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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Ava Satin Ruched Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
Wrap yourself in elegance as you make an entrance in our stunning Ava dress! Her satin brings the luxe and pairs perfectly with rhinestones!
Fit & Features
- Off The Shoulder Neckline | Padded Cups
- Off The Shoulder Strap Accents | Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Ruched Side Seam
- High Slit
- Lined Satin Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit
- Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0558
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $47.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Carmilla Satin High Low A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Step out to any event in our gorgeous Carmilla! Made from a sleek satin-like composition, one of her defining features is her voluminous pleated skirt with a subtle high-low hem. You'll be pleased to know she has hidden hand pockets for storing your essentials and hands for those picture-perfect moments!
Fits & Features
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High Neckline I Spaghetti Straps I Princess Seams
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length, High Low Skirt I I A-Line Silhouette
- Petticoat I Horsehair-Trim Hem For Fullness
- Satin-Like Fabric I Fully Lined
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0948
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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High Neckline I Spaghetti Straps I Princess Seams
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Joules Formal One-Shoulder Crepe Dress
Special Occasion
Step into sophistication and elegance with this one-shoulder formal dress, perfect for your next gala, black-tie wedding, or prom. This floor-length dress is made with matte crepe fabric exuding a sleek and modern aesthetic that enhances the clean lines of the asymmetrical neckline. The built-in padded cups ensure a flawless appearance, while the side ruching artfully accentuates the waistline and curves. Complement this formal contemporary look with ankle strap platform heels accented with faux pearls or rhinestones for a touch of glam.
Fit & Features
- One-shoulder neckline, tank shoulder strap
- Padded cups
- Ruching, high side slit
- A-line silhouette
- Lined crepe fabric
- Form hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0952
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $39.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Danielle Sequin Scroll Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Make a show-stopping entrance at prom in the Danielle sequin scroll prom dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, spaghetti straps, a deep V neckline, a dramatic low back, and a floor-length, mermaid silhouette. The dress showcases stunning sequins embroidered in an intricate scroll pattern for a luxe vibe. Complete your gorgeous prom look with cascading rhinestone duster earrings and a pair of sleek stiletto heels.
Fit & Features
- V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Adhesive bra recommended
- Empire waist, low back
- Floor-length, mermaid silhouette
- Embroidered sequin scroll design
- Fits true to size, minimal stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0959
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Taisia Formal Sequin Scroll Dress
Special Occasion
Lace up in a formal dress that brings the shimmer to your special night. The Taisia dress features a plunging V-neckline, an open lace-up back, a lightly padded bust, and a curve-hugging mermaid silhouette and floor-length hem. The formal dress is composed of a sequin scroll pattern on mesh fabric with a stretchy knit lining. Complete your look with a chiffon wrap and heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, bungee spaghetti straps
- Lightly padded bust
- Open lace-up back, zipper, and hook-eye closure
- Form-hugging, mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Sequin scroll mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Sticky bra optional
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-4053
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Azalea Formal Sequin Scroll Dress
Special Occasion
Stun a formal prom dress made for a prom queen like you babe! Azalea features an off-the-shoulder neckline, fitted long sleeves, and a luxe sequin scroll pattern. Her fitted waist leads to a flared mermaid silhouette that is perfect for making your grand entrance at prom! She is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a slight stretch. Complete your prom outfit with a rhinestone tiara and heels.
Fit & Features
- Off the shoulder neckline, no-slip strip
- Fitted long sleeves
- High waist
- Sequin scroll pattern
- Mermaid silhouette
- Lined mesh fabric
- Form hugging fit, slight stretch, runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0962
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Coralie Off Shoulder Front Slit Dress
Special Occasion
Look and feel elegant for your next fancy night out in our gorgeous Coralie formal dress. Her classy fold-over, off-the-shoulder neckline will pair beautifully with a sparkling necklace. Her front slit lets you show off those glittering heels you've been wanting to wear! The formal long dress is composed of a crepe fabric that offers a moderate stretch and includes a knit mini-length lining. Complete your look with classic block heels.
Fit & Features
- Off-the-shoulder neckline with a fold-over design
- Back zipper and hook and eye closure
- Ruching at center back
- Floor-length hem with a front slit, form-hugging fit
- Crepe fabric, knit mini-length lining, moderate stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7131
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Blair Sequin Scroll Sleeveless Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Showcase a dazzling look in the gorgeous Blair formal dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, spaghetti straps that lead to a cross back and a lace-up design, a V neckline, and a floor-length, slim silhouette. The dress is composed of a sheer fabric adorned with an intricate sequin scroll pattern and includes a nude lining. Pair this dress with rhinestone statement earrings and a sleek clutch.
Fit & Features
- Spaghetti straps
- Cross back and lace-up design
- V neckline with padded cups
- Lower back zipper closure
- Floor-length slim silhouette
- Sheer fabric
- Sequin scroll pattern
- Nude lining
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0958
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Rainn Formal Sequin Sleeveless Dress
Special Occasion
Create a sparkling moment in a prom dress that makes you feel like the queen you are during your special night. Rainn features a sleeveless wrap V-neckline, padded cups that provide support, adjustable spaghetti straps, a baroque-inspired sequin pattern, and a floor-length silhouette. The dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with minimal stretch. Complete your look with glitter heels and a clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless wrap V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Padded cups
- Sequin embroidery
- Floor-length A-line silhouette
- Lined mesh fabric
- Form-hugging fit, minimal stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0961
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $42.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Halston Sequin Mesh Off The Shoulder Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Create a simply stunning look for your special night out in the gorgeous Halston mini dress! She features an off the shoulder neckline, long fitted sleeves, a back zipper and hook and eye closure, and a mini-length, form-hugging silhouette. The dress is composed of a sheer mesh fabric with an all-over intricate sequin pattern and includes a smooth and stretchy knit lining. Complete your outfit with dazzling duster earrings and sleek heels.
Fit & Features
- Off the shoulder neckline
- Long fitted sleeves
- Back zipper and hook and eye closure
- Short, curve-hugging fit
- Sheer mesh fabric with a knit lining
- All-over sequin pattern
- Moderate stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0416
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kimmy Formal Sequin Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Dress to impress in our shimmering Kimmy dress that stuns for your next special evening. The dress features a wide round neckline, fitted long sleeves, and a sequin scroll pattern. The dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a form hugging fit with minimal stretch. Complete look with a rhinestone clutch and rhinestone rings.
Fit & Features
- Wide round neckline
- Fitted long sleeves
- Sequin scroll pattern
- Mini length silhouette
- Lined mesh fabric
- Form hugging fit
- Minimal stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0411
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Brie Double Slit A-Line Formal Dress
Bring the romance in the gorgeous sweeping Brie Double Slit A-line Formal Dress! She features a sleeveless bodice with spaghetti straps with a cross-back design, a plunging V-neckline, and sultry thigh-high dual front slits. Pair with a cascading lariat necklace and sparkly heels for a glamorous look for your next elegant evening out.
Fit & Features
- Spaghetti straps that lead to a cross-back design
- Deep V-neckline
- Adhesive bra recommended
- High waist
- Floor-length A-line skirt, dual thigh-high front slits
- Smooth knit fabric
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0945
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Jodie Heat Stone Mesh Slit Dress
Special Occasion
Shine like the night sky in our glamorous Jodie! Her sultry silhouette features glimmering heat stones and a sexy thigh-high slit. Wave your hair out and slip into a pair of rhinestone heels for that extra twinkle!
Fits & Features
- Spaghetti Straps That Lace Up At The Back
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Plunging V Neckline
- Mesh Fabric With Heat Stone Embellishments I Lined At The Bodice
- Built-In Bodysuit With Snap Button Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I Thigh-High Slit
- Form Hugging Fit I Plenty Of Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0956
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $32.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Seraphina Formal Pearl Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the luxe and shine like the rare pearl you are in our dazzling Seraphina dress! Pair her unmatched beauty with slingback stilettos and a glitzy clutch to complete your evening look!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline | Mesh Inset
- Tank-Like Straps
- Pearl and Heat Stone Embellishments
- Mini Skirt Length Silhouette
- Lined Smooth Knit Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit | Slight Stretch
- Hidden Back Zipper Closure
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0408
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Felicity Scallop Neck Taffeta High Low Dress
Special Occasion
From top to bottom, our Felicity brings flair and drama with her scalloped neckline and full high-low hem. Crafted from taffeta fabric, a glowing pretty sheen gives her a luxe vibe. Compliment her with some gorgeous drop earrings and a sparkling clutch!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Scalloped V Neckline I Princess Seams
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- High-Low Hem I Partial, Mini Length Lining I Petticoat
- Tafetta Fabric 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: 05002-0938
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Jewel Scalloped Taffeta High Low Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the radiance to the evening in our luxe Jewel high low dress! Her rich taffeta makes a head-turning impression! Pair her with sleek stiletto heels that complement her high-low silhouette!
Fit & Features
- V-Neckline | Scalloped Trim
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- High Low Silhouette
- Lined Taffeta Fabric
- Petticoat
- Relaxed Fit
- Slight 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: 05002-0937
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $34.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Nevaeh Formal Lattice Mesh Dress
Special Occasion
Lace-up in our head-turning Nevaeh dress! She draws attention with her lace up detailing and curve-hugging mermaid silhouette! Pair her with chrome heels and a gorgeous necklace set for a final look!
Fit & Features
- V-Neckline | Mesh Inset
- Padded Cups | Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Lattice Back
- Mermaid Silhouette
- Lined Crepe Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0940
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Alexandra Satin Lace Back A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
A dainty lace-up back and pretty luster are a few details that make Alexandra stand out from the rest! Her gorgeous A-line skirt adds a twirl-worthy charm and her satin composition showcases a smooth-to-the-touch appearance. Add a glitzy little clutch and some rhinestone earrings for the perfect finishing touches!
Fits & Features
- Spaghetti straps, zipper lace back detail
- Plunging V neckline, lightly padded bust
- Lower back zipper with hook and eye closure
- Hidden hand pockets
- Floor-length hem, A-line silhouette
- Satin-like fabric, fully lined
- Minimal stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0935
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
- Spaghetti straps, zipper lace back detail
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Adley Formal Floral Foiled Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Keep it flared in our foiled Adley dress that brings the glamour to your special evening. Adley features a v-neckline, a foiled floral pattern that brings the shine and a flared mini-length silhouette that is accented with hidden side pockets to keep essentials close to you. Complete your fabulous look with rhinestone heels and a sleek metallic clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless v-neckline, padded cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Partially open back
- Foiled floral print
- Flared mini length silhouette
- Hidden side pockets
- Fully lined scuba knit fabric, relaxed fit
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0403
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Daria Formal Ruched Midi Dress
Special Occasion
From the moment you enter the room, command attention with our head-turning Daria midi dress! Her ruched accents showcase curves to create a flattering hourglass illusion! Pair with sleek heels and clutch for a complete look!
Fit & Features
- High Round Neckline
- Plunging V-Shaped Back with Bar Strap Ties
- Ruched Side Seams
- Lined Smooth Knit Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit
- Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0404
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Catalyn Glitter Shine Ball Gown
Special Occasion
You'll look breathtaking in our stunning Catalyn. Twirl around in her voluminous ball gown and feel like an absolute princess! Glow from every angle as she subtly changes hues in the light. And the best part? Her hidden hand pockets are perfect for storing away your phone and lipstick!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Plunging V Neckline I Mesh Inset
- Cross Back I Sheer Mesh Inset Creates Cage Design I Back Zipper
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Hem I Ball Gown Silhouette I Petticoat
- Woven Glitter Fabric I Fully Lined I Dual-Tone Shine
- Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size 3.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0061
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Amaya Mesh Embroidered A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Woven with glittery metallic threading, our Amaya showcases a subtle sparkle among the dainty embroidery details. Take everyone's breath away as you twirl around and show off her full A-line skirt! For finishing touches, add an evening clutch and lengthy rhinestone earrings!
Fits & Features
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Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- V Neckline & Back I Lightly Padded Bust
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I A-Line Silhouette
- Mesh Lined Fabric With Metallic Threaded Embroidery Detail
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0045
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
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Leanna Floral High Low Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the charm in florals as you make a head-turning entrance in our romantic Leanna dress! Pair her with statement earrings and a pair of pretty platforms for a look that impresses them all!
Fit & Features
- Scoop Neckline | Padded Cups
- Spaghetti Straps | Cross Back Straps
- Open Back | Lower Back Keyhole
- High Low Silhouette | Ruffled Trim
- Hidden Side Pockets | Petticoat
- Lined Satin Woven Fabric Floral Print
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0032
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $92.97 $219.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Katie Formal Off The Shoulder Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Stride with beauty in each and every step in our gorgeous Katie formal mermaid dress! Her flattering thigh high slit gives you a chance to showcase your stunning heels.
Fit & Features
- Off the shoulder sweetheart neckline | Wired front | Overlay
- Lightly padded bust | Princess seam detailing
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper closure
- High waist seam
- Floor length mermaid skirt | Thigh high slit
- Glitter woven fabric | Short knit lining
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0636
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale