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.
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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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Karina Formal Sequin Cross-Back Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Stun in the Karina sequin mini dress that brings the shine to your special evening! She features a plunging V-neckline with a built-in padded bust for support, sparkling sequins set in a filigree design, and a sexy open back with sleek cross straps. The sheer mesh fabric includes a full-length knit lining and offers moderate stretch. Complete your formal evening outfit with sleek stilettos and earrings.
Fit & Features
- Plunge V-neckline, dual bungee spaghetti straps
- Built-in padded bust, no bra required
- Filigree sequin embroidered design
- Open back, sleek criss-cross straps
- Bodycon silhouette, mini-length hem
- Sheer mesh fabric, full knit lining, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1151
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Allie Formal Sequin Open Back Dress
Special Occasion
Sequin dresses will sparkle for your special event and radiate luxe glamor! The Allie formal sequin dress features a sleeveless cowl neckline, sleek bungee spaghetti straps that cross at the back, an open back accented with a bar strap, all-over sparkling sequin embroidery, a bodycon silhouette, and a mini-length hem. The sheer mesh fabric includes a full-length knit lining. Style this party dress with clear mules and a rhinestone clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl neckline
- Bungee spaghetti straps, cross-back strap design
- Open back with bar strap
- Bodycon silhouette, mini-length hem
- All-over sequin embroidery, sheer mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1832
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Nahla Formal Satin Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
The stunning Nahla dress enchants and brings the charm with her luxe satin and flattering mermaid silhouette to embrace curves! Perfect for prom, she features a sleeveless cowl neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, and a flared mermaid silhouette. Nahla is composed of a lined satin fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete your glamorous look with rhinestone heels and duster earrings.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Lined stretch satin fabric
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1373
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Adora Formal One-Shoulder Ruched Dress
Special Occasion
An elegant formal long dress that captivates! The Adora floor-length dress features a one-shoulder neckline, ruching throughout, a high side slit, and a wrap-styled silhouette. The dress is composed of a smooth knit fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels and a tennis bracelet.
Fit & Features
- One-shoulder neckline
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Ruching
- High side slit
- Wrap-styled silhouette
- Smooth knit fabric
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6999
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Joules Formal One-Shoulder Crepe Dress
Special Occasion
Step into sophistication and elegance with this one-shoulder formal dress, perfect for your next gala, black-tie wedding, or prom. This floor-length dress is made with matte crepe fabric exuding a sleek and modern aesthetic that enhances the clean lines of the asymmetrical neckline. The built-in padded cups ensure a flawless appearance, while the side ruching artfully accentuates the waistline and curves. Complement this formal contemporary look with ankle strap platform heels accented with faux pearls or rhinestones for a touch of glam.
Fit & Features
- One-shoulder neckline, tank shoulder strap
- Padded cups
- Ruching, high side slit
- A-line silhouette
- Lined crepe fabric
- Form hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0952
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $39.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Alexia Formal High Slit Illusion Dress
Special Occasion
Create a captivating moment with a formal dress that brings elegance to your evening soirees! Alexia features a sleeveless V-neckline with a padded bust, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customized fit, a contrast sheer mesh bodice, ruching, and a floor-length A-line silhouette with a high slit. The formal dress is composed of a lined crepe fabric with a moderate stretch. Complete the look with rhinestone heels and a clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Padded bust, no bra required
- Contrast illusion sheer mesh bodice
- Back zipper, hook and eye closure
- Floor-length A-line silhouette, high slit
- Lined crepe fabric, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1358
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Emily One-Shoulder Pleated Asymmetric Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Showcase your bride-to-be status in our chic Emily mini dress for your upcoming engagement party! She features a one-shoulder neckline with a single long fitted sleeve, a back zipper closure, an asymmetric, mini-length, curve-hugging silhouette, and a dramatic side skirt overlay. The dress is composed of a crepe fabric with a knit lining and offers a moderate stretch for comfortable wear. Complete your look with rhinestone earrings and a sleek clutch. Be sure to shop this dress in the other luxe fabrications!
Shop Sequin Dress: Talulla Formal One-Shoulder Sequin Mini Dress
Shop Velvet Dress: Zhuri Formal One-Shoulder Velvet Dress
Fit & Features
- One-shoulder neckline, long sleeve
- Adhesive bra recommended
- High waist seam, back zipper closure
- Side drape overlay
- Asymmetric short hem
- Crepe-lined fabric, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0542
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Amaria Formal Ruched Chiffon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Step out in style in this long-sleeve mini dress with a plunging V-neckline. Embrace the sophisticated elegance of this chiffon long-sleeve bodycon mini dress with side ruching. The gathering details on the sides of this mini dress enhance the curves of your hourglass shape for an irresistibly stunning look. Elevate this dress with platform heels and a sparkly clutch, perfect for date night or enjoying a night out with your besties.
Fit & Features
- Plunge V-neck, sheer chiffon long sleeves
- Ruched detail
- Bodycon silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Smooth knit fabric, lining, moderate stretch
- Sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0549
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Zadie Formal High-Slit Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Impress in an elegant midi dress that is simply sophisticated! Zadie features a strapless square neckline, flexible boning, a draped accent at the bodice, and a midi-length silhouette accented with a high side slit. The midi dress is composed of a crepe fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete the look with rhinestone heels and an anklet.
Fit & Features
- Strapless square neckline
- Draped accent on bodice, flexible boning
- Back zipper closure
- Form-hugging fit, midi-length silhouette, high side slit
- Crepe fabric with moderate stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1266
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Winslow Formal Satin Lace-Up Dress
Special Occasion
The Winslow is absolute perfection! Gracefully glide into any room in this satin formal gown showcasing a gorgeous lace-up back design that turns heads and a striking high slit for pretty and effortless movement on the dancefloor.
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
- Premium satin fabric, lined, no stretch
- Sleeveless, cowl neck, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Form-fitting bodice, open-back, lace-up closure
- Back zipper closure, hidden side pockets
- A-line silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, balls, black-tie weddings, formal milestone celebrations, galas, and opera nights.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7869
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $49.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Lila Formal Open-Back Sequin Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Bring dazzle and shine to your evening with a prom dress that radiates elegance. The dress features a sleeveless V-neckline, sleek spaghetti straps, a multi-cross-strap design, sparkling sequins set in an intricate damask pattern, and a mermaid silhouette. The dress is composed of a lined mesh-knit fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with slight stretch. Complete your prom look with rhinestone heels and a clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, padded cups
- Spaghetti straps
- Multi-cross-strap back design
- Sequins, damask print
- Mermaid silhouette
- Lined mesh-knit fabric, form-hugging fit, minimal stretch
- Sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1746
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Sam Formal Satin Open Back Dress
Special Occasion
Slip into this silky satin number! Sam is here for you and your next dressy affair. She features a sleeveless, plunging V-neckline, a built-in padded bust, and wide shoulder straps that lead to her open-back design with lace-up straps, a zipper closure, and bum ruching. Her form-fitting, A-line silhouette hugs your curves while the side slit accent lets you showcase some leg on the floor-length hem. The formal dress is composed of a luxe satin-stretch fabric with lining. Complete the look with an elegant hair comb to tame your tresses in style.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless, plunging V-neckline, wide shoulder straps
- Open-back, lace-up straps, zipper and hook and eye closure, bum ruching
- Form-fitting, A-line silhouette
- Side slit accent, floor-length hem
- Satin-stretch fabric, lined
- No bra required, built-in padded bust
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2401
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Layci Formal High Slit Dress
Special Occasion
Create a memorable impression in our breathtaking Layci dress! She features a straight off-the-shoulder neckline with a fold-over accent and princess seams. Her slim-fit bodice leads to an elongating floor-length silhouette that is accented with a high side slit to showcase your glam heels! The dress is composed of a crepe fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete the look with a sleek clutch.
Fit & Features
- Off-the-shoulder neckline, fold-over design
- Slim-fit bodice, princess seams
- Form-hugging silhouette
- Floor-length hem, high-cut slit
- Crepe fabric, sewn-in lining, moderate stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6795
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Becca Satin Lace-Up Ruched Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the sultry vibes to your next party in our stunning Becca satin mini dress! She features a sleeveless, spaghetti strap bodice with a cowl neckline that creates a curvy appearance that leads to a strappy lace-up back with a tie closure so you can adjust the fit, sexy ruched detailing, and a mini length on her curve-hugging silhouette. Pair this dress with sleek hoop earrings and a chic clutch.
Fit & Features
- Cowl neckline, dual spaghetti straps
- Adhesive bra recommended
- Strappy lace-up back with tie closure
- Ruched detailing
- Short bodycon hem
- Satin knit fabric, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0499
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Celina Glitter Knit Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Turn heads and make a sparkly statement in the stunning Celina dress! She features a sleeveless cowl neckline, spaghetti straps that lead to a cross-back design, front ruched detailing, and a floor-length mermaid silhouette with a thigh-high slit. Complete the look with rhinestone statement earrings and chic heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl neckline
- Spaghetti straps, cross-back design
- Front ruching
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette, high front slit
- Curve-hugging fit
- Glitter knit fabric, short knit lining, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1718
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Live It Up Sequin Mini Dress
Hey babe, live it up and light up the dance floor in this stunning sequin mini dress! It features a sleeveless square neckline, bungee spaghetti straps, and a short, form-hugging silhouette. The sheer mesh fabric includes a full knit lining and has a chic all-over sequin scroll embroidered design. Complete the look with platform heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline
- Bungee spaghetti straps
- Mini-length, form-fitting silhouette
- Sheer mesh fabric, knit lining, moderate stretch
- Sequin scroll embroidered design
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-1191
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Jolina Wrap Skirt Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Show off your fab figure by slipping into our gorgeous Jolina! Her pretty sheen will have you radiating from every angle, making you look picture-perfect and camera-ready. She features a sleeveless wrap-front V-neckline and a floor-length wrap skirt creating an alluring front slit. Pair her up with some sparkling finishing touches so you can highlight that glow even more!
Fit & Features
- Surplice V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Floor-length hem, wrap skirt design
- Front slit
- Lined luxe satin fabrication
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Sticky or strapless bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2028
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Arabella High Slit Cowl Neck Dress
Special Occasion
Radiate elegance in this long formal dress made with a high-shine, smooth fabric. Designed to hug your curves, this floor-length bodycon dress accentuates an hourglass figure for a simply irresistible look. A sultry side slit elegantly elongates the legs, while the dress impresses from every angle with its low-back design. The flattering cowl neckline at the front creates the perfect display for a sparkly rhinestone necklace so your gorgeous selfies pop and shine.
Fits & Features
- Sleeveless cowl neckline, spaghetti straps, cross at back
- A-line silhouette, ruched detailing
- High side slit
- Smooth knit fabric
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-3001
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $46.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Valencia Formal Off-The-Shoulder Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
Keep it sophisticated with a formal long dress that creates a moment to remember! Valencia features an off-the-shoulder neckline with a sweetheart bust, arm cuffs, and a mermaid silhouette with a wrap hem, and pleating. The maxi dress is composed of a form-hugging smooth satin knit fabric that offers a minimal stretch. Complete your dressy outfit with rhinestone heels and door-knocker earrings.
Fit & Features
- Off-the-shoulder neck, sweetheart bust, arm cuffs
- Lightly padded cups, strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Pleated empire waist, form-hugging
- Mermaid wrap silhouette
- High-cut front slit, floor-length hem
- Silky satin fabric, lined, minimal stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7492
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $24.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Abigail Ruched Satin Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Get a stunning look in the gorgeous and chic Abigail mermaid dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, adjustable spaghetti straps that lead to a cross-back design, a V-neckline, and a sheer lace back panel with zipper closure. Her high waist leads to a curve-hugging mermaid silhouette with a floor-length skirt, front ruched detailing, and a thigh-high front slit. Pair the sleek satin dress with a rhinestone collar necklace and strappy heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook and eye closure, sheer lace panel, cross straps
- Ruched detailing on bodice and waist, thigh-high slit
- Form-fitting long hem, mermaid silhouette
- Luxe satin knit fabrication
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1198
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Janie Formal One Shoulder Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the elegance in our Janie dress that reflects glamour for your next special evening. She features a sleek one-shoulder neckline, a ruched bodice, a high waist seam, and a floor-length skirt with a sexy high side slit and ruched detailing. The dress is composed of a comfortable knit fabric with a moderate stretch. Complete your stunning evening outfit with rhinestone earrings and strappy stiletto heels.
Fit & Features
- One-shoulder neckline | Tank strap
- Adhesive bra recommended
- High side slit with ruched seam
- Floor-length silhouette
- Sleek knit lined fabric
- Fits true to size | Moderate stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1020
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $39.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Rashida Lattice Back Glitter Dress
Special Occasion
Catch the light when you take our dazzling Rashida mini for a twirl! She features a sleeveless V-neckline, lightly padded cups, a double-row of spaghetti straps, a lace-up back design, and a skater silhouette. The short dress is composed of a lined glitter woven fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Style the mini dress with rhinestone heels.
Fits & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, lightly padded cups
- Lattice-tie back
- Lower back hook and eye closure with zipper
- Swingy, A-line skater skirt
- Glitter knit material, fully lined
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0083
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Nala Cowl Neck Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Cue the fireworks, you're here to make an entrance in the stunning Nala formal dress! She features a sleeveless bodice with a trendy cowl neckline, spaghetti straps, a high waist seam to elongate your silhouette, and a floor-length mermaid fit that will hug your curves. The sleek satin fabric offers plenty of stretch. Complete your gorgeous going-out look with strappy heels and a chic clutch.
Fit & Features
- Cowl neckline, spaghetti straps
- Strapless or adhesive bra recommended
- High waist seam
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Luxe satin fabric
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0700
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Linda Formal Glitter Ruffled Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the sparkle with a formal dress that brings the glitz! The dress features a sleeveless V-neckline with adjustable spaghetti straps, an alluring open back with criss-cross straps, and a bow accent that sits atop cascading ruffles on a mermaid silhouette. The dress is composed of lined glitter knit fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with minimal stretch. Complete the look with glitter mesh heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, sticky bra recommended
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, criss-cross back
- Cascading ruffles with bow
- Mermaid silhouette
- Lined glitter knit fabric
- Form-hugging fit, minimal stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6801
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale