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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Kylie Strapless Glitter Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Shine like the goddess you are in our breathtaking Kylie ball gown! Glow with her metallic glitter body and pair her with chrome heels for an entrance to wow them all!
Fit & Features
- Strapless Sweetheart Neckline | Padded Cups
- Flexible Boning
- Lattice Back
- Pleated Ball Gown Silhouette | Hidden Side Pockets
- Lined Metallic Glitter Knit Fabric | Petticoat
- Relaxed Fit
- Slight 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: 05004-0033
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Demi Beaded Tulle Ball Gown
Special Occasion
From the moment you put on our Demi ball gown dress, you'll feel like you're living out an enchanting evening that you'll never forget! Her hand-beaded accents make her a true one of a kind and her tulle silhouette perfectly pairs with dazzling pumps!
Fit & Features
- Off The Shoulder Neckline | V-Neck Bust
- Off The Shoulder Elastic Strap Accents | No-Slip Strip
- Padded Cups
- Hand-Beaded Rhinestonestones
- Multi-Layered Tulle Ball Gown Silhouette
- Lined Mesh Fabric
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0012
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $299.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Cara Formal Crepe Open Back Dress
Special Occasion
Stun in a dress that impresses from the moment you enter the room in our captivating Cara dress. She features a bold open back that that is complemented with a sweeping train to bring the drama, a trendy square neckline and a relaxed fit bodice that leads to a trumpet silhouette. Cara is composed of a crepe fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete your special evening outfit with rhinestone heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Open back design
- Flared trumpet silhouette with train
- Crepe fabric
- Form hugging retentive fit
- Moderate stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1047
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Jennifer Stretch Satin Ruched Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Turn heads at your next soiree in our stunning Jennifer formal dress! She features a sleeveless bodice with spaghetti straps that lead to a lace-up back, a trendy cowl neckline, and a curve-hugging mermaid silhouette with a floor-length hem. Pair this dress with rhinestone fringe earrings and a sparkly clutch to complete your gorgeous look.
Fit & Features
- Cowl neckline, spaghetti straps
- Strappy back with a tie closure
- Lower back ruched seam
- Mermaid silhouette
- Stretch satin fabric, moderate stretch
- Sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2774
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Heather Formal Glitter Floral Lace Tiered Skater Dress
Special Occasion
Glow up in a formal glitter dress that is fit for a queen. Make a mesmerizing impression at homecoming in our Heather dress that features a plunging v-neckline, a floral lace fabric with glitter accents, and a twirl-worthy tiered skater silhouette. Complete your elegant look with rhinestone heels and fringe duster earrings.
Fit & Features
- Plunging v-neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Scoop back
- Floral lace fabric
- Glitter
- Tiered skater silhouette
- Horsehair hem
Model is 5'8" with 32" bust, 24" waist and 36.5" hips. She is wearing a size three.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0435
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $66.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Amabella Floral Foiled High Low Dress
Special Occasion
Charm in florals in our Amabella dress from the moment you enter the room. She features a foiled floral print that radiates luxe, a high-low silhouette, and trendy hidden side pockets to keep essentials close to you. Radiate like a true one of a kind beauty when you complete your formal evening look with rhinestone earrings and chromatic heels.
Fit & Features
- Plunging v-neckline
- Padded cups, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Foiled floral print
- High-low silhouette, hidden pockets
- Lined crepe knit fabric
- Form hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Back zipper closure
Model is 5'8" with 32" bust, 24" waist and 36.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1039
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Naomi Satin Two Piece Dress
Special Occasion
Walk into any room and look effortlessly chic in our beautiful Naomi! Her two-piece design is crafted from sleek satin that shines at every angle. One of her best features is her hidden hand pockets, perfect for storing any touch-up tools!
Fits & Features
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Adjustable Spaghetti Straps I Back Zipper With Hook & Eye
- V Neckline I Padded Bust I Crop Hemline
- Floor Length Hem I Overlap Skirt Reveals Slit
- High Rise Waist I Hidden Hand Pockets
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Fully Lined, Satin-Like Fabric
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05006-0538
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Adjustable Spaghetti Straps I Back Zipper With Hook & Eye
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Clarita Lace Up Back Embroidery Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
Stunning sequins and dainty embroidery embellishments make our Clarita far from minimalistic. Romantic and feminine, people will be swooning over the sight of you in this dress. Take everyone's breath away by putting your hair in an up-do and dusting your neckline with a gorgeous necklace.
Fits & Features
- Spaghetti Strap That Lace Up At The Back
- Plunging V Neckline I Padded Bust
- Floor Length Hemline
- Mesh Lined Embroidery & Sequin Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
- Side Zipper
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1014
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $159.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Alisha Pleated Floral Printed Party Dress
You'll make a stunning entrance in our beyond gorgeous Alisha party dress! Her flirty flowy skater skirt will let you twist and twirl on the dance floor. Her caged back design adds a fun twist to the dress. Strut it at your next dance and have all eyes on you babe. Glam her up with some rhinestone earrings and platform heels.
Fit & Features
- High rounded neckline
- Tank shoulder straps
- Caged back design with cut-outs
- Back zipper closure
- High waist
- Flowy pleated skater skirt with pockets
- Floral print
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: 05001-0429
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $31.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Nikita Formal High Slit Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Keep it sleek in our Nikita dress that brings the elegance to your formal evening. She features a plunging sleeveless wrap V-neckline, padded cups that eliminate the need for a bra, sleek spaghetti straps, a ruched silhouette that enhances curves, and a floor-length silhouette with a dramatic asymmetrical high slit. Complete your look with rhinestone earrings and clear heels.
Fit & Features
- Plunging wrap V-neckline
- Padded cups, sleek spaghetti straps
- Ruched silhouette, asymmetrical high slit
- High waist fit
- Floor-length wrap silhouette
- Stretchy satin fabric
- Form hugging fit, moderate stretch, runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1038
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Wera Formal Floral Party Dress
Special Occasion
Charm them all with sophisticated florals as you make your entrance in our darling Wera dress! Her vibrant print pairs perfectly with a neutral pump and rhinestones for a breathtaking look!
Fit & Features
- High Round Neckline | Racer Bust
- Single Button Closure at Nape of Neck
- Padded Cups | Caged Straps
- Pleated Party Length Silhouette
- Hidden Side Pockets | Floral Print
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
- Lined Woven Fabric
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0427
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Arianna Formal Beaded Sleeveless Dress
Special Occasion
Reflect vintage glamour in our captivating Arianna dress! Her hand-beaded detailed pattern makes her a true one of a kind! Pair her with dazzling pumps and chandelier earrings to channel a gorgeous look!
Fit & Features
- V-Neckline | Padded Cups
- Spaghetti Straps
- Baroque-Inspired Hand Beaded Pattern
- Lined Mesh Fabric
- Sheer Godet Panels
- Relaxed Fit
- Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1013
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Yuri One Shoulder Lurex Dress
Special Occasion
Glow on in glam lurex as you make a captivating entrance in our radiating Yuri dress! Pair her with a luxe clutch and sleek stilettos for an enchanting evening!
Fit & Features
- One-Shoulder Neckline
- Slide-Adjustable Spaghetti Strap
- Padded Cups
- Lined Lurex Fabric
- High Slit | Mermaid Silhouette
- Form Hugging Fit
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1032
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Cam Floral Sequin Party Dress
Special Occasion
Our Cam dress brings sparkle and dazzle with shimmering sequins. Make a sweet impression at that next bridal shower in our Cam dress that features a gorgeous floral print, shimmering sequins throughout, padded cups that offer support and, a trendy mini-length silhouette. Pair her with pretty platforms and a luxe clutch to make a fab impression!
Fit & Features
- Wrap v-neckline, padded cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Floral print
- Sequins
- Mini length silhouette
- Lined mesh fabric
- Relaxed fit, minimal stretch
Model is 5'8" with 32" bust, 24" waist and 36.5" hips. She is wearing a size three.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0428
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Quinn Ruched High Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Keep it stylish and stunning in the gorgeous Quinn ruched formal dress. She features a sleeveless bodice, adjustable spaghetti straps, a square neckline with ruching, a high waist seam, and a floor-length, slim-fit skirt with a high side slit. The shimmering lurex fabric will have you radiating beauty. Complete your look with rhinestone fringe earrings and a sparkly evening bag.
Fit & Features
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Square neckline
- Ruching
- High waist seam
- Floor-length, slim-fit skirt
- Side slit
- Lurex fabric with plenty of stretch
- Short knit lining
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1027
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Cassie Sleeveless Satin High Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Gorgeous and bold, the Cassie satin formal dress will give you a stunning look. She features a sleeveless bodice, spaghetti straps, an open back with a strappy lace-up design, and a drape-front cowl neckline. Her high waist seam flows to a floor-length slim-fit skirt with a sultry thigh-high slit. Complete your outfit with gold statement earrings and a stylish clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless, cowl neckline, spaghetti straps
- Adhesive bra recommended
- Open back, lace-up design
- High waist seam
- Floor-length, slim fit silhouette
- Lined satin fabric, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1379
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $56.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Veronica Front Slit Crepe Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Elevate your little black dress in our gorgeous Veronica formal dress! She features chic sheer chiffon sleeves, a square neck with a notched detail, and a sultry front slit. The form-fitting style will flatter your curves. Pair this dress with some rhinestone embellished heels to glam up the look.
