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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Tatyana Tulle Ruffle A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Stay lookin' oh-so-gorge in our beautiful Tatyana!
Fits & Features
- Dual Mesh, Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Tank Inspired Straps At Front With Tulle Ruffle Detail At Shoulders
- Plunging V Neckline
- Open Back With Zipper And Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline With Subtle Front Slit I A-Line Silhouette
- Tulle Fabric With Knit Lining
- Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 35.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0526
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $25.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Sandra Sequin Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Radiate your gorgeous glow in our captivating Sandra!
Fits & Features
- Dual Adjustable Spaghetti Straps Cross At Back
- Plunging V Neckline
- Zipper With Hook & Eye At Low Back
- Midi Length Silhouette I Slit At Center Back
- Mesh Lined Fabric With Scroll Pattern Sequins
- 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: 05001-0304
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Evie Floral Chiffon Two Piece Dress
Special Occasion
Create an enchanting moment with gorge florals as you enter the room in our dreamy Evie two piece dress!
Fit & Features
- Lined Floral Lace Bodice | V-Neckline
- Padded Cups | Double Row Spaghetti Straps
- Glitter
- High Waist Floor Length Silhouette
- Lined Chiffon
- Floral Print
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05006-0081
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $58.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Chantel Cowl Back Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Play it cool with the sleek and sophisticated Chantel. Her silky style and luxurious shine will make you stand out from the crowd.
Fits & Features
- Plunging V Neckline
- Narrow Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
- Cowl Back
- Slim Fit Bodice Flows To Elongated Floor-Length Hemline
- Slit At Side
- Satin-Like Fabric
- Form Flattering Fit I Minimal Stretch
Burgundy & Lavender: Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 35.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Mauve: 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: 05002-0516
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $39.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Celina Lace Up Back Satin Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Slip into our beautiful Celina and embrace the luxe look of satin!
Fits & Features
- Spaghetti Straps That Cross & Lace-Up At The Back
- V Neckline I Padded Bust
- Floor Length Skirt I Mermaid Silhouette I Petticoat
- Horsehair Trim On Hem For Fullness & Movement
- Stretch Satin Fabric I Fully Lined
- Form Hugging Fit
- Plenty Of Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0518
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $63.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kiana Floral Chiffon A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Our beautiful Kiana formal dress is the perfect prom dress for the girl who loves a romantic floral look! Get the best outdoor pictures with her gorgeous silhouette flowing with the wind. She features a classy sleeveless V-neckline with adjustable spaghetti straps and a fitted bodice. Showcase some leg with her sultry front slit on an A-line, floor-length silhouette. The formal dress is composed of floral printed chiffon fabric with lining. Complete your stunning look in glitzy heels.
Fits & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lightly padded bust
- Back zipper, hook and eye closure
- Floor-length A-line silhouette, high front slit
- All-over floral print
- Lined chiffon fabric
- Flowy fit, minimal stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0543
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $33.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Lana Taffeta High Low Dress
Special Occasion
Look like a vision of romance in our sweet Lana!
Fits & Features
- Dual Spaghetti Straps That Cross & Tie At The Back
- Square Neckline With Princess Seams I Padded Bust
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Slant Hand Pockets
- High Low Hem I Pleating Details I Mesh Overlay At Skirt
- Lined Taffeta Fabric I Subtle Shiny Finish
- Relaxed Fit I Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 35.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0524
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $36.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Charlize Formal Sequin Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
Wrap yourself in luxe sequins and shine from your best angles in our sparkling Charlize sequin dress!
