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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Corrina Cowl Neck Mermaid Glitter Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Corrina glitter formal dress is a sparkling beauty that'll dazzle every party guest! Designed with a flattering cowl neckline and a mermaid silhouette that gives the illusion of the perfect hourglass figure.
Fit & Features
- Glitter fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Cowl neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie weddings and soirees, glamorous dinner parties, formals
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9516
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $84.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Edyn Sleek Off The Shoulder Dress
Special OccasionEdyn is the epitome of perfection. Her simple and sleek style is perfect for any formal occasion! She offers a flattering, off the shoulder neckline with short sleeves, a fitted bodice accented with a sheer waist panel and a delicate floral embroidery, and a flowy floor-length skirt with a high leg slit for a sexy touch and easy movement. Edyn is composed of a stretchy crepe fabric. Includes an exposed back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6252
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Celine Formal Wrap Satin Dress
Special OccasionWrap yourself in elegance as you make a head turning entrance in Celine dress! She features a black hued bodice with a scoop neckline, an unlined mesh inset, padded cups and narrow straps that cross at the back. Her slim fit bodice leads to a gold hued satin wrap skirt that is accented with a high side slit and hidden side pockets. Dress is composed of a combination satin and lined crepe fabric that offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. Includes a hidden back 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: 05002-6713
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $154.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Catalyn Glitter Shine Ball Gown
Special Occasion
You'll look breathtaking in our stunning Catalyn. Twirl around in her voluminous ball gown and feel like an absolute princess! Glow from every angle as she subtly changes hues in the light. And the best part? Her hidden hand pockets are perfect for storing away your phone and lipstick!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Plunging V Neckline I Mesh Inset
- Cross Back I Sheer Mesh Inset Creates Cage Design I Back Zipper
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Hem I Ball Gown Silhouette I Petticoat
- Woven Glitter Fabric I Fully Lined I Dual-Tone Shine
- Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size 3.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0061
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Michaela Formal Rainbow Sequin Dress
Special OccasionLight up the night with a burst of color as you shimmer in our mesmerizing Michaela dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a plunging wrap V neckline, supportive tank-like shoulder straps and an empire waist accent. Her relaxed fit bodice leads into a curve flattering floor length silhouette that is accented with unlined lace godet accents and a flared hemline. She is composed of a partially lined mesh fabric adorned with multicolored sequins for a multidimensional look! Dress offers a moderate fit. Includes a mini skirt length knit lining and back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6248
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $37.44 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Carolina High-Slit Bow Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
The long wrap dress features a stretchy satin-like fabrication, a sleeveless square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, a high-side slit accented with ruching, and a partially open back accented with a large bow accent. Complete formal outfit with a rhinestone clutch.
With a smooth, luminous finish, this dress was made to shine. Keep the luxe look going with breathtaking satin prom dresses or go for a sophisticated statement with our wedding guest dresses.
Fit & Features
- Stretchy satin-like fabrication
- Sleeveless square neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- High side slit with ruching
- Partial open back with large bow accent
- Long hem length
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8943
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Mai Lace Infinity Trim Chiffon A Line Dress
Special Occasion
Feel like the beautiful princess you are as you debut your look in our stunning Mai!
Fits & Features
- High Neckline I Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Partially Lined Glitter Lace Bodice I Padded Bust
- Infinity Cut-Out With Rhinestone Detail
- Chiffon, A-Line Skirt I Sweeping Floor Length Hem & Lining
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0574
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Margie Glitter A-Line Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Work your magic in the Margie ball gown at prom, quinceaneras, and black tie events! She shines in her sleeveless one-shoulder neckline, padded bust, and a trio of spaghetti straps that shape the caged-back design. Her flattering A-line silhouette features hidden side pockets for keeping your hands warm and a floor-length hem. The gown is composed of a glitter woven fabric with multiple linings of tulle and stretchy knit fabric. Complete the look with statement earrings and heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless one-shoulder neckline, padded bust
- Spaghetti strap trio, caged back design
- Back zipper closure, hidden side pockets
- A-line silhouette, floor-length hem
- Glitter woven fabric, multi-layered tulle and knit lining
- No bra required
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0170
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.97 $139.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Khloe Strappy Back Mermaid Sequin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Bring a prominent sparkle in the Khloe sequin formal dress! Showcasing an elegant brilliance, this dress captures attention with a strappy back and flattering mermaid silhouette.
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 floral scroll pattern
- Sleeveless scoop neckline, padded bust, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Open back with dual bar strap accents, hook and bar closures
- Lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, red-carpet events, and fancy birthdays.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9249
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $15.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Catrina Corset A-Line Floral Mesh Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Catrina floral formal dress will be the prettiest of the bunch at school dances and any dressy occasion! This formal dress offers a sheer corset bodice with flexible boning for a cinched waist while the tiered ruffled A-line silhouette adds whimsical flare to the floor-sweeping hem. Pair the dress with earrings.
Make a statement in this stunning dress. Love bold details? Explore our playful ruffle prom dresses or find a sleek look in our formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, airy mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Tie shoulder straps
- Sheer corset bodice, flexible boning
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Tiered ruffled A-line silhouette floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8976
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $139.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Serena Sequin Wrap-Front Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Look effortlessly gorgeous for your next fancy night out in the stunning Serena sequin mini dress. She features long-fitted sleeves, a V neckline with a wrap-front design, a back zipper and hook and eye closure, and a short, wrap-front skirt with a form-hugging silhouette. The dress is composed of a sheer mesh fabric adorned with sequins in a beautifully intricate pattern and includes a knit lining. Complete your look with dazzling rhinestone earrings and new heels.
Fit & Features
- Long-fitted sleeves
- V neckline with a wrap-front design
- Back zipper and hook and eye closure
- Mini-length wrap-front skirt
- Form-hugging fit
- Sheer mesh fabric with an all-over sequin pattern
- Knit lining
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0563
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Alex Pleated Satin Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Bring the elegance in stunning satin as you make a breath-taking entrance in our Alex ball gown!
Fit & Features
- V-Neckline | Spaghetti Straps
- Princess Seams
- Pleated Detailing |Side Pockets
- Satin Fabric | Petticoat
- Ball Gown Silhouette
- Relaxed Fit
- Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0100
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $179.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Angelina Formal Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the sparkle to your evening to create a flawlessly glowing impression in our radiating Angelina formal sequin dress! She sparkles from all your best angles and offers a curve hugging mermaid silhouette to enhance and flatter. Pair Angelina with a pair of neutral heels to allow sequins to pop!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless
- High Round Neckline | Mesh Inset
- Partially Open Back
- Sequins
- Mermaid Silhouette
- Form Hugging Fit
Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0997
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Deanne Formal Heat Stone Chiffon Dress
Special OccasionMake a night full of glitz and glam in our must have Deanne dress! She features a partially lined bodice, a high round neckline, a sweetheart bust lining, padded cups and princess seams. Her back features a smocked detailing for a custom-like fit. Her bodice is adorned with clear heat stones and navy blue beaded accents to bring plenty of shine! Her empire waist features a pleated detailing and leads to a floor length chiffon silhouette. Dress is composed of a navy blue hued lined chiffon fabric that offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6066
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.94 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Elisa Sequin Beaded A-Line Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Cause a scene in the Elisa sequin beaded mini dress with a flattering sweetheart neckline and an A-line silhouette. Pair with a glam hair accessory.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with tulle and knit linings, moderate stretch
- All-over iridescent sequin and beaded embroidery
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bust with underwire, bust seam outline
- Thin tank shoulder straps, back zipper with hook-eye closure
- High waist seam
- Mini-length A-line silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2452
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Ciara Formal Beaded And Sequin Dress
Special OccasionElevate your formal wear with our glitzy Ciara navy dress! She features a plunging V neckline dress with wide shoulder straps and lifting padded cups. Her slim fit bodice leads to a fluttering floor length silhouette accented with sheer panels at the hem. Her all over iridescent sequins are set in a baroque pattern and reflect navy hues. She is composed of a lined pewter gray mesh fabric that offers a form hugging fit with minimal stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6228
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $49.97 $169.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Gia Formal Sleeveless Beaded Dress
Special OccasionStun and shine as you own the night in our Gia dress! She features a taupe hue, a sleeveless bodice, a V neckline, padded cups and a floor length A-Line silhouette. She is adorned with sparkling sequins and beaded details throughout for an extra luxe look! Dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a slight stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.
Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size three.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6437
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Loren Glitter Knit V Dress
Special Occasion
Radiate a fiery fierceness in our glitter-embellished Loren gown! She has a curve-hugging cut and features spaghetti straps, a deep V neck, a high-seam banded waist, and a long-line slim skirt that pools gently at hem. Loren slips on and is made from a lightweight, textured knit material with moderate stretch.
Model is 5'6.5" with a 32" 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: 05002-0264
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Kendall Satin Lace Up Back Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Make stunning strides in our beyond gorgeous satin Kendall formal dress! You'll look like an absolute dream with the lace back detail and flowy ball gown skirt!
Fit & Features
- Spaghetti straps | Cross back
- Lattice back detail | Tie closure
- Hidden back zipper | Hook and eye closure
- Padded V neckline | Princess seams | High waist seam
- Side pockets
- Flowy satin ball gown skirt
- Two layers of tulle | Woven lining
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0096
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $189.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Rosie Formal Sleeveless Sequin Dress
Special OccasionDazzle under the stars as you light up the night! Rosie features a sleeveless bodice, a V neckline with mini bar accent and adjustable narrow shoulder straps. Her slim fit bodice leads to a sweeping floor length silhouette. Dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric adorned with rose gold hued sequins that offers a form hugging fit with a slight 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: 05002-6548
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $37.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Vienna Plunge Perfect Dress
Special OccasionTake the perfect backless plunge in our Vienna homecoming dress! She features a boat neck with long, narrow sleeves, a plunging back with a wired V detail and a mermaid silhouette. Her smooth stretchy fabric allows for a sexy form hugging fit with plenty of mobility for you to dance the night away!
Model is 5'9 with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-3994
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $15.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Tegan Formal Lattice Satin Dress
Special OccasionStrike a pose in satin! Tegan features a royal blue hue, a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V neckline with an unlined mesh inset, padded cups and narrow shoulder straps. Her back features an open design with a lattice detailing that leads to a lower back zipper closure. Her slim fit bodice leads to a voluminous floor length silhouette that is accented with hidden side pockets. She is composed of a lined satin fabric that offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6254
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $169.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Thea Formal Floral Satin Dress
Special OccasionHighlight your beauty with our naturally-inspired Thea dress! She features a royal blue hue, a strapless neckline with a built in no slip strip, a sweetheart bust and padded cups. Her slim fit bodice leads to a curve hugging trumpet silhouette accented with vertical seams to create a hourglass illusion and a flared hem. The all over floral print features vibrant pink hues with green foliage. Dress is composed of a textured satin fabric that offers a slight stretch. Includes knit lining and petticoat.
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: 05002-6558
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Fatima Strapless Beaded Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The Fatima strapless dress is sure to bring the glam to any event. The mini dress is designed with a sleek satin pleated strapless neckline, a flattering bodycon silhouette, and an all-over beaded embellishment.
Show off your style in this standout dress. Feeling the short and chic vibe? Discover more fashion-forward short prom dresses or elevate your style with our formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Beaded embellishments, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Strapless satin pleated necklace, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, weddings, bridal showers, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, birthdays, cocktail parties, date nights, GNO, bachelorettes, rooftop hotel bars
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2575
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free