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.
Now Trending
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.
-
Sienna Wrap Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
Make an unforgettable appearance in our jaw-dropping Sienna!
Fits & Features
-
Surplice V Neckline I Square Back
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Floor Length Wrap Skirt I Mini Length Lining
- Lurex Fabric With Sequin Embellishments All Over
- Curve Hugging Fit I Ample Stretch
- 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: 05002-0716
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Surplice V Neckline I Square Back
-
Caris Rhinestone Trim Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Feel like an absolute princess in our stunning Caris! Her plunging V neckline leads to a gorgeous arrangement of twinkling rhinestones along the waist. You'll be twirling around nonstop in her dramatic and voluminous ball gown. Finish the look off by adding some rhinestone earrings!
Fits & Features
- Spaghetti Straps With Mesh Insets
- Plunging V Neckline & Back I Lightly Padded Bust
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Rhinestone Trim At The Waist
- Floor Length Hemline I Ball Gown Silhouette I Petticoat
- Satin-Like Fabric I Fully Lined
- Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 36.5" hips. She is wearing a size 3.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0086
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $189.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
- Spaghetti Straps With Mesh Insets
-
Avana Sequin Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
They'll be blown away as you enter through those doors in our beautiful Avana!
Fits & Features
- Off Shoulder Neck I Fold Over Design
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Skirt With Mini-Length Lining
- Mermaid Style Silhouette I High Slit
- Knit Fabric With Sequins All Over
- Curve Hugging Fit I Ample Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0715
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Blanca Formal Glitter Lattice Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the glamour with our dazzling Blanca glitter dress! She pairs perfectly with rhinestones and glam heels for a head-turning look!
Fit & Features
- Square Neckline | Tank Straps
- Princess Seams
- Lattice Back
- Lined Glitter Knit Fabric
- Mermaid Silhouette
- Form Hugging Fit
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0713
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Jacie Formal Sequin Scroll Dress
Special Occasion
Dazzle and sparkle in our one of a kind Jacie dress! Her sequins shine from all your best angles! Pair her with fab heels and a luxe clutch for a statement look!
Fit & Features
- Plunging Wired V-Neckline
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps | Padded Cups
- Sequin Scroll Print Pattern
- High Side Slit
- Lined Mesh Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit
- Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0712
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Isabella Chain Straps Cowl Neck Dress
Special Occasion
Party it up in our seductive Isabella! You'll be feeling bougie and fab in her lavish luxe look.
Fits & Features
- Adjustable & Detachable Chain Straps Cross At The Back And Meet At O-Ring Detail
- Draped Cowl Neck I Low Back
- Slim Fit Bodice I Floor-Length Silhouette
- Smooth Jersey Knit Fabric
- Curve Hugging Fit I Plenty Of 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: 05002-0717
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $46.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Merritt Formal V-Neck Tulle Ball Gown
Special Occasion
The stunning Merritt prom dress is sure to sweep the room off their feet at the sight of you looking so ravishing! She features a sleeveless V-neck, tank straps, a built-in padded bust, and a delicately embroidered mesh bodice with sparkly rhinestones. Her captivating A-line silhouette effortlessly glides along in a floor-length hem. Turn heads at prom in her sultry open-back detail atop a sheer mesh panel with zipper closure. She's composed of multi-layers of tulle fabric with an inner lining. Perfect for styling with glitzy earrings and a bracelet.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neck, tank straps
- Built-in padded bust, no bra required
- Mesh bodice, embroidery and rhinestone insets
- A-line silhouette, floor-length hem
- Open back, zipper closure
- Multi-layers of tulle, inner lining
- Flowy fit
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0069
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $219.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Leah Sleeveless Sequin Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Light up the room in our sparkling Leah sequin dress! She dazzles from all your best angles and her mermaid silhouette creates an hourglass illusion! Pair her with a luxe clutch and statement pumps for an unforgettable moment!
