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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Georgina Metallic Ruched Midi Dress
Special Occasion
With all that shine, you know you gotta show it off! Work your charm in our dazzling Georgina dress!
Fits & Features
- Spaghetti Straps I V Neckline
- Midi Length Silhouette I Ruching At The Side I Front Slit
- Nontransferable Glitter Woven Fabric
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0368
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $42.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Amina Lace Up Back Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Accented by stunning floral lace and rhinestone embellishments, our Amina is a showstopper. Her fitted bodice features a plunging V neckline with mesh panel for subtle coverage. Finishing up the look is her elongated hem that flares out, enhancing a figure-hugging mermaid silhouette.
Fits & Features
- Dual Spaghetti Straps
- Lace-Up Back I Keyhole Opening I Back Zipper
- Plunging V Neckline I Mesh Inset I Padded Bust
- Floor Length Hemline I Mermaid Silhouette
- Cotton Lace Fabric Overlay I Full Mesh & Knit Lining I Rhinestone Embellishments
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0808
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $139.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Tina Formal Satin Knot Dress
Special Occasion
Elevate your evening in our captivating Tina satin dress! Pair her with sleek stilettos and dazzling rhinestones to make an unforgettable entrance!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline | Padded Cups
- Center Knot Accent
- Spaghetti Straps
- Ruched Side Seam | High Side Slit
- Lined Satin Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0812
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Bali Lurex Deep V Ruched Dress
Special Occasion
Our one-and-only Bali will emit a twinkling shine wherever you step foot. Get yourself wrapped up in her figure-hugging silhouette and let your sparkling presence be known at any special occasion!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Deep Wire Trim V Neckline I Lightly Padded Bust
- Low Scoop Back I Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Ruching At The Side Slit
- Floor Length Hemline I Mini Length Lining
- Lurex Knit Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit I Plenty Of Stretch
Model is 5'7" with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0825
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $34.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Jane Satin Off Shoulder Dress
Special Occasion
Wow in the lovely Jane! Her lovely silhouette will drape beautifully over you and highlight all your best angles.
Fit & Features
- Asymmetric Fold Over, Off The Should Design
- Slim Fit Bodice
- Floor Length Hem With Side Slit & Ruffle Accent At Hip
- Satin-Like Fabric
- Curve Hugging Fit I Moderate 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: 05002-0800
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Lira Heat Stone Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Be the center of attention at any event in our lovely Lira! With dazzling heat stones throughout, all eyes will follow you.
Fits & Features
- Crew Neckline
- Unlined, Fitted Long Sleeves
- Mini Length Silhouette
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure At Back
- Mesh Knit Fabric With Shimmering Heat Stones 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: 05001-0183
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $33.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Malia Off Shoulder Ruched Dress
Special Occasion
Look captivating in our mesmerizing Malia! She'll hug you in all the right places and show off your figure!
Fits & Features
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Off Shoulder Neckline With Mesh Fold-Over
- Unlined, Fitted Long Sleeves
- Midi Length Silhouette I Side Slit
- Mesh Fabric I Knit Lining I Ruching Throughout
- Curve Hugging Fit I Plenty Of Stretch
- Zipper Not Included
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: 05001-0369
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $34.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Off Shoulder Neckline With Mesh Fold-Over
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Maia Formal Embroidered A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Grace them all in a formal dress that captivates them from the moment you enter the room. Maia features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline with lined cups, adjustable spaghetti straps. an unlined embroidered lace bodice, and a flowy double-lined wrap A-line silhouette. The dress is composed of a chiffon fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with minimal stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline
- Lined cups
- Unlined embroidered lace bodice
- Wrap A-line silhouette
- Double-lined
- Form hugging fit, minimal stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0806
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Charena Formal Embroidered Floral Tulle Dress
Special Occasion
Dazzle in the Charena dress for your next formal event. Her sweet floral patterns enchant for your next special event. Charena features a plunging V-neckline to style with a pleated bodice and an embroidered floral design. Her sweeping A-line silhouette is partially lined with high slit sheer mesh panels. Complete your formal outfit with duster earrings.
Fit & Features
- Plunging v-neckline, pleated bodice
- Adjustable spaghetti straps criss-cross back
- Embroidered floral design
- A-line silhouette, high slit mesh panels
- Tulle fabric, slight stretch
- Fits true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0814
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $139.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Camille Glitter And Mesh Cross Back Dress
Special Occasion
Sparkle, sequins, and glitter are just the combo you need to have a glitzy-glam night! Flaunt your shine in our beautiful Camille!
Fits & Features
- Spaghetti Straps
- Plunging V Neckline I Square Back I Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I Front Slit
- Mesh Lined Fabric With Glitter & Sequin Details All Over
- Form Hugging Fit
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0818
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Zatanna Sequin Mermaid Gown
Special Occasion
Elegant and stunning, wow your way around every room in the captivating Zatanna!
Fits & Features
- High crew neckline
- Subtle banded bodice with zipper & hook and eye closure at V back
- High slit
- Sequined scroll pattern throughout
- Mesh composition that offers a form hugging fit with slight stretch
- Floor-length mermaid hemline
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: 05002-0316
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $44.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Jordan Chiffon Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
Channel your inner princess and leave them breathless with the ever-so-lovely Jordan!
Fits & Features
- Deep V Neckline
- Unlined, Long Sleeves I Elasticized Cuffs
- Self Tie Wrap Design At The Waist
- Elongated & Flowy Floor Length Hem
- Fully Lined, Chiffon Fabric
- 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: 05002-0810
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Jillian Deep V Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
Be a sparkling sequin dream in our gorgeous Jillian!
Fits & Features
- Spaghetti Straps I Low, Open Back
- Off Shoulder Shoulder Straps I Deep Wired V Neckline | Padded Cups
- Slim Fit, Floor Length Hemline
- Mesh Lined Sequin Fabric
- Curve Hugging Fit
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
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: 05002-0807
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Palmer Lace A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Take the plunge in stunning lace as create a captivating entrance in our Palmer dress! Her floral lace enchants and stuns!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline | Pleated Bodice
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps | Cross-At-Back
- Floral Lace
- A-Line Silhouette
- Full Length Lining
- Mesh
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0817
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Melody Velvet Midi Dress
Special Occasion
You'll be making a stunning impression in our luxe velvet Melody!
Fits & Features
- Spaghetti Straps
- Cowl Neckline I Square Back
- Midi Length Silhouette I Ruching & Side Slit
- Velvet Fabric I Fully Lined
- Curve Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
- Zipper Not Included
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: 05001-0365
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Viv Formal Crepe Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
Make an entrance that will draw all eyes on you in our captivating Viv formal dress! Her silhouette hugs curves to create an hourglass illusion! She features a sleeveless V-neckline with a mesh insert, shoulder straps, padded cups for a supportive fit, and a wrap mermaid silhouette. Pair her with glam accessories and sleek stilettos to complete an A-list-worthy look!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-neck, mesh inset, shoulder straps
- Supportive padded cups, no bra required
- Asymmetrical wrap skirt, high side slit
- Lined crepe fabric
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0796
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Bring The Glitter Mini Dress
Light up the room in this glitter goals mini dress!
Fits & Features
- Narrow Spaghetti Straps
- Square Neckline
- Mini Length Silhouette
- Glitter Lurex Fabric I Fully Lined
- Curve Hugging Fit I Plenty Of Stretch
- Zipper Not Included
Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0677
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $31.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Candice Glitter Heat Stone Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Heat up the night in our jaw-dropping Candice!
Fits & Features
- Dual Spaghetti Straps Cross At The Back
- Dual Bar Accents At Back
- V Neckline
- Mini Length Silhouette
- Fully Lined, Glitter Lurex Fabric With Heat Stone Embellishments
- Curve Hugging Fit I Plenty Of Stretch
- Zipper Not Included
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0360
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Gemma Shine Ombre Tulle Gown
Gemma will make your beauty radiate with every step you take! Her high waist seam leads to a flowy skirt with gorg ombre hues.
Fit & Features
- Spaghetti straps that lead to a strappy lattice back | Tie back closure
- Sweetheart neckline
- High waist seam
- Slanted side pockets
- Flowy tulle skirt with shine ombre detailing
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: 05004-0087
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $49.97 $149.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kayla Cowl Neck Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Show up looking like the luxurious queen you are in our stunning Kayla!
Fits & Features
- Elastic Cord Spaghetti Straps
- Cowl Neckline I Square Back
- Floor Length Hemline I Front Slit I Rouching & Ties At Side
- Stretch, Satin Fabric
- Curve Hugging Fit I Plenty Of Stretch
- Zipper Not Included
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0779
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $22.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Sydney High Neck Scalloped Lace Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Make a stunning entrance in our gorgeous Sydney midi dress! She features a flattering high neck with an open back and a curve-hugging mid-length silhouette. The dress has pretty scalloped lace detailing and a chic back slit. Pair this pretty dress with some clear heels for your next date night with bae.
Fit & Features
- High neck
- Open back
- High waist seam
- Mid-length form-hugging fit
- Back slit
- Scalloped lace fabric
- Short lining that hits mid-thigh
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: 05001-0357
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Carella Wrap Glitter Dress
Special Occasion
Crafted from a lightweight waffle knit fabric, glitter embellishments twinkle and shine from top to bottom on our stunning Carella. Her wrap skirt reveals a flirty front slit, letting you show off those heels and glide around comfortably! She features a form-hugging, surplice wrap bodice that leads to the long-length hem. Complete your dressy look in statement earrings and heels.
Fits & Features
- Sleeveless, v-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Adhesive or strapless bra recommended
- Surplice wrap bodice
- Form-hugging silhouette
- Front slit, wrap long-length hem
- Glitter waffle-knit fabric, moderate stretch
- Fits true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0788
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Cameron Formal Glitter and Lace Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Shine in the Cameron glitter lace dress. Draw all eyes on you as you enter the room in an enchanting mini dress. Cameron features a V-neckline with scalloped lace trim, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customized fit, and a partially open back. Her relaxed fit waist leads to a curve-hugging mini-length silhouette. Cameron is composed of a lined lace fabric adorned with mini glitter accents throughout. The dress offers a form hugging fit with a slight stretch. Complete your look with rhinestone earrings for an extra pop of glam and a sleek clutch to carry your essentials close to you.
Fit & Features
- V-neckline with scalloped lace trim
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Partially-open back
- Lace
- Glitter accents throughout
- Form-hugging fit, slight stretch
- Back zipper
Model is 5'6" with 31" bust, 26" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size three.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0358
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Stevie Wrap Skirt Waffle Knit Glitter Dress
Special Occasion
Crafted from a twinkling glitter knit, our Stevie will have you ready for your close-up! A flirty slit instantly adds sexiness and comfort to her lovely silhouette. Accessorize with some rhinestone jewelry or a sparkly clutch.
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Surplice V Neckline
- Floor Length, Wrap Skirt I Front Slit
- Glitter Waffle Knit Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
- Zipper Not Feature
- Glitter May Transfer
Model is 5'7" with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0787
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free