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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Nadia Formal Crepe Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
Elevate your evening in our breathtaking Nadia crepe dress! Wrap yourself in her rich vibrant shade and pair her with sleek stilettos for a look that wows!
Fit & Features
- Wrap V-Neckline
- Ruched Bodice
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Lined Crepe Fabric
- Asymmetrical High Slit
- Form Hugging Fit
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0879
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Vanessa Formal Crepe Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Keep it classically chic in our elegant Vanessa midi dress! Her off the shoulder neckline is perfect for pairing with a statement necklace and midi length showcases glowing gams!
Fit & Features
- Off The Shoulder Neckline
- Wrap Sweetheart Bust
- Princess Seams
- Midi Length Silhouette | Wrap Style
- Lined Crepe Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0397
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $39.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kenia Ombre Sequin Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
Glam up your evening look with our gorge Kenia! Her front slit will let you show off your fab heels!
Fits & Features
- Plunging Surplice V Neckline
- Long Fitted Sleeves
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Maxi Length I Wrap Style Skirt I Front Slit
- Mesh Lined Sequin Fabric
- Bodysuit Lining Included With Snap Button Closure & Full Coverage
- Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'4" with a 33" bust, 24.5" waist and 39" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0877
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $46.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Vivica Scroll Glitter Dress
Special Occasion
Spiraling patterns with sparkling glitter embellishments wrap around our form-hugging Vivica. A plunging V neckline showcases a barely-there mesh inset for subtle coverage. Go for a glamorous vibe by accessorizing her with a rhinestone clutch and earrings!
Fits & Features
- Spaghetti Straps
- Plunging V Neckline With Mesh Inset
- V Back With Zip Closure
- Floor Length Hem
- Mesh Lined Fabric With Glitter Scroll Pattern
- Form Hugging Fit I Plenty Of Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0876
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Luna Satin Floral A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
A stunning arrangement of florals are pictured throughout our beautiful Luna! The sweeping floor-length skirt opens up to a flirty front slit, letting you show off your favorite heels. We suggest pairing her with some rhinestone earrings for an added sparkle!
Fits & Features
- Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
- Scoop Neckline I Padded Bust
- Back Zipper WIth Hook & Eye Closure I Partial Boning At Back
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Hemline I Wrap Skirt Design Reveals Slit
- Lightweight Satin-Like Fabric I Fully Lined
- Relax Fit I Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0043
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $239.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Carissa Formal Metallic Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
Shine under the spotlight in our glowing Carissa metallic dress! She brings the glamour with her dramatic wrap silhouette for making a twirl-worthy entrance! Pair her with chrome heels for the ultimate shine!
Fit & Features
- Wrap V-Neckline
- Padded Cups | Spaghetti Straps
- Ruched Overlapping Accent
- High Asymmetrical Slit | Wrap Silhouette
- Lined Metallic Knit Fabric
- Wide Banded Hem
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0044
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $259.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Mishka Pleated Ombre Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the charm with our enchanting Miska ombre dress! She dazzles under the spotlight as you make a head-turning entrance! Pair with minimal heels to let her shine!
Fit & Features
- V-Neckline
- Spaghetti Straps | Padded Cups
- Ombre Pleated Silhouette
- Mini Glitter Accents
- Lined Mesh and Smooth Knit Fabric
- Relaxed Fit
- Slight Stretch
Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size two
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0042
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $229.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Ramona Rhinestone Cross Back Crepe Dress
Special Occasion
At first glance, our Ramona showcases a streamline and lovely silhouette. Her floor-length hem features a sultry front slit, letting you show off those heels. But on the back, sparkling and glowing rhinestones add a glamorous factor to the look. We picture you wearing our Ramona with soft curls and twinkling jewelry to match!
