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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Velma Leopard Wrap Slit Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Look and feel dangerously fierce and chic in the Velma leopard formal dress on your next dressy evening soiree! Crafted from an airy mesh fabric adorned with a leopard print and knit lining, this formal gown is alluring. She features a sweetheart neckline and adjustable spaghetti straps, padded bra cups provide comfortable support, while the high front wrap slit adds a touch of sophistication to the floor-length mermaid silhouette. Complete the look with earrings, a clutch, and heels.
Fit & Features
- Leopard print, mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Sweetheart neckline
- Padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front wrap slit
- Mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8483
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Meg Sweetheart Mermaid Lace Mesh Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Fall in love with the Meg lace mesh formal dress on your big day or attending a black tie party. Featuring a flattering sweetheart neckline and adjustable spaghetti straps, this dress offers a sensual and elegant appeal. The mesh-lined padded bra cups and sides add support and enhance your figure, while the breathtaking mermaid silhouette and floor-length hem exude sophistication. Complete the look with earrings.
Fit & Features
- Lace fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Sweetheart neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mesh-lined padded bra cups and sides
- Mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8700
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Mira Glitter Glow Ball Gown
Special OccasionGlow like the gorgeous bella you are in our radiating Mira dress! She features a silver hue, a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V neckline, padded cups and adjustable narrow straps. Her slim fit bodice leads to an enchanting ball gown silhouette that is accented with a petticoat for extra drama! She is composed of lined mesh fabric adored with sparkling glitter accents throughout. Dress offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. Includes a back zipper closure. Glitter may transfer.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0000
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $146.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Maisy Cutout High Slit Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Make a showstopping entrance in the always stunning Maisy satin formal dress! She features a sleeveless V-neckline with a twist-front design, spaghetti straps, an alluring front cutout at the waist, and a floor-sweeping A-line silhouette with a chic high side slit to show off some leg. The satin-knit fabric showcases a luxe sheen for a glamorous vibe. Style with rhinestone heels for your next gala!
With a sleek finish and effortless shine, this dress is pure luxe. Want more? Browse our stunning satin prom dresses or find a celebration-ready style in our party dresses.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, twist-front design
- Spaghetti straps
- Front waist cutout, high waist seam
- Floor-length hem, flowy A-line silhouette, side slit
- Satin-knit fabric, lining at the bust, moderate stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6848
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Shayleigh Sequin Wrap Dress
Special OccasionDazzle and dance around in the Shayleigh! She features a deep v-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps lead back to a square back,and a self tie wrap around skirt that meets high waist with a skater dress hem that hits mid thigh. Her bodice is fitted and lined with a nude colored smooth material. She is composed of knit material that is covered with stitched silver sequins, material offers no stretch but design of the dress offers a flow that allows you to move around comfortably. Pair with your favorite heels and statement earrings!
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 35.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-4067
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $56.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Rowanne Satin A-Line Gown
Special Occasion
Elegant, sleek, and practical are the definition of our Rowanne gown. With a lustrous satin finish and an elegant lace back, you'll be happy to know she even has pockets for storing your necessities!
Fits & Features
- Deep V Neckline I Padded Cups I Princess Seaming Details
- Lace Back With Zipper Closure
- Low Open Back With Zipper & Hook And Eye Closure
- Slim Fit Bodice I Little-To-No-Stretch
- Slant Hand Pockets
- A-Line, Floor Length Silhouette
- Fully Lined, Satin Composition
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: 05002-0343
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $31.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Azalea Formal Floral Applique Dress
Special OccasionStep in as the center of attention as you stun in our Azalea dress! She features a combination plum with gold hue, a sleeveless bodice, a high round neckline, padded cups, a small keyhole, narrow straps and a gold hued floral applique design. Her back features an open back with a sheer unlined mesh panel. Her slim fit bodice leads to a elongating floor length silhouette.Dress offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6424
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $32.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Erin Formal Sequin Halter Dress
Special OccasionKeep it stunning in sequins as you mesmerize in our sparkling Erin dress! She features a chic black hue, a halter neck with racer bust, padded cups and a small keyhole back. Her relaxed fit bodice leads to a floor length silhouette. She is composed of a lined mesh fabric adorned with sparkling sequins set in a Gatsby-inspired design. Dress offers a form hugging fit with minimal stretch.
Model is 5'8" with a 32.5" bust, 25" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size small.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6127
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $36.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Jaime Floral Mesh Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Feel like an absolute princess in our elegant Jaime!
Fits & Features
- Sequined Mesh & Floral Applique Corset-Style Top
- Built-In Boning & Padded Bust I Lace-Up Detail At Back
- Floor Length Hem
- Mesh Lined Skirt With Shiny Finish
- Form Hugging Fit
Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size 3.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0057
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Krystal Glitter Floor Sweeping Wrap Dress
All is you need is glitter! Designed with a beautiful shine, she wraps around with a perfect curve flattering detail, and has a structured inner bust for a flattering bodice!
Fit & Features
- Halter neckline that closes with hook and eye closures
- Vertical boned structure at bust area
- Hidden zipper center back + hook and eye closure
- Full satin lining
- Wrap style floor sweeping skirt
- Composed of a knit material woven with glitter
- Skinny attached belt mid waist
- Minimal stretch
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: 05002-0635
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $169.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Sinclair Embroidered Strapless Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Romantic embroidery details stand out against Sinclair's soft-hued lining. Her voluminous ball gown will make you feel like an absolute princess as you spin and twirl! With a strapless neckline, we'd love to see rhinestone earrings and a necklace paired with this elegant gown.
Fits & Features
- Strapless Neckline I No-Slip Interior Strip I Includes Detachable Spaghetti Straps
- Padded Bust I Boning Detail
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I Ball Gown Silhouette I Petticoat
- Sheer Mesh Overlay With Embroidery Details I Full Knit Lining
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0048
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $159.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Ariadna Strappy Open Back Slit Glitter Formal Dress
Special Occasion
For a night to remember slip into the Ariadna glitter formal dress designed to please every crowd with a strappy open back and a high front slit for a sultry allure!
Fit & Features
- Glitter fabric lined with stretchy knit
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Spaghetti straps, open strappy back
- High front slit
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Extra glitter for maximum sparkle - may have some natural fallout
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, fancy cocktail parties, romantic date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9653
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK, RED
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Bring The Glitter Mini Dress
Light up the room in this glitter goals mini dress!
Fits & Features
- Narrow Spaghetti Straps
- Square Neckline
- Mini Length Silhouette
- Glitter Lurex Fabric I Fully Lined
- Curve Hugging Fit I Plenty Of Stretch
- Zipper Not Included
Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0677
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $31.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Teigen High Slit Rhinestone and Crepe Long Dress
Special Occasion
The Teigen embodies true sophistication with a flattering slim fit silhouette and a dazzling rhinestone embellished trim along the high side slit. Perfect for styling with stiletto heels.
Fit & Features
- Crepe fabrication, moderate stretch
- Sleeveless v-neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Asymmetrical high side slit, rhinestone trim
- Long length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2881
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Perrianne Beaded Satin Ball Gown
Special OccasionMake an impression they'll never forget in our Perrianne royal blue dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V neckline, padded cups and tank like straps. Her slim fit bodice leads to a voluminous ball gown silhouette accented with gemstone embellished side pockets and a petticoat. Dress is composed of a satin fabric that offers a form hugging fit with minimal stretch. Includes a smooth knit lining and hidden back zipper closure.
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size three.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0533
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Maddie Formal Embellished Halter Ball Gown
Special OccasionMake your evening a magical one in our enchanting Maddie! She features a plunging halter neck with an unlined mesh inset, a double row hook closure at the nape of the neck, padded cups, wide straps and a bold open back. Her bodice features a floral applique design and sparkling heat stones. Her voluminous ball gown silhouette is accented with hidden side pockets and a petticoat. Dress is composed of a lined satin fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a slight stretch.
Model is 5'7" with 30" bust, 22" waist and 33" hips. She is wearing a size three.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0457
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $209.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Willow Formal Sequin Halter Slit Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Bring modern glamour to every soiree in the Willow formal midi dress! She features a halter neckline, a flattering bodycon silhouette, and a sultry front slit along her midi-length hem. The formal midi dress is designed with a striking sequin-embellished scroll pattern that glitters under the light! Complete the look in rhinestone stiletto heels and earrings for a wedding or banquet.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless halter neckline
- Bodycon silhouette
- Front slit
- Midi-length hem
- Sequin-embellished scroll pattern
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1667
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Isla Formal Glitter A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Glow like the queen you are in our whimsical Isla glitter dress!
Fit & Features
- Scoop Neckline
- Spaghetti Straps
- A-Line Silhouette
- High Slit
- Glitter
- Lined Mesh
- Form Hugging Fit | Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0549
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Alessi Lace Back Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the wow factor in our darling Alessi!
Fits & Features
- Tank Inspired Sleeveless Bodice I Padded Cups I Princess Seams
- Hook & Eye And Snap Button Closure At The Nape
- Lace-Up At Open Back I Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Mermaid Silhouette With Gorgeous Train
- Wide-Banded Waist
- Smooth Tricot Composition I Knit Lining
- Form-Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
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: 05002-0467
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $54.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Camille Beaded Sequin Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Start the party when you walk in wearing the Camille bodycon mini dress! Crafted from a beaded sequin mesh fabric, this dress brings the sass with a strapless neckline and a ruffled side sash.
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 beaded mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Ruffled side sash
- Bodycon silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, bachelorettes, birthday parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2624
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Camilla Sequin Off Shoulder A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
You'll be looking like the elegant princess you are in our stunning Camilla!
Fits & Features
- Off Shoulder Design I Plunging Wired V Neckline
- Padded Cups
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Silhouette I Dual Slits At Front I A-Line Silhouette
- Mesh Lined Fabric With Damask Sequins
- Curve Hugging Fit
Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0542
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $45.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Nida Chiffon Ruffle Gown
Special OccasionTurn heads as the belle of the ball in our chiffon beauty, Nida! She features a seamed V-neck bodice with adjustable spaghetti straps, lightly padded cups, and asymmetrical ruffle trim. She has a back zip, and partially lined flowy A-line skirt with front slit. Nida is made from a lightweight woven fabric with little to no stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6714
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Annabeth Velvet Strapless Gown
Special Occasion
Make a remarkable first impression in our Annabeth gown! She is designed with a sweetheart neckline, a bow-like bodice with a small cut out detail below the cup area, and a form fitting silhouette that leads down to a floor sweeping hem. She is fully lined and has a wired boning down the sides of the bodice. She is composed of a velvet material adorned in glitter that reflects red. She offers moderate stretch. Glitter may transfer.
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: 05002-0358
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Isabelle One Shoulder Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
Our Isabelle will show off a never-ending glow that'll capture anyone's attention. Her sparkling sequins and figure-hugging silhouette will give you a decked-out glam look!
Fits & Features
- Single Shoulder Strap
- Slanted Neckline I Padded Bust
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I Front Slit
- Mesh Lined Sequin Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0053
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $219.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance