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.
Now Trending
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.
-
Sparkle Stunner Long Sleeve Cover Up
Special Occasion
Layer on some sparkle to your stunning look with this glitter knit cover up. It features long fitted sleeves and an open front with a cropped hem.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05008-0000
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $29.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Winnie Strapless Taffeta Party Dress
Special Occasion
A striking silhouette makes our Winnie mini dress an absolute must for your next night out! She features an off-the-shoulder, fold-over strapless neckline, a slim bodice with back zip, and a swing-y, A-line skirt with pockets at either hip. Winnie is fully lined and made from a taffeta-like material with a touch of stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0122
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Mariah Floral Foil Print Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Keep it lovely as you enchant them all in our romantic Mariah ball gown! Her floral print radiates beauty and grace for an unforgettable entrance!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline | Padded Cups
- Pleated Bodice
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps | Cross At Back
- Foiled Floral Print
- Lined Mesh | Petticoat
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
- Back Zipper Closure
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0036
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $86.97 $164.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Alanna Glitter Mesh Long Sleeve Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Glam up your formal affair in the Alanna mermaid dress crafted with glitzy glitter mesh fabric with a partial knit lining for coverage. It features a plunging V-neckline accented with a cutout below the bust, sheer long fitted sleeves, and a high-cut front slit to showcase some leg on the floor-length mermaid silhouette.
Fit & Features
- Sheer glitter mesh fabric with partial knit lining
- Plunging V-neckline, center cutout below the bust
- Sheer long fitted sleeves, back zipper closure
- High front slit
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8940
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Sydney Formal Taffeta Midi Dress
Special OccasionMake an unforgettable entrance in our breathtaking Sydney dress! She features a rich navy blue color, an off the shoulder neckline, padded cups and princess seams. Her slim fit bodice leads to a flattering flounce silhouette that brings plenty of flair! Dress is composed of a lined taffeta fabric that offers a relaxed fit with a moderate stretch. Includes a petticoat and back zipper closure.
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: 05001-4064
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Cora Formal Tulle Ball Gown
Special OccasionMake your night a dream come true as you twirl the night away in our enchanting Cora dress! She features a combination black with natural hue, an off the shoulder neckline with a built in no slip strip, a sweetheart bust with an unlined V-shaped mesh inset, padded cups, shoulder strap accents and princess seams. Her waist features mesh insets adorned with floral applique details and twinkling rhinestones. Her slim fit bodice leads to a voluminous tulle ball gown silhouette. Dress offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. Includes a smooth knit lining, petticoat and back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0555
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Satin Crop Bolero Jacket
When you need a little something to add to your look we recommend a bolero jacket! With a collarless design, and quarter sleeves. This style is composed of a satin like material. Hem hits mid torso for a cropped design.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05008-0002
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $22.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Monica V-Neck Lace-Up Ruffle Slim Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Looking impressive is effortless in the Monica slim formal dress perfect for wedding guests, bridesmaids, or banquets! She features a flattering V-neckline and adjustable spaghetti straps that highlight your feminine features, while the lace-up back adds a touch of chic. With a high front slit and ruffled slim silhouette, this floor-length dress will make you feel like a modern-day goddess. Complete the look in high heels.
This dress is all about movement and flair. Want more standout designs? Discover our eye-catching ruffle prom dresses or embrace an elevated style with our guest dresses.
Fit & Features
- Mesh fabric with lining
- V-neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back
- Front slit
- Ruffled slim silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8666
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $15.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Jordan Cowl Neck Slim Glitter Ombre Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Make magic happen dazzling in the Jordan glitter ombre formal dress at banquets or fancy soirees! A cowl neckline and adjustable spaghetti straps add elegance, while the strappy open back and side ruched seams add a touch of sensuality. The slim silhouette and high side slit along the long-length hem create a flattering look. Complete the look with a clutch.
Love this look? Find your statement with a stunning blue prom dress, or shine at every event with our collection of chic party dresses designed for the spotlight.
Fit & Features
- Glitter ombre mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Cowl neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, strappy open back
- Slim silhouette, side slit
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8473
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Reese Woven Glitter Knit Open-Back Bow Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Illuminate the night with the Reese mini dress that brings endless luxe to your special event! The woven glitter knit dress features a strapless sweetheart neckline with a pleated cowl draped overlay and an open back with a large detachable bow accent to add drama! Complete your Prom outfit with chrome heels.
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
- Woven glitter knit fabric with knit lining, moderate stretch
- Strapless sweetheart neckline with cowl draped overlay, no-slip strip, padded bust
- Open back, detachable large bow accent, dual button closures
- Side zipper with hook-eye closure
- High waist seam
- Mini-length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2356
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Norah Formal Rhinestone Tulle Dress
Special Occasion
Reign on in rhinestones as you dazzle in our Norah dress! She features a sleeveless partially unlined bodice, a square neckline with racer bust, adjustable narrow straps, a small keyhole, and lined padded cups. Her lace bodice is adorned with gleaming rhinestones to make a glam statement. Her multi-tiered party-length skirt is perfect for those twirl-worthy moments and is accented with a frilly merrow edge hemline. The dress offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. Includes a hidden back zipper closure, skirt lining, and voluminous petticoat.Style Number/Barcode: 05001-3934
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $119.87 $169.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Annemarie Formal Sleeveless Metallic Dress
Special OccasionGo for a glow-worthy look in our enchanting Annemarie dress! She features a navy blue color, a sheer partially lined bodice, a high round neckline, lined padded cups, floral appliques throughout and dazzling heat stones. Her back is sheer and unlined to show off a hint of skin. Her slim fit bodice leads to an elongating floor length silhouette with a flared hem. Dress offers a relaxed 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: 05005-0468
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $259.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Timeless Elegance Faux Fur Bolero
Special Occasion
Bring the elegance to your evening looks with a chic cover up! It features an open front, short sleeves and an all over faux fur fabric. Cover up also features a smooth knit lining.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05008-0003
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $29.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Aaliyah Formal Sequin Open Back Dress
Special OccasionAaliyah is truly one a million with her sparkling sequins! She features a sleeveless bodice, a halter neck with a racer bust, narrow straps that lead to a lattice back design and padded cups. Her slim fit bodice leads to an elongating floor length silhouette. Dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric adorned with sparkling sequins throughout set in a baroque-inspired print. Offers a relaxed fit with minimal 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: 05005-0477
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $269.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Martina Metallic Glitter Mermaid Dress
Who doesn't love to shimmer in glitter? Our elegant Martina showcases a pin-tucked bodice that trails into a flattering mermaid silhouette. Accessorize and highlight your glow with some stunning sparkling jewelry!
Fits & Features
- Tank Shoulder Straps
- Plunging V Neckline & Back I Padded Bust
- Pintuck Design Along The Front & Back Bodice
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I Petticoat I Mermaid Silhouette
- Fully Lined, Glitter Knit Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0904
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Maya Floral Applique Satin A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Sweep everyone off their feet as you walk in with our gorgeous Maya!
Fits & Features
- Strapless, Sweetheart Neckline With Interior No-Slip Strip
- Center Back Lace-Up Detail & Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure I Boning At Back
- Partially Lined Mesh Bodice With Floral Appliques And Beaded Details
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Lined Satin-Like, Floor Length Skirt I A-Line Silhouette I Front Slit
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0003
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $110.97 $209.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Tova Off The Shoulder Glitter Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Grace your event in a shimmering glitter knit mermaid dress that features an elegant off-the-shoulder neckline with a foldover accent, sheer ruched long sleeves, and a sweeping long-length hem. Complete your formal event outfit with glitter block heels.
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit fabrication, stretchy knit lining
- Off-the-shoulder neckline, foldover accent
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Sheer ruched long sleeves
- Mermaid silhouette
- Long length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8741
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Cordelia Velvet Glitter Long Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
Sparkle with luxe glamour in the Cordelia velvet glitter formal dress at your next black-tie affair. The ruched wrap-front silhouette paired with the high-cut slit adds that chic allure.
Fit & Features
- Lined velvet glitter fabric
- Strapless straight neckline
- Ruching
- Wrap silhouette
- High-slit
- Long length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black-tie parties, and formal events.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8674
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Madeline Formal Beaded Mermaid Dress
Special OccasionRadiate a gorgeous look in our captivating Madeline dress! She features a charcoal color, an off the shoulder neckline with shoulder strap accents, sheer narrow straps, a sweetheart bust and padded cups. Her slim fit bodice leads to a curve hugging mermaid silhouette and godet accents at the hem. The all over beaded design is complemented with sequins for a sparkling look! Dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a minimal stretch.
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size three.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0427
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $219.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Beatrice Formal High Slit Chiffon Dress
Special OccasionDazzle like a dream in the head turning Beatrice dress! She features a partially lined bodice with a plunging V neckline with scalloped lace trim, lined cups, tank-like straps and a matching plunging back. Her bodice is adorned with sparkling heat stones set in a baroque-inspired design and leads to a flowy blush pink chiffon maxi silhouette with a high side slit. Dress is composed of a combination mesh, knit and chiffon fabrics that offers a relaxed fit with 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: 05005-0428
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $109.97 $299.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Yenni Satin Rhinestone Trim Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Elegance and class come to mind when people see you in our stunning Yenni! Sparkling rhinestones line her waist, enhancing your hourglass silhouette. Thanks to her gorgeous and voluminous ball gown, you'll be able to channel your inner princess! Put your hair in a wispy up-do and dust your neckline and ears with matching rhinestone jewelry for a gorge look!
Fits & Features
-
Wide Tank Shoulder Straps
- Square Neckline I Deep V Back I Padded Bust
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Rhinestone Trim At The Waist I Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Hemline I Ball Gown Silhouette I Petticoat
- Satin-Like Fabric I Fully Lined I Pretty Sheen Finish
- Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 36.5" hips. She is wearing a size 3.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0097
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Wide Tank Shoulder Straps
-
Marlene Lace-Up Mermaid Beaded Pearl Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Fabulous and enchanting, the Marlene mermaid formal dress knows how to make an entrance! Crafted with countless beaded and faux pearls, this formal dress turns heads with a lace-up back and floor-length hem for a dramatic flair.
Make your entrance unforgettable in this dress. For more glam styles, explore intricate embellishments on beaded prom dresses or be ready to celebrate in wedding guest dresses.
Fit & Features
- Beaded and faux pearl embellished
- Mesh lined fabric with stretchy knit
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, formal celebrations, and red-carpet events.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9129
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $149.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Francine Formal Beaded Chiffon Dress
Special OccasionBring the luxe in our breathtaking Francine gray dress! She features a V neckline, padded cups, sheer cold shoulder straps and tank-like straps. Her slim fit bodice is adorned with a Gatsby-inspired beaded design with shimmering sequins and leads to a sweeping floor length floor length silhouette with godet panels. Dress is composed of a sheer lined chiffon fabric that offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. Includes a hidden back zipper closure.
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size three.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0426
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $219.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Velvet Crop Bolero Cover Jacket
Perfect to add to any formal dress, this bolero features a short tailored hem, long sleeves and a collarless design. This bolero cover up is composed of a velvet material that offers a form fit.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05008-0001
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $24.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free