most magical evening in our Kia dress! This ivory beauty looks straight out of a fairy tale with a strapless sweetheart neckline, padded cups, built in boning, wide lattice straps on the sides to show a bit of skin, and a hidden back zipper closure. Her high waist seam leads to a floor-length skirt that will make you feel like a princess! Kia is composed of an ivory satin and tulle fabric with a baby blue, glitter fern pattern throughout. Dress offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. Includes a petticoat and knit lining.

    Model is 5'3 with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size three.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0528

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $199.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Mel Lace Two Piece Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Stun in lace as you make a gorgeous entrance in our Mel dress! She features a charming pink hue and trendy two design. Her floral lace crop top features an off the shoulder neckline, a wired sweetheart bust, shoulder strap accents and glitter throughout. Her matching trumpet skirt features a high rise waist, vertical seams to create an hourglass illusion, a pretty floral print and a petticoat. Skirt is composed of a lined textured satin fabric. Dress offers a relaxed 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: 05006-0519

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $49.97 $139.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Juiletta Strapless Rhinestone Glitter Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Let the celebration begin when you arrive in the Juiletta rhinestone glitter mini dress at prom or birthdays! Made from a shimmering woven fabric with glitter and rhinestone embellishments, you'll bring glamour everywhere you go. With a flattering strapless neckline and flexible boning, this bodycon dress will hug your curves in all the right places down to the mini-length hem. Complete the look with jewelry and heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Shimmer woven fabric, rhinestone embellished, stretchy knit lining
    • Strapless neckline
    • Flexible boning
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Bodycon fit
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2196

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $62.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Kara Satin Off Shoulder Formal Gown

    Dance the night away in our stunning Kara dress! 

    Fits & Features

    • Off Shoulder Straps I Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
    • V Trim Lattice Detail At Center Back
    • Slim Bodice With Sweeping Floor Length Hem
    • Thigh High Slit 
    • Satin Composition I Fully Lined 
    • Moderate Stretch 

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0277

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Kayla Sequin Beaded Open Back Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Designed to dazzle with every turn, the Kayla dress is your go-to for a glamorous night out. This sequin bodycon mini dress features an open back with cascading beaded drape detail—made to catch the light and all the attention.

    Fit & Features

    • Sequin-embellished pattern, mesh-lined fabric
    • V-neckline, padded bra cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Open back, beaded draping, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Bodycon mini-length silhouette
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, birthdays, bachelorettes, date nights, glam events, cocktail parties, rooftop hotel bars, GNO, Vegas

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000010

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $69.90

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Aella Formal Sequin Long Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Create a moment that makes you feel like the angel that you are! Our Aella dress features a high round neckline, fitted long sleeves and a hidden back zipper closure. Her slim fit bodice leads to an elongating floor length silhouette. She is composed a lined mesh fabric that features gleaming sequins set in a gorgeous pattern. Dress offers a form fitting silhouette with slight stretch.

    Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust,  23" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.  

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6647

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $46.97 $129.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Kyra Glitter Long Slim Gown

    Special Occasion

    Keep it truly classy in our Kyra! She is designed with a high boat neckline, long sleeves, and a draping cowl back-line with a criss cross strap detailing. She has a slim form fitting silhouette with a horizontal seam mid waist, that leads to a floor sweeping hemline. She is composed of a mesh material that is embellished with glitter all over and offers moderate stretch. She is fully lined.

    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: 05002-0406

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Alaina Formal Tulle And Sequin Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Twirl the night away in our Alaina dress! She features an all over natural hue, a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V neckline and adjustable narrow straps. Her bodice features a pleated detail and twinkling sequins. Her slim fit bodice leads to a whimsical pleated tulle floor length silhouette. Alaina offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. Includes a full lining and a hidden back zipper closure.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6570

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $10.00 $56.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Abigail Formal High Slit Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Make an entrance they'll never forget in our breathtaking Abigail dress! She features a plunging halter neck, narrow shoulder neck ties and a ruched detail at bust. Her slim fit bodice leads to a sweeping floor length silhouette with a high front slit that reveals a contrasting red hued lining. Dress is composed of a lined crepe fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6637

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Misha Floral Organza Ball Gown

    Special Occasion 

    Romance is in bloom in our captivating Misha ball gown! She creates a twirl-worthy moment with her elegant organza and burnout floral print! 

    Fit & Features

    • Plunging Wired V-Neckline | Padded Cups 
    • Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
    • Hidden Side Pockets
    • Ball Gown Silhouette | Voluminous Petticoat 
    • Burnout Floral Print
    • Lined Organza Fabric
    • Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch 

     


    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0046

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $84.97 $159.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Patricia High Slit Satin Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Take the plunge in sultry satin as you turn heads in our luxe Patrica dress! She features a rich navy blue hue, a sleeveless bodice and a plunging wired V neckline. The curve hugging mermaid silhouette is accented with vertical seams, a high slit  and a flared hem. Dress is composed of lined stretchy satin fabric that offers a moderate stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6371

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Rose Formal Lace And Pearl Ball Gown
    Special Occasion 

    Captivate and feel cherished like the rare beauty you are in our Rose dress! She features gray hue, a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V neckline with an unlined mesh inset, padded cups, adjustable narrow straps adored with gorgeous pearl accents. Her lined bodice is composed of floral lace that leads to a dreamy floor length tulle silhouette. Dress offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. Includes full knit lining, petticoat and back zipper closure.

    Model is 5'6.5" with a 32" bust, 23.5" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size three

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0499

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $44.97 $119.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

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

    Special Occasion

    The Camila bodycon mini dress dazzles with a sequin finish and a sultry lace-up open back that stuns from every angle. Designed to contour and command attention, it’s your go-to for a statement-making RSVP.

    Fit & Features

    • Sequin-embellished mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Scoop neckline, padded bra cups
    • Spaghetti straps
    • Lace-up open back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Flexible boning inserts in the bodice
    • Bodycon mini-length silhouette
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, birthdays, date nights, bachelorettes, Vegas, GNO, rooftop bars, glam events

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000016

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Tinsley Embroidered Pleated Satin Ball Gown

    Special Occasion 

    Make an enchanting entrance at prom with a ball gown that graces each step! Tinsley features a strapless sweetheart neckline with a built-in no-slip strip, padded cups that eliminate the need for a bra, and dual unlined mesh insets at the waist. The mesh insets are adorned with an embroidered floral design with mini rhinestones. Her slim-fit waist leads to a voluminous ball gown silhouette accented with hidden side pockets and pleats. Tinsley is composed of a lined satin fabric that offers a flowy fit with minimal stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels and a sphere clutch.

    Fit & Features

    • Strapless sweetheart neckline
    • Padded cups, no-slip strip
    • Unlined mesh insets at waist
    • Embroidered floral design, mini rhinestones
    • Hidden side pockets, pleats
    • Ball gown, petticoat
    • Flowy fit, minimal stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0137

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $189.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Katherina Rhinestone Formal Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Twinkle like the star your are in our Katherina! She is designed with an off shoulder fold over straight neckline that is embellished with rhinestones, a fitted bodice and a mini hemline. Dress is composed of a crepe fabric that offers moderate stretch and a form fitting silhouette. 

     

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0232

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Justine Sequin Lace Up Dress

    Special Occasion

    Shimmer and show off all your dance moves in the alluring Justine! 

    Fits & Features

    • Square Neckline
    • Dual Spaghetti Straps Trail To Lace Up Back 
    • Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure At Back
    • A-Line, Skater Style Skirt 
    • Horsehair Trim At The Hem For Easy Movement & Flow 
    • Mesh Lined Fabric With Sequins All Over 
    • Moderate Stretch

     

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0301

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $31.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free