Fit & Features
- Plunging Wired V-Neckline | Padded Cups
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Cross-Back Straps
- Sequin Stripe Pattern
- Mermaid Silhouette
- Lined Mesh Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit | Relaxed Fit
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: 05002-0711
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Nicole Formal Sequin Scroll Party Dress
Special Occasion
Dazzle up in a dress that brings the glam. Our Nicole dress features a V-neckline, a double row of sleek adjustable spaghetti straps that create a sexy cross-back design, a flattering fit and flare skater silhouette, and a stunning sequin scroll print. Complete your formal look with rhinestone earrings and clear heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Cross-back design, back zipper closure
- High waist, skater skirt, party-length silhouette
- Sequin scroll print
- Lined mesh fabric
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0335
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Alese Scroll Sequin Cross Back Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Make them look twice when you walk into any room with our stunning Alese! Her scroll sequins will glimmer and shimmer in the light, while her figure-hugging mermaid silhouette will show your curves off in a flattering way! Go for the extra glow by pairing her with some rhinestone earrings and cuff!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
- Plunging Wire Trim V Neckline I Padded Bust
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Sweeping Floor-Length Hemline I Mermaid Silhouette I Front Slit
- Mesh Lined Fabric I Scroll Sequins Pattern
- Form Hugging Fit I 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: 05002-0704
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Aleena Formal Ruffled Chiffon Floral Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the romance with a floral dress that showcases your sweet side! Aleena features a sleeveless wrap V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, a floral print, and an overlapping skirt with ruffled trim and cinching tie waist. The dress is composed of a sheer chiffon fabric that offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. Complete look with heels and butterfly earrings.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless wrap V-neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Floral print
- Overlapping skirt with ruffled trim, cinching tie waist
- Lined chiffon fabric
- Relaxed fit, minimal stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0706
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Estella Sequin Off Shoulder Two Piece Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Dazzling sequins adorn the off-shoulder crop top and is complemented with Estella's gorgeous satin skirt. This shining combination makes her a showstopper for any special event. Give her a pop of sparkle by showing off those rhinestone heels!
Fits & Features
- Sequin Mesh Lined Crop Top
- Off Shoulder Design I Wire V Trim I Padded Bust
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I A-Line Silhouette I Overlap Design Opens To Slit
- Hidden Hand Pockets I Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Heavyweight, Satin-Lined Skirt
Model is 5'6" with a 31" bust, 26" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05006-0530
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $134.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Annalise Scroll Sequin Cross Back Dress
Special Occasion
You'll be hypnotizing them all in our spellbinding Annalise! Her form hugging silhouette is lined with scroll pattern sequins that shimmer and glow underneath the bright lights. The sultry front slit leads to her fit and flare mermaid hem for a flattering touch. Slip into a pair of stiletto heels and add chandelier rhinestone earrings for finishing touches!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
- Plunging V Neckline I Lightly Padded Bust
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I Mermaid Silhouette I Front Slit
- Mesh Lined Sequin Fabric
- Form 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: 05002-0705
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Danielle Sequin Mesh Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Look oh-so-stunning in our gorgeous Danielle sequin mesh dress! She features a sleeveless bodice with tank-like shoulder straps, a plunging V-neckline, a V-back, and a curve-hugging mermaid silhouette with a flowy floor-length hem. The mesh fabric has an intricate all-over sequin pattern. Pair this dress with rhinestone bobby pins and heels and you'll make a beautiful entrance at your next soiree.
Fit & Features
- Tank-like shoulder straps
- Deep V-neckline
- V-back
- Mermaid silhouette, flowy floor-length hem
- Form-hugging fit
- Mesh fabric, all-over sequin detailing
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0708
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Arden Crepe Tank Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Feel and look regal in our classically beautiful Arden!
Fits & Features
- Tank Styled Straps I Mesh Detail At Back Straps
- Plunging V Neckline & Back I Lightly Padded Bust
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hem I Mermaid Silhouette
- Gathering At High Slit I Crepe Fabric
- 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: 05002-0707
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Baylee Scallop Glitter Lace Two Piece Chiffon Dress
Special Occasion
Look oh-so-elegant in our Baylee! Her lovely bodice showcases a glittering floral design that shimmers and reflects in the light. Don't forget to add a cute little evening bag for storing all your essentials for the night!
Fits & Features
-
Crew Neckline I Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Fitted Long Sleeves
- Partially Lined Glitter Lace Bodice WIth Scalloped, Crop Hem
- Floor Length, Chiffon Lined Skirt
- Overlap Design Reveals Front Slit
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05006-0527
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $70.97 $134.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Crew Neckline I Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
-
Breanne Printed Floral Chiffon A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Give our gorgeous Breanne dress a twirl with her flowy floral A-line skirt! She features a wrap front V neckline, a flattering high waist, and a sheer skirt with a short lining. Stun as the guest of honor at your next fall wedding and pair with some sleek heels and gold hoop earrings.
Fit & Features
- Thin shoulder straps
- Wrap front
- Deep V neck and back with a zipper closure
- High waist
- Flowy overlap A-line skirt
- Short lining
- Floral printed chiffon fabric
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: 05002-0703
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Nala Cowl Neck Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Cue the fireworks, you're here to make an entrance in the stunning Nala formal dress! She features a sleeveless bodice with a trendy cowl neckline, spaghetti straps, a high waist seam to elongate your silhouette, and a floor-length mermaid fit that will hug your curves. The sleek satin fabric offers plenty of stretch. Complete your gorgeous going-out look with strappy heels and a chic clutch.
Fit & Features
- Cowl neckline, spaghetti straps
- Strapless or adhesive bra recommended
- High waist seam
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Luxe satin fabric
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0700
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Layla Formal Sequin Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the shine to match your glam taste in our sparkling Layla dress! She features an off the shoulder neckline, short sleeves, a natural fit waist and a curve hugging midi length silhouette with bold side slit. Dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric adorned with sequins throughout. Garment offers a minimal stretch and includes a back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-4093
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Yara Formal Illusion Lace Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the elegance with lace!
Fit & Features
- Sweetheart Neckline
- Padded Cups
- Illusion Lace
- Lace Long Sleeves
- Crepe
- Slim Sheath Silhouette
- Form Hugging Fit | Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0669
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Taralynn Taffeta High Low Evening Dress
Special Occasion
Have an incredibly fun night when you twirl and dance around in the Taralynn! She is glam, she commands the room, and she is easy to move around in! Style with dramatic earrings and strappy heels are you are ready to boogie!
Fit & Features
- V-neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Square back | Zipper closure mid back
- Form fitting bodice
- High low skirt
- Composed of a taffeta material
- 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: 05002-0677
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Rochella Satin Rhinestone Trim Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Look regal and classy in our stunning Rochelle! Crafted from silky satin, a rhinestone trim at the slant hand pockets complements all that shine. Add a sparkling pair of rhinestone earrings to match!
Fits & Features
- Spaghetti Straps That Lace Up & Cross At The Back
- Plunging V Neckline I Lightly Padded
- Back Zipper WIth Hook & Eye Closure
- Slant Hand Pockets With Rhinestone Trim
- Floor Length Hemline I Ball Gown Silhouette I Petticoat
- Satin-Like Fabric I Fully Lined
- Form Hugging Fit
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 36.5" hips. She is wearing a size 3.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0078
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $105.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Vanda Formal Iridescent Metallic Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the shine under the spotlight in our gleaming Vanda dress! Her mesmerizing metallics wow, making her a true one of a kind!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline
- Padded Cups | Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Empire Waist
- Iridescent Foiled Metallic Fabric
- A-Line Silhouette
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
- Fully Lined
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0695
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Haisley Formal Satin A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the elegance and sophistication in our breathtaking Haisley satin dress! She captivates with her caged back and sweeping A-line silhouette! Pair her with dazzling rhinestones and glam heels for a luxe look!
Fit & Features
- Square Neckline
- Tank-Like Shoulder Straps
- Open Back | Caged Strap Design
- Hidden Side Pockets
- High Side Slit
- A-Line Silhouette
- Satin Fabric
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: 05002-0690
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $159.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free