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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Brinley Lace Chiffon Asymmetric Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Showcase chic elegance in the Brinley formal mermaid dress crafted with airy sheer chiffon and dainty lace fabrics for an ethereal vibe with a knit lining for coverage. It features a sleeveless ruched sweetheart neckline followed by ruched side panels down the sides, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customized fit, and a floor-length asymmetric mermaid silhouette with a tiered ruffled chiffon hem.
Make a statement in this stunning dress. Love bold details? Explore our playful ruffle prom dresses or find a sleek look in our formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Sheer chiffon and lace fabrics with knit lining, minimal stretch
- Ruched sweetheart neckline
- Ruched side panels
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Floor-length asymmetric mermaid silhouette, tiered ruffled chiffon hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8715
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Molly Formal Halter Tulle Dress
Special OccasionMake a perfect picture night in our unforgettable Molly black dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a plunging halter neck with a fish hook clasp closure at the nape of the neck, an unlined mesh inset and padded cups. Her lined bodice features a white hued embroidered design with gleaming rhinestones. Her open back features bar straps and a hidden zipper closure. Her slim fit bodice leads to a frilly party length tulle skirt. Dress offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch.
Model is 5'8.5" with a 32 bust, 24 waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size 3.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-3919
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $189.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Amina Formal High Slit Chiffon Dress
Special OccasionFlatter and shine in the ever so charming Amina dress! She features a navy blue color, a plunging V neckline with a unlined mesh inset, wide tank-like straps and lined padded cups. Her bodice is partially lined with piping accents, floral appliques and sparkling heat stones. Her open back reveals a bar strap accent with a triple-row fish hook closure and leads to a hidden lower back zipper. Her elongating floor length silhouette is accented with a high side slit to reveal glam heels! Dress is composed of a mesh and lined chiffon fabric that offers a relaxed fit with minimal 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: 05005-0436
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $74.97 $209.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Regina Formal Sequin And Lace Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the elegance as you reign the night in our Regina dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V neckline with a sheer unlined mesh inset, padded cups and adjustable spaghetti straps. Her slim fit bodice leads to a flared skater length silhouette with a wide banded hem. Her all over floral lace with adorned with dazzling sequins throughout. Dress is lined with a smooth knit fabric and voluminous petticoat. Dress offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. Includes a back zipper closure with hook and eye closure.
Model is 5'3" with a 32" bust, 22.5" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0029
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $33.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Adeline Formal Sequin Strapless Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Embellished with light-catching sequins, the Adeline formal midi dress deserves to shine at banquets and fancy soirees! She features a sultry strapless neckline with a wired V-notch and padded bust for structured support, a flattering bodycon silhouette, and a sassy center back slit along the midi-length hem. The formal midi dress is designed with a captivating sequin scroll embellished pattern on lightweight mesh fabric with a stretchy knit lining. Complete the look with an emerald necklace and heels!
Fit & Features
- Strapless wired V-notch neckline
- Padded bust
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette
- Center back slit, midi-length hem
- Sequin scroll pattern, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1937
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Emelia Formal Trumpet Lace Dress
Special OccasionStun in elegance lace as you make your entrance for your next event! Emelia features a navy blue color, a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V neckline, padded cups, unlined side mesh panels and floral appliques throughout with heat stones. Her floor length silhouette features a lined floral lace fabric that leads to a flared trumpet hem. Dress offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. includes a hidden 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: 05005-0471
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $269.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Lucia Formal Cowl Neck Cutout Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Flaunt your sexy curves in the Lucia formal midi dress! Designed with a luxurious cowl neckline and cutout waist, this shimmery slinky knit dress will make a statement and features spaghetti straps and a front thigh-high slit to elevate this midi to a new level of chic. Complete the look in fringe earrings for a bachelorette or dressy birthday celebration!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Cutout waist
- Bodycon silhouette, front slit
- Midi-length hem
- Shimmery slinky knit fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2044
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kennedy Sequin Gown
Special Occasion
Introducing our beautiful and elegant Kennedy gown, She has a form fitting silhouette that is floor length. She has a v neckline, padded cups and adjustable spaghetti straps that lead to a low V back and zipper closure. She is fully lined and showcases a beautiful scroll sequin pattern. Her hem flows out in a mermaid style fashion. Just beautiful!
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 35.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0200
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $36.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Addie Strapless Velvet Asymmetric Ruffled Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the flirtatious allure in the Addie velvet ruffled mini dress perfect for your next party! The short formal dress is designed with a strapless straight-across neckline, vertical seams that run from bust to hem, and a tiered, ruffled, asymmetric hem for that dramatic flair.
This dress was made for selfies! Love a bold look? Browse our chic black prom dresses or stand out in our stylish party dresses.
Fit & Features
- Lined velvet fabric
- Strapless straight neckline
- Vertical seams from bust to hem
- Back zipper closure
- Tiered asymmetric ruffled hem
- Mini length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2563
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Maizie Sleeveless Slit A-Line Glitter Formal Dress
Special Occasion
A sleeveless formal dress features a sleek square neckline, spaghetti straps, and an A-line floor-length silhouette showcasing a sultry front slit. The glitter knit fabric offers plenty of stretch for comfort.
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit fabric, moderate stretch
- Square neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Front slit
- A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8611
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Livia Glitter Knit High Slit Formal Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Show off a gorgeous radiance at cocktail hour in the Livia glitter knit formal midi dress! She features a strapless neckline with flexible boning inserts at the bodice creating an angled design, a pleated cowl overlay, a high waist seam, a midi-length hem with a thigh-high side slit to showcase some leg, and a slim-fit silhouette to flaunt your figure. The textured glitter knit fabric offers a moderate stretch. Style with strappy stilettos.
Fit & Features
- Strapless neckline, elasticized back hem
- Flexible boning inserts, angled design
- Pleated cowl overlay at the bodice
- High waist seam, midi-length hem, high side slit, slim-fit silhouette
- Textured glitter knit fabric, full-length knit lining, moderate stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1599
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kennedi Lace Illusion Dress
Special OccasionToast off the perfect night with classic lace as you flawlessly own the night in our Kennedi dress! She features a high round neckline and an unlined upper bodice with unlined narrow long sleeves that feature a lovely floral lace pattern. Her bodice features a sweetheart inset that is accented with an illusion and piping detail. Her slim fit bodice leads to an hourglass worthy silhouette that flares out to a sweeping mermaid skirt. She is composed of a crepe and lace fabric that offers a form fit with minimal stretch. Includes back zipper closure.
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: 05002-5203
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $23.44 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Mary Halter Cutout Rhinestone Mini Dress
Special Occasion
All eyes are on you in the Mary rhinestone mini dress to make a glamorous entrance and exit! The party dress showcases a sassy halter neckline, a cutout bodice to show some skin and a sultry bodycon silhouette. Complete the look with earrings and 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
- Rhinestone embellished fabric
- Halter neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper closure
- Cutout bodice
- Bodycon mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2538
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Arie Strapless Rhinestone A-Line Party Dress
Special Occasion
This strapless party dress features a flattering A-line silhouette with a ruffled short-length hem for a flirtatious allure. The glitter rhinestone embellished mesh fabric offers a sparkling look at the school dance or birthday party.
Fit & Features
- Glitter rhinestone mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Flexible boning
- A-line ruffled short-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2348
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Serena Strapless Corset Sequin Column Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Turn heads with your sparkling entrance in the Serena corset sequin formal dress at black tie events! Designed with a sequin scroll pattern on mesh-lined fabric, this gown will make you feel like a true masterpiece. She features a strapless sweetheart neckline that enhances your curves while the padded underwire bust offers lifted support. The satin corset seams add a touch of sophistication, leading to a stunning column silhouette and floor-length hem. Complete the look with statement earrings.
This dazzling dress was made for the spotlight! Love the shimmer? Discover more sequin prom dresses or find a sophisticated look in our wedding guest dresses.
Fit & Features
- Sequin scroll pattern, mesh fabric, nude stretchy knit lining
- Strapless sweetheart neckline
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Built-in padded underwire bust
- Column silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black-tie weddings, galas, red-carpet events, and fancy parties.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8318
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Shauna Beaded Tulle Ball Gown
Special OccasionTwirl under the stars as you glow in our breathtaking Shauna dress! She features a dreamy light blue color, a high round neckline with an unlined mesh inset, padded cups and a sheer partially lined bodice. Her bodice is adorned with gleaming rhinestones and gemstones for plenty of shine. Her voluminous ball gown silhouette features a sheer tulle overly and a petticoat. Dress is composed of combination mesh, tulle and smooth knit fabric that offers a form hugging fit with minimal stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0430
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $109.97 $299.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Marie Strapless Satin Ball Gown
Special OccasionMake your night a regal affair as you radiate a look fit for a Queen in our timelessly gorgeous Marie dress! She features a bodice with a strapless sweetheart neckline, a built in no slip strip, padded cups, built in boning and lattice strap accents on the side with mesh insets. Her slim fit bodice leads to a satin ball gown silhouette accented with hidden side pockets, a petticoat and pleating details. Dress offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.
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: 05004-0526
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $74.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Louisa Strapless Floral Beaded Mesh Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The Louisa floral mini dress will leave everyone breathless! Embellished with delicate beading on mesh fabric, this dress makes a statement with a strapless cowl neckline and bodycon silhouette that flaunts your curves.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, mesh fabric, beading, stretchy knit lining
- Strapless cowl neckline
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Date nights, garden parties, birthdays, milestone celebrations, bachelorettes
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000028
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $84.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Keely Party Dress
Special Occasion
Dance the night away in our Keely party dress! She has a form fitting bodice with a skater style skirt. She features a sweetheart neckline, spaghetti straps that cross in the back, and a hem that hits above the knee. She is composed of a glitter lace fabric that offers minimal stretch. She includes pockets and has a flowy fit.
Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24.5" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size 5.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0046
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Colette Satin Wrap Gown
Special OccasionSteal the show while making moves in our effortlessly elegant, satin Colette gown. She features a pleated deep V bodice with adjustable spaghetti straps and back zip, and a long, slim wrap-effect skirt skirt with a front slit and drape detail at waist. Louisa is fully lined and made from a shiny satin material with ample stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6765
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $25.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Adele Lace Glitter Cold Shoulder Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Glitter works its magic on the breathtaking Adele ball gown - a stunning option for prom, black tie galas, and formal celebrations! She features a lovely cold shoulder sweetheart neckline with delicate lace straps, a padded bust, an enchanting lace glitter bodice that leads to the A-line silhouette, and a sultry high front slit along her scallop lace floor-length hem. The ball gown is designed with a glitter lace mesh overlay with a smooth satin lining and no stretch. Complete the look with a gorgeous hair accessory and heels.
Fit & Features
- Cold shoulder sweetheart neckline, lace straps
- Padded bust, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Lace glitter bodice
- A-line silhouette, high front slit, scallop lace floor-length hem
- Glitter lace mesh overlay, smooth satin lining, no stretch
- No bra required
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0109
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $99.97 $225.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Hilary Rhinestone Strap Slit Glitter Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Hilary rhinestone strap slit glitter formal dress will be a favorable sensation for extra special black tie galas or events! She's a stunning dress designed with a sweetheart neckline and rhinestone embellished straps for sparkle and a sultry form-hugging silhouette. The high front wrap slit adds a touch of sensuality, while the glitter fabric exudes sophistication at any party. Complete the look with statement earrings and heels.
Fit & Features
- Glitter fabrication
- Rhinestone embellished straps
- High front wrap slit
- Form-hugging silhouette
- Sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7839
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kori Long Sleeve Plunge Cowl Neck Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Boast a sultry allure in the Kori formal long dress designed with fitted long sleeves and a plunge cowl neckline with a metal insert for a touch of glam. Pair with chandelier earrings and a clutch.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit lined fabric, moderate stretch
- Fitted long sleeves
- Plunge cowl neckline with metal insert
- Slim form-hugging silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9222
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Pippa High-Slit Open Back Lace Dress
Special Occasion
Grace the room with a long lace dress that features a sleeveless square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, a bold open back design, and a long-length hem accented with a high side slit. Complete formal outfit with glitter mesh heels.
Fit & Features
- Lined floral lace fabrication
- Sleeveless square neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Open-back design
- High side slit
- Long length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8777
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free