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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Jackie Floral Satin Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Everyone will be under your enchanting spell as you show up to the event in our gorgeous Jackie!
Fits & Features
- Tank Styled Spaghetti Straps | Padded Cups
- Plunging V Neckline & Back | Triple Bar Accents At The Bodice
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Hem | Ball Gown Silhouette
- Lined, Satin-Like Fabric | Floral Prints Throughout
- Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size 3.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0024
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $115.97 $219.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Stefanie Glitter Shine Cross Back A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
From the ballroom at prom to a lavish white tie event, our Stefanie will have you looking stunningly gorgeous for all your special soirees!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps That Cross At Back
- V Neckline I Pleated, Padded Bust
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Skirt I A-Line Silhouette
- Full-Length Lining I Hidden Hand Pockets
- Heavyweight, Glitter Woven Fabric I Dual-Tone Sheen
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0737
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Shira Shine Lace Back Gown
Special Occasion
Our special Shira has a radiating aura of elegance! Dance the night away and show off that glow!
Fits & Features
- Dual Spaghetti Straps | Plunging V Neckline
- Cross & Lace Up Back | Hidden Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Padded Cups |Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Hemline | A-Line Silhouette | Mini Skirt Length Knit Lining
- Lined Sherri Shine Fabric | Glitter Embellishments
- Moderate Stretch
- Glitter May Transfer
Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0738
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $49.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Taya Open Back Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the dazzle and glam in our head-turning Taya sequin formal dress! Show off glowing gams with her dramatic high slit! Pair her with luxe rhinestones and a strappy stiletto!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps | Cross At Back
- Open Back
- High Side Slit
- Sequins
- A-Line Silhouette
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0736
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Sherri Formal Glitter Lattice Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the shine and glamour in our twinkling Sherri formal dress! Her glitter shine will make you feel like the queen you are! Pair Sherri with rhinestone accents to elevate your evening!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline
- Padded Cups
- Spaghetti Straps | Lattice Back
- Hidden Side Pockets
- Lined Woven Glitter Knit Fabric
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Strech
- Mini Skirt Length Knit Lining
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: 05002-0740
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $49.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Shira Shine Lace Back Gown
Special Occasion
Our special Shira has a radiating aura of elegance! Dance the night away and show off that glow!
Fits & Features
- Dual Spaghetti Straps I Plunging V Neckline
- Cross & Lace Up Back I Hidden Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Hemline I A-Line Silhouette
- Lined Sherri Shine Fabric I Glitter Embellishments
- Moderate Stretch
- 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: 05002-0739
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $49.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Yvonna Cross Back Foil Dress
Special Occasion
Our Yvonna will surely elicit a wow from everybody you come across! Honestly, who could resist this beauty?
Fits & Features
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Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
- Plunging V Neckline With Knot Front Design I Keyhole Opening
- Slim Fit Bodice
- Floor Length Hemline
- Foil Texture Knit
- Curve Hugging Fit I Plenty Of Stretch
Model is 5'4" with 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: 05002-0728
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
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Mia Formal Velvet Burnout Dress
Special Occasion
Elevate your look with our romantically inspired Mia dress! Her luxe velvet and sweet floral details are all you need to charm them all!
Fit & Features
- Plunging Wired V-Neckline
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps | Cross at the Back
- Padded Cups
- Velvet Floral Burnout Fabric
- Lined Mesh Fabric
- Mermaid Silhouette
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0724
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Tierra Cowl Neck Satin A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Tierra's draped cowl neckline is one of a few gorge features on her form-flattering silhouette. Her satin composition displays a subtle yet shiny finish, making her the quintessential pick for a classy look.
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps Cross At Back
- Drape Cowl Neckline
- Back Zipper Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I A-Line Silhouette
- Satin-Like Fabric I Fully Lined
- 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: 05002-0723
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $34.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Holland Glitter A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Stun them all in our gorge Holland! Her amazing shine will light up any room!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- V Neckline I Padded Bust I Princess Seams
- Lace-Up Back I Hidden Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I A-Line Silhouette I Front Slit
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Glitter Woven Fabric I Partial, Mini Length Lining
- 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: 05002-0735
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $42.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kerry Glitter Lace Up Back A Line Dress
Special Occasion
Our dazzling Kerry will make you the star of the show! Glisten from head to toe by accessorizing her with some sparkling touches.
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps That Lace Up At The Back
- V Neckline I Padded Bust
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I Front Slit I A-Line Silhouette
- Glitter Woven Fabric I Mini Length Knit Lining
- Moderate Stretch
- Glitter May Transfer
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0734
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $42.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Nivea Glitter Cowl Neck Evening Gown
Special Occasion
Sparkle your way through the crowd while you elegantly pull off our sparkling Nivea gown! Her form fitting silhouette flatters those curves, and her sparkle is incredibly stunning!
Fit & Features
- Cowl neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Criss-cross back
- Partially lined
- Floor sweeping hemline
- Form fitting silhouette
- Glitter embellishments (Glitter may transfer)
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0732
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $31.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Nivea Mauve Glitter Cowl Neck Evening Gown
Special Occasion
Sparkle your way through the crowd while you elegantly pull off our sparkling Nivea gown! Her form fitting silhouette flatters those curves, and her sparkle is incredibly stunning!