Fit & Features
- V-Neckline
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Sequins
- Subtle Ruched Side Seam
- Wrap Silhouette Skirt
- Lined Mesh Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit | Minimal Stretch
Model is 5'8" with 32" bust, 26" waist and 38" hips. She is wearing a size small.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0529
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Tara Formal Sequin High Slit Dress
Special Occasion
Illuminate the room in a sequin dress for your next special evening in our shimmering Tara dress! She features a sleeveless high neck with a racer bust, tank-like straps for support, and a shimmering geometric sequin design. Her relaxed fit bodice leads to a sweeping floor-length silhouette with a bold high slit, and a mini skirt length knit lining. Complete your formal outfit with rhinestone earrings.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless high round neckline with a racer bust
- Tank-like straps
- Sequins
- Geometric design
- Floor-length silhouette with high side slit
- Miniskirt length knit lining
- Lined mesh fabric, form-hugging fit, slight stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0530
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Kim Formal Draped Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the wow factor to your next evening in our memorable Kim sequin dress! Her sequins bring the elegance to create some serious Hollywood glam!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Draped Sequin Pattern
- Open Back I Back Zipper With Hook & Eye
- Mermaid Silhouette
- Lined Mesh Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit | Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0521
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $52.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Ada Sequin Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Our Ada is perfect for the girl who wants a classic look with a little bit of oomph! Her curve-hugging silhouette is embellished with cascading sequins.
Fits & Features
- Tank-Style Straps
- Dual Hook & Eye Closure At Nape & Bar Accent At Open Back
- Deep V Neckline
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Mesh Lined Fabric With Scroll Pattern Sequins
- Slim Bodice | Floor Length Hem | Mermaid-Style Silhouette
- Curve Hugging Fit | Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0545
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $45.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Vivian Textured Sequin Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Dazzle and impress with an unforgettable look in our Vivian sequin mermaid dress! Her textured details make her a true one-of-a-kind!
Fit & Features
- Plunging Wired V-Neckline
- Padded Cups
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Sequins
- Lined Textured Knit Mesh
- Mermaid Silhouette
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0533
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Riva Cowl Back Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
Show off those glistening sequins in our radiating Riva dress! She features a crew neckline, cap sleeves, a chic draped cowl back, a high waist seam, and a floor-sweeping hem with a thigh-high front slit. The sheer mesh fabric has all-over sequin embroidering in a geometric pattern and includes a full knit lining. Complete your look with new heels and you'll be ready for your moment to shine.
Fit & Features
- Crew neckline
- Cap sleeves
- Draped cowl back
- Side zipper and hook and eye closure
- Floor-length hemline, thigh-high slit
- Sheer mesh fabric, all-over sequins, knit lining
- Curve-hugging silhouette, minimal stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0522
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $18.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Vanessa V-Neck Tulle Gown
Special Occasion
This prom season, you'll for sure bring that dramatic flair with every step in our glam Vanessa tulle gown! She features a sleeveless plunging V-neckline with pleated detailing at the bust, adjustable spaghetti straps that lead to a cross-back design, a high waist seam, and a floor-length flowy ball gown silhouette. The dress is composed of layers of chic tulle with a knit lining and showcases all-over iridescent sequins for the prettiest sparkle. Style this dress with the perfect pair of heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless deep V-neckline, pleated detailing
- Adhesive bra recommended
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, cross-back design
- Back zipper, hook and eye closure
- High waist seam, flowy ball gown skirt
- Iridescent sequin embellishment
- Layers of tulle, knit lining
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0027
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Hyla Deep V Glitter Shine Dress
Special Occasion
You'll be captivating everyone as you twirl around in our gorgeous Hyla! Her never-ending sparkle is a magnet for attention, while her skater skirt adds dimension and flow as you dance around. Style her up with a glitzy envelope clutch and a pair of earrings to match!
Fits & Features
- Tank Shoulder Straps
- Deep V Front & Back I Padded Bust
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Mini Length Hem I Skater Silhouette
- Glitter Woven Fabric I Fully Lined
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0302
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Eleanor Formal High Slit Floral Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the romance with a floral dress that creates an enchanting moment. Eleanor features a sleeveless V-neckline, spaghetti straps, floral lace back with a lower back keyhole, hidden side pockets, a floral print, a high side slit, and an A-line silhouette. The dress is composed of a lined satin fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with minimal stretch. Complete look with heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Floral lace back, lower back keyhole
- Hidden side pockets
- Floral print
- High side slit, A-line silhouette
- Satin fabric, form-hugging fit, runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0528
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Zoey Formal Glitter Cowl Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the glamour as you shine in the spotlight in our glittery Zoey cowl dress! She'll show off all your best angles!
Fit & Features
- Off The Shoulder Neckline | Cowl Bust
- Off The Shoulder Strap Accents
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Glitter
- Lined Lurex Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit | Moderate Stretch
- Slim Silhouette
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0534
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $47.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Ainsley Glittering Evening Gown
Special Occasion
Life isn't perfect, but your dress can be! Our Ainsley gown is more than perfect with her slim form fit, and her glittering reflections. She features a V-neckline, built-in padded cups, spaghetti straps that lead to a square back, and a form-hugging silhouette that flares out to an elegant floor-sweeping finish. The formal dress is composed of a gleaming glitter knit material that offers a moderate stretch. Complete the look with rhinestone earrings.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, spaghetti straps
- Built-in padded bust
- Square back accent
- Form-hugging silhouette
- Flared floor-length hem
- Glitter knit fabric, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6995
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Spellbind Sequins Mini Dress
We are under your spell! It's your time to shine in this everlasting sparkly number!
Fits & Features
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Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Wrap V Neckline
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Mini Length Silhouette I Side Slit
- Mesh Lined Fabric With Sequins Throughout
- Body-Hugging Fit I Ample Stretch
Model is 5'7" with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0479
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $17.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
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Adalee Formal High Slit Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Keep it simply stunning in satin as you make your entrance in our Adalee dress! Her high slit brings an extra dramatic detail!
Fit & Features
- Cowl Neckline
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure At Back
- Midi Length Silhouette With High Slit
- Lined Satin
- Form Hugging Fit | Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 35.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0300
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Arabella High Slit Cowl Neck Dress
Special Occasion
Radiate elegance in this long formal dress made with a high-shine, smooth fabric. Designed to hug your curves, this floor-length bodycon dress accentuates an hourglass figure for a simply irresistible look. A sultry side slit elegantly elongates the legs, while the dress impresses from every angle with its low-back design. The flattering cowl neckline at the front creates the perfect display for a sparkly rhinestone necklace so your gorgeous selfies pop and shine.
Fits & Features
- Sleeveless cowl neckline, spaghetti straps, cross at back
- A-line silhouette, ruched detailing
- High side slit
- Smooth knit fabric
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-3001
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $46.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Aleena Satin Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Show us what you're made of in the Aleena! She is sleek and sexy and features a slanted one-shoulder neckline with a dual spaghetti strap that crosses over at the back. Aleena has flattering stitching at the bust and a flattering empire waist. Her skirt is mid-length and features a cinched side slit for a sexy display of leg for a curve-defining finish. Composed of a satin fabric that offers a form-fitting silhouette with slight stretch. Style with a rhinestone cuff and heels.
Fit & Features
- One-shoulder neckline, dual spaghetti straps
- High side slit with ruching
- Form-hugging silhouette
- Midi-length hem
- Lined satin fabric, moderate stretch
- Sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0298
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $52.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Dazzling Doll Glitter Trench Dress
We can't stop staring either! You'll look all dolled up in this captivating trench dress!
Fits & Features
- Collared Neckline
- Long Sleeves
- Diagonal Zippered Front I Waist Tie
- Zip Chest Pocket And Zippered Hand Pockets
- Mini Length Silhouette
- Glitter Knit Fabric
- Curve-Hugging Fit
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Style Number/Barcode: 06204-0292
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $20.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
- Collared Neckline
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Alexina Crepe High Neck Floral Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Complementary hues will make you stand out in our gorgeous Alexina! Her crepe bodice, smooth printed satin skirt, and peekaboo mesh midriff are a few details that make her a vision of perfection.
Fits & Features
- High Neckline, Sleeveless Crepe Bodice
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Mesh Inset At The Waist
- Lined, Satin Skirt With Floral Prints I Front Slit
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0511
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free