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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Cherie Floral Jacquard Deep V Ball Gown
Special Occasion
From top to bottom, jacquard florals and shiny metallic threading adorn our elegant Cherie. Dual spaghetti straps drop down to a form-hugging bodice, flowing right into a voluminous ball gown skirt. For finishing touches, put your hair in a romantic up-do and add some gorgeous duster earrings.
Fits & Features
- Dual Spaghetti Straps
- Plunging V Neckline I Wire Trim I Padded Bust
- Dual Bar Accents At Back
- Side Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I A-Line Silhouette I Petticoat
- Smooth Woven Fabric I All Over Jacquard Floral With Brocade Design
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0050
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $149.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Rosella Lace Scallop Rhinestone Ribbon Belt Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Featuring a subtle glitter knit lace composition and a gorgeous ribbon rhinestone belt, Rosella is every bit of glam and romance combined in one. Complement with a pair of gorgeous and sparkly duster earrings to further elevate your look.
Fits & Features
- High Neckline I Scallop Trim Bodice
- Spaghetti Straps I Button Closure At Nape I Back Zipper
- Detachable Ribbon Belt With Rhinestone Accents
- Floor Length Hemline I Mermaid Silhouette
- Glitter Lace Lined Knit Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 35.5" hips. She is wearing a size 3.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0600
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $40.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Ashley Shine Beaded Waist Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Gorgeous glitter detailing and an intricately beaded waist give our Ashley formal dress her beauty! Bring the romance with a flowy, floor length skirt paired with cascading rhinestone accessories!
Fit & Features
- Spaghetti straps
- Wrap front V neckline | Pleated details
- Scoop back
- High belted waistband | Gemstone beaded center accent
- Hidden back zipper | Hook and eye closure
- Floor length skirt | Wide banded hem for support
- Iridescent glitter woven fabric | Two layers of tulle | Woven lining
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: 05005-0008
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $319.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Cady Formal Velvet Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
Wrap yourself in luxe velvet as you own the night in our Cady dress! She features a plunging V neckline, long fitted sleeves and a curve hugging wrapped mini length silhouette. She is composed of a soft to the touch velvet knit fabric adorned with glitter accents throughout. Cady offers a curve hugging fit to highlight curves.
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: 05001-0139
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $20.97 $39.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Angelica Off Shoulder Rhinestone Trim Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Layers and layers of her beautiful mesh skirt add drama and dimension to our showstopping Angelica. With each step, her twinkling glitter embellishments and sparkling rhinestone trim waist will have you glowing from every angle.
Fits & Features
- Off Shoulder Straps I Sweetheart Neckline I Padded Bust
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Rhinestone Trim Waist
- Floor Length, Layered Skirt I Mermaid Silhouette I Horsehair Trim Hem
- Mesh Lined Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
- Glitter May Transfer
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0006
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $349.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Kateri Crepe Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Our Kateri is a show-stopper! Her body-lovin' fit will hug your every curve.
Fits & Features
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Spaghetti Straps That Lace Up & Cross At The Back
- Plunging V Neckline
- Midi Length Silhouette With Front Slit
- Crepe Fabric
- Curve Hugging Fit
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0310
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Spaghetti Straps That Lace Up & Cross At The Back
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Genna Sequin Patterned Midi Dress
You'll fall head over heels for our gorgeous Genna sequin midi dress! She features a sleeveless deep V-neckline, dual adjustable spaghetti straps for a customized fit, a strappy lattice back design, and a mid-length, curve-hugging silhouette. The mesh fabric features stunning all-over sequin embroidery in a chic vintage-inspired pattern. Style this dress with clear heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline
- Dual adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lattice back design, tie closure
- Mid-length, form-fitting silhouette
- Back slit
- Mesh fabric, sequin embroidery
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0309
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Rochelle Tulle A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Be a vision of beauty in our elegant Rochelle! Her lovely tulle adds a romantic and dreamy touch to the look.
Fits & Features
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Adjustable Spaghetti Straps Cross At The Back
- Plunging V Neckline I Padded Bust
- Square Back With Zipper & Hook And Eye Closure
- Flowy Floor Length Hemline I A-Line Silhouette
- Lined Tulle Fabric
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0599
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $42.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Adjustable Spaghetti Straps Cross At The Back
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Taralynn Sequin Lace Up Evening Gown
Special Occasion
Have a night to remember when you feel your best in our Taralynn sequin gown! She is rich in color, and has a slim form fitting silhouette that will have you feeling like a curvy goddess!
Fir & Features
- Straight halter neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Low lace up back
- Lower back zipper + hook & eye closure
- Fully lined
- Flared hemline
- Mesh outer with sequin embellishments
- Minimal stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0596
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $42.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Maxine A-Line Tulle Dress
Special Occasion
Waltz your way in and make a magical entrance with our stunning Maxine formal dress! She features adjustable spaghetti straps that lead to a cross back design, a padded bust with subtle pleated detailing, a V neckline with a sheer lace inset at the center, and a back zipper and hook and eye closure. Her high waist flows to a floor-length tulle skirt with a pretty A-line silhouette. The sheer tulle fabric has a stretchy knit lining. Complete your gorgeous look with a sleek clutch.
Fit & Features
- Adjustable spaghetti straps that lead to a cross back design
- Padded bust
- V neckline with a sheer lace inset
- High waist
- Back zipper and hook and eye closure
- Floor-length, A-line silhouette
- Sheer tulle fabric with a knit lining
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0598
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $46.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Jacelyn Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Slip right into our glamorous Jacelyn! Make a memorable entrance in this statement dress.
Fits & Features
- Plunging V Neckline
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Low Back
- Princess Seaming Detail
- Slim Fit, Floor Length Mermaid Silhouette
- Smooth Tricot Composition I Fully Lined
- Curve Hugging Fit I Plenty Of 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: 05002-0593
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Cicilia Embroidered Floral A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Embroidered floral designs add a dreamy dimension to our darling Cicilia. Her midweight, A-line silhouette allows you to flow through any room with ease and comfort. Style it up with some soft, romantic curls and don't forget to include a fabulous clutch!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps That Cross & Lace-Up At The Back
- Scoop Neckline I Padded Bust
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I A-Line Silhouette
- Sheer Mesh Overlay With Embroidered Floral Design
- Full Knit Lining
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0577
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Sinclair Embroidered Strapless Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Romantic embroidery details stand out against Sinclair's soft-hued lining. Her voluminous ball gown will make you feel like an absolute princess as you spin and twirl! With a strapless neckline, we'd love to see rhinestone earrings and a necklace paired with this elegant gown.
Fits & Features
- Strapless Neckline I No-Slip Interior Strip I Includes Detachable Spaghetti Straps
- Padded Bust I Boning Detail
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I Ball Gown Silhouette I Petticoat
- Sheer Mesh Overlay With Embroidery Details I Full Knit Lining
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0048
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $159.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Devora Chiffon Tie Bow A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Made from a lightweight and airy chiffon, our Devora will have you feeling oh-so-elegant as you drift from room to room. At the back, a dainty and sheer tie bow finishes off the look. Accent your neckline with a gorgeous necklace and a matching bracelet!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- V Neckline I Padded Bust
- Sheer, Tie Bow At Back I Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I A-Line Silhouette I Front Slit
- Chiffon Fabric I Fully Lined
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0572
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Tabia Rhinestone Infinity Trim A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
You'll be walking right into any event like you own the place! Show them up in our stunning Tabia!
Fits & Features
- Glitter Lace Top With Floral Appliques
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Infinity Cut-Out At Waist With Rhinestone Trim
- Lined Chiffon, A-Line Skirt
- Form 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 3.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0575
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Andrina Iridescent Sequin & Tulle Off Shoulder Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Stunning and speechless go hand-in-hand when you walk in with our gorgeous Andrina! Her arrangement of iridescent sequins wrap lovingly around her body and fall down to a dramatic tulle hem. Pair her with sparkling duster earrings and a cuff to highlight all of that shine!
Fits & Features
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Off Shoulder Design I Plunging Wire Trim V Neckline I Padded Bust
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Mesh Lined Iridescent Sequined Bodice & Skirt
- Sweeping Floor Length Tulle Hem I Mermaid Silhouette
- Form Hugging Fit I 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: 05002-0568
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $149.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Off Shoulder Design I Plunging Wire Trim V Neckline I Padded Bust
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Kay Sequin Lace Up Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the glamour in our glam Kay sequin dress as you shine from all your best angles with her head-turning dazzling elegance!
Fit & Features
- V-Neckline | Padded Cups
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Lace-Up Back
- Sequins | High Side Slit
- Lined Mesh Fabric | Full Knit Lining
- Relaxed Fit
- Minimal 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: 05002-0569
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $63.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Magnolia Two Piece Scallop Lace Glitter A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Stun them in our breathtaking Magnolia! Her gorgeous skirt will create an ethereal effect as you walk into any room!
Fits & Features
- Glitter Lace Scalloped Cropped Bodice I Plunging V Neckline
- Padded Bust
- Adjustable Dual Spaghetti Straps
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- High Rise Waist I Back Zipper
- Sweeping Floor Length Hem I A-Line Silhouette I Pleating Details
- Lined Chiffon Fabric
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size 3.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05006-0140
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $56.97 $124.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Mikayla Floral Jacquard Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Step out in elegance when you slip into our angelic Mikayla!
Fits & Features
- Tank-Style Shoulder Straps
- Square Neckline I Scoop Back With Hook & Eye Closure
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Hemline
- Knit Lined Fabric I Jacquard Floral Design All Over
- 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: 05004-0040
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $68.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Jamille Metallic Glitter Pleated Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Outshine them all in our magnificent Jamille! Her pretty sheen changes hues when the light bounces off her metallic fabric. Walk right in feeling regal and elegant in our showstopping Jamille!
Fits & Features
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Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Back Zipper WIth Hook & Eye Closure
- V Neckline I Mesh Inset I Padded Bust
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Ball Gown Silhouette I Pleating Details I Tulle Petticoat Underlay
- Lined, Woven Metallic Glitter Fabric
- Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0043
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
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Dacia Embroidery Mesh Rhinestone Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Dacia's princess ball gown will make you want to twirl around and showcase her stunning embroidery designs. Flecks of metallic threading are featured throughout, giving her a radiant shine every time the light hits! Dacia is a regal choice for a princess like you!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- V Neckline I Padded Bust
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Triple Row Of Rhinestones Along The Waist
- Floor Length Hemline I A-Line Silhouette I Front Slit
- Sheer Mesh Overlay With Embroidery Details I Full Knit Lining
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0037
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $68.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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April Front Slit Strapless Crepe Dress
Special Occasion
With a clean and streamlined silhouette, our April is an absolute stunner. Her crepe fabric will hug your every curve and flaunt that figure. Pair her with gold-tone jewelry pieces for an alluring finish!
Fits & Features
- Strapless, Straight Neckline
- Wrap Skirt I Front Slit
- Floor Length Hem
- Crepe Fabric
- Form-Hugging Slim 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: 05002-0587
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $39.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Via Two Piece High Neck Tulle Dress
Special Occasion
Stop everyone in their tracks and make them do a double-take in our gorge Via!
Fits & Features
- High Neck Mesh Lined Sequin Bodice
- Padded Bust
- Open Back I Zipper I Dual Button Closure At Nape
- Floor Length, Voluminous Tulle Lined Skirt I Petticoat
- Horsehair Trim At Hem For Movement & Flow
- Mesh Lined Sequin Waistband I Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05006-0150
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $149.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Mariah Floral Foil Print Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Keep it lovely as you enchant them all in our romantic Mariah ball gown! Her floral print radiates beauty and grace for an unforgettable entrance!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline | Padded Cups
- Pleated Bodice
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps | Cross At Back
- Foiled Floral Print
- Lined Mesh | Petticoat
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
- Back Zipper Closure
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0036
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $86.97 $164.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale