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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Gianna Metallic One Shoulder Dress
Special Occasion
Make them all marvel in our metallic Gianna dress! She radiates a glowing aura with her metallic body! Pair her with a dazzling choker set and statement pumps for a look that captivates!
Fit & Features
- One-Shoulder Neckline | Asymmetrical Cut Out Accent
- Lined Metallic Lurex Knit Fabric
- High Side Slit
- A-Line Silhouette
- Form Hugging Fit
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0908
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $46.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Indra Metallic Glitter Cross Back A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Make a magical appearance! The glistening, dual-tone hues add a playful and unique flair, while Indra's accordion pleats let you move around effortlessly. Walk right in and make a stunning first impression in our enchanting Indra!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
- Plunging V Neckline I Padded Bust
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Pleating All Over
- Floor Length Hem
- Textured Woven Fabric I Glitter Embellishments I Partial Mini Length Lining
- Form Hugging Fit I Ample Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0048
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $249.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Amira Floral Applique A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Coated with floral appliques, Amira's garden-inspired gown adds subtle dimension to her flowy, A-line skirt. A sultry front slit is just asking you to show off those heels and allows effortless movement on the dance floor. Wow them all in our breathtaking Amira!
Fits & Features
- Spaghetti Straps
- V Neckline & Back I Padded Bust
- Lined, Textured Mesh Bodice I Sheer Mesh Insets At The Waist
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I Front Slit I Full Knit Lining
- Mesh Overlay With Floral Applique Accents & Threaded Stem & Leaf Designs
- Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0049
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $126.97 $239.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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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
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Keira Glitter Knit High Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Dazzle in the gorgeous Keira glitter knit formal dress for your next special soiree! She features a sleeveless V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, a high waist seam, and a floor-length skirt with a slim fit and a sexy thigh-high front slit. Style this dress with rhinestone statement earrings and a sparkly bracelet to pull the glamorous look together!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Hidden back zipper and hook and eye closure
- High waist seam
- Floor-length skirt, slim fit, high slit
- Glitter textured knit fabric, knit lining, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2046
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Tara Formal Knot Glitter Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the shine in our dazzling Tara gown! She sparkles from all your best angles and perfectly pairs with rhinestone accents!
Fit & Features
- Plunging Wired V-Neckline
- Padded Cups | Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Knot Accent
- Lined Woven Glitter Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit | Minimal Stretch
- Side Zipper Closure | Hook and Eye Fasten
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0901
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $36.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Harley Formal Knot Glitter Dress
Special Occasion
Captivate them all in our glitzy Harley gown! Bring out the glow as you pair her with rhinestone accents and glam pumps!
Fit & Features
- Plunging Wired V-Neckline
- Padded Cups | Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Knot Accent
- Lined Woven Glitter Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit | Minimal Stretch
- Side Zipper Closure | Hook and Eye Fasten
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0900
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Char Formal Lattice Glitter Dress
Special Occasion
Light up the room in our dazzling Char dress! She glows from all your best angles and showcases curves with her mermaid silhouette!
Fit & Features
- Plunging Scoop Neckline
- Padded Cups | Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Lattice Straps
- Lined Woven Glitter Fabric
- Mermaid Silhouette
- Form Hugging Fit | Minimal Stretch
- Lower Back Zipper Closure | Hook and Eye Fasten
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0898
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $36.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Natalie Sleeveless A-Line Mesh Formal Dress
Special Occasion
All eyes will be on you in our gorgeous and glam Natalie formal dress. She features adjustable spaghetti straps, a V neckline, front ruched detailing at the bodice, and a back zipper closure. Her high waist leads to a flowy floor-length skirt with an A-line silhouette. The dress is composed of a shimmery and sheer lurex mesh fabric with a full knit lining. Complete your look with gold statement earrings and a chic evening bag.
Fit & Features
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- V neckline
- Front ruched detailing
- Back zipper closure
- High waist
- A-line silhouette
- Sheer lurex mesh fabric with a full knit lining
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0891
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Rudy One Sleeve High Slit Dress
Special Occasion
Subtle but dramatic details like Rudy's singular sleeve, one-shoulder neckline, and thigh-high slit are what elevates this streamlined style. Accentuate your look even more by adding a pair of dangling duster earrings and glistening heels to match!
Fits & Features
- One-Shoulder Neckline
- Single Fitted Long Sleeve
- Floor Length Hemline I Thigh-High Slit
- Gathering & Ruching At The Top Skirt
- Smooth & Stretchy Jersey Knit
- Form Hugging Fit I Ample Stretch
- Zipper Not Featured
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0893
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $25.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Elyse One Shoulder Tie Back Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Sleek and chic, Elyse's crepe composition will lovingly hug your every curve. Her one-shoulder silhouette and thigh-high slit offer a stylish and timeless look.
Fits & Features
- Slanted Neckline
- Single Shoulder Strap That Ties At The Low Back
- Floor Length Hemline I Thigh-High Slit
- Mermaid Silhouette
- Crepe Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit I Ample Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0890
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $21.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Rona Cowl Neck Lace Up Back Dress
Special Occasion
Look sleek and polished from head to toe with our Rona. With chic features like her lace-up back and cowl neckline, her streamlined silhouette can be highlighted with a pair of sparkling rhinestone earrings and an eye-catching clutch.
Fits & Features
- Spaghetti Straps That Lace Up At The Back
- Cowl Neckline
- Ruching At The Sides & Center Back
- Floor Length Hemline
- Smooth Jersey Knit Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit I Plenty Of Stretch
- Zipper Not Featured
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0888
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Esme Formal High Slit Glitter Dress
Special Occasion
Bring on the shine to your evening with our head-turning Esme dress! Pair Esme with rhinestone accents and glitzy pumps to elevate your evening!
Fit & Features
- Plunging Wired V-Neckline
- Padded Cups | Tank-Like Straps
- Mesh Back with Contrast Straps
- High Side Slit | Wide-Banded Hem
- Lined Glitter Woven Fabric
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0897
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $139.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Petra Crepe Off Shoulder Midi Dress
Special Occasion
With a fold-over, off-shoulder neckline and fitted long sleeves, our Petra exudes class and elegance. Her midi-length hem features a back center slit for you to glide around with ease. Accessorize her with a gorge envelope clutch and a fab pair of heels!
Fits & Features
- Off Shoulder Fold-Over Neckline
- Back Zipper Closure
- Fitted Long Sleeves
- Midi Length Hemline | Fitted Skirt
- Center Back Slit
- Crepe Fabric | Fully Lined
- Form Hugging Fit | Plenty Of Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0398
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $31.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Tanna Formal Lattice Glitter Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the sparkle in our stunning Tanna gown! She sparkles from all your best angles and showcases curves with her mermaid silhouette!
Fit & Features
- Plunging Scoop Neckline
- Padded Cups | Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Lattice Straps
- Lined Woven Glitter Fabric
- Mermaid Silhouette
- Form Hugging Fit | Minimal Stretch
- Lower Back Zipper Closure | Hook and Eye Fasten
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0899
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Gisella Brocade High Neck Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Step out looking regal and elegant in our stunning Gisella! Crafted from a textured brocade fabric, she features metallic threading that sparkles at every viewpoint. Her full ball gown will make you want to dance the night away. Dress to impress by pairing her with cascading rhinestones earrings for extra shine!
Fits & Features
- High Neckline
- Sleeveless Bodice I Banded At The Waist
- Back Zipper WIth Hook & Eye Closure
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Hemline I Petticoat I Ball Gown Silhouette
- Brocade Fabric With Metallic Threading Detail Throughout
- Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0101
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $169.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Tyler Crepe Lattice Back Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Saunter in looking polished and chic in our gorgeous Tyler! Her plunging V neckline falls into a slim-fitting bodice, finishing off with an elegant floor-length hem. At the back, a chic crossed design trickles into a lace-up lattice adding some edge and sultriness to her overall vibe. Take your ensemble to the max by adding on a shimmering envelope clutch and some earrings to match!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Cross Back I Lace Up Lattice Design
- Back Zipper Closure
- Plunging V Neckline With Princess Seams
- Sweeping, Floor-Length Hem
- Crepe Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit
Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size 3.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0894
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $31.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Evangeline Crepe One Shoulder Dress
Go for drama in our fab Evangeline. Her one-shoulder long sleeve and thigh-high slit add a modern and sophisticated touch. Slip right into her sleek and form-hugging silhouette that'll contour and celebrate your every curve. Complete look with a rhinestone clutch.
Fits & Features
- One-shoulder neckline, fitted long sleeve
- Wired V-neckline
- Back zipper closure
- Floor-length hemline, high side slit
- Lined crepe fabric
- Form hugging fit, moderate stretch, runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0892
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
- One-shoulder neckline, fitted long sleeve
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Susana Asymmetric Off-Shoulder Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
The stunning Susana formal dress will have you radiating elegance! Susana's trendy asymmetric neckline adds a chic touch to her streamlined silhouette. Her wrap skirt reveals a flattering slit that lets you showcase your stylish heels. Make sure you bring a fab clutch to elevate your look.
Fit & Features
- Asymmetric off-shoulder slanted neckline, single shoulder strap
- High waist, floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Wrap skirt reveals front slit
- Crepe fabric, knit lining, moderate stretch
- Form-hugging fit
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1726
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Jessica Brocade Floral Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Enchant them all in an evening made for glamour in our dreamy Jessica ball gown! Pair Jessica with sparkling heels and a rhinestone clutch to create an unforgettable look!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline | Padded Cups
- Adjustable Cross-Back Spaghetti Straps
- Brocade Floral Print
- Side Pockets | Pleats
- Ball Gown Silhouette | Petticoat
- Lined Rich Woven Fabric
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0102
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $139.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Parker Formal Metallic Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the shine to your special evening in our shimmering Parker dress! She features a sleeveless faux wrap V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, and a floor-length wrap silhouette with a high slit. Parker is composed of a metallic knit fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with glitter heels and a dainty rhinestone bracelet.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless faux wrap V-neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Floor-length silhouette
- High slit
- Metallic knit fabric, fully lined
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0884
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Elle Glitter Off The Shoulder Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the glow in our Elle dress that shimmers under the spotlight for your next evening out. She features an off the shoulder neckline with a fold-over accent at the bodice, a shimmering glitter fabric throughout and a wrap silhouette with a high side slit. Complete your formal outfit with a dainty bracelet and strappy block heels.
Fit & Features
- Off the shoulder neckline
- Fold over accent at the bodice
- Glitter knit fabric
- Floor-length wrap silhouette
- High side slit
- Form hugging fit
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0885
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Mila High Slit Ruched Dress
Special Occasion
Show off a hint of leg in our sultry Mila dress! She features a sleeveless trendy square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, ruched side seams, and a floor-length, curve-hugging silhouette with a thigh-high side slit. Style this dress with a pair of sleek stilettos and lots of shine for an A-list look!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Ruched side seams
- Floor-length, form-fitting silhouette
- High side slit
- Lined smooth knit fabric, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0880
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $46.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Willa Low Ruched Back Dress
Special Occasion
Our Willa is all about making a sleek and chic impression. Her smooth fabric embraces your curves, while her low, open back brings the flattering center ruche to attention. Walk into any room looking streamlined and elegant in our gorgeous Willa!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- V Neckline I Padded Bust
- Low, Open Back I Ruching At Center
- Floor Length Hemline I Mini Length Lining
- Smooth Tricot Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit I Plenty Of Stretch
- Zipper Not Featured
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0881
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $34.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free