Fits & Features
- Rhinestone Encrusted Shoulder Straps | Cross Back | Dual Bar Accents
- Cowl Back
- Scoop Neckline
- Floor Length Hem | Front Slit
- Crepe Lined Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit | Moderate Stretch
- Side Zipper
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0875
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Imogen Metallic A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the glamour in our A-List worthy Imogen dress! Her intricate metallic floral embroidery is adorned with sparkling heat stones! Pair her with statement stilettos for a luxe look!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline | Mesh Inset
- Padded Cups
- Spaghetti Straps | Fish Hook Closure At Back
- Lattice Back
- Embroidered Floral | Heat Stones
- Lined Chiffon A-Line Silhouette | High Slit
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0040
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $239.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Calle Formal Ombre Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
Impress from the moment you step into the room in our one of a kind Calle ombre dress! Her ombre sequins bring a unique glow with each step! Pair her with jewel tone accents for a vibrant pop!
Fit & Features
- High Round Neckline | Racer Bust
- Padded Cups
- Ombre Sequins
- Mermaid Silhouette
- Lined Mesh Fabric
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
- Hidden Back Zipper Closure
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0041
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $279.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Janella Cross Back Pleated Ombre Dress
Special Occasion
Go for drama and stop traffic in our gorgeous Janella! Her unique ombre skirt is perfectly paired with accordion pleats to let you move around with ease! Style her up with some rhinestone duster earrings and a sparkly cuff!
Fits & Features
- Shoulder Straps That Cross At The Back
- Plunging V Neckline I Padded Bust I Boning At The Sides
- Contrast Piping At The Textured Mesh Lined Bodice
- Floor Length Hemline I Ombre-Hued Design I Accordion Pleating
- Smooth Woven Fabric Skirt I Pretty Metallic Sheen
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size 2.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0039
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $239.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Lori Ruffle Detail High Low Dress
Special Occasion
You'll be sure to ruffle some feathers in our chic Lori high low dress!
Fit & Features
- Spaghetti straps
- V neckline | Ruffle overlay
- Hidden back zipper | Hook and eye closure
- Wrap front with ruffle overlay
- High low hem
- Crepe fabric | Moderate stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0874
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $46.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Rose Off The Shoulder Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Look classically chic in our stunning Rose off the shoulder midi dress!
Fit & Features
- Off the shoulder neckline
- Long fitted sleeves
- Princess seams | High waist seam
- Back zipper | Hook and eye closure
- Ruched side detailing
- Mid-length, curve hugging fit | Back slit
- Crepe fabric | Moderate stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0366
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $20.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Cyra Metallic Deep V High Slit Dress
Special Occasion
Slipping right into our lovely Cyra will make you a magnet for attention! Sleek and chic, her pretty sheen and fitted silhouette lovingly wrap around your curves. Do the most and pair her up with some rhinestone stilettos!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Plunging V Neckline With Wire Trim I Padded Bust I Scoop Back
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Sweeping Floor-Length Hemline I Thigh-High Slit
- Metallic Knit Fabric I Fully Lined I Pretty Sheen Finish
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0869
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Clarissa Glitter Crepe Ruffle Off The Shoulder Dress
Special Occasion
Showcase major glamour in our stunning Clarissa dress! She features a flattering ruffled off the shoulder neckline, a curve-hugging fit, and a sultry thigh-high slit. The glitter crepe fabric makes for an overall gorgeous look. Pair this formal dress with shimmering rhinestone duster earrings for the next time you want to get all dressed up!
Fit & Features
- Ruffled off the shoulder neckline
- Floor-length, form-hugging fit
- Thigh-high slit
- Glitter crepe fabric
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0873
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Plus Alani Sequin Scroll Dress
Special OccasionGlow from within as you dazzle in our charming Alani silver dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a V neckline and adjustable narrow straps. Her relaxed fit bodice leads to a curve flattering mermaid silhouette. She is composed of a lined mesh fabric that is adorned with sparkling sequins. Dress offers a moderate stretch and includes a back zipper closure.
Model is 5'8" with a 42" bust, 35" waist and 45" hips. She is wearing a 1XSpecial Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 15002-0134
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Eloise Cowl Neck Cross Back A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Make your night one to remember in our sleek and chic Eloise! A trendy cowl neck drapes along the front, trailing right into a floor-length skirt and revealing a flirty slit. You'll be happy to find out that she features hidden hand pockets, perfect for storing your essentials.
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
- Cowl Neckline
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Hemline I Front Slit
- Satin-Like Fabric I Fully Lined
- Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0870
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Zara Scallop V High Low Dress
Special Occasion
Steal the show in our lovely Zara! Her high low hem adds a flirty little touch!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Scallop Trim V Neckline I Padded Bust
- Elastic Square Back With Zipper & Hook And Eye Closure
- High Low Hemline
- Crepe Fabric
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0868
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $72.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Corinne Glitter Tulle A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Give your formal look a whimsical, flirty vibe in our beautiful Corrine dress! She features adjustable spaghetti straps that lead to a cross-back design, a plunging V neckline with a high waist, and a floor-length A-line skirt. Her sheer ivory tulle fabric has allover glitter detailing and includes a nude stretchy knit lining. Pair this dress with a glimmering rhinestone cuff for a gorgeous look for your special occasion.
Fit & Features
- Adjustable spaghetti straps that lead to a cross-back design
- Deep V neckline with a high waist
- Back zipper and hook and eye closure
- Flowy floor-length A-line skirt
- Sheer ivory tulle fabric with allover glitter
- Nude stretchy knit lining
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0866
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $52.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Olivia Eyelash Lace Tulle Party Dress
Special Occasion
The Olivia party dress would be the perfect option for your upcoming bridal shower, rehearsal, or engagement party! She features a sleeveless bodice, spaghetti straps that lead to a sheer eyelash lace back with a lower cut out, and an eyelash lace front with a V neckline and a nude lining. Her high waist flows out to a sheer tulle tea-length skirt with a knit lining for an effortlessly pretty look. Pair this dress with rhinestone duster earrings and a dainty rhinestone bracelet.
Fit & Features
- Spaghetti straps
- Sheer eyelash lace back
- Lower back cut out
- Eyelash lace front with a nude lining
- V neckline
- Side zipper and hook and eye closure
- High waist leading to a sheer tulle tea-length skirt
- Knit lining
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0393
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $72.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Amara Formal High Slit Ruched Dress
Special Occasion
Make a mesmerizing impression in a dress that commands attention. Amara features a plunging off the shoulder neckline with a sweetheart bust, off the shoulder strap accents, a ruched silhouette, and a high center slit. Complete your formal evening outfit with dazzling rhinestone earrings.
Fit & Features
- Off the shoulder neckline with a sweetheart bust
- Off the shoulder strap accents
- Ruched silhouette
- High center slit
- Crepe fabric
- Form hugging fit
- Moderate stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0864
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Aime Glitter A-Line Gown
Special Occasion
Have a princess moment when you glide out in our gorgeous floor-sweeping Aime gown! She was designed with eye-catching features that are not only flattering on all body types a tone that is flattering on all skin tones as well!
Fit & Features
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Modest v-neckline | Padded cups
- Flattering princess seams | Fitted bodice
- High waist A-line skirt | Pockets| Mini skirt lining
- Floor sweeping weighted hemline
- Lined, nontransferable glitter woven fabric
- Criss-cross back | Lower back zipper | Minimal stretch
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: 05002-0323
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $63.97 $149.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Clara Sequin Off Shoulder Dress
Special Occasion
Be the belle of the ball in our dazzling Clara!
Fits & Features
- Off Shoulder Design
- Plunging V Neckline With Interior No-Slip Strip & Padded Bust
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Slim Fit Bodice Trails To Floor-Length Silhouette
- Mesh Lined Fabric With Scroll Pattern Sequins
- Curve Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'7" with a 34" 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: 05002-0476
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Velvet Vibe Mini Dress
Issa vibe
Up your look with a pair of eye-catching rhinestone heels! Fits & Features
- Spaghetti Straps
- Deep V Neckline With Wire Trim I Vertical Darts At The Bust
- Sweetheart Back
- Mini Length Silhouette
- Smooth Velvet Fabric
- Curve Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
- Zipper Not Included
Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0736
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $36.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance