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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Geneva Cross Back A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Airy and comfortable, our Geneva is decked out with bright florals all along her dreamy silhouette. You'll be happy to know she features hidden hand pockets so you can stow away your essentials.
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
- Plunging V Neckline
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Hemline I Pleated I Mini Length Lining
- Smooth Woven Fabric I Floral Prints Throughout
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size 3.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0643
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $31.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Flora Floral Two Piece Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the romance in florals as you make an entrance in our enchanting Floral two-piece dress! Pair her with classic stilettos for a twirl-worthy look!
Fit & Features
- Off The Shoulder Crepe Bodice | Padded Cups
- Lace-Up Back | Cropped Hem
- High Waist Wrap Skirt
- Floral Print
- Lined Chiffon
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05006-0240
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $40.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Elane Floral Satin Slip Gown
Make a stunning entrance in our Elane, perfect for all spring occasions, engagement pictures, or even bridesmaid dresses!
Fit & Features
- Cowl neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Square back with
- Slip on | Fully lined
- Floor length | Side slits
- Floral pattern | Textured satin
- Minimal stretch
Model is 5'6" with 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: 05002-0637
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Nikita Strapless Sweetheart Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Look and feel like the modern-day princess in our gorgeous Nikita. Her regal ball gown will make you want to twirl and showcase that pretty sheen radiating from her satin fabric. Floral appliques and shiny rhinestones line her waist, adding an element of feminity and sophistication.
Fits & Features
- Strapless Sweetheart Neckline I Padded Bust I No-Slip Interior Strip
- Rhinestone Encrusted Appliques & Mesh Insets At The Side Waist
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure I Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Hemline I Ball Gown Silhouette I Petticoat
- Fully Lined, Satin-Like Fabric
- 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: 05004-0055
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $189.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Jaime Floral Mesh Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Feel like an absolute princess in our elegant Jaime!
Fits & Features
- Sequined Mesh & Floral Applique Corset-Style Top
- Built-In Boning & Padded Bust I Lace-Up Detail At Back
- Floor Length Hem
- Mesh Lined Skirt With Shiny Finish
- Form Hugging Fit
Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size 3.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0057
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Evalina Satin Lace Up Back A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Her satin composition, pretty sheen, and cross back are a few details that make our Evalina so gorge. Worried about her deep V? A barely-there mesh inset provides subtle coverage. Slip into our Evalina so you can feel and look glam from head to toe!
Fits & Features
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Dual Adjustable Spaghetti Straps That Cross & Tie At The Back
- Plunging V Neckline I Padded Bust I Mesh Inset
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I Wrap Skirt Reveals Front Slit
- Satin-Like Fabric I Fully Lined
- Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size 3.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0631
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $169.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Dual Adjustable Spaghetti Straps That Cross & Tie At The Back
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Idina Satin Lace Up Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Lace-up in elegance as you create a twirl-worthy moment in our dreamy Idina ball gown. Pair her with glitzy heels and rhinestone accents to bring the shine to your evening!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline
- Padded Cups | Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Empire Waist
- Pleated Ball Gown Silhouette
- Side Pockets
- Lined Satin Fabric | Petticoat
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0058
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $57.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Cora Glitter Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Slip right into our stunning Cora and make an unforgettable appearance!
Fits & Features
- Tank-Inspired Shoulder Straps
- Plunging V Neckline
- Floor Length Hem I Ball Gown Silhouette
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Lined Glitter Woven Fabric I Dual Tone Finish
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: 05004-0059
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $105.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Rita Floral Chiffon Dress
Special Occasion
You'll be best dressed in this flowy dress! Give a twirl in our beautiful Rita!
Fits & Features
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Surplice V Neckline
- Unlined, Long Sleeves With Button Cuffs
- Elastic, Narrow Waistband I Waist Tie
- Floor Length Skirt I A-Line Silhouette I Mini Length Lining
- Chiffon Fabric With Floral Prints Throughout
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0630
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $24.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Surplice V Neckline
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Cadence Crepe Tank Two Piece Mikado Dress
Special Occasion
Work your charm in our fabulous Cadence! Everyone will be mesmerized by the gorgeous floral prints and the silky mikado construction of her full skirt. Dust your neckline with a sparkling rhinestone neckline.
Fits & Features
- Tank Shoulder Straps
- Square Neckline I Padded Bust
- Crepe Crop Bodice
- Floor Length, Lined Mikado Skirt I Petticoat
- Printed Floral Design I Pleats Throughout
- Back Zipper
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05006-0234
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $57.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Shailene Lace Back Chiffon Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Create an aura of effortless beauty in our Shailene formal long dress - a breezy and beautiful option for wedding guests or bridesmaids! Her lightweight chiffon fabric with a thigh-high slit will give you the chance to showcase some pretty strappy heels. She's all about easy and breezy sophistication in her sleeveless, halter v-neck that leads to her open-back with lace-up closure. Her A-line silhouette creates the illusion of an hourglass figure while elongating thanks to the floor-length hem.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless, halter v-neck, dual spaghetti straps
- Lightly padded bust, adhesive bra recommended
- Open-back, lace-up closure
- Princess seam fitted bodice
- Flowy A-line silhouette, high-cut slit
- Airy chiffon fabric, knit lining, minimal stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1743
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Parker Heat Stone Tulle Dress
Special Occasion
Create a starry night in our twinkling Parker heat stone dress! Her dreamy tulle is perfect for creating an unforgettable entrance as you cascade into the room!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline | Pleated Bodice
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Scoop Back
- Heat Stones
- Tulle
- Fully Lined | High Slit
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0641
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Deonne Iridescent Sequin Cross Back Dress
Special Occasion
Let your glow shine at prom through in our illuminating Deonne formal prom dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, adjustable spaghetti straps that lead to a cross back design, a wrap-front with a deep V neckline, and a back zipper and hook and eye closure. Her high waist leads to a floor-length slim-fit silhouette and offers a curve-hugging style. The dress is composed of a sheer mesh fabric with a nude knit lining and is adorned with iridescent sequins in a gorgeous Damask pattern. Complete your glamorous look with stunning statement earrings and a new pair of heels.
Fit & Features
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Cross back design
- Wrap-front with a plunging V neckline
- Back zipper and hook and eye closure
- High waist leads to a floor-length slim-fit silhouette
- Sheer mesh fabric with a nude knit lining
- Damask iridescent sequin pattern
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0629
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
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Isadora Lace Two Piece Chiffon Floral Dress
Special Occasion
Glide through the room and ooze an ethereal presence in our charming Isadora! With a heavenly lace top and a dreamy floral chiffon skirt to match, these complementary pieces are the perfect fit. Our Isadora will have you standing out against the crowd in an enchanting fashion.
Fits & Features
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Off Shoulder Scalloped Neckline & Sheer Short Sleeves
- Lace Crafted Crop Top
- Fully Lined, Chiffon Skirt I Pleating Throughout
- Floor Length Hemline I Wrap Skirt With Slit
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05006-0326
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $42.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Off Shoulder Scalloped Neckline & Sheer Short Sleeves
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Krystal Glitter Floor Sweeping Wrap Dress
All is you need is glitter! Designed with a beautiful shine, she wraps around with a perfect curve flattering detail, and has a structured inner bust for a flattering bodice!
Fit & Features
- Halter neckline that closes with hook and eye closures
- Vertical boned structure at bust area
- Hidden zipper center back + hook and eye closure
- Full satin lining
- Wrap style floor sweeping skirt
- Composed of a knit material woven with glitter
- Skinny attached belt mid waist
- Minimal stretch
Model is 5'8" with 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: 05002-0635
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $169.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Idina Satin Lace Up Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Lace-up in elegance as you create a twirl-worthy moment in our dreamy Idina ball gown. Pair her with glitzy heels and rhinestone accents to bring the shine to your evening!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline
- Padded Cups | Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Empire Waist
- Pleated Ball Gown Silhouette
- Side Pockets
- Lined Satin Fabric | Petticoat
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0060
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $57.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Millie Glitter Cross Back A Line Dress
Special Occasion
No matter the dress code, our Millie will effortlessly doll you up as soon as you enter any room!
Fits & Features
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Adjustable Shoulder Straps That Cross At The Back
- V Neckline I Padded Bust
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Hemline I A-Line Silhouette I Thigh High Slit
- Heavyweight Metallic Glitter Fabric I Partial, Mini Length Lining
- Moderate Stretch
Light Blue: Model is 5'6" with a 31" bust, 26" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Purple: 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: 05002-0646
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $45.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Adjustable Shoulder Straps That Cross At The Back
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Nicolette Sequin & Tulle Dress
Special Occasion
The stunning sequin bodice...the extravagant two-tone tulle...this dress says it all! You'll be working your charm in the glamorous Nicolette!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Plunging V Neckline | Padded Bust
- Mesh Lined Sequin Bodice | Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length, Contrasting Lined Tulle Skirt
- A-Line Silhouette | Center Front Slit
- Form Flattering Fit | 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: 05004-0054
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Anita Mock Neck Ruched Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Accentuate all your curves in the Anita midi dress!
Fits & Features
- Mock Neckline
- Long Fitted Sleeves
- Ruching Throughout Front
- Midi Length Silhouette
- Jersey Knit Composition
- Bodycon Fit I Moderate 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: 05001-0319
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Justine Glitter High-Low Dress
Special Occasion
Leave them wondering as you make an elegant arrival in our beautiful Justine!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
- Plunging V Neckline | Padded Cups
- High Low Skater Silhouette With Pleated Accents
- Lined, Nontransferable Glitter Woven Fabric
- Mini Skirt Knit Lining
- Form Hugging Fit | Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'9" with a 32" 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: 05002-0645
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Ingrid Lurex X Front Dress
Special Occasion
Show off those shoulders and sparkle all night long in our elegant Ingrid dress! She has a body con construction and features a dramatic, draped X-front neckline, a tank-style back with zip closure, and a seamed, midi-length skirt with a small front slit.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0317
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Sawyer Glitter High Slit Dress
Special Occasion
You'll be heating up your evening look in our flirty and fab Sawyer!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Zipper At Cage Back & Ruched Low Back
- Square Neck
- Sweeping, Floor Length Hem | High Slit
- Glitter Knit Fabric
- Curve Hugging Fit
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: 05002-0625
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Velida One Shoulder Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Look like the glam queen you are in our statement-making Velida! Pair with eye-catching earrings, rock a bold lip, put on your fave heels, and you'll be ready to step out!
Fits & Features
- Off Shoulder, One Shoulder Fold-Over Design
- Mesh Inset At Center Waist
- Floor Length, Mermaid Style Skirt I High Slit
- Crepe Fabric I Lined
- Curve Hugging Fit
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
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: 05002-0624
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $36.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Amelida Long Slim Evening Gown
Special Occasion
Get wined and dined in our completely elegant Amelida evening gown! Her sleek finish and ruffled touch gives her a high end touch and a polished finish!
Fit & Features
- High Neckline
- Ruffle Detailing At Arm Openings
- Banded Waistline
- Floor Length Hemline
- Low V Back With Hidden Zipper
- Crepe Material With Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0626
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $25.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free