Fit & Features
- Cowl neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Criss-cross back
- Partially lined
- Floor sweeping hemline
- Form fitting silhouette
- Glitter embellishments (Glitter may transfer)
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0733
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $31.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Viva Formal Sequin Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Liven the night with a sea of sequins in our diva-worthy Viva mermaid dress!
Fit & Features
- Plunging Wired V-Neckline
- Padded Cups
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps | Cross at Back
- Sequins
- Lined Mesh
- Mermaid Silhouette
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal 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: 05002-0727
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $36.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Beka Mesh And Heat Stone High Slit Dress
Special Occasion
Make an extravagant entrance and bring the drama in our stunning Beka formal dress! She features a front heat stone embellished sheer mesh insert with a mock neck and a plunging V neckline, a back zipper closure, and long fitted sleeves with heat stone details and chic feather hems. Her form-hugging silhouette leads to a floor-length skirt with a sexy high slit and a heat stone adorned mesh insert. Complete your luxe look with strappy stilettos and a sparkly clutch.
Fit & Features
- Mock neck and plunging V neckline
- Sheer mesh insert with heat stone applique
- Back zipper closure
- Long fitted sleeves with heat stone details and feather hems
- High slit with heat stone adorned mesh insert
- Floor-length curve-hugging fit
- Crepe fabric with a mini-length lining
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0722
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Sonora Glitter Heat Stone Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Jaw-dropping and gorge, our alluring Sonora will take everyone's breath away!
Fits & Features
- V Neckline
- Spaghetti Straps I Lace Up Back
- Floor Length Skirt I Mermaid Silhouette
- Lined Lurex Fabric With Heat Stone Accents
- Curve Hugging Fit
- Zipper Not Featured
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: 05002-0725
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Yvette Deep V Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Sparkle and shine in our glamourous Yvette! You'll be looking your absolute best in her glistening silhouette.
Fits & Features
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Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
- Plunging V Neckline I Padded Bust
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Midi Length Silhouette I Side Slit
- Glitter Woven Fabric
- Curve Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
- Glitter May Transfer
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: 05001-0343
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $39.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
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Aja Formal Velvet Sleeveless Dress
Special Occasion
Keep it luxe in velvet as you mesmerize in our enchanting Aja dress! Her floor length silhouette highlights curves to create a flattering hourglass illusion.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless Bodice
- Plunging V-Neckline
- Cross Strap Accents
- Lined Velvet
- Form Hugging Fit
- Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size small
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0719
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $20.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Charlotte Burnout Velvet Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
You'll be a sight for sore eyes in our lovely Charlotte! Glittering florals are decked throughout her curve-hugging silhouette.
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Surplice V Neckline I Square Back
- Floor Length Wrap Skirt I Center Front Slit
- Mermaid Silhouette
- Mesh Lined Fabric I Burnout Velvet Floral Prints With Glitter Finish
- Curve Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
- Zipper Not Featured
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0718
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Ksenia Cowl Neck Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Let your arrival be known in our luxe Ksenia! Her satin sheen will light up any room and her thigh-high slit adds a flirty little touch.
Fits & Features
- Bungee Straps
- Cowl Neckline I Square Back
- Floor-Length Silhouette
- Ruching & Drawstring Detail Lead To Thigh-High Slit
- Stretch Satin Fabric I Fully Lined
- Curve Hugging Fit I Plenty Of Stretch
- Zipper Not Featured
Brown: Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Rust: Model is 5'3" with a 32" bust, 22.5" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0720
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $22.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Remi Sequin Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
You'll be illuminating every room you walk into in our stunning Remi!
Fits & Features
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Dual Spaghetti Straps I Surplice V Neckline
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Midi Length Silhouette With Wrap Design I Mini Length Lining
- Mesh Lined Fabric With Sequins Throughout
- Curve Hugging Fit I Ample Stretch
Model is 5'7" with a 34" 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: 05001-0339
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Dual Spaghetti Straps I Surplice V Neckline
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Florence Off Shoulder Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Tis' the season for dressing up! Show up to your soirees in our fabulous Florence.
Fits & Features
- Off Shoulder Design
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Sweetheart Wrap Neckline
- Midi Length Silhouette I Front Side Slit
- Satin-Like Fabric I Fully Lined
- Curve Hugging Fit I 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: 05001-0337
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Valentina Ruched Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Make a stylish statement in our lovely Valentina!
Fits & Features
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Spaghetti Straps That Cross & Lace-Up At The Back I Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Plunging V Wire Neckline I Pleating Detail At Bust
- Midi Length Silhouette I Ruching Accent I Side Slit
- Satin-Like Fabric
- Curve Hugging Fit I 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: 05001-0336
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Spaghetti Straps That Cross & Lace-Up At The Back I Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
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Suzette Lace Back Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
Leave your sparkle everywhere you go in our fabulous Suzette!
Fits & Features
- Spaghetti Straps That Lace Up & Cross At The Back
- Scoop Neckline I Padded Bust
- Floor Length Hemline I Mermaid Style Silhouette
- Lined Knit Fabric With Sequin Embellishments All Over
- Curve Hugging Fit I Ample Stretch
- Zipper Not Featured
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0714
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance