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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Allison Iridescent Sequin Feather Trim Party Dress
Special Occasion
The party won't start until you make an entrance in the Allison iridescent sequin feather trim formal dress! She features a crew neckline, sheer long fitted sleeves with fabulous ostrich feather trims, a mini-length hem, a bodycon silhouette that will hug and flatter your curves, and all-over iridescent sequin embroidery in a chic scroll pattern. The sheer mesh fabric includes a partial knit lining. Complete your look for dances, parties, or any glam affair with clear heels!
Fit & Features
- Crew neckline, sheer long fitted sleeves, ostrich feather trims
- Hidden back zipper, hook and eye closure
- Mini-length hem, bodycon silhouette
- Iridescent sequin embroidery, scroll pattern
- Sheer mesh fabric, partial knit lining, minimal stretch
- Bra-friendly design
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1613
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Juilette Sequin Mock Neck Marabou Dress
Special Occasion
The Juliette sequin dress was made to be seen on you at banquets, holiday parties, and fancy events! She features fitted long sleeves with fabulous marabou trim cuffs, a mock neckline, and a flattering bodycon silhouette and knee-length hem. The party dress is designed with a sequin-embellished striped pattern that sparkles on mesh fabric and has a stretchy knit lining. Complete the look with earrings and strappy heels!
Fit & Features
- Fitted long sleeves, marabou trim cuff
- Mock neckline
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette, knee-length hem
- Sequin striped pattern, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Bra friendly design
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1766
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $49.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Fonda Sequin Wrap Evening Gown
Special Occasion
Be the one that sparkles when you walk through the door in our gorgeous sequin Fonda gown!
Fit & Features
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- V- neckline | Wrap bodice
- Wrap skirt | Slit center
- Long hemline
- Sequin embellishments throughout
- Slight stretch | Form fitting silhouette
Model is 5'8" with 32" bust, 26" waist and 38" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0474
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Lacey Mermaid Formal Dress
Our gorgeous Lacey mermaid formal dress knows how to make a grand entrance. She features a lace top with a padded sweetheart neckline, a sheer V back, and long fitted sheer sleeves. Her high waist leads to a crepe floor length mermaid silhouette. Dress is composed of a combination lace and crepe fabric with moderate stretch.
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: 05002-0325
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Elara Floral Sequin Lace-Up Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Built for your slow-motion entrance—the moment the room stops. With a lace-up back and sequin fabric, the Elara floral sequin mini dress brings the flirty vibes to weddings, rooftop drinks, or that next big birthday bash.
Fit & Features- Floral pattern
- Lined sequin fabric
- Square neckline with thick straps, padded bra cups
- Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Side slit
- Mini length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:Weddings, garden parties, black tie galas, dinner parties, date night, vacation, birthdays, formal milestone celebrations, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000084
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Maia Halter Faux Pearl Strap Crepe Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Experience enchanting eternity in the Maia crepe mermaid dress on your special wedding day! Made from lightweight crepe fabric, this formal gown boasts a halter neckline and attached chiffon sash, adding a touch of sophistication. The open back features detachable faux pearl straps, creating a unique and elegant look. The mermaid silhouette and floor-length hem complete this luxurious and exclusive piece! Complete the look with earrings.
Fit & Features
- Crepe fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Halter neckline, button closures, chiffon sash
- Open back, detachable faux pearl straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7977
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kiara Formal Sequin Velvet Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
The Kiara formal sequin velvet mermaid dress will make you a vision of glamour at your next black-tie affair! Crafted with all-over reflective sequin embroidery for a gorgeous shine on the luxe velvet fabric, the Kiara dress will stun all night. She features a sleeveless V-neckline, dual spaghetti straps that shape the open strappy lace-up back design, a floor-length hem, and a mermaid silhouette to show off your beautiful curves. Style this formal long dress with rhinestone fringe earrings and stiletto heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, dual spaghetti straps
- Open back, strappy lace-up design, tie closure
- Floor-length hem, mermaid silhouette
- All-over reflective sequin embroidery
- Velvet fabric, full-length knit lining, moderate stretch
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8260
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Autumn Asymmetrical Cowl Neck High Slit Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
The long mermaid dress features an asymmetrical cowl neckline with a halter-like neck strap that is partially made of rhinestones, a partially open back, and a high-side slit. Complete your formal outfit with rhinestone heels for ultimate glam!
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit fabrication, moderate stretch
- Asymmetrical cowl neckline
- Halter-like neck strap, part rhinestone
- Partially open back
- High side slit
- Long-length hem, mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8576
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Lilah Tie-Back Embroidered Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Made for the kind of night that lingers in memory, the Lilah embroidered mesh mini dress turns every step into a chic moment. The bodycon silhouette meets a statement bow back for the ultimate blend of romance and allure.
Fit & Features
- Sequin embroidered mesh-lined fabric
- V-neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Tie-back design
- Bodycon silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, rush week, bridal celebrations, engagement photoshoots, date nights, birthdays, rooftop hotel bars
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000554
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Clarence Corset Slit Glitter A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Radiant shine in the Clarence glitter floor-length formal dress at dances and red-carpet events! The sleeveless gown sparkles in a corset bodice on top of a flattering A-line silhouette showcasing a high front slit for sultriness.
Fit & Features
- Glitter woven fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Sweetheart cowl neckline, padded bra cups
- Wide shoulder straps, back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Corset bodice, flexible boning
- High front slit
- A-line silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, galas, formal birthday celebrations, red-carpet occasions, award ceremonies
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9186
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $99.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Ayden Long Sleeve Velvet Sequin Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The Ayden velvet mini dress features a sequin scroll pattern, a square neckline, long fitted sleeves, and an open lace-up strappy back design with a lower back cutout. Complete your formal outfit with glitter rhinestone heels.
Fit & Features
- Velvet fabric with knit lining, minimal stretch
- Sequin embroidered scroll pattern
- Square neckline
- Long fitted sleeves
- Open lace-up strappy back design, lower back cutout, zipper with hook-eye closure
- Mini-length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2534
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Plus Missy Tendril Ball Gown
Special OccasionCharm and radiate love in our dreamy Missy dress! She features a sleeveless partially sheer black hued bodice with round neckline, a sweetheart bust lining, padded cups, an sheer mesh inset at the waist and a bohemian-inspired applique design. Her back features neck ties and small keyhole. Missy really brings the romance with her blush pink glittery tendril accented ball gown. Dress is composed of a combination mesh, tulle and knit fabric. Offers a relaxed fit with slight stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 15005-0001
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $169.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Bridget Formal Beaded Tulle Dress
Special OccasionChannel your inner princess as you make an entrance fit for a royal in our dazzling Bridget dress! She features an all over light blue hue, a sleeveless bodice, a V neckline and adjustable narrow straps. Her bodice features a gorgeous beaded detailing set in a baroque inspired design and an empire waist accent that flows into an airy floor length tulle silhouette. Includes a back zipper detail with a subtle ruched detailing. Dress offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch.
Model is 5'8" with a 31.5" bust, 24.5" waist and 35.5" hips. She is wearing a size three.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0496
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Lilian Sequin Strapless Lace-Up Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The Lilian mini dress is accented with a luxe sequin embroidered scroll pattern on lined mesh fabric for gorgeous glamour. The short dress features a V-neckline, a lace-up back that turns heads, and a figure-hugging bodycon silhouette. Perfect for a school dance or birthday!
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
- Sequin scroll patterned mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Strapless V-neckline
- Flexible boning at the bodice
- Lace-up back, lower zipper with hook-eye closure
- Mini-length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthdays, bachelorettes, date nights, Vegas, GNO, cocktail parties, rooftop hotel bars, glam events
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001128
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: MINT-2
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
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Catalina Strapless Satin Ball Gown
Special OccasionStay stunning in satin as you make your grand entrance in our charming Catalina red dress! She features a strapless straight neckline, a built in no slip strip and a fold over accent. Her slim fit bodice leads to a sweeping floor length silhouette that is accented with hidden side pockets, pleating details and a petticoat. Dress is composed of a satin fabric that offers a minimal stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.
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: 05004-0517
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $36.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Sarina High Slit Sequin Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Highlight your beauty with our mesmerizing Sarina dress! You'll illuminate every room!
Fits & Features
- Bungee Shoulder Straps Leads To Racerback Design With Zip Closure
- Plunging V Neckline
- Slim Fit Bodice
- Midi Length Silhouette With Thigh-High Slit
- Fully Lined Mesh Fabric With Sequins Throughout
- Curve-Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0264
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Glitter Glam Wrap Mini Dress
Wrap yourself in a glitter dress that stuns for your next night out! The dress features a sleeveless V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, and a wrap mini dress with an asymmetrical hem. The dress is composed of a woven glitter fabric that offers a form hugging fit. Complete look with rhinestone heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Wrap asymmetrical hem
- Woven glitter knit fabric
- Form hugging fit
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0475
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Effie Formal Heatstone Bodycon
Special Occasion
Get ready to glow in this chic bodycon for your next night out! Effie features a sleeveless scoop neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, sparkling heat stones throughout, dual ruched drawstrings, and a mini-length silhouette. Complete look with rhinestone heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless scoop neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Heat stones
- Dual ruched drawstrings
- Mini length silhouette
- Form hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0660
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $45.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Misha Sequin Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
She's a vision of elegance and class! Wrap yourself in the stunning and graceful Misha.
Fits & Features
- Plunging V Neckline
- Unlined, Long Fitted Sleeves
- Hook Closure At Nape Of Neck & At Bar Detailing I Open Back I Zipper With Hook & Eye
- Floor Length, Mermaid Silhouette
- Mesh Lined Fabric With Geometric Patterned Sequins
- Curve Hugging Fit I Plenty Of Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0483
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $48.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Emberly Formal High Slit Strapless Dress
Special OccasionMake a graceful and poised entrance in our alluring Emberley dress! She features an over emerald green hue, a sleeveless bodice, a sweetheart neckline, a built in no slip strip, padded cups and princess seams. Her slim fit bodice leads to a floor length silhouette accented with a high side slit. She is composed of a lined crepe fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Includes a partial mini skirt lining and includes a back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6203
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Sally Floral Chiffon Formal Dress
Special OccasionFloaty and feminine, our diaphanous Sally dress is perfect for warm-weather special occasions. She features adjustable spaghetti straps, a V neck and back, criss cross ties at waist, zipper closure, and a gently pleated, semi-lined modified A-line skirt. Chiffon-like fabric is semi sheer from mid-thigh to hem and offers little to no stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0004
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Mollie Beaded Mesh Bow Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Made to sparkle under city lights or chandeliers, the Mollie mini dress turns every entrance into a moment. This bodycon dress stuns in beaded mesh with delicate bow trim and a curve-hugging silhouette that flatters from every angle.
Fit & Features
- Beaded embellished mesh-lined fabric
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps with bow rhinestone trims
- Bodycon silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthdays, bachelorettes, GNO, Vegas, date nights, cocktail soirees, rooftop hotel bars, dressy celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000053
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Kayleen Sequin Feather A-Line Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Delightfully alluring doesn't even begin to describe how mesmerizing you'll look and feel in the Kayleen ball gown at prom or as the quinceanera damas queen! She stuns in a cold shoulder, sweetheart neckline with fab feather cuffs, adjustable spaghetti straps, a padded bust, and a corset bodice with flexible boning, a flattering A-line silhouette with a floor-length hem. The ball gown is composed of a delicate sequin-embroidered mesh fabric with multiple tulle and woven linings to give her a voluminous effect! Complete the look in a necklace and earrings set.
Fit & Features
- Cold shoulder, sweetheart neckline
- Feather cuffs, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Padded bust, corset bodice, flexible boning
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- A-line silhouette, floor-length hem
- Sequin-embroidered mesh fabric, multiple tulle and woven linings
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0189
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $21.97 $179.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Joni V-Neck Slit Ruched Mesh Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Effortlessly impress everyone with the Joni mesh formal dress at dressy birthdays or dinner parties! She boasts a V-wired neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, and a strappy back for a touch of sophistication. The side ruched seams create a slim, bodycon silhouette, while the high side slit and sheer floor-length hem add a sultry touch. Complete the look in sleek metallic stiletto heels.
Fit & Features
- Mesh fabric lined with short knit stretchy lining
- V-wired neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Strappy back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- High side slit
- Bodycon slim silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8590
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free