Fit & Features
- Long cuffed sheer chiffon sleeves
- Square neckline with notch front detail
- Back zipper closure
- Thigh-high front slit
- Floor-length curve-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Crepe fabric
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1026
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Jada Formal Floral Satin Party Dress
Special Occasion
Keep it stunning in a satin dress that brings elegance! Our Jada dress features a strapless square neckline with vertical seams at the bust, a floral pattern, and a party-length silhouette with hidden side pockets that keep essentials close to you. Complete your stunning formal outfit with rhinestone earrings.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline
- Vertical seams at the bust
- Floral pattern
- Satin fabric
- Party-length silhouette
- Hidden side pockets
- Form-hugging fit
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 25" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size three.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0433
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Allie Stretch Satin Ruched Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Slay each step for your special night out in the gorgeous Allie formal dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, spaghetti straps that lead to an open back with a lace-up design for a customized fit, a square neckline, and a high waist seam to elongate your silhouette. Her floor-length skirt offers a curve-hugging mermaid fit and features ruched detailing on the back. The satin fabric offers plenty of stretch for comfortable wear. Pair this dress with stunning rhinestone earrings and a sleek clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline
- Adhesive bra recommended
- Spaghetti straps, open back with a lace-up design, tie closure
- High waist seam
- Ruched detailing on the back
- Floor-length, fitted mermaid silhouette
- Stretch satin fabric with a form-hugging fit
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1016
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Amelia Formal Ruched Ruffle Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the elegance with a satin dress that makes a gorgeous statement. Amelia features a wrap V-neckline, pleating at the bust, spaghetti straps, and an asymmetrical wrap silhouette with a ruffled hem. She is composed of a satin stretch fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete the look with clear heels and an evening clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless wrap V-neckline
- Pleating
- Spaghetti straps
- Asymmetrical wrap silhouette
- Ruffled hem
- Satin stretch fabric
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1023
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Alina Formal iridescent Sequin Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Sparkle and shine in a dress that brings the glamour to your evening. Alina features a sleeveless V-neckline with a sheer mesh inset, tank-like straps, an iridescent sequin scroll print, and a midi length silhouette. Aline is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a slight stretch. Complete your formal outfit with glitter heels and a dainty rhinestone bracelet.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline with mesh inset
- Tank-straps
- Iridescent Sequin scroll print
- Midi length silhouette
- Lined mesh fabric
- Form hugging fit, minimal stretch
- Back zipper closure
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0432
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $36.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Hannah Ruched Stretch Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sultry and sleek, our Hannah formal dress will have everyone in awe of your beauty. She features a trendy cowl neckline, a sexy front slit with ruched detailing, and a floor-sweeping length. Pair the dress with dazzling rhinestone earrings for a gorgeous night out look.
Fit & Features
- Spaghetti straps
- Cowl neckline
- Front slit with ruched detailing and tie
- Stretch satin fabric
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: 05002-1017
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Laurie Sleeveless Sequin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Create a simply stunning look in our beyond gorgeous Laurie formal dress! She features a sleeveless bodice with dual spaghetti straps that lead to a cross back, a flattering V neckline with a high waist, and a floor-length curve-hugging silhouette with a flowy hem. The dress is composed of a sheer mesh sequin adorned fabric with a short knit lining that hits mid-thigh. Pair this dress with a rhinestone collar necklace for a glamorous and luxe vibe.
Fit & Features
- Dual spaghetti straps that lead to a cross back
- V neckline with a high waist
- Back zipper and hook and eye closure
- Floor-length with a flowy hem and a form-hugging fit
- Sheer mesh fabric with short knit lining
- Allover sequin embroidering
- Moderate stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1018
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $45.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Brooke Lace V Neck Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Get an effortlessly beautiful look in our stunning Brooke lace formal dress! She features a V neckline, long fitted sheer lace sleeves, a sheer lace back with a keyhole and lower back cut out, and a floor-length, curve-hugging mermaid silhouette. Complete your gorgeous look with rhinestone statement earrings and a sleek ring pack.
Fit & Features
- V neckline
- Long fitted sheer lace sleeves
- Sheer lace back with a keyhole and lower back cut out
- Floor-length, mermaid silhouette
- Form-hugging fit
- Lined lace fabric
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1009
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $8.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale