Formal Dresses

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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.

  • Plus Emmeline Crepe Scalloped Dress
    Special Occasion

    Dazzle as bright as a romantic night spent under the stars in our alluring Emmeline dress! She features elegant cap sleeves, a V neckline framed with a scalloped trim design and a gleaming array of heat stones that reflect plenty of glamour! Her empire waist is detailed with a heat stone accent that leads to a sweeping mermaid silhouette. She is composed of a crepe fabric that offers a curve enhancing fit with a moderate stretch. Dress includes fish hook clasp and back zipper closure. 

    Model is 5'9 with a 38" bust, 38" waist and 44" hips. She is wearing a size 1X.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 15002-0028

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $14.94 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Alisha High Slit Ball Gown
    Special Occasion 

    Shine and radiate your glowing beauty from the inside out in our Alisha yellow dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a partially lined bodice with lined cups and tank-like straps. Her bodice is embellished with rhinestones and gemstones to dazzle! Her slim fit bodice leads to a voluminous ball gown silhouette that is accented with a high side slit. Dress is composed of a combination mesh and knit fabric that offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch.

    Model is 5'7" with a 32.5" bust, 24" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size three.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0455

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $81.97 $219.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Lilianna Formal Rhinestone High Slit Midi Dress

    Special Occasion

    The ever-so-chic Lilianna formal rhinestone high slit midi dress will have you shining all night long! Crafted from a sleek slinky knit fabric with all-over rhinestone embellishments for a gorgeous sparkle, she features a sleeveless cowl neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customized fit, a mid-length hem with a sultry thigh-high side slit to showcase some leg, and a form-hugging silhouette to flaunt your figure. The slinky knit fabric includes a knit lining. Complete your cocktail party look with a gemstone necklace and stiletto heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless cowl neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Mid-length hem, thigh-high side slit
    • Form-hugging silhouette
    • All-over rhinestone embellishments
    • Slinky knit fabric, knit lining, plenty of stretch
    • Strapless or sticky bra recommended
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1908

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Alondra Formal Lace Halter Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Radiate elegance in the ever gorgeous Alondra black dress! She features a partially lined halter neck with lined padded cups, an embroidered baroque design, a small keyhole, adjustable narrow straps and dazzling heat stones. Her slim fit bodice leads to a sweeping floor length silhouette that is accented with a high side slit. Dress is composed of a combination mesh and smooth knit fabric that offers a form hugging fit with minimal 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: 05002-6709

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $199.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Belle Sweetheart Floral Applique Ball Gown

    Special Occasion

    Look stunning and spectacular in our Belle! Enchant them all as you spin around to show off her twirl-worthy fullness!

    Fits & Features

    • Strapless, Sweetheart Neckline I No-Slip Interior Strip 
    • Lace-Up Back Detail I Hidden Zip With Hook & Eye Closure 
    • Floral Appliques With Gem Accents At The Sides I Hidden Hand Pockets
    • Sweeping Floor-Length Hem I A-Line Silhouette I Pleating Details 
    • Satin-Like Fabric 
    • Form Hugging Fit 

     

    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: 05004-0056

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $79.97 $189.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Denise Halter Tie-Back Mermaid Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Bring an elevated allure to every event in the Denise mermaid formal dress. With a show-stopping tie-back design and a sultry halter V-neckline, this floor-length dress will keep all the eyes on you.

    Fit & Features

    • Smooth knit stretch fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • Halter V-neckline, padded bra cups
    • Tie-back design, zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • Floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8931

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $49.97 $99.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Idina Satin Lace Up Ball Gown

    Special Occasion 

    Lace-up in elegance as you create a twirl-worthy moment in our dreamy Idina ball gown. Pair her with glitzy heels and rhinestone accents to bring the shine to your evening! 

    Fit & Features

    • Plunging V-Neckline
    • Padded Cups | Adjustable Spaghetti Straps 
    • Empire Waist 
    • Pleated Ball Gown Silhouette
    • Side Pockets
    • Lined Satin Fabric | Petticoat
    • Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch 

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0060

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $57.97 $109.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Leanna Floral High Low Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Bring the charm in florals as you make a head-turning entrance in our romantic Leanna dress! Pair her with statement earrings and a pair of pretty platforms for a look that impresses them all!  

    Fit & Features

    • Scoop Neckline | Padded Cups 
    • Spaghetti Straps | Cross Back Straps
    • Open Back | Lower Back Keyhole
    • High Low Silhouette | Ruffled Trim 
    • Hidden Side Pockets | Petticoat 
    • Lined Satin Woven Fabric Floral Print
    • Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch 

     

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0032

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $92.97 $219.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Angelica Floral Applique Velvet Mermaid Dress

    Special Occasion

    Evoke a romantic aura in the gorgeously chic Angelica velvet mermaid dress designed with intricate floral embroidered appliques down the front. Perfect for a formal affair, the dress features a sleeveless square neckline accented with a V-wired insert, adjustable spaghetti straps leading to a cross-back design, and a high-cut front slit on the fitted mermaid silhouette.

    Fit & Features

    • Velvet fabric with top knit lining, moderate stretch
    • Floral embroidered appliques down the front
    • Sleeveless square neckline, V-wired insert, padded bust
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps, cross-back design, back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • High front slit
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7578

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $39.97 $84.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Mayva Mermaid Rhinestone Faux Pearl Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Mayva rhinestone faux pearl formal dress offers a lavishly perfect look for weddings, celebrations, or banquets! With a cowl neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, and a mermaid silhouette, this floor-length dress will turn heads. Made with faux pearl rhinestone mesh knit fabric, it exudes luxury and sophistication.

    Fit & Features

    • Faux pearl rhinestone embellished, knit fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Cowl neckline
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8513

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $39.97 $79.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Cora Satin Ruffled One-Shoulder Bodycon Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Cora satin mini dress makes a dramatic entrance with a statement one-shoulder, ruffled design, and flattering bodycon silhouette. Style the formal dress with rhinestone heels.

    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

    • Satin knit fabric with knit bust lining, plenty of stretch
    • Asymmetric one-shoulder neckline, ruffled design
    • Dart seams at bust, high waist seam
    • Back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • Ruched side and back seams
    • Mini-length bodycon silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2300

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Emmy Formal Beaded Ball Gown
    Special Occasion 

    Enchant and captivate as you make an unforgettable entrance in our dreamy Emmy mint dress! She features a gold bodice with a round neckline, a sweetheart bust and padded cups. Her bodice features a gorgeous a floral beaded design complemented with heat stones. Her back features multi fish hook closure at the nape of the neck and a multi vertical strap detail. Her voluminous mint ball gown skirt is complemented with hidden side pockets and a petticoat. Dress offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0498

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $199.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Iya Beaded High Slit Dress
    Special Occasion

    Iya sparkles like the night sky! She features a sleeveless bodice with a deep V neckline, narrow shoulder straps that lead to a racer back and a hidden zip up closure, a sheer back paired with a lined front, and intricate beading that ends at a sheer waist panel. Floor-length skirt has a slim fit with a slight flare at the hem, a high front leg slit, and a contrast interior lining. 

    Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 24.5" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size three.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0448

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $219.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Mika Floral Mesh Bell Sleeve Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Oh-so-chic, the Mika bell sleeve mini dress is perf for a garden party or formal brunch with the girls. The floral embroidery on airy mesh fabric gives the dress an effortlessly pretty look.

    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

    • Sheer mesh fabric with partial lining
    • Floral embroidered pattern
    • Square neck and back
    • Long bell sleeves
    • Tie-back straps, lower back zipper closure
    • Mini-length bodycon silhouette
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Engagement parties, bridal showers, garden parties, and weekend brunches.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2709

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Mila Metallic One Shoulder Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Radiate a more elegant look in our luxe Mila black dress! She features a one shoulder neckline, a tank-like strap, padded cups for support. Her partially lined bodice features a gold metallic applique design and sparkling heat stones that adorn the left seam. Her floor length silhouette elongates to a flared hem. Dress is composed of a double lined smooth knit fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. 

    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: 05005-0462

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $289.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Bethany Formal High Slit Chiffon Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Create a radiating impression in our charming Bethany dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a V neckline, padded cups and narrow adjustable cross straps. Her slim fit bodice leads to a sweeping floor length silhouette that is accented with a high side slit that reveals a contrast lining. Dress is composed of a chiffon fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a minimal stretch.

    Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size three.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0045

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $74.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Isabel One Shoulder Color Block Dress
    Special Occasion

    Modern yet elegant, that's our Isabel formal dress. She features a white bodice with a one shoulder neckline, a built in no slip strip, a black arm hole accent and a waist cut out. Her attached black skirt is floor length with a high side slit. Dress is composed of a crepe fabric with minimal stretch. Includes a hidden side zipper closure and an additional mini skirt length knit lining.

    Model is 5'9" 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: 05002-6318

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $44.97 $119.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Mia Formal Sleeveless Cutout Midi Dress

    Special Occasion

    Simply chic, the Mia formal midi dress is a must-have style for cocktail parties or as a guest at weddings! She features a sleeveless square neckline, spaghetti straps, an alluring small cutout under the bust, a midi-length hem with a fab back slit accent, and a form-hugging silhouette. Complete the look with strappy stilettos.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless square neckline
    • Spaghetti straps, back zipper closure
    • Small cutout under the bust
    • Midi-length hem, back slit, form-hugging fit
    • Woven fabric, moderate stretch
    • Strapless or sticky bra recommended
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1447

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $56.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Simone Formal Satin Tie-Back Cutout Midi Dress

    Special Occasion

    Slip into the Simone formal satin midi dress for a sultry vibe at banquets or weddings! She features a square neckline adorned with spaghetti straps, a tie-back design, a flirty underbust cutout, a center back slit, and a bodycon silhouette that hugs your curves down to the knee-length midi hem. The formal midi dress is crafted from a luxuriously soft satin fabric with minimal stretch. Complete the look with a mini purse and heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless square neck, spaghetti straps
    • Tie-back design, underbust cutout
    • Center back slit
    • Bodycon silhouette, midi-length hem
    • Luxe satin fabric, minimal stretch
    • Sticky bra recommended
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1999

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $46.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Mckenna Formal Sequin Scroll Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Bring the sparkle in our Mckenna dress!

    Fits & Features

    • Plunging wired V neckline I Padded cups
    • Partially open back I Adjustable spaghetti straps 
    • Sweeping floor-length skirt with two thigh-high slits
    • All over sequins in scroll print pattern
    • Lined mesh fabric 
    • Form hugging fit with slight stretch
    • Back zipper closure

    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: 05002-0335

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $79.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Kennedy Long Sleeve Corset Mermaid Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Indulge in effortless elegance in the Kennedy mesh formal dress to be a true beauty at black-tie parties and events. The floor-length dress is designed with a hidden corset bodice, side ruched seams that accentuate your figure, and a mermaid silhouette. Pair with earrings.

    Fit & Features

    • Mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Sheer fitted long sleeves
    • Sweetheart neckline, back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Hidden corset bodice, lace built-in padded bra, flexible boning
    • Side ruched seams, mermaid silhouette
    • Floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9315

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Sherri Metallic Glitter Skater Dress

    Special Occasion

    Mon Sherri! You'll be wanting to twirl and sway nonstop in our exquisite Sherri! If you think she looks lovely now, wait till the spotlight hits her 

    Fits & Features

    • Adjustable Spaghetti Straps I Plunging V Neckline
    • Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
    • Slant Hand Pockets I Wide Waistband
    • Flowy, A-Line Skater Skirt 
    • Smooth Woven Glitter Knit I Fully Lined
    • Form-Hugging Fit I Minimal Stretch 

     Model is 5'6" with a 31" bust, 26" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small. 

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0280

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Miranda Glitter Mermaid Formal Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Elegance with minimal effort. Our Miranda dress is exactly that. She features a strapless neckline with scalloped trim, a form hugging mermaid silhouette, and a stretchy knit fabric adorned with glitter. Dress includes a back zipper closure.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6549

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $99.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Saraya Sequin Sweetheart Formal Dress
    Special Occasion

    Saraya is a stunning and shining vision! You'll feel red carpet ready with an off the shoulder and deep wired sweetheart neckline, a slim fitting bodice with an exposed back zipper closure, a body-hugging silhouette with a flared hem, and all over baroque-inspired silver sequins. Dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a minimal stretch.

    Model is 5'9 with a 32" bust, 23" waist, and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6525

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $79.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance