Formal Dresses
Windsor's formal dresses are redefining elegance for 2026. Think illusion panels that sculpt and contour, printed mesh gowns with bold florals or swirls, and slinky jersey knits that drape like liquid luxe. Daring cutouts bring a sleek edge to eveningwear, while cascading ruffles add movement and modern drama. These on-trend gowns prove that formal doesn’t have to mean predictable—they’re made for weddings, galas, and every post-worthy moment in between. Discover styles that are elevated, camera-ready, and designed to make you feel incredible and look unforgettable.
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STYLE SPOTLIGHT
Formal Dresses That Make Every Moment Feel Major
Windsor’s formal dresses are designed for those special occasions when your look has to be flawless. From sweeping formal gowns to sleek short silhouettes, this collection delivers drama, polish, and trend-right details that set the tone for any event. Think structured sheer corset bodices, dainty adjustable straps, adjustable lace-up backs, and glam high slits that blend comfort with high-impact style.
If you’re planning a gala, wedding, or milestone party, Windsor offers a range of formal party dresses in both fitted and flowy silhouettes to match your vibe. Go for a strapless satin gown with a sweetheart neckline for timeless elegance, or choose an asymmetrical hemline or bow-back detail for a fresh twist that feels modern and fun.
No matter where the night takes you, Windsor’s formal dresses give you options that feel special, stylish, and photo-ready. Shop Windsor’s formal dresses near you, online, in-app, or at one of 350+ stores nationwide, and find the look that will make your night unforgettable.
Tips for Choosing the Best Formal Dress for Your Body Type
- Hourglass: Slay those curves with a fitted corset bodice and flowing skirt.
- Pear‑Shaped: Balance out your look with a structured top and full skirt.
- Rectangle: Create curves with a cinched waist and flared hem.
- Apple‑Shaped: Draw eyes upward with a V‑neckline and empire waist.
For more styling inspo, hit up our blog guides like “The Ultimate Gala Dresses Guide” or “Sexy Formal Dresses – Create an Eye‑Catching Look” and get ready to own every moment.
What’s the Difference Between a Formal and a Semi-Formal Dress?
Formal and semi-formal dresses differ based on event dress codes and styling. Formal attire, often called black-tie, features glamorous floor-length gowns with luxe details like rhinestones, lace, and beading—perfect for galas, weddings, and proms. Popular silhouettes include mermaid, ball gown, and A-line styles.
Semi-formal dresses offer more variety in length and design, making them ideal for homecoming, weddings, and cocktail parties. These styles range from midi to short lengths.
The venue and occasion can also guide your choice—an upscale wedding may call for a floor-length gown, while an outdoor event might be perfect for a sleek midi dress with a stylish neckline.
Are Formal Dresses Always Long?
Not always! While long gowns are classic for formal events, modern formal attire includes various lengths and styles. Windsor’s collection of women’s formalwear features short, midi, and long dresses. Explore dramatic mermaid and column silhouettes for timeless elegance, or opt for trendy alternatives like high-low hemlines and two-piece designs for a fresh take on formal fashion.
Find your perfect formal dress at Windsor any time of year, available online, in-app, and in over 350 stores across the U.S. and Canada. Shop now for trend-driven styles that make you shine and every event unforgettable!
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Erin Satin Floral Embroidered Lace-Up Dress
Special Occasion
Made for twirl-worthy moments, the Erin satin mini dress stuns with floral embroidery and a flattering fit-and-flare silhouette. The lace-up back adds a playful detail, perfect for making every entrance feel like a celebration.
Fit & Features
- Floral embroidery, sequins, beading
- Tulle overlay with satin and knit linings
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Lace-up back with lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- A-line silhouette
- Short-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Formal dances, birthday events, bachelorettes, bridal showers, fancy brunches, weddings, engagement parties, and milestone celebrations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000290
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $99.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Bella Lace-Up Sequin Satin Mini Dress
Special Occasion
A sequin satin mini dress features a flattering square neckline, spaghetti straps that lead to a lace-up back, and a bodycon silhouette. Perfect for the school dance or a party.
