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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Braelynn Formal Heat Stone Dress
Special OccasionDazzle and shine in the spotlight as you radiate confidence in our Braelynn dress! She features an all over natural hue, a mock neck, unlined fitted sleeves and a partially lined bodice with a matching unlined back. Her all over glitzy heat stones spark up the night and leads to a mini length silhouette. Braelynn is composed of semi sheer mesh fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-3988
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Alexia Fab Fringed Dress
Special OccasionHave fun and look extra fab in our rose gold Alexia dress! Get Gatsby ready with a deep V neckline, adjustable narrow shoulder straps, a subtle high waist seam, a straight across square back with an exposed back zipper closure, and a slim fit. Alexia is decorated in beaded diamond patterns with sequin accents for that added sparkle you love!
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: 05001-3974
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Francine Sequin Glam Dress
Special OccasionFrancine is trendy, glamorous, and the life of the party. You'll look and feel like a celebrity with a mock neckline with two button closures behind the neck, semi-sheer fitted long sleeves, a large back cut out for a backless effect, a sweetheart lining, a padded bust, and a body-hugging fit. Francine is composed of a semi-sheer mesh fabric with a silver swirled sequin pattern all over, and offers minimal stretch.
Model is 5'8 with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-3853
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $20.91 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Deandra Precious Heat Stone Bodycon Dress
Special OccasionDeandra shows off the precious little diamond that you are in dazzling heat stones! Her flattering V neckline complements your bust while her long, narrow sleeves give your arms a slender look. Her fitted appearance is composed of a sheer, black mesh fabric that features a geometric embellishment and includes a black, short dress lining.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-3985
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Terra Sleeveless Sequin Dress
Special OccasionShort and sweet is just your style, just like our adorable Terra dress! She is a short homecoming dress that has a mock neck with a hook closure and a sleeveless racer cut. Her narrow keyhole back closes with a basic zipper and her natural waist band leads to a slim fit skirt. Terra is composed of a thin knit paired with a bonded tulle overlay adorned with bronze sequins and clear beads.
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: 05001-3591
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.87 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Amira Formal Sequin Scroll Print Dress
Special OccasionHave all eyes on you as you dazzle and shine in our glitzy Amira dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a wired V neckline with narrow adjustable straps, padded cups and princess seams. Her slim fit bodice leads to a festive party length skirt to twirl the night away in! Her all over rose gold hued sequins feature an elegant scroll print design and are complemented with a nude hue for a flattering two tone effect. Dress is composed of mesh fabric that offers a form hugging fit with minimal stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.
Model is 5'7" with a 32" bust, 25" waist and 36 hips. She is wearing a size small.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-3908
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $22.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Lilyana Lace Party Dress
Special OccasionMake it a tea party type of day with your girls in our whimsical Lilyana dress! She features a wide round neckline, unlined lace cap sleeves, flattering princess seams and an adorable satin tie waist belt. Her bodice leads to twirl worthy party length skirt! Her all over crochet lace features a delicate floral pattern complemented with a thin knit lining and a voluminous petticoat. She offers a relaxed fit with a moderate stretch. Includes a back zipper closure
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: 05001-3848
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $45.87 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Jayne It's Showtime Sequin Dress
Special OccasionWhen it's time to show off, slip on our black Jayne dress and it's showtime! She features a turtle neck, an exposed back zipper closure, feather accents on the shoulders, fitted long sleeves and sequins throughout for added sparkle and glam. Jayne includes a bandeau and brief knit lining and is composed of a sheer mesh fabric 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: 05001-3915
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $52.41 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Cher Sassy Sequin Mini Dress
Special OccasionSlay in sequin as you make a glamorous impression in our diva worthy Cher black dress! She features a round neckline, unlined long sleeves and an all over baroque sequined pattern to add a gleaming touch! Dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a minimal stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-3954
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $10.00 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Gemma Iridescent Sequin Dress
Special OccasionIlluminate from all angles when you walk in wearing our gorgeous Gemma dress! She is composed of lined mesh fabric that is embellished with an geometric array of stunning iridescent sequins. She features a boat neckline, long sleeves, a large keyhole back with a single button closure and a mini fit. Includes a small back zipper.
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: 05001-3715
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.87 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Briana Off The Shoulder Taffeta Dress
Special OccasionAdorn yourself with rose petals to create a charming look in our Briana dress! She features, a sleeveless bodice, an off the shoulder neckline with cold shoulder straps and a sweetheart front. Her bodice features flattering princess seams along the bodice and lead to a lightly pleated party length skirt with hidden side pockets. Cinch off your look with her tie waist belt to create the perfect bow as you twirl the night away! Her all over red rose print is all you need for a naturally beautiful look! She is composed of smooth taffeta fabric that offers a form hugging fit with moderate stretch. Includes stretchy short skirt lining and back zipper closure.
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: 05001-3809
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $34.87 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Marissa One-Shoulder Asymmetric Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Have a major chic moment in our simply stunning Marissa midi dress! She features a one-shoulder neckline, a back zipper and hook and eye closure, a high waist, and a wrap front with a mid-length asymmetrical hem and a curve-hugging fit. Pair this dress with rhinestone statement earrings and a rhinestone cuff bracelet.
Fit & Features
- One-shoulder strap neckline
- Empire waist, back zipper closure
- Asymmetrical wrap silhouette
- Form-fitting midi hem
- Crepe fabric, knit lining, moderate stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0583
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $36.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Summer Formal Sequin Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Illuminate the night with a mini dress that highlights your glowing beauty. Summer features a sleeveless scoop neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, lattice back, dazzling sequins throughout, and a mini-length silhouette. The dress offers a form-hugging fit with a slight stretch. Complete look with heels and a rhinestone clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless scoop neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lattice back
- Sequins
- Mini length silhouette
- Form hugging fit, slight stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0539
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $39.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Micaela Formal Sequin Scroll Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Create that spark with a formal dress that brings the dazzle! Micaela features a sleeveless square neckline, supportive tank-like straps, an iridescent sequin scroll print, and a flared mermaid silhouette. The dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete the look with rhinestone heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline, tank-like shoulder straps
- Iridescent sequin scroll pattern
- Mermaid silhouette
- Lined mesh fabric
- Form-hugging fit, minimal stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-4058
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Dakota Formal One-Shoulder Swiss Dot Dress
Special Occasion
Capture the essence of sophisticated chic with this one-shoulder dress, featuring a delicate mesh overlay. Exude timeless elegance at your next formal gala, black-tie affair, or wedding in this single-strap, mermaid-style gown. Step out with confidence with its padded bra cups crafted within the flattering sweetheart neckline, that's beneath the delicate layers of Swiss-dot mesh that drape over the bodice. Complete this formal ensemble with a sleek satin clutch and matching pointed-toe heels for a truly stunning evening look.
Fit & Features
- One-shoulder neckline, sheer swiss dot overlay
- Built-in padded sweetheart bust, no-slip grip
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Back zipper closure
- Lined crepe fabric, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1164
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Priya Formal Iridescent Sequin Scroll Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the sparkle to your next formal occasion with this long sequin dress, featuring a stunning scroll design. Shimmer and dazzle uniquely with the iridescent sequins, embroidered in an intricate damask pattern, crafted to be centered on each dress. This floor-length sequin gown isn't just elegant; it also offers a touch of sexy allure with its low-back silhouette and lace-up detailing at the back. A high-side slit at the front beautifully accentuates your legs. Complete this stunning evening look with chandelier earrings and a matching teardrop rhinestone necklace set.
Fit & Features
- Square neckline, spaghetti straps
- Built-in padded bust, no bra required
- Lace-up back, high side slit
- Iridescent sequin scroll pattern
- Floor-length, form-hugging silhouette
- Sheer mesh fabric, knit lining, minimal stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1978
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Meredith One-Shoulder Sequin Formal Dress
Get a luxe look for your next fancy night out in the stunning Meredith sequin formal dress. She features a sleeveless bodice, an asymmetrical one-shoulder neckline with dual adjustable spaghetti straps, and a back zipper and hook and eye closure. She has a floor-length, form-hugging mermaid silhouette to highlight your curves. The dress is composed of a sheer mesh fabric with an all-over gorgeous sequin embroidered floral design and includes a stretchy knit lining. Complete your outfit with rhinestone stud earrings and a dainty sparkly bracelet.
Sequins bring the perfect mix of elegance and fun. Want more options? Shine in a sparkling sequin prom dress or make an entrance in our glamorous party dresses.
Fit & Features
- Asymmetrical one-shoulder neckline, padded bust
- Dual adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper, hook and eye closure
- Floor-length hem, curve-hugging mermaid silhouette
- Sequin embroidery, floral design
- Sheer mesh fabric, full-length knit lining, moderate stretch
- No bra required
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8347
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Meghan High Neck Crepe Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Get a stunning look for your upcoming engagement party, bachelorette outing, or bridal shower in our Meghan crepe mini dress! She features a high neck with dual back button closures, a sheer mesh bodice with a swiss dot design and a keyhole back, a padded sweetheart neckline, and a mini length, curve-hugging silhouette. Style this dress with dazzling rhinestone earrings and a rhinestone cuff bracelet for a gorgeous vibe.
Fit & Features
- High neck with dual back button closures
- Sheer mesh bodice with a swiss dot design
- Padded sweetheart neckline
- Back zipper and hook and eye closure
- Short, form-hugging fit
- Crepe fabric with a knit lining
- Moderate stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0497
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $39.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Adrianna Strappy Back Velvet Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Our gorgeous Adrianna velvet dress will give you a sophisticated and sexy look for your next soiree. She features dual spaghetti straps that lead to a strappy back, a V neckline, and a floor-length, curve-hugging mermaid silhouette. Complete your stunning look with rhinestone duster earrings and a sparkly evening bag.
Fit & Features
- Dual spaghetti straps
- Strappy back
- V neckline
- Floor-length, form-hugging fit
- Mermaid silhouette
- Velvet fabric with moderate sttretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1156
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Ivy Embroidered Sequin Mini Dress
Special Occasion
A sequin mini dress will bring the shimmer to your special occasion and radiate from every angle. The Ivy formal mini dress features a wide round neckline, sheer long fitted sleeves, a stunning scoop back, and a mini-length silhouette with an asymmetrical hem. The Ivy dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric adorned with sequins throughout. Complete the look with a dainty rhinestone bracelet with a pair of chrome heels.
Fit & Features
- Wide round neckline
- Sheer long fitted sleeves
- Scoop back, zipper closure
- Mini-length asymmetrical hem
- Sequin embroidery
- Sheer mesh fabric, knit lining, moderate stretch
- Bra-friendly design
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0536
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Bre Formal Satin Ruched Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Keep it sultry and stunning in the gorgeous Bre satin midi dress! She features a sleeveless cowl neckline, spaghetti straps, ruched detailing down the center, a mid-length, curve-hugging silhouette, and a front slit. The formal knee-length dress is crafted from a silky satin fabric with a moderate stretch. Style this midi dress with rhinestone earrings and a sleek clutch.
Dripping in satin and pure sophistication, this dress turns heads effortlessly. Love that silky shine? Browse our luxe satin prom dresses or opt for a sleek silhouette with our formal dresses.>
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Ruched body
- High front center slit
- Midi length silhouette
- Satin-like fabric with moderate stretch
- Form-hugging fit
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0614
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Rylee Formal Off the Shoulder Crepe Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the elegance to your evening with our formal Rylee dress! She features a dazzling off the shoulder neckline, a sexy cut out at the bust, and a floor-length silhouette with a high side slit. She is composed of a curve-hugging crepe fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with heels and a sleek clutch.
Fit & Features
- Off the shoulder neckline
- Cutout at the bust
- High side slit
- Slim floor-length silhouette
- Crepe fabric
- Form-hugging fit
- Moderate stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1149
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Lissie Formal Sequin Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Stun in a sequin mini dress that dazzles up your fancy nights! Lissie features a sleeveless square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, a sequin scroll print pattern, a bodycon silhouette, and a mini-length hem. The formal dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers minimal stretch. Complete the look in this mini dress with a dainty rhinestone bracelet.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Scoop back design
- Bodycon silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Sequin-lined fabric, minimal stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0530
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Alice Formal One Shoulder Crepe Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the sophistication in our gorgeous Alice crepe dress. She features a one-shoulder neckline with an adjustable spaghetti strap on the left shoulder, a sexy cutout on the lower back, and a relaxed fit bodice that leads to a floor-length silhouette with a high side slit. She is composed of a crepe fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete your look with a sleek satin clutch.
Fit & Features
- One-shoulder neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti strap
- Cutout on the lower back
- High side slit
- Crepe fabric
- Form-hugging fit
- Moderate stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1148
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free