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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Haidie Sleeveless A-Line Satin Party Dress
Special Occasion
Stand out all evening in the twirl-worthy Haidie satin party dress perfect for prom, school dances, and banquets! Made from a sleek satin woven fabric, this dress offers a flirty-chic radiance at any party. Designed with a square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, and a flattering A-line silhouette adorned with hidden side pockets to keep your hands warm, and a trendy short-length hem. Complete the look in statement heels and jewelry!
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
- Satin woven fabric, stretchy knit lining with tulle trim
- Square neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Hidden side pockets
- A-Line silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2205
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Juliana Mesh Strappy Back Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sleek and sculpted, the Juliana mesh mermaid gown stuns with a plunging halter neckline, ruched details, and an open strappy back. Its curve-hugging fit and floor-length finish make it the ultimate choice for a bold, elegant entrance.
Fit & Features
- Mesh-lined fabric with moderate stretch
- Plunge halter neckline, clasp closure, padded bra cups
- Open strappy back with hoop insets
- Ruched seams
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black tie galas, formal dances, red-carpet events, engagement parties, luxury dinners, birthday soirees, cocktail parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000314
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE, BLACK
Available Size: L, XS, S, M
Product Badge:- Back In Stock
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Abbey Rhinestone Mesh Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Made for the nights when subtle isn’t the assignment, The Abbey mini dress glows in allover rhinestone detailing that catches every flash and glance. With its strapless neckline, built-in underwire padded bust, and sleek bodycon mini silhouette, it delivers that effortlessly polished, look-at-me moment she’s dressing for.
Fit & Features
- Rhinestone-embellished, mesh fabric, sewn-in knit lining
- Strapless sweetheart neckline
- Built-in padded underwire bust
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon fit
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Birthdays, bachelorettes, cocktail parties, holiday soirees, festive gatherings, engagement events, destination events
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000435
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $24.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Sale
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Winslow Off-The-Shoulder Skater Dress
Special Occasion
Romantic, refined, and made to twirl—the Winslow skater dress brings timeless charm to the modern moment. Crafted from jacquard woven fabric with an off-the-shoulder neckline and flared skater silhouette, it’s the definition of effortless elegance in motion.
Fit & Features
- Jacquard woven fabric, tulle and woven linings
- Off-the-shoulder neckline, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Drop waist seam
- Skater silhouette
- Short-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, fancy brunches, birthdays, date nights, dressy dinner parties, nights at the theatre
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000434
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Tracy Lace Corset Satin Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Made for the spotlight moment, the Tracy satin mini dress stuns with a sheer floral lace corset bodice adorned in beaded appliqué and sequins. Its sculpted silhouette and subtle slit create a look that’s equal parts elegant and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Satin fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Strapless sheer floral lace corset bodice, padded bra cups
- Flexible boning, applique, beading, sequins
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon fit
- Slit mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Cocktail parties, birthday dinners, bachelorettes, glam soirees, Vegas, date nights, rooftop hotel bars
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000430
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Ria Glitter Velvet Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
When the night calls for pure glamour, the Vanessa formal dress answers effortlessly. Crafted from glitter velvet that catches every glimmer, this mermaid silhouette sculpts the body with elegant precision. The wire neckline and draped tie-back detail create a look that’s equal parts timeless and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Glitter velvet fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Wired sweetheart neckline
- Wide shoulder straps
- Tie-back, cowl design
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black-tie galas, weddings, formal celebrations, opera nights, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, holiday soirees, upscale birthdays, fancy date nights, award banquets
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000316
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE
Available Size: XS
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Raquel Formal Rhinestone Velvet Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The Raquel formal rhinestone velvet mini dress will showcase elite glamour at your next fancy affair! She features a sweetheart neckline, long fitted sleeves, dual high waist seams, a chic faux wrap-front design with a mini-length hem, a bodycon silhouette, and all-over iridescent round rhinestones in vertical and horizontal embellished patterns for a gorgeous multi-hue sparkle. The luxe velvet fabric has a moderate stretch. Complete your look in this mini dress with metallic heels.
Fit & Features
- Sweetheart neckline, long fitted sleeves
- Square back design, zipper, hook and eye closure
- Dual high waist seams, faux wrap-front design, mini-length hem, bodycon fit
- Iridescent round rhinestones, vertical and horizontal embellished patterns
- Velvet fabric, knit lining at the bust, moderate stretch
- Bra-friendly design
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1877
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Brielle Faux Pearl Rhinestone Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Meet The Brielle mini dress—the definition of sparkle and allure. Designed with intricate rhinestones and faux pearl embellishments that catch every light, this curve-hugging mini dress sculpts your silhouette with a sleek bodycon fit that makes a statement.
Fit & Features
- Rhinestone, faux pearl embellishments
- Mesh-lined fabric, moderate stretch
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups, sheer mesh insert
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon fit, mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bachelorettes, cocktail parties, birthday dinners, glam girls' nights, Vegas, date nights, red-carpet events
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000439
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Francine Velvet Corset Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sleek, sculpted, and stunningly sophisticated—the Francine formal dress redefines evening elegance. Designed in luxe burnout velvet with a structured corset bodice and flattering ruching, this strapless mermaid gown moves like a dream. It’s that perfect balance of timeless and daring—made for the moments when all eyes should be on you.
Fit & Features
- Burnout velvet fabric, floral texture, moderate stretch
- Strapless neckline
- Structured corset bodice, flexible boning
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black-tie galas, formal weddings, red-carpet events, cocktail receptions, holiday soirees, nights at the theatre, milestone celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000312
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: S
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Davina Sequin Lace-Up Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The Davina mini dress is crafted with all-over intricate beading and iridescent sequin embroidery for an enchanting sheen. The short dress features a cross-back lace-up strappy design for a customized fit, and a bodycon silhouette to showcase your gorgeous curves. Complete your prom 'fit or party look with metallic heels.
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
- Lined knit fabric, moderate stretch
- All-over beading and iridescent sequin embroidery
- V-neckline with padded bust
- Dual adjustable spaghetti straps
- Open back, cross-back lace-up strappy design, hidden back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Mini-length bodycon fit
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2376
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Shayna Velvet Corset Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Luxe and alluring, the Shayna velvet mermaid gown stuns with a strapless sweetheart neckline and curve-contouring silhouette. Sleek seams and floor-length drama make it the ultimate piece for evenings that call for elegance with impact.
Fit & Features
- Plush velvet fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Wired strapless sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Corset-style bodice, flexible boning
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Side ruched seams
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black-tie weddings, galas, formal soirees, red-carpet events, charity balls, romantic dinners, milestone celebrations, holiday parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000326
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Maribelle Glitter Cutout Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Turn every entrance into a moment. The Maribelle formal dress is crafted from shimmer-rich glitter knit that catches the light from every angle. The sweetheart neckline and double ring cutout bodice create a daring yet refined shape, while ruching along the hips and a thigh-grazing slit bring instant drama to this figure-hugging silhouette.
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit-lined stretch fabric
- Sweetheart neckline, hoop insert, padded bra cups
- Spaghetti straps, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Cutout bodice with hoop insert
- High side slit
- Form-hugging fit, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Formal galas, holiday soirees, big birthday events, red-carpet events, glamorous parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000337
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: RED
Available Size: XS, S
Product Badge:- Sale
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Tiana Open Back Floral Sequin Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The Tiana floral sequin mini dress features adjustable spaghetti straps for a customized fit, an alluring open back with a tie closure, and a flattering bodycon silhouette. Perfect for a school dance or dressy celebration.
Fit & Features
- Mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Sequin embroidered floral pattern
- Square neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Open back with tie closure
- Mini-length bodycon fit
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2337
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Morgan Plunge Cowl Neck Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
A gown made for the spotlight, the Morgan gown drapes beautifully with a plunge cowl neckline and fluid mermaid fit. The burnout velvet pattern adds a touch of texture and intrigue, catching the light with every turn for a look that’s both sultry and sophisticated.
Fit & Features
- Burnout velvet pattern, knit-lined fabric
- Plunge cowl neckline
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black-tie galas, weddings, fancy celebrations, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, upscale birthdays, red-carpet events, anniversarys
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000342
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Caroline Velvet Bow Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
A study in contrast and charm, the Caroline velvet bodycon midi dress stuns with a strapless silhouette and a statement satin bow neckline. Finished with a back slit for ease of movement, it’s equal parts playful and polished.
Fit & Features
- Velvet-lined fabric with stretch
- Strapless satin bow neckline, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Center back slit
- Bodycon silhouette
- Midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, holiday soirees, formal celebrations, cocktail parties, nights at the theatre, fancy date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000446
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Malinda Satin Rhinestone A-Line Bubble Dress
Special Occasion
Soft sheen, subtle sparkle, and undeniable charm. The Malinda mini dress shines in woven satin with rhinestone straps, a corset-inspired bodice, and a tie-back detail that flatters from every angle. Finished with a flirty bubble hem, it’s the kind of mini that turns every step into a moment.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin fabric, tulle trim stretchy knit lining
- Square neckline, rhinestone-embellished spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Tie-back bow design
- Corset-structured bodice, flexible boning
- A-line. mini-length bubble hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bridal celebrations, engagement parties, birthday dinners, celebratory brunches, holiday parties, cocktail soirees, date night, New Year's Eve, anniversaries
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000449
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Camilla Satin Cutout Slit Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed to catch the light—and their attention—the Camilla formal dress pairs a lustrous satin finish with a sultry waist cutout and draped cowl neckline. The midi silhouette and thigh-high slit strike the perfect balance between effortless allure and timeless polish.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric
- Cowl neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Cutout bodice, front slit
- Form-hugging silhouette
- Midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Cocktail parties, weddings, date nights, birthdays, holiday celebrations, fashion events, art gallery openings, formal brunches, rehearsal dinners, luxury lounges
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000450
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $64.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kathleen Velvet One-Shoulder Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sleek and sculpted, the Kathleen velvet midi dress captivates with its one-shoulder neckline, bodycon fit, and a daring slit perfect for nights that demand a striking silhouette.
Fit & Features
- Velvet fabric, stretchy knit lining
- One-shoulder neckline
- Adjustable shoulder strap
- Front slit
- Bodycon silhouette
- Midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, birthdays, cocktail parties, semi-formal soirees, date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000451
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS
Product Badge:- Sale
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Carter Lace-Up Sequin A-Line Party Dress
Special Occasion
A sequin satin party dress features a square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, a lace-up back that attracts attention, and a flattering A-line short silhouette. Perfect for school dances, weddings, or parties.
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
- Sequin embellished satin fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Square neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- A-line short silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2286
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Evelyn Off-The-Shoulder Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Effortless sophistication, redefined. The Evelyn formal dress moves with sleek confidence in soft, sculpting knit that hugs every curve. With its off-the-shoulder neckline and high front wrap slit, it’s made for the kind of entrance that lingers long after you’ve walked by.
Fit & Features
- Sleek knit lined fabric, sheen effect, moderate stretch
- Off-the-shoulder neckline
- Short-sleeve cuffs
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front wrap slit
- Form-hugging silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, galas, black-tie receptions, holiday parties, formal celebrations, fancy date nights, formal dances, red-carpet events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000352
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Best Seller
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Kenley Velvet One-Shoulder Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
A showstopper in every sense, The Kenley formal dress blends soft velvet with sculptural elegance. Its one-shoulder neckline, accented by dual adjustable straps, and a daring high front slit bring just the right mix of sophistication and allure—made for the moments that deserve a grand entrance.
Fit & Features
- Luxe velvet knit fabric, stretchy knit lining
- One-shoulder neckline
- Dual adjustable spaghetti straps
- High front slit
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black-tie galas, formal events and celebrations, candlelit dinners, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, glam red-carpet occasions, upscale birthdays
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000353
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Julie Velvet Slit Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Julie formal dress blends soft velvet texture with a sculpted, form-hugging silhouette. The square neckline and daring front slit create an elegant balance of sophistication and subtle allure—perfect for when the invite calls for something effortlessly refined.
Fit & Features
- Luxe velvet fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Square neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable shoulder straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Front slit
- Form-hugging, midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, cocktail parties, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, formal celebrations, date nights, holiday soirees, upscale birthdays
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000456
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: RED, PURPLE
Available Size: XS, S
Product Badge:- Sale
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Lindsey Pearl Cold Shoulder Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Romantic and ethereal, the Lindsey pearl-embellished gown stuns with an off-the-shoulder mesh sleeve detail and figure-skimming silhouette. The ruched mesh layers create a soft, elegant finish made for unforgettable evenings.
Fit & Features
- Faux pearl embellished
- Mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Cold shoulder neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, padded bra cups
- Fitted sheer long sleeves
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Ruched mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, bridal celebrations, engagement photoshoots, rehearsal dinners, formal galas, charity and military balls, red-carpet soirees, milestone celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000354
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Mary Glitter Long Sleeve Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Shimmer from every angle—the Mary glitter knit mini dress hugs your curves with a ruched bodycon fit, sweetheart neckline, and a bold open back detail. Long sleeves balance the shine, making it a chic choice for nights that demand a little extra sparkle.
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Sweetheart neckline, ruched design, padded bra cups
- Fitted long sleeves
- Cutout back
- Bodycon fit
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, birthdays, bachelorettes, cocktail parties, wine bars, trendy nightlife scenes
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000460
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: RED, PINK, GOLD
Available Size: XS, L, S
Product Badge:- Sale