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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Lisette Glitter Shine Pleated Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Outshine them all in our gorgeous Lisette! With glitter embellishments from top to bottom, you'll be surprised to see that she'll subtly change hues in the light. The best part are her hidden hand pockets for storing your essentials. Add some extra shine by pairing her with a rhinestone cuff and chandelier earrings!
Fits & Features
- Dual Spaghetti Straps That Crosses At The Back I Buttoned Bar Accent
- Plunging V Neckline I Padded Bust I Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Hemline I Pleated I Petticoat
- Glitter Woven Fabric I Subtly Changes Hues In The Light
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0049
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Arlyn Chiffon Deep V A Line Dress
Special Occasion
Everyone will be mesmerized as you walk into any room in our elegant Arlyn!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Deep V Neckline I Padded Bust I Bar Accent
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I Front Slit I A-Line Silhouette
- Chiffon Fabric I Fully Lined
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0571
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Marjorie Glitter Lace Two Piece Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Glam and sweetness are two words that come to mind when we think of our gorgeous Marjorie. A pretty off-shoulder, glitter lace top adds a charming touch to the luxe and sultry satin skirt. The best part? Marjorie features hidden hand pockets for storing your beauty essentials so you can look flawless all night!
Fits & Features
- Off Shoulder Sweetheart Neckline
- No-Slip Interior Strip I Padded Bust I Back Zipper
- Sheer Fitted Long Sleeves I Glitter Lace, Lined Crop Bodice I Scallop Hem
- Floor Length, Lined Satin Skirt I Hidden Hand Pockets
- High Rise Waist I Wrap Design Opens To Front Slit
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Moderate Stretch
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: 05006-0198
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Mai Lace Infinity Trim Chiffon A Line Dress
Special Occasion
Feel like the beautiful princess you are as you debut your look in our stunning Mai!
Fits & Features
- High Neckline I Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Partially Lined Glitter Lace Bodice I Padded Bust
- Infinity Cut-Out With Rhinestone Detail
- Chiffon, A-Line Skirt I Sweeping Floor Length Hem & Lining
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0574
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kai Chiffon Lace Up Back A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
They'll sense your glowing presence as soon as you step foot! Strut right in like you own the place in our gorgeous Kai!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Shoulder Straps | Cross & Lace-Up At The Back
- Slim Fit Bodice | Cowl Neckline I| Hidden Back Zip
- Floor Length Hemline | Front Slit | A-Line Silhouette
- Lined Chiffon Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit
- Minimal Stretch
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: 05002-0581
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Misha Floral Organza Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Romance is in bloom in our captivating Misha ball gown! She creates a twirl-worthy moment with her elegant organza and burnout floral print!
Fit & Features
- Plunging Wired V-Neckline | Padded Cups
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Hidden Side Pockets
- Ball Gown Silhouette | Voluminous Petticoat
- Burnout Floral Print
- Lined Organza Fabric
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0046
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $84.97 $159.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Olympia Glitter Full A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Flow through the dance floor in a dazzling display of shine! Olympia's sweeping hemline adds a lovely touch of regal elegance. Everyone's eyes will trail you as Olympia leaves behind a twinkling shine and changes color in the light!
Fits & Features
- Dual Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
- V Neckline I Padded Bust I Princess Seams
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Skirt I A Line Silhouette
- Glitter Woven, Lined Fabric I Changes Color In The Light
- Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'6" with a 31" bust, 26" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0578
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Valentina Velvet and Satin Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Nothing brings the luxe like velvet and satin! Elevate your evening to a new level of glam in our twirl-worthy Valentina ball gown! Pair Valentina with a sleek clutch and gorge platforms to complete your look!
Fit & Features
- Strapless Square Neckline
- No-Slip Strip | Flexible Boning
- Padded Cups
- Bow Accent at Waist | Tie Waist Belt
- Hidden Pockets
- Lined Textured Satin Ball Gown Silhouette
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0038
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Elaina Overlap Sequin A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Adorned from top to bottom in shimmering sequins, Elaina is all about bringing the glamour. Her plunging V neckline trickles down to a wrap skirt design, unveiling a front slit. It's your moment to shine so match that glow with a sparkling necklace and a pair of rhinestone earrings!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Plunging V Neckline I Padded Bust
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hem I Overlap Skirt Reveals Front Slit I A-Line Silhouette
- Mesh Lined Sequin Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0573
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $63.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Daphne Sequin Off Shoulder Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Show off your sparkle and that figure in our dazzling Daphne! You'll be looking absolutely mesmerizing in her beautiful mermaid silhouette.
Fits & Features
- Off Shoulder Neckline
- Fitted Long Sleeves
- Slim, Floor Length Skirt I Mermaid Silhouette I Mini Length Lining
- Mesh Lined Fabric With Scroll Pattern Sequins
- 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: 05002-0562
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Keana Double Slit Scroll Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
With an elaborate arrangement of sequins, your presence will be known as you walk in with our alluring Keana. Her dramatic slits line the front, allowing you to show off those sparkly heels. Could anyone resist doing a double-take with all that shine?
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Plunging V Neckline
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I Double Thigh-High Slits At Front
- Mesh Lined Fabric With Scroll Pattern Sequins
- Built-In Cheeky Bodysuit With Dual Snap Button Closure
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0566
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $45.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Chrissy Formal Sequin Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Light up the night with dazzling sequins with our show-stopping Chrissy dress! Her plunging neckline brings the drama and lets you show off those curves!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline
- Double Row Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Cross-Back Strap Design
- Sequin Scroll Print
- Lined Mesh
- Mermaid Silhouette | Front Slit
- Form Hugging Fit | Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0563
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $47.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Sheri Sequin Low Back Slim Evening Gown
Special Occasion
Give off that sexy, sultry vibe when you step out in our Sheri sequin gown! She is created with elegance with a high neckline, and has a little to show with her low back detailing!
Fit & Features
- High neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Low open back with zipper closure
- Fully lined
- Mesh outer with golden sequin embellishments
- Long hemline that has flare
- Slim form fitting silhouette
- Minimal stretch
Model is 5'4" with 33" bust, 24.5" waist and 39" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0561
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $31.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Josie High Slit Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Show off your affinity for the glam life in our luxe Josie satin dress! She pairs well with rhinestones for an icy glam feel!
Fit & Features
- Off The Shoulder Neckline
- Pleated Overlay At Bust
- Padded Cups | Princess Seams
- High Side Slit
- Lined Satin Stretch Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit | Moderate Stretch
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: 05002-0565
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $33.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Gwendolyn Cross-Back Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
Let our beautiful Gwendolyn do all the talking this prom season! Her stunning sequins and gorgeous silhouette are enough to spark a conversation everywhere you go. She features a sleeveless wired deep V-neckline with a padded bust, dual adjustable spaghetti straps that lead to a cross-back design, and a floor-length, form-hugging fit. The lined mesh fabric features all-over sequin embroidery in a chic scroll pattern. Complete your prom look with rhinestone earrings.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless bodice, plunging wired V-neckline, padded bust
- Dual adjustable spaghetti straps, cross-back design
- Back zipper and hook and eye closure
- Floor-length, form-fitting silhouette
- Lined mesh fabric, moderate stretch
- Sequin embroidery, scroll pattern
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0564
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Emily Formal Embroidered Party Dress
Special Occasion
Charm them all in our wowing Emily dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V neckline, padded cups, adjustable spaghetti straps and a pretty mesh trim. Her slim fit bodice leads to a flattering mini length silhouette. She stands out with her vintage-inspired embroidered pattern. Dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0133
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Janisa Formal Open Back Ruffle Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the romance in ruffles! Janisa charms with her all over floral print, a wide rounded neckline with racer bust and a bold open back. Her back is accented with a lower back bow and dreamy ruffles.
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: 05002-0295
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $25.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Vanna High Slit Velvet Dress
Special Occasion
You'll look smooth and sleek in our lovely Vanna. Captivate every room you walk into!
Fits & Features
- Plunging V Neckline With Halter Top Design
- Open Back I Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Self Tie Belt
- Floor Length Silhouette With Thigh-High Slit
- Velvet-Like Composition I Fully Lined
- Form-Flattering Fit I Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0548
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $21.97 $56.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Grace Two Piece Lace & Chiffon Dress
Special Occasion
Make a standout statement in our gorge Grace! Her solid glittery top and flowy floral skirt is just the combo you need for all your special soirees!
Fits & Features
- Sleeveless Lace Crop Top I Padded, Lined Bust I Glitter Throughout
- Crew Neckline I Back Zipper
- High Waist Skirt With Floral Prints Throughout
- Flowy, Floor Length Hem I A-Line Silhouette
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
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: 05006-0509
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $124.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Macy Mikado Floral Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Our lovely Macy will make your presence be known with her dreamy florals and her gorgeous A-Line silhouette!
Fits & Features
- Tank Shoulder Straps
- Square Neckline I Padded Bust
- Scoop Back I Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Hem I Ball Gown Silhouette I Petticoat I Pleating Details
- Fully Lined, Heavyweight Mikado Fabric
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0030
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Terri Floral Printed Lace Up Back Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Make bold floral moves in our gorgeous Terri ball gown! With her lace up back detailing and floor length printed skirt, you'll look absolutely breathtaking! Pair with gold jewelry and an enevelope clutch for the most perf look.
Fit & Features
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Square neckline | Princess seams
- Lattice back | Tie closure
- Hidden hand pockets
- High waist | Floor length ball gown skirt
- Blooming floral print
- Single layer of tulle | Woven lining
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0031
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Adalee Formal Applique Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Bring on the glamour in our mesmerizing Adalee mermaid dress! Her applique detailing frames curves and radiates elegance.
Fit & Features
- High Round Neckline | Racer Bust
- Spaghetti Straps | Padded Cups
- Open Back
- Mermaid Silhouette
- Floral Applique | Heat Stones
- Lined Crepe Fabric | Mini Skirt Knit Lining
- Form Hugging Fit | Moderate 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: 05002-0555
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $144.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Asha Lace Up Back A Line Dress
Special Occasion
Meet our picture & party-perfect Asha! Put your hair in a wispy up-do and pair her with some fabulous duster earrings!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps I Off Shoulder Sleeves
- Sweetheart Neckline I Padded Bust
- Lace-Up Back I Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I A-Line Silhouette I Front Slit
- Chiffon Lined Fabric
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0560
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $36.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps I Off Shoulder Sleeves
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Franchesca Off Shoulder Satin A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
No matter the angle, our beautiful Franchesca will give you a stunning, picture-perfect moment everywhere you go!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps I Off Shoulder Sleeves
- Sweetheart Neckline I Padded Bust
- Lace-Up Back I Hidden Zipper
- Floor Length Hem I High Front Slit
- Satin-Like Fabric I Fully Lined
- Form Hugging Fit I Minimal Stretch
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: 05002-0559
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance