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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Tabby Formal Pleated Glitter Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the glow in our radiating Tabby dress! She brings the details with her pleats while her glitter shines from all your best angles! Pair her with statement heels and an envelope clutch for a head-turning look!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps | Cross-Straps
- Tie-Back Straps
- Pleated Silhouette
- Lined Metallic Knit Back
- Relaxed Fit
- Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1000
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Lorelai Beaded Floral Strapless Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Soft romance meets modern allure in the Lorelai floral beaded strapless mini dress. With its sleek silhouette and delicate embellishments, it’s a chic choice for every occasion that calls for a touch of glamour.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with sewn-in knit lining, moderate stretch
- Floral print, beaded embellishments
- Strapless straight-across neckline, no-slip strip, cowl draped overlay
- Back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Mini-length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthday festivities, formal garden parties, bridal showers, dinner parties, and romantic date nights.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000168
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XXS
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Molly Sweetheart Ruffle Faux Pearl Lace Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Win every heart in the Molly lace formal dress perfect for making an entrance as a bridesmaid, wedding guest, or attending a banquet! The sweetheart neckline and padded bra cups provide a flattering, feminine silhouette while adjustable spaghetti straps ensure a perfect fit. The high front ruffled slit adds a touch of elegance and the lace fabric is adorned with faux pearls for a truly exquisite look! Complete the look with a clutch and heels.
Fit & Features
- Faux pearl embellishments, lace fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front ruffled slit
- Slim silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8509
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Elsie Glitter Tulle Lace-Up Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Radiate ethereal glamour in the Elsie floor-sweeping ball gown crafted with gorgeous glitter tulle fabric and a sleek satin woven lining. The open lace-up back offers the perfect customized fit.
This captivating dress is just the beginning. From deep navy to icy pastels, discover more flattering blue prom dresses or elevate your look with sophisticated formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Sheer tulle fabric with glitter vine design, satin woven lining
- Sweetheart neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Open back with cross-back lace-up straps, lower back zipper closure
- High waist seam, hidden side pockets
- Floor-length A-line silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, balls, black-tie galas, and fancy soirees.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0228
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Penny Ombre Glitter Tendril Ball Gown
Special OccasionMake a head turning impression in our enchanting Penny brown dress! She features a strapless sweetheart neckline, built in boning, a no slip strip and ruching details. Her waist features a cinching tie waist belt that leads to a sweeping ball gown silhouette with fluttering tendril details. Her skirt features a gorgeous ombre effect that is complemented with glitter accents throughout! Dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a minimal stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0536
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $169.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Aliya Formal Rhinestone Fringe Mini Blazer Dress
Special Occasion
Chic with a trendy flair, the Aliya formal rhinestone fringe mini blazer dress will impress at parties. She features a V-neckline with a lapel collar, long fitted sleeves with shoulder pad detailing, a cropped front hem with an intricate rhinestone-embellished fringe trim, an alluring front waist cutout, a high-rise waist, a mini-length hem, and a form-hugging fit. The crepe fabric offers a moderate stretch. Complete your posh formal 'fit with rhinestone earrings and strappy stilettos.
Fit & Features
- V-neckline, lapel collar, dual hook and eye front closures
- Long fitted sleeves, shoulder pad details
- Cropped front hem, rhinestone-embellished fringe trim
- Front waist cutout, high-rise waist, hidden side zipper, hook and eye closure
- Mini-length hem, form-hugging fit
- Crepe fabric, sewn-in knit lining, moderate stretch
- Bra-friendly design
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2025
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Arna Low Back Mermaid Lace Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Have all eyes on you in the Arna lace formal dress at parties and banquets! The sleeveless dress stuns in a V-neckline that leads to the low back while the mermaid silhouette highlights your figure. Pair with a necklace set and heels.
Fit & Features
- Lace fabric, lined
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Spaghetti straps
- Low back, zipper closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8867
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Carissa Formal Metallic Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
Shine under the spotlight in our glowing Carissa metallic dress! She brings the glamour with her dramatic wrap silhouette for making a twirl-worthy entrance! Pair her with chrome heels for the ultimate shine!
Fit & Features
- Wrap V-Neckline
- Padded Cups | Spaghetti Straps
- Ruched Overlapping Accent
- High Asymmetrical Slit | Wrap Silhouette
- Lined Metallic Knit Fabric
- Wide Banded Hem
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0044
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $259.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Lillian Formal High Slit Lace Dress
Special OccasionMake it a memorable moment in lace as you enter the room in our lovely Lillian gray dress! She features an off the shoulder neckline with scalloped lace trim, short sleeves and a relaxed fit bodice. Her elongating floor length is accented with a high side slit to show off your stylish heel game! Dress is composed of a lined floral line fabric adorned with glitter accents throughout. Garment offers a moderate stretch. Glitter may transfer.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6415
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $32.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Tara Formal Glitter Lace Dress
Special OccasionLight up the night in sparkling glitz and glam! Tara features a rich burgundy hue, a plunging V neckline with a scalloped lace trim, padded cups and an open back with a fish hook clasp closure at the nape of the neck. Her slim fit bodice leads to a sweeping floor length silhouette that a has a dramatically flared hem. Dress is composed of a lined scalloped lace fabric adorned with glitter accents throughout. Garment offers a relaxed fit with a slight stretch. Includes a zipper closure. Glitter may transfer.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6229
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $149.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Amal Bustier Lace-Up Mermaid Glitter Sequin Gown
Special Occasion
Sultry and stunning, the Amal glitter sequin gown radiates in a sparkling display of sequins and glitter embellishments, while the lace-up back and corset bodice flaunt your figure. Pair with a rhinestone clutch to complete a dazzling look head-to-toe.
Fit & Features
- Glitter, sequin embellishments
- Tulle fabric, full stretchy knit lining
- Spaghetti straps, lace-up, padded bra cups
- Bustier sheer bodice, flexible boning
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie weddings, balls, galas, big birthday events, formal milestone celebrations, red-carpet occasions, award ceremonies, fancy anniversary parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0114
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $229.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Brie Strapless Ruffled Slit Column Dress
Special Occasion
Dare to divine in the Brie strapless formal dress as a wedding or party guest! The dress features flirty ruffles across a fitted column silhouette and a high-side slit that flaunts some skin.
Unapologetically bold, this dress is all about confidence. Keep the luxe look going with our stunning strapless prom dresses or discover the perfect fit among our stylish wedding guest dresses.
Fit & Features
- Flocked velvet mesh lined fabric
- Strapless straight neckline
- Back zipper closure
- Ruffles
- High side slit
- Fitted column silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, formal birthday celebrations, and fancy date nights.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9145
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Daleyza Formal Beaded Mermaid Dress
Special OccasionGet ready for your close up in our glam Daleyza dress! She features an all over rich plum hue, a sleeveless bodice, a V neckline, padded cups for support and narrow straps. Her back features a plunging V neck that leads to a hidden zipper closure. Her slim fit bodice leads to a fluttering floor length mermaid silhouette. Daleyza is composed of a fully lined mesh fabric adorned with dazzling sequins and beads set in a geometric pattern. Dress offers a form hugging fit with a slight stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6259
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Leia Formal High Slit Sequin Dress
Special OccasionSparkle under the lights as you dance the night away in our breathtaking Leia blue dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a high round neckline, a partially lined lace bodice, a V neck bust and padded cups. Her bodice features dazzling sequins for plenty of shine and leads to a curve hugging floor length silhouette that is accented with a high side slit. Dress is composed of a combination crepe and lace fabric that offers a moderate stretch.
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: 05002-6429
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Maryanne Beaded Tulle Ball Gown
Special OccasionMake an everlasting impression as you radiate beauty in our charming Maryanne pink dress! She features a partially lined bodice, a V neckline with plunging mesh inset, lined padded cups, tank-like straps and a plunging back. Her bodice is adorned with sparkling heat stones and a gold hued baroque-inspired applique design. Her slim fit bodice leads to a voluminous ball gown silhouette that is a accented with sparkling heat stones and complemented with a dramatic train. She is composed of a lined tulle fabric that offers a form hugging fit with minimal stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0465
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $259.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Plus Addie Formal High Slit Dress
Special OccasionToast off the night in our gorgeous Addie dress! She features an all over hunter green hue, a sleeveless bodice, a V neckline, wide shoulder straps and structuring princess seams. Her relaxed fit bodice leads to a sweeping floor length silhouette that is accented with a high side slit. Addie is composed of a lined smooth knit fabric that offers a relaxed fit with a moderate stretch. Includes a hidden back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 15002-0088
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $92.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Roseanna Formal High Slit Leopard Dress
Special OccasionRoseanna is the very definition of fierce with her bold leopard print! She features a sleeveless bodice, a scoop neckline with padded cups, narrow straps that lead to a lattice back and built in boning that rests on the lower back. Her relaxed fit bodice is accented with an empire detail that leads to an A-Line silhouette complemented with side pockets and a high slit. Her all over satin fabric features a wildly inspired leopard print. Dress is fully lined and offers 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: 05002-6465
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $209.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Serena Formal High Low Dress
Special OccasionStand out like the fierce fashionista you are in our Serena dress! She features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline, a built in no slip strip and padded cups. Her relaxed fit bodice leads to head turning high low silhouette that is complemented with a contrast lining. Serena is composed of a textured satin fabric. Dress offers a form hugging fit with minimal stretch. Includes a back zipper closure and mini skirt length knit lining.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6514
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Valentina Formal Crushed Velvet Dress
Special OccasionShow what a precious stone you are in our elegant Valentina dress! She features an all over rich sapphire hue, a sleeveless bodice, a high round neckline with a fish hook clasp closure at the nape of the neck, a racer bust and padded cups for support. Her back features an open design accented with multi narrow straps. Her slim fit bodice leads to an elongating floor length silhouette accented with a bold high slit. Dress is composed of a lined luxe crushed velvet fabric that offers a curve hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Includes a lower back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6235
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Gretchen Glitter Halter Slit Column Dress
Special Occasion
Sparkle and make every room shimmer in the Gretchen glitter formal dress at celebrations and black-tie events! The striking floor-length gown boasts a sexy halter plunge U-wired neckline, a slim form-hugging bodice, and a high front slit along the column silhouette to show some skin.
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Halter plunge U-wired neckline
- Tie-neck closure, lower zipper with hook-eye closure
- Slim form-hugging bodice
- High front slit
- Floor-length column silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black-tie parties, birthday celebrations, and red-carpet events.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8975
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Arie Floral Applique Sequin A-Line Ball Gown
Special Occasion
You can't help but feel like a princess in the Arie ball gown blooming with enchanting details to show off at prom, formal birthdays, or balls! The one-shoulder neckline and dual spaghetti straps add sophistication, while the padded bra cups provide support. The sheer corset bodice with flexible boning, sequin and floral applique, and glitter details add a touch of artistry that'll inspire endless compliments! The lace-up back, high front slit, and floor-length hem complete the exclusive A-line silhouette that flatters every figure so you look and feel like a dream come true. Complete the look in lace-up heels and rhinestone jewelry!
Fit & Features
- Sequin, floral appliques, embroidery, glitter
- Tulle fabric with multiple mesh and satin linings
- Padded bra cups
- Dual thin spaghetti straps
- Lace-up, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- A-Line silhouette, front high slit
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0123
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $219.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Marie Cold Shoulder Corset Lace-Up Mermaid Gown
Special Occasion
An evening of magic awaits in the Marie glitter sequin gown to make a sparkling entrance into prom or a ball! Designed with wow, this formal gown memorizes the crowd with the sheer corset bodice, mermaid silhouette that accentuates your curves for an hourglass effect, and a voluminous floor-length hem that gives a dramatic flair. Pair this dress with a necklace and heels.
This captivating dress is just the beginning. From deep navy to icy pastels, discover more flattering blue prom dresses or elevate your look with sophisticated formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Glitter and sequin embellished pattern
- Tulle fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Cold shoulder neckline, short-sleeve cuffs, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Padded bra cups, corset bodice, flexible boning
- Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette, bonded floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0143
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $219.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Dina Formal Metallic Open Back Dress
Special OccasionMake it a metallic moment as you twirl the night away in our dazzling Dina black dress! She features a high round neckline with a double hook fasten at the nape of the neck, padded cups and a bold open back with a triple row fish hook clasp closure. Her bodice features a gold hued metallic floral applique accent and twinkling heat stones. Her floor length skirt features a curve hugging fit with vertical seams and a flared hem. Dress offers a moderate stretch. Includes a hidden lower 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: 05005-0470
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $259.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Shonda Charmeuse Satin A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Light up any room as you make a stunning appearance in our beautiful Shonda!
Fits & Features
- High, Racer Front Design I Padded Bust
- Spaghetti Straps Lace Up & Cross At The Back I Cut Out Details
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Hem I A-Line Silhouette I Front Slit
- Charmeuse, Satin Lined Fabric
- Moderate Stretch
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0409
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $159.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance