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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Juliette Velvet Heat Stone Dress
Special Occasion
Dress to impress with our glamorous Juliette!
Fits & Features
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Surplice V Neckline
- Fitted Long Sleeves
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Slim Fit Bodice I Wrap, Floor-Length Skirt
- Smooth Velvet Fabric I Heat Stones Embellishments
- Curve Hugging Fit I 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: 05002-0337
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Surplice V Neckline
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It Girl Cowl Neck Midi Dress
This dress is made for an "it" girl like yourself!
Fits & Features
- Narrow Shoulder Straps That Cross At The Back
- Cowl Neckline
- Midi Length Silhouette
- Smooth Jersey Knit I Lined
- Curve Hugging Fit I Bodycon Fit
- Zipper Not Included
Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0411
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $34.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Hot Glam Sequin Mini Dress
Hot damn girl! Look party-perfect in this sexy mini dress!
Fits & Features
- Off Shoulder Neckline I Mesh Knit Sequin Overlay
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Mini Length Silhouette
- Mesh Lined Sequin Fabric
- Form-Hugging Fit
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 25" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0283
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $27.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Alex Pleated Satin Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Bring the elegance in stunning satin as you make a breath-taking entrance in our Alex ball gown!
Fit & Features
- V-Neckline | Spaghetti Straps
- Princess Seams
- Pleated Detailing |Side Pockets
- Satin Fabric | Petticoat
- Ball Gown Silhouette
- Relaxed Fit
- Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0100
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $179.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Zinnia Iridescent Sequin Deep V Dress
Special Occasion
Sparkling iridescent sequins and a figure-hugging fit make our Zinnia a glamorous choice for your special soiree! The plunging V neckline and U scoop back add an elongated touch to the whole look. Emphasize all that shine with some gorge duster earrings!
Fits & Features
- Wide Shoulder Straps
- Plunging Deep V I U-Back
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline
- Mesh Lined Fabric With Scroll Pattern Iridescent Sequins
- Curve Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'8" with a 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: 05002-0854
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $134.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Nora Lattice Back Crepe Dress
Special Occasion
Make them glance again and again in our beautiful Nora!
Fits & Features
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Adjustable Spaghetti Straps With Lattice Detailing At Back
- Plunging V Neckline I Padded Bust I Princess Seaming Details
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Thigh High Slit I Floor-Length Hemline
- Lined, Crepe Fabric
- Form-Flattering Fit I Moderate Stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0847
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Adjustable Spaghetti Straps With Lattice Detailing At Back
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Klarissa Front Slit Velvet Halter Dress
Special Occasion
Everyone will take notice. Elevate your look with our daring and sultry Carrie!
Fits & Features
- Draped Halter With Dual Button Closure
- V Neckline
- Drawstring Ruching At Center Front With High Slit
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure At Back
- Floor Length Skirt With Sweeping Train At Back
- Smooth Velvet Composition I Fully Lined I Metallic Sheen
- Curve Hugging Fit I Ample Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0853
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $25.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Beverly Sleeveless Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
All eyes will be on you in our gorge Beverly dress! No matter the angle, you'll sparkle and shine.
Fits & Features
- Tank-Inspired, Sleeveless Bodice
- Plunging V Neckline With Mesh Inset At Center I V Back
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Silhouette With Mini Length Lining
- Mesh Lined Fabric With Geometric Sequins Patterns
- Curve Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0851
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Party Animal Leopard Midi Dress
Party's here. Stand out and get spotted in this purrrrr-fect dress!
Fits & Features
- Narrow Spaghetti Straps
- Plunging V Neckline I Empire Waist
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Midi Length Silhouette I Small Slit At Center Back
- Faux Suede-Like Knit Fabric I Fully Lined
- Form Flattering Fit I Moderate Stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0705
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $16.97 $42.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Kylynda Formal Asymmetrical Rhinestone Dress
Special Occasion
Rhine and shine in our glam Kylynda dress! She brings the wow factor with bold cut outs and sparkling rhinestones to adorn her high slit.
Fit & Features
- V-Neckline
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Waist Cut Outs
- Asymmetrical High Slit
- Fringe Rhinestones
- Lined Crepe
- Form Hugging Fit | Moderate 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: 05002-0845
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $33.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Aria Formal Satin Ruched Dress
Special OccasionMake your night one to remember in our mesmerizing Aria dress! She features an all over a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V neckline, padded cups and princess seams. Her narrow straps lead to a trendy open back that leads to a ruched lower back detail. Her slim fit bodice leads to an elongating floor length silhouette. Aria is composed of a stretchy satin fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a 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: 05002-6133
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $22.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Elaine Fine Dine Midi Dress
Special OccasionIt's an elegant night out! This perfect midi dress features a racer front with double halter and shoulder straps, a form hugging bodycon fit and a midi length. Dress includes a hidden back zipper closure. Elaine is composed of a lined crepe fabric that offers a from hugging fit with slight stretch. Includes an additional mini skirt length knit lining.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-4028
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $36.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Deleah Formal Sleeveless Pearl Dress
Special Occasion
Sparkle like the queen you are in out dazzling Deleah dress! Her pearls and heat stones give her a glowing touch!
Fit & Features
- High Round Neckline | Racer Bust
- Pearls
- Heat Stones
- Lined Mesh
- Floor Length Silhouette
- Form Hugging Fit | Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0376
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Miranda Glitter A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the glamour to an evening you'll never forget in our shimmering Miranda A-Line dress! She glows with each step to create a truly enchanting moment! She pairs beautifully with a glitzy choker necklace and rhinestone embellished heels!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline | Padded Cups
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Hidden Side Pockets
- High Side Slit
- A-Line Silhouette
- Lined Woven Glitter Knit Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit | Slight Stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0842
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Dawn Formal Sleeveless Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Dawn brings the elegance and charm with her stunning satin and trendy pockets!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline | Padded Cups
- Adjustable Double Row Spaghetti Straps
- Cross-Back
- Pockets
- High Slit
- Lined Satin Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit | Minimal Stretch
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 26" waist and 38" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0843
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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One Shoulder Wrap Midi Dress
Wrap yourself in a look of elegance with a touch of sexy when you dress up in this sleek one shoulder midi!
Fit & Features
- Slanted one shoulder neckline
- One quarter sleeve
- Flattering seams at the bust
- High waist seam that meets wrap skirt
- Slit detailing at the center
- Fully lined
- Zipper center back + Hook and eye
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0606
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $16.97 $42.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Heather Heat Stones Mesh Mini Dress
Special Occasion
We are LIVIN' for this dress! You'll be shining as bright as the night sky in our gorge and fab Heather!
Fits & Features
- Elastic Shoulder Straps
- Plunging V Neckline & Back
- Mini Length Silhouette
- Fully Lined, Textured Mesh Fabric
- Heat Stone Embellishments Throughout
- Curve-Hugging Fit I Ample 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: 05001-0187
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Sultry Sequins Midi Dress
This jaw-dropping midi dress is just what you need for your holiday outings!
Fits & Features
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Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Sweetheart Neckline With Padded Cups
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure At Back
- Midi Length Silhouette
- Lined, Sheer Mesh Fabric With Diamond & Scroll Print Pattern Sequins
- Curve Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0602
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $62.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
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Aspyn Strapless Sweetheart Mermaid Formal Dress
Alluring and absolutely stunning, our Asypn formal dress will leave them all speechless! With her curve hugging mermaid silhouette and floor sweeping length, you'll slay each and every step.
Fit & Features
- Strapless sweetheart neckline
- Back zipper closure
- Top ruched detailing
- High waist seam
- Floor length, mermaid skirt
- Pleated detailing
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0837
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kari High Slit Glitter Dress
Special Occasion
Shine on through the night in our ever-so dazzling Kari dress! Lace her up and pair her with jewel tone accents and pumps for the perfect look!
Fit & Features
- V-Neckline | Padded Cups
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Lattice Back | Open Lower Back
- Lined Glitter Knit Fabric
- Sheath Silhouette
- High Side Slit
- Form Hugging Fit | Slight Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0841
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Catalina High Slit Heat Stone Dress
Special Occasion
You'll be competing with the fireworks when you show up to the party in our stunning Catalina!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Plunging V Neckline I Square Back
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I High Side Slit
- Lined Mesh Fabric With Heat Stone Embellishments Throughout
- Curve Hugging Fit
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0333
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Angela Glitter Lace Party Dress
Special Occasion
Make a stunning first impression in our beautiful Angela party dress! Featuring a gorgeous glitter lace fabric and a flirty skater skirt, all eyes will be on you on the dance floor. Make sure to pair with some sparkly rhinestone earrings and strappy heels to be glam from head to toe.
Fit & Features
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Slightly rounded neckline
- Back zipper closure
- High waist
- Side pockets
- Skater skirt
- Glitter lace fabric
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: 05001-0379
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $8.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Inez Iridescent Sequin Two Piece Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Dance the night away and look stunning doing it in our gorgeous Inez! Her sparkling iridescent top complements her luxurious satin skirt. A sultry front slit lets you move around effortlessly and show off those gams and heels!
Fits & Features
- Mesh Lined Iridescent Sequin Crop Top
- Strappy, Lace-Up Back
- Satin, Floor Length Skirt I Overlap Design Reveals Front Slit
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- High Rise Waist
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: 05006-0533
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $40.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Dalilah High Slit Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
Shine on like the goddess you are in our Dalilah sequin dress! She elevates the evening with her elegant scroll print pattern and showcases curves with her mermaid silhouette! Pair her with dangling rhinestone earrings for a sophisticated look!
Fit & Features
- Off The Shoulder Neckline
- Wired V-Neck Bust | Padded Cups
- Off The Shoulder Strap Accents
- Sequin Scroll Print
- Lined Mesh Fabric
- Mermaid Silhouette | High Side Slit
- Form Hugging Fit | Minimal 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: 05002-0836
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $47.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free