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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Vivia Metallic Sequins Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the glamour to any room with our lovely Vivia! She's a vision that can't be missed!
Fits & Features
- Plunging Surplice V Neckline Design
- Long Sleeve Bodice
- Ruffle-Trim Detail At Front
- Floor Length Silhouette With Thigh High Slit
- Metallic Knit Fabric With Disco Sequins Throughout
- Curve Hugging Fit I 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: 05002-0512
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $33.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Angelina Ruffle Tulle Sleeves Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Let our fab Angelina be your conversation piece. Adding drama + flair to the conventional LBD, your look will be the furthest thing from basic.
Fits & Features
- Partially Unlined Bodice With Crew Neckline I Inset, Deep V Design
- Ruffle-Tulle Trim Along The Long Fitted Sleeves, Neckline
- Mini Length Silhouette I Subtle Ruching Throughout
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure At Back
- Curve Hugging Fit
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: 05001-0296
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $20.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Milana Lace Back Floral Dress
Special Occasion
Adorned with romantic floral prints and a dainty lace back, our Milana will turn heads left and right with her stunning presence. With a gorge slit at the front, show off your pretty heels!
Fits & Features
- High Neckline I Dual Spaghetti Straps I Padded Bust
- Lace Back & Lower Back With Zip Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I Front Slit I A Line Silhouette
- Midweight Smooth Woven Fabric I Floral Prints Throughout
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0504
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Paula Velvet Floral Burnout Dress
Special Occasion
Liven up your look with our beautiful Paula! Flirty florals wrap around her form-hugging silhouette.
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps Cross At Back
- Cowl Neckline Back I Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- High Waist Seam
- Floor Length Silhouette
- Mesh Lined Fabric With Floral Velvet Detailing All Over
- Form Flattering 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: 05002-0507
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $20.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Fritzy Sequin Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Make every moment your moment with our lovely Fritzy mermaid dress! Perfect for prom, she features a sleeveless plunging wired V-neckline with adjustable spaghetti straps, padded cups that provide additional coverage, and a slim-fit bodice that leads to a floor-length skirt with a mermaid silhouette. The sheer mesh fabric has an intricate all-over sequin scroll pattern and includes a knit lining. Complete the look with rhinestone statement earrings and some fluttery fake lashes.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless wired V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Padded cups
- Sequin scroll pattern throughout
- Back zipper and hook and eye closure
- High waist, floor-length skirt with a mermaid silhouette
- Lined mesh fabric
- Curve-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0497
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $104.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Lola High Slit Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Make a stunning entrance at your next formal affair in the Lola high slit satin dress. This luxurious floor-length dress features a sleeveless cowl neckline, a floor-sweeping silhouette with a sultry high side slit to elongate your legs, and a form-hugging fit. Perfect for weddings, black-tie events, or school dances.
This dress is the perfect pick for Prom 2025! Not exactly your style? You’ll love other prom dresses.
Fit & Features
- Stretchy satin fabric, non-see-through
- Cowl neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Slim-fit bodice
- High side slit for an alluring look
- Floor-length form-hugging silhouette
- Style runs small
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1118
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Velvet And Mesh Midi Dress
Glam up your look with this lovely dress! Her midi-length silhouette, soft floral patterns, and flirty thigh-high slit are a swoon-worthy combo.
Fits & Features
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Plunging V Neckline
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps With Cross Back Detail & Square Back
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure At The Side
- Midi Length Silhouette With Thigh High Slit
- Lined, Mesh Fabric With Burnout Velvet Floral Patterns
- Curve Hugging Fit I 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: 05001-0297
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Plunging V Neckline
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Karleen Sequin Off Shoulder Dress
Special Occasion
Shine brighter than the rest in our beaming Karleen!
Fits & Features
- Off Shoulder Design& Straps
- Sweetheart Neckline With Interior No-Slip Strip
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure I Square Back
- Slim Fit Bodice I Floor Length Silhouette
- Mesh Lined Fabric With Scroll Pattern Sequins All Over
- Curve Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0494
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $40.97 $89.50
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
- Off Shoulder Design& Straps
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Winta Ruched Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Make an unforgettable impression in our stunning Winta!
Fits & Features
- Spaghetti Straps
- V Neckline
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Ruching Along The Waist And Low Back
- Floor Length Mermaid Silhouette
- Smooth Tricot Fabric I Fully Lined
- Form-Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0495
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $31.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kiabeth Off Shoulder Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Show those shoulders in our elegant Kiabeth midi dress!
Fits & Features
- Fold Over, Off Shoulder Neckline
- Short And Straight Off Shoulder Sleeves
- Fitted Bodice With Vertical Seams
- High Waist Skirt
- Mid-length Hem That Hits Mid Calf
- Crepe Fabric
- Moderate Stretch, Form Hugging Fit
Mauve: Model is 5'6.5" with a 32" bust, 23.5" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Royal: 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: 05001-0290
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $39.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Yadira Formal Satin Dress
Special Occasion
We envision a stunning first impression you'll make in our sultry Yadira!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- V Neck & Back I Vertical Darts At The Bust
- Elongated, Floor Length Hem
- Satin-Like Fabric I Fully Lined
- Form Flattering Fit I Moderate Stretch
- Zipper Not Included
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: 05002-0493
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Elana Glitter A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
You'll make a shining statement in our stunning Elana formal dress! You'll stop everyone in their tracks as soon as they see you making your way in. She features a sleeveless V neckline with a padded bust, dual adjustable spaghetti straps that lead to a cross-back design, princess seams, and a high waist. Her floor-length skirt has a pretty A-line silhouette and includes hidden side pockets. The glitter woven fabric has a mini-length knit lining. Complete the look with dramatic rhinestone earrings and new heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V neckline, padded bust
- Dual adjustable spaghetti straps, cross-back design
- Back zipper and hook and eye closure
- Princess seams, high waist
- Floor-length hemline, A-line silhouette
- Hidden side pockets
- Glitter woven fabric, mini-length knit lining
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0527
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Mia Formal Satin Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Va-va-voom! Our Mia dress is a winning combo of smooth, seamless, and sultry.
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
- Zipper At Back
- Plunging V Neckline With Decorative Knot I Padded Cups
- Midi Length With Slit At The Side
- Lined, Smooth Stretch Satin Composition
- 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: 05001-0291
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $39.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Bella High Slit Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
So Bella! Leave them speechless in our sparkly and mesmerizing Bella.
Fits & Features
- Wide Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
- Plunging V Neckline I Padded Bust
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure At Back
- Floor Length Silhouette With High Front Slit
- Mesh Lined Fabric With Sequins All Over
- Curve Hugging Fit I Plenty Of Stretch
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size small
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0503
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Melody Sequin Mesh Dress
Special Occasion
Look like the elegant queen you are in our sweet Melody!
Fits & Features
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Adjustable Dual Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
- V Neckline I Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure I Square Back
- Slim, Floor Length Hemline I Mini Length Lining
- Mesh Lined Fabric With Scroll Pattern Sequins At Top Bodice I Mirrored Patterned At Skirt
- Curve Hugging Fit I Plenty Of Stretch
Model is 5'8" with a 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: 05002-0492
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $38.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Adjustable Dual Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
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Perrie Formal Layered Tulle Dress
Special Occasion
Keep it whimsical and enchant them all in our twirl-worthy Perrie tulle dress! Her layers bring the drama to create a memorable look!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Pleated Bodice
- Layered Tulle Silhouette
- Lined Mesh Fabric
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
- Back Zipper with Hook and Eye Closure
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: 05002-0489
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $31.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Leila Scuba A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Our beautiful Leila is the perfect dress for any soirees! From formal parties to weddings and special evenings out, Leila will make you the center of attention, wherever you go.
Fits & Features
- Narrow Spaghetti Straps I V Neckline
- Square Back I Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Skirt I A-Line Silhouette I High Slit At Front
- Lined Scuba Fabric With Flocked Velvet Designs Throughout
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'6" with 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: 05002-0490
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Dakota Sequin Wrap Mini Dress
Special Occasion
You got places to be and people to see, especially during this holiday season. Sparkle and shine at all your winter soirees with the beautiful Dakota!
Fits & Features
- Plunging Deep V Neckline & Back
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Wrap, Mini Length, Flowy Skirt
- Fully Lined, Mesh Fabric With Sequins Throughout
- Relaxed Fit
- Plenty Of 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: 05001-0281
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $27.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Haisley Formal Tulle And Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Create a breathtaking entrance in our Haisley dress as you captivate with magical tulle and stunning satin! She features a sleeveless satin bodice, plunge V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps that shape the strappy back design, and an airy A-line tulle silhouette with a floor-length hem and high-front slit. The formal dress is composed of a stretchy lined satin and tulle fabric. Complete the look with rhinestone earrings and a clutch for a formal dinner party or wedding!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Strappy back design, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Satin bodice, A-line tulle silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Stretchy knit lining with a front high slit
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0152
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Sherri Metallic Glitter Skater Dress
Special Occasion
Mon Sherri! You'll be wanting to twirl and sway nonstop in our exquisite Sherri! If you think she looks lovely now, wait till the spotlight hits her
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps I Plunging V Neckline
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Slant Hand Pockets I Wide Waistband
- Flowy, A-Line Skater Skirt
- Smooth Woven Glitter Knit I Fully Lined
- Form-Hugging Fit I Minimal 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: 05001-0280
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Bella Formal Sequin Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
Radiate a captivating look as you dazzle in our mesmerizing Bella dress! Her sequins sparkle from all your best angles!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline
- Draped Strap Accent
- Long Sleeves
- Sequins
- Lined Mesh
- Wrap Silhouette
- Relaxed Fit | Slight Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0486
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Desi Sequin Off Shoulder Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Leave them speechless in our gorge Desi! You'll dazzle and light up any space.
Fits & Features
- Off Shoulder Fold-Over Neckline
- Interior No-Slip Strip
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Midi Length Silhouette With Slit At Center Back
- Fully Lined, Mesh Knit Fabric With Sequins Throughout
- Curve Hugging Fit I 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: 05001-0282
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $22.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Misha Sequin Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
She's a vision of elegance and class! Wrap yourself in the stunning and graceful Misha.
Fits & Features
- Plunging V Neckline
- Unlined, Long Fitted Sleeves
- Hook Closure At Nape Of Neck & At Bar Detailing I Open Back I Zipper With Hook & Eye
- Floor Length, Mermaid Silhouette
- Mesh Lined Fabric With Geometric Patterned Sequins
- Curve Hugging Fit I Plenty Of Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0483
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $48.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Alexis Holographic Satin A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Look sensational in satin! Alexis will take anyone's breath away.
Fits & Features
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Tank-Inspired Sleeveless Bodice I Deep V At The Front & Back
- Padded Cups I Princess Seams
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure At Back
- Side Seam Hand Pockets
- A-Line Silhouette I Self Tie At Back
- Holographic Satin Woven Fabric I Mini Length Lining
- Form-Flattering Fit I Minimal Stretch
Model is 5'7" with a 32.5" bust, 24" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0485
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Tank-Inspired Sleeveless Bodice I Deep V At The Front & Back