Show off your style in this standout dress. Feeling the short and chic vibe? Discover more fashion-forward short prom dresses or elevate your style with our formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Sequin satin fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Square neckline, padded bra cups
- Spagehtti straps
- Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2426
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Lara Velvet And Satin Ruffle Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Built for that slow-motion entrance moment, the Lara velvet and satin mini dress brings a luxe, sculpted feel with its strapless silhouette and dramatic ruffle drape. The mix of plush texture and glossy shine creates an effortlessly glam look made for unforgettable nights out.
Fit & Features
- Stretch velvet-lined bodice with a soft, plush feel
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
- Side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Satin-lined skirt with draped side ruching
- Cascading side ruffle detail
- Bodycon mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Winter formal, holiday parties, birthday celebrations, cocktail parties, dressed-up dinners, and fancy date nights.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000280
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE
Available Size: XS, S, L
Product Badge:- Sale
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Kathrin Satin Off-The-Shoulder Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Effortless romance, redefined. The Kathrin mini dress stuns with its off-shoulder satin neckline and sculpted ruching, finished with soft puff sleeves that bloom like petals. Equal parts flirty and refined—it’s made for the moments that call for a little extra magic.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric
- Off-the-shoulder sweetheart neckline
- Ruffled short-sleeve cuffs
- Back zipper closure
- Pleated bodycon silhouette
- Wrap mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bridal celebrations, wedding receptions, engagement photoshoots, rehearsal dinners, birthdays, cocktail soirees, holiday parties, formal celebrations, bachelorettes, elegant daytime events
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000270
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Stevie Bustier A-Line Satin Party Dress
Special Occasion
Make everyone gasp with your beauty in the Stevie bustier satin party dress at the school dance or birthday event! Crafted from a smooth satin woven fabric to give your look an elevated luxe. She features a sweetheart neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, and a bustier bodice with a built-in padded underwire bust and flexible boning for a flawless silhouette. The drop waist seam and skater silhouette create a timeless look, while the mini-length hem adds a touch of playfulness. Complete the look with a necklace set, clutch, and heels!
Fit & Features
- Satin woven fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Sweetheart neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Built-in padded underwire bust, flexible boning
- Skater silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2206
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Alena Velvet Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Made for the nights that call for full glam, the Alena velvet bodycon mini dress brings a sculpted fit with cool-girl ruching and a daring mini-length hem. The square neckline and side slit keep it sleek yet flirty—the kind of look that turns every entrance into a photo moment.
Fit & Features
- Velvet fabric, moderate stretch
- Sleeveless square neckline, pleated design
- Thin shoulder straps
- Back bar strap with hook and bar closure, lower back cutout
- Lower back zipper with hook-eye closure, ruching
- Mini-length hem, short side slit, bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthday celebrations, dinner parties, romantic date nights, rooftop parties, and glam nights out.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000304
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: HUNTER
Available Size: L
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Jenelle Beaded Sequin Fringe Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Built for your spotlight moment, the Jenelle mini dress stuns with its allover beaded sequin design that catches every light. The bodycon silhouette and lace-up back bring just the right dose of sultry, while the fringe hem moves beautifully with every step, dance, and twirl.
Fit & Features
- Beaded sequin mesh fabric, stretch knit lining, fringe trim
- Scoop neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Holiday parties, cocktail soirees, date nights, bachelorette weekends, fashion-forward events, birthdays
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000319
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $129.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: S
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Chloe Sequin Embroidered Mesh Skater Dress
Special Occasion
The short skater dress showcases a corset bodice with a padded bust and flexible boning while the short skater silhouette flatters every figure. Style with sleek stiletto heels.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with lining
- Sequin floral embroidered pattern
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bust
- Corset bodice with flexible boning
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper closure
- Short-length skater silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2187
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $49.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Nora V-Neck Ruffle Cutout Sequin Mini Dress
Special Occasion
This sequin mini dress exudes sparkle making it perfect for school dances or birthdays. The bodycon dress features a V-neckline with padded bra cups, ruffle trim adjustable spaghetti straps, and a cutout back.
Show off your style in this standout dress. Feeling the short and chic vibe? Discover more fashion-forward short prom dresses or elevate your style with our formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- V-neckline with padded bra cups
- Ruffled adjustable spaghetti straps
- Cutout back with hook strap, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Sequin embellished pattern
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2382
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Reese Formal Strapless Marabou Glitter Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Glam up your evenings with the Reese formal glitter midi dress for Homecoming or formal celebrations! She features a strapless neckline with a fabulous marabou trim, a bodycon silhouette that hugs your curves, and a front slit along her midi-length hem. The formal knee-length dress is composed of a glitter crepe knit fabric offering endless sparkle and moderate stretch. Style the midi dress with platform heels.
Fit & Features
- Strapless neckline, marabou trim
- Bodycon silhouette
- Front slit
- Midi-length hem
- Glitter crepe knit fabric, moderate stretch
- Sticky or strapless bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1945
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Marilee Satin Open Back Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sophisticated with a sultry edge, the Marilee formal dress turns heads with its sleek satin finish and sculpted fit. Designed with double straps, a thigh-high slit, and a tie-back detail, it’s that effortlessly elegant piece that moves with confidence and shine.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric
- V-neckline
- Dual spaghetti straps
- Open tie-back design
- Pleated bodice
- Front slit
- Form-hugging, midi-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, cocktail parties, date nights, engagement celebrations, birthdays, fashion events, holiday soirees, dressy events
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000367
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $64.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S
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Madelyn Satin Lace-Up Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sleek, sultry, and effortlessly refined—the Madelyn formal dress was made for the spotlight. Its luxe satin drapes beautifully over the body, while the lace-up back and tulip-style skirt add just the right touch of allure for every elegant occasion.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric
- Square neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back
- Bodycon silhouette, wrap front slit design
- Midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, cocktail parties, date nights, rehearsal dinners, formal celebrations, rooftop hotel bars
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000353
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN, NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Maddie Strappy Back Bodycon Sequin Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Make the whole room glow when you wear the Maddie sequin mini dress to prom or parties! Crafted from sparkling sequins, this mini dress will sparkle all night. The square neckline and adjustable spaghetti straps offer a flattering fit, while the padded bra cups provide support and shape. The alluring strappy back with hook-eye closure adds a touch of elegance to the bodycon fit and mini-length hem. Complete the look in high heels and earrings.
Fit & Features
- Sequin embellished mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Square neckline
- Padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Strappy back with hook-eye closure, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon fit
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2269
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Janessa Velvet One-Shoulder Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Designed to turn heads from every angle, the Janessa mini dress stuns in plush velvet with a sculpted one-shoulder neckline and delicate dual spaghetti straps. The mesh beaded bodice catches the light with every move, while the bodycon fit and mini hem keep the look sleek, sultry, and completely unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Plush soft velvet fabric lined with stretch knit
- One-shoulder neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable dual spagehtti straps
- Side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Side applique beaded mesh bodice
- Bodycon fit, mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, cocktail parties, date nights, birthdays, holiday celebrations, engagement parties, evening receptions, semi-formal occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000383
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $76.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Amara Sleeveless Sequin Cowl Neck Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The Amara sequin mini dress makes the whole room shimmer! The party dress is designed to captivate in a sleek cowl neckline and bodycon silhouette that flaunts your figure. Complete the look with earrings and heels.
All eyes are on you in this radiant dress. If sparkle is your signature, discover stunning sequin prom dresses or opt for effortless sophistication with our eye-catching formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with knit lining, moderate stretch
- Sequin embroidered scroll pattern
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline with padded bust, draped cowl neck overlay
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Hidden back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Mini-length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2360
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Katelyn Sequin Open Back Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Made for that effortlessly unforgettable entrance, the Katelyn mini dress catches the light with every step thanks to its intricate sequin scroll pattern. The body-skimming silhouette is balanced by an open strappy lace-up back that is head-turning.
Fit & Features
- Sequin-beaded scroll pattern, mesh-lined fabric
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Spaghetti straps
- Open strappy lace-up back
- Bodycon mini silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, birthdays, bachelorettes, date nights, rooftop hotel bars, upscale dinners, Vegas
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000395
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: LIGHT, BLUE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Sloane Velvet Lace-Up Column Dress
Special Occasion
Made to mesmerize, the Sloane velvet column dress exudes understated allure with its sleek draping and lace-up back detail. Designed to hug your shape and glide with every step, it’s the definition of soft glam done right.
Fit & Features
- Velvet fabric, sewn-in knit lining, moderate stretch
- Sweetheart neckline, pleated cowl neck overlay, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, tie closure, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Floor-length column silhouette
- High-cut side slit
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Formal weddings, black-tie parties, red-carpet events, galas, and holiday soirees.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000280
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Madalyn V-Neck Ruffle Sequin Satin Mini Dress
Special Occasion
A sequin satin mini dress featuring a flattering V-neckline and bodycon silhouette complete with a flirty ruffled hem. Perfect for the school dance or a banquet.
Fit & Features
- Sequin satin fabric lined with stretchy knit
- V-neckline, wired insert, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette
- Ruffled mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2199
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Sofie Satin Strapless Lace-Up Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Silky satin meets sculpted structure in the Sofie strapless floor-length gown, designed with flexible boning at the bust for support and a lace-up back for a customizable fit. A high side slit adds just the right amount of drama to every step.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, bust knit lining
- Strapless neckline, flexible boning inserts
- Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- High side slit
- Form-hugging silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black-tie weddings, bridesmaids, galas, elegant engagement parties, anniversary dinners, formal celebrations, charity balls, holiday parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000281
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Jessica Strapless Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Elegance in motion—the Jessica strapless mermaid gown hugs every curve with sleek sophistication, featuring a ruched sweetheart bodice and an open back cutout that feels equal parts timeless and daring.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit lined fabric, moderate stretch
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, twist bust
- Cutout back design, clasp closure strap
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black-tie galas, formal celebrations, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, nights at the opera
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000286
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE, NAVY
Available Size: M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Brooke Satin Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Made for the spotlight moment, the Brooke mini dress turns every glance into admiration. Crafted in luxe satin with a strapless cowl neckline and sculpted pleated waist, this mini’s all about curve-hugging polish and effortless allure.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin-lined fabric
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
- Back lace-up and zipper and hook-eye closure
- Dual pleated waist accents
- Draped pleated waist detail
- Bodycon fit, mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Cocktail soiree, birthday dinner, upscale date night, bachelorettes, glam celebrations, Vegas
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000403
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Ashlie Velvet Burnout Lace-Up Formal Dress
Special Occasion
A gown designed to steal the spotlight, the Ashlie velvet burnout mermaid dress drapes in a soft cowl neckline and flows into a high front slit that moves with every step. The lace-up open back adds the perfect balance of allure and drama.
Fit & Features
- Velvet burnout pattern, mesh fabric, stretch knit lining
- Cowl neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Side ruched seams
- High front slit, mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black-tie weddings, formal receptions, red-carpet events, galas, holiday soirees, engagement parties, formal celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000309
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Avery Formal Mesh Bodycon Midi Dress
Special Occasion
The Avery formal midi dress is a state-making piece that'll make every head turn! She features a sassy sweetheart neckline with a cowl overlay, a padded bust, adjustable spaghetti straps, and a figure-hugging ruching and bodycon silhouette that steals the show. The formal midi dress is composed of a lightweight mesh fabric with a sewn-in knit lining and minimal stretch. Complete the look in strappy heels for a banquet or fancy dinner date!
This dress proves that short and stylish is always a vibe. Want more? Discover our bold short prom dresses or find a celebration-ready fit in our party dresses.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, cowl overlay
- Padded bust, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Ruching, bodycon silhouette
- Midi-length hem
- Mesh fabric, sewn-in knit lining, minimal stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2063
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Alaia Floral Embroidered Satin Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Designed to captivate from every angle, the Alaia satin mini dress stuns with a sheer sequin floral embroidered bodice that perfectly balances allure and elegance. It's your luxe go-to for nights that call for a little extra glam.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric
- Sheer mesh bodice, lined sweetheart neckline, padded bust
- Flexible boning, back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Floral embroidery with clear sequins
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Pleating, mini-length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthday celebrations, bachelorette parties, holiday soirees, and luxe nights out.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000414
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE, HUNTER
Available Size: S, XS, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free