Formal Dresses
Windsor's formal dresses are redefining elegance for 2025. Think illusion panels that sculpt and contour, printed mesh gowns with bold florals or swirls, and slinky jersey knits that drape like liquid luxe. Daring cutouts bring a sleek edge to eveningwear, while cascading ruffles add movement and modern drama. These trendy gowns prove that formal doesn’t have to mean predictable—they’re made for weddings, galas, and every post-worthy moment in between. Discover styles that are chic, camera-ready, and designed to make you unforgettable.
HomeFormal Dresses

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Formal Dresses That Make Every Moment Feel Major
Windsor’s formal dresses are designed for those unforgettable nights when your look has to be flawless. From sweeping formal gowns to sleek short silhouettes, this collection delivers drama, polish, and trend-right details that set the tone for any occasion. Think structured corset bodices, adjustable straps, lace-up backs, and high slits that blend comfort with high-impact style.
- Heading to a big event? Explore Winter formal dresses in luxe fabrics like velvet, satin, and crepe that feel rich and elegant.
- For December celebrations, our formal holiday dresses sparkle with sequins, rhinestones, and glitter mesh, while bold jewel tones and classic black create timeless appeal.
- Looking to ring in the New Year? Formal NYE dresses with metallic finishes and statement cutouts are made to shine under the lights.
If you’re planning a gala, wedding, or milestone party, Windsor offers a range of formal party dresses in both fitted and flowy silhouettes to match your vibe. Go for a strapless satin gown with a sweetheart neckline for timeless elegance, or choose an asymmetrical hemline or bow-back detail for a fresh twist that feels modern and fun.
No matter where the night takes you, Windsor’s formal dresses give you options that feel special, stylish, and photo-ready. Shop Windsor’s formal dresses near you, online, in-app, or at one of 350+ stores nationwide, and find the look that will make your night unforgettable.
Tips for Choosing the Best Formal Dress for Your Body Type
- Hourglass: Slay those curves with a fitted corset bodice and flowing skirt.
- Pear‑Shaped: Balance out your look with a structured top and full skirt.
- Rectangle: Create curves with a cinched waist and flared hem.
- Apple‑Shaped: Draw eyes upward with a V‑neckline and empire waist.
For more styling inspo, hit up our blog guides like “The Ultimate Gala Dresses Guide” or “Sexy Formal Dresses – Create an Eye‑Catching Look” and get ready to own every moment.
What’s the Difference Between a Formal and a Semi-Formal Dress?
Formal and semi-formal dresses differ based on event dress codes and styling. Formal attire, often called black-tie, features glamorous floor-length gowns with luxe details like rhinestones, lace, and beading—perfect for galas, weddings, and proms. Popular silhouettes include mermaid, ball gown, and A-line styles.
Semi-formal dresses offer more variety in length and design, making them ideal for homecoming, weddings, and cocktail parties. These styles range from midi to short lengths.
The venue and occasion can also guide your choice—an upscale wedding may call for a floor-length gown, while an outdoor event might be perfect for a sleek midi dress with a stylish neckline.
Are Formal Dresses Always Long?
Not always! While long gowns are classic for formal events, modern formal attire includes various lengths and styles. Windsor’s collection of women’s formalwear features short, midi, and long dresses. Explore dramatic mermaid and column silhouettes for timeless elegance, or opt for trendy alternatives like high-low hemlines and two-piece designs for a fresh take on formal fashion.
Find your perfect formal dress at Windsor any time of year, available online, in-app, and in over 350 stores across the U.S. and Canada. Shop now for trend-driven styles that make you shine and every event unforgettable!
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Courteney Cowl Neck Mermaid Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Courteney satin formal dress knows how to leave every room breathless at galas, weddings, and banquets! She features a cowl neckline and spaghetti straps frame her flattering bodice, while the crisscross back adds a touch of flirty. The side pleated seams and mermaid silhouette hug your curves as the satin fabric cascades into a striking floor-length hem. Complete the look with rhinestone earrings and heels.
Fit & Features
- Silky satin fabric, slight stretch
- Spaghetti straps
- Side pleated seams
- Mermaid silhouette
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8108
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $62.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Little Bit Of Drama Low Back Maxi Dress
Step into the spotlight in this stunning maxi dress designed with a low back and tie that turns heads and a form-hugging silhouette that flaunts your figure! Pair with heels for any dressy occasion.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit stretchy fabric
- Cowl neckline, wide shoulder straps
- Low back with spaghetti strap tie
- Form-hugging silhouette
- Maxi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-4030
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $38.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: OLIVE
Available Size: S, M, L, XL
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Lolita High Slit Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Flaunt your elegant style in our fabulous Lolita dress! She features a classic sleeveless cowl neckline with a slim fit bodice, a floor-sweeping silhouette with a sultry high slit on the left, and a form-hugging fit. Pair this gorgeous dress with a sleek ring set to add some glamour to your look for your special occasion.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl neckline
- Adhesive bra-friendly, spaghetti straps
- High side slit on the left leg
- High waist fit
- Slim-fit silhouette
- Fully-lined stretchy satin fabric
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch, runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1350
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Charena Formal Embroidered Floral Tulle Dress
Special Occasion
Dazzle in the Charena dress for your next formal event. Her sweet floral patterns enchant for your next special event. Charena features a plunging V-neckline to style with a pleated bodice and an embroidered floral design. Her sweeping A-line silhouette is partially lined with high slit sheer mesh panels. Complete your formal outfit with duster earrings.
Fit & Features
- Plunging v-neckline, pleated bodice
- Adjustable spaghetti straps criss-cross back
- Embroidered floral design
- A-line silhouette, high slit mesh panels
- Tulle fabric, slight stretch
- Fits true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0814
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $139.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Kendra Lace-Up Sequin Party Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the princess vibes to your Homecoming look in the gorgeous Kendra sequin party dress! She features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline with a bustier-style bodice, a padded bust, spaghetti straps, a cross-back lace-up strappy design, a high waist seam, and a short party skirt with a fit and flare silhouette. The lined mesh fabric features all-over sequin embroidery with a stunning iridescent shine in a luxe scroll pattern. Style this dress with rhinestone heels for all the more sparkle.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, bustier-style bodice
- Padded bust, structured underwire
- Spaghetti straps
- Cross-back lace-up strappy design, tie closure
- Lower back zipper, hook and eye closure
- High waist seam, short party skirt, fit and flare silhouette
- Sheer mesh fabric, full knit lining, moderate stretch
- Iridescent sequin embroidery, scroll pattern
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1081
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Silvia Lace-Up Floral Satin A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Unlock ravishing charm in the Silvia A-line formal dress as a stunning bridesmaid, wedding guest, or attending a banquet! The cowl neckline and adjustable spaghetti straps add elegance to the A-line silhouette, while the lace-up back flaunts your style and hidden side pockets keep your hands warm. The high front slit and floor-length hem allow for graceful movements, and the floral jacquard pattern on soft satin fabric exudes sophistication. Complete the look with a decadent necklace and earrings set.
Fit & Features
- Floral jacquard pattern, satin fabric, woven lining, no stretch
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, cowl neckline
- Lace-up, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Hidden side pockets
- High front slit
- A-line silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8004
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $49.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Amelia Lace-Up Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sleek, sculpted, and made for a jaw-dropping entrance—the luxe Amelia mermaid gown glides over your curves before fanning into a soft train. The lace-up back adds a sultry, adjustable fit that’s pure spotlight appeal.
Fit & Features
- Sleek knit fabric with subtle sheen with stretch, lined
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Dual spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Ruched mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black tie galas, military balls, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, fancy date nights, big birthday events, milestone celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000131
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Bailey Strapless Lace Dress
Special OccasionMake the case for lace in our elegant, white column-style Bailey dress. She features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline with padded cups, a floral lace body throughout, a curve-hugging mermaid silhouette, and a sheer chiffon train. The dress is composed of a lined lace fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels and a rhinestone headband.
Fits & Features
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline
- Padded cups
- Slim-banded waist
- Floral lace body
- Mermaid silhouette
- Chiffon train
- Form hugging fit, moderate stretch, runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0050
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Yara Formal Lace-Up Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Lace-up in the luxe Yara formal dress that will bring a gorgeous glow to your look! Yara features a sleeveless V-neckline with ruching at the bodice, sleek spaghetti straps that lead to a lace-up back design for a customized fit, and a floor-length mermaid silhouette with a high side slit to show some leg. The dress is composed of stretch satin fabric that offers a form-hugging fit. Complete the look with glitter mesh heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, spaghetti straps
- Padded cups
- Ruching at bodice, lace-up strappy back, tie closure
- High side slit
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Stretch satin fabric, form-hugging fit
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1217
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Jessie Sweetheart Mermaid Sequin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sparkle all night long in the Jessie sequin formal dress designed to shimmer, this mermaid floor-length gown will ensure all eyes are on you!
All eyes are on you in this radiant dress. If sparkle is your signature, discover stunning sequin prom dresses or opt for effortless sophistication with our eye-catching formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with full-length knit lining, moderate stretch
- Sequin embroidered scroll pattern
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, padded bust
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- High waist seam, back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black-tie galas, big milestone celebrations, fancy award dinners, red-carpet functions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9150
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Fatima V-Neck Embroidered A-Line Tulle Dress
Special Occasion
Beautifully crafted with colored rhinestones and delicate embroidery, the Fatima A-line formal dress is a dream for prom, birthday events, and balls! Cast a magical aurora in this sleeveless gown boasting a flattering V-neckline adorned with adjustable spaghetti straps for a customizable fit. The padded bra cups provide support and her sheer mesh corset bodice with flexible boning offers a perfectly snatched look leading the A-line silhouette that flatters every figure. The floor-length hem and airy tulle fabric add an air of sophistication no one can deny! Complete the look with a decadent necklace, dainty bracelet, and heels for an unforgettable evening!
Fit & Features
- Airy tulle fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Colored rhinestone embellishments, embroidery
- A-Line silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8007
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $139.00
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Maisie Sweetheart Ruched Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Chic and oh-so-elegant, the Maisie mermaid formal dress was destined to leave everyone in awe at black-tie parties and celebrations! With delicate spaghetti straps and a cross-sweetheart neckline, this dress effortlessly hugs your curves with ruched side seams. The mermaid silhouette and floor-length hem create a stunning and distinctive look, while the smooth knit fabric ensures comfort and style all night long. Complete the look with a glam clutch and jewelry for a divine evening out!
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit stretchy fabric
- Spaghetti straps, cross sweetheart neckline
- Mermaid silhouette
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8506
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Liana Glitter Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Effortlessly alluring, the Liana glitter knit gown is designed to catch the light with every move. The cowl neckline, ruched detailing, and sleek floor-length mermaid silhouette make it a timeless yet striking choice.
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit lined fabric
- Cowl neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Ruched mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black tie galas, fancy date nights, red carpet occasions, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, opera, red-carpet occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000380
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Adora Formal Sequin Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the glitz and shine to your evening with a formal dress that illuminates the night! Adora features a plunging V-neckline with padded cups, a double row of adjustable spaghetti straps, a cross-back design, a sequin scroll pattern, and a midi-length silhouette. The dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with minimal stretch. Complete the look with chrome heels and door-knocker earrings for ultimate glam!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, padded cups
- Double-row adjustable spaghetti straps
- Cross-back design, lower back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Midi-length silhouette
- Sequin scroll pattern, lined mesh fabric, minimal stretch
- Bra opitional
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1333
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Desiree Formal Flocked Mesh Dress
Special Occasion
Show your shoulders in the Desiree formal dress. She is here for spring formals and prom! Featuring a sleeveless, square neck, and spaghetti straps that lace up on her open-back design. The high waist seam leads to her a-line silhouette with a sultry front slit perfect for showcasing your heels of the night. The formal dress is composed of a flocked mesh overlay with a knit lining and no stretch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless, square neck, spaghetti straps
- Sticky bra recommended
- Open-back, lace-up, zipper closure
- High waist seam, a-line silhouette, front slit
- Flocked mesh overlay, knit lining, no stretch
- Fits true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2509
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Micaela Formal Sequin Scroll Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Create that spark with a formal dress that brings the dazzle! Micaela features a sleeveless square neckline, supportive tank-like straps, an iridescent sequin scroll print, and a flared mermaid silhouette. The dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete the look with rhinestone heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline, tank-like shoulder straps
- Iridescent sequin scroll pattern
- Mermaid silhouette
- Lined mesh fabric
- Form-hugging fit, minimal stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-4058
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Amberlyn Velvet Corset Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sleek and sultry, the Amberlyn velvet gown is designed to make an entrance. The corset bodice sculpts the figure while the high slit adds a daring finish to its timeless silhouette.
Fit & Features
- Velvet fabric, bust lining
- Plunge sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Wide shoulder straps
- Corset bodice, flexible boning, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front wrap slit
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black tie galas, weddings, red-carpet occasions, fancy date nights, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, milestone celebrations, formal birthdays, military balls
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000134
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY, RED
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Terecia Formal Sequin Lace-Up Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
All-over glistening sequins make the flawless Terecia formal dress a total standout at school dances, banquets, and fancy soirees! She features a sleeveless square neckline, spaghetti straps that create the lace-up design along her open back, a front ruched seam, a sultry high front slit, and a curve-hugging mermaid silhouette with a graceful floor-length hem. The formal dress is composed of a shimmering sequin embroidered fabric with an iridescent glow. Complete the look in a rhinestone necklace and earrings set.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline, spaghetti straps
- Open back, lace-up design, tie closure, lower back zipper, hook and eye closure
- Front ruched seam, high slit
- Curve-hugging fit, mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Iridescent sequin embroidery
- Sheer mesh fabric, full knit lining, moderate stretch
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2931
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Kensie Formal Surplice V-Neck Dress
Special Occasion
To make a grand entrance, all you need to do is wear the Kensie formal dress! She showcases style and grace with a hint of sultry in her sleeveless, surplice V-neck atop a form-fitting silhouette with a front slit. The formal dress is composed of a sleek knit fabric with moderate stretch. Complete the look in rhinestone heels for a glam touch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless, surplice V-neck, spaghetti straps
- Bra-friendly design
- Form-fitting silhouette
- Front high slit
- Floor-length hem
- Sleek knit fabric, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2300
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Bethany Lace-Up Slit Bodycon Sequin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Dare to dazzle in the Bethany sequin formal dress that'll leave everyone breathless! Made to accentuate your figure in a bodycon silhouette, this long dress delivers sultry style with a lace-up back and a high slit for a show of leg.
All eyes are on you in this radiant dress. If sparkle is your signature, discover stunning sequin prom dresses or opt for effortless sophistication with our eye-catching formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Sequin embellished fabric
- V-neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back
- High side slit
- Bodycon silhouette
- Long-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black-tie galas, fancy engagement parties, upscale events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9017
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Patricia Feather Detail Sequin Short Dress
Special Occasion
Fab, flirty, and oh-so-fine! Patricia is perfect for all-night dancing at your next dressy event. She features a one-shoulder neckline, a tank-style strap with a feather trim, a high waist seam, and a form-fitting short hem. Her sequin embroidery radiates the light to have you shimmer all night long! Complete the look with a hair clip for a chic hairstyle.
Fit & Features
- One-shoulder neckline
- Tank-style strap, feather trim
- Strapless or adhesive bra recommended
- High waist seam
- Form-fitting. short hem
- Back zipper, hook and eye closure
- Sequin-embroidery, knit lining, minimal stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1038
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Piper V-Neck Bodycon Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Every angle is a moment in the Piper formal midi dress, from the plunge V-neck to the strappy open back and wrap slit that sways with every step.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Plunge V-neck
- Wide shoulder straps
- Strappy back
- Front wrap slit
- Bodycon fit, midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, weddings, galas, black tie events, date nights, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, red carpet occasions, formal dinner parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000441
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: RUST
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Salma Formal Sequin Scroll Print Dress
Special OccasionMake your night one to remember in our fiery Salma dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V neckline, a double row of corded straps that lead to a cross back design. Her slim fit bodice leads to a floor length silhouette that hugs curves to create an hourglass illusion. Dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric adorned with sparkling sequins set in a scroll print. Dress offers a form hugging fit that offers a slight stretch. Includes a lower back zipper closure and partial skirt lining.
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: 05002-6261
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $40.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Christal Sequin Strappy Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Light up the room at prom in the Christal sequin formal dress that brings sparkle to every soiree! She features a sultry V-neckline with padding and spaghetti straps that lead to a lace-up back to showcase a little extra allure. The form-fitting bodice of the dress flaunts your curves on the mermaid silhouette that flows into a floor-length hem. Her sequin embroidered mesh fabric offers no stretch. Complete your stunning look in statement earrings.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, spaghetti straps, padded bust
- Strappy back detail, zipper closure
- Form-fitting mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Sequin embroidery
- Lined mesh fabric
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1842
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale