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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Tracey Velvet Button Skater Dress
Special Occasion
Made for your slow-spin moment under the lights, the Tracey velvet dress blends corset-inspired structure with soft velvet movement. The wired sweetheart neckline, covered button front, and flared mini skirt create a look that feels both vintage-glam and effortlessly current—your go-to for any night worth remembering.
Fit & Features
- Luxe velvet fabric, sewn-on lining
- Square neckline, wired notch accent, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Skater silhouette, hidden side pockets
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Holiday party, cocktail soiree, wedding guest, semi-formal event, birthday dinner, celebratory night out, glam date night, formal dances
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000526
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M
Product Badge:- Sale
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Brixley Rhinestone Tube Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for nights that call for confidence with a touch of flirt, this glitter knit mini balances clean lines with a softly dramatic side ruffle. The strapless silhouette keeps it polished while the subtle shimmer ensures every entrance feels intentional.
Fit & Features
- Stretch shimmer knit fabric, rhinestone embellished, knit lining
- Strapless straight neckline, padded bra cups
- Fitted bodycon silhouette that contours the body
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Asymmetric side ruffle detail for movement, mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Cocktail parties, holiday soirees, birthdays, bachelorettes, upscale dinners, city outings, date nights, rooftop hotel bars
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000525
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Khloe Sequin Fringe Party Dress
Special Occasion
Old Hollywood with flapper flair, the Khloe sequin fringe mini dress is ready to party like it's 1920! She features a sleeveless square neckline, sleek bungee spaghetti straps that cross along her sexy open back, and a bodycon, short-length silhouette. The lined mesh fabric features all-over sequin fringe embroidery with a stunning iridescent hue. Complete your dressy look in this mini dress with dramatic fringe earrings for a themed party or school dance!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline, bungee spaghetti straps
- Strappy open-back design
- Bodycon silhouette
- Short-length hem
- Iridescent sequin fringe embroidery
- Sheer mesh fabric, full knit lining, moderate stretch
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2068
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $62.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Juliette Velvet Corset Rhinestone Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sophistication meets sparkle in the Juliette formal dress. Designed in plush velvet that contours every curve, this strapless gown features a rhinestone-trimmed sweetheart neckline and corset bodice for sculpted allure. Finished with elegant pleating and a thigh-high slit, it’s made for the kind of night that calls for full-glam confidence.
Fit & Features
- Soft velvet fabric lined with stretch knit
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, rhinestone-embellished gems
- Padded bra cups
- Corset structured bodice, flexible boning, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Formal galas, red-carpet events, holiday parties, glamorous winter formals, black-tie weddings, engagement dinners, birthday celebrations, fashion-forward soirees, romantic date nights, elegant receptions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000453
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Alessia Satin Cowl Neck Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Striking in its simplicity, the Alessia satin floor-length dress features a pleated cowl neckline and a curve-hugging silhouette. A high side slit brings a sultry finish, perfect for sweeping into any evening affair with confidence.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, bust knit lining
- Pleated cowl neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High side slit
- Form-hugging, floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black-tie weddings, galas, red-carpet events, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, elegant date nights and birthdays, holiday celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000457
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: HUNTER, NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, L
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Raelyn Mesh Long Sleeve Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Make heads turn in the showstopping Raelyn formal dress designed in a jaw-dropping mermaid silhouette that serves major sheerness. With long sleeves, a mock neck, and a floor-length hem, this dress knows how to stun.
Fit & Features
- Semi-lined sheer mesh fabric with stretch
- Mock neck with back button closures
- Fitted long sleeves
- Open back
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem with high front slit
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black-tie gala, weddings, glam industry events, upscale date night, cocktail reception, red-carpet event, awards ceremony
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000461
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Haley Open Back Sash Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Haley formal dress was made for the spotlight moment—the kind where you glide across the room and every detail shimmers in motion. This floor-length mermaid gown features a plunging V-neckline, delicate adjustable straps, and an open back draped with an elegant sash that trails behind you.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit-lined fabric, subtle sheen
- V-neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Open back with attached floor-length sash
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black-tie weddings, galas, award dinners, destination celebrations, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, charity balls, fancy date nights, formal events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000462
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: HUNTER
Available Size: L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Grace Floral Open Back Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Romantic by design, The Grace formal dress is made for the moments that linger. With a draped cowl sweetheart neckline and an open back that catches the light just right, this floral garden print gown flows into a mermaid silhouette that feels equal parts timeless and captivating.
Fit & Features
- Garden floral print, lined stretch knit fabric
- Cowl sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Wide shoulder straps
- Open back with clasp closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black tie galas, formal celebrations, receptions, bridal events, destination soirees, anniversaries, dinner parties, dressed-up date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000463
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Raelyn Sequin Mini Party Dress
Special Occasion
No disco ball is required with the Raelyn sequin party dress! She features a sultry sleeveless, cowl neckline, bungee spaghetti straps that criss-cross along the back, a bodycon silhouette, and a mini-length hem. The formal dress is composed of a sequin embroidered knit mesh fabric with full-length lining and plenty of stretch. Complete your dressy look in lace-up heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless, cowl neckline, bungee spaghetti straps
- Criss-cross strappy back design
- Bodycon silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Sequin embroidered knit mesh fabric, full-length lining, moderate stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1133
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Kathy Velvet Flocked Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Romantic and striking, the Kathy velvet flocked gown features a strapless sweetheart neckline, curve-contouring mermaid fit, and sultry front slit. The open tie-back detail adds a modern edge, making it a flawless choice for formal evenings.
Fit & Features
- Velvet flocked pattern, knit-lined fabric with stretch
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups, twist design
- Tie-back design, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black-tie weddings, galas, charity balls, red-carpet events, formal soirees, milestone celebrations, big birthday events, upscale dinner parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000465
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Christine Satin Halter Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sleek, sculpted, and made for that gliding-into-the-room moment, the Christine formal dress drapes in smooth knit that flatters from every angle. The satin halter square neckline adds a refined, modern touch, while the mermaid floor-length silhouette brings a polished, elegant finish worthy of any unforgettable night.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit fabric with stretchy lining
- Satin square halter neckline with tie closure
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black tie galas, hotel or ballroom soirees, anniversary dinners, holiday celebrations, upscale cocktail parties, destination events, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, red-carpet occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000464
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Sheryl Lace Corset Satin Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Built for those slow-motion entrances, the Sheryl mini dress moves with a soft, liquid glow—its satin fabric skimming every curve with quiet confidence. The embellished corset bodice and bodycon silhouette add just the right mix of romance and refinement for any occasion that calls for dressing up beautifully.
Fit & Features
- Satin-lined fabric, minimal stretch
- Sweetheart neckline, built-in underwire padded bust
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Embellished lace corset bodice, flexible boning
- Bodycon silhouette, satin mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Birthdays, bachelorettes, date night, Vegas, cocktail parties, rooftop hotel bars, glam red carpet events
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000537
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK, WHITE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Zooey Sequin Strappy Back Party Dress
Special Occasion
Party season is year-round with the Zooey sequin mini dress! She features a sexy and sleeveless V-neckline, dual sleek bungee spaghetti straps that create the strappy open-back design, a curve-flaunting bodycon silhouette, and a mini-length hem. The party dress is designed with a boho-inspired sequin pattern on mesh fabric and has a stretchy knit lining. Complete the look in rhinestone earrings and heels for a glitzy vibe!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline
- Dual bungee spaghetti straps
- Strappy open-back design
- Bodycon silhouette, mini-length hem
- Boho-inspired sequin pattern, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1792
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Miriam Floral Velvet Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Romance meets drama in the Miriam velvet mermaid gown, designed with a plunging V-neckline and a striking crisscross open back. The floor-length silhouette glides with sophistication, making it a timeless choice for every elegant occasion.
Fit & Features
- Floral pattern, plush velvet fabric lined with stretchy knit
- V-neckline
- Wide shoulder straps
- Crisscross open back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black-tie weddings, galas, holiday soirees, evening receptions, engagement parties, formal celebrations, anniversaries, fancy cocktail parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000643
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $74.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BURGUNDY
Available Size: S, M, L
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Parker Floral Mesh Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made for the kind of entrance that lingers long after you’ve crossed the room, the Parker is all fluid movement and sculpted allure. Designed in a floral print mesh silhouette with a halter neckline, tie open back, and high side slit, it’s the definition of polished drama.
Fit & Features
- Floral pattern, mesh-lined fabric
- Halter neckline
- Column silhouette with floor-length hem
- Tie open back for adjustable fit
- High side slit
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, destination weddings, birthday dinners, engagement parties, cocktail receptions, anniversary celebrations, special date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000471
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: S
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Clarence Lace-Up Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed to captivate from every angle, the Clarence formal dress brings luxe texture and sculpted elegance to the spotlight. Crafted from flocked velvet mesh, its plunging neckline and lace-up back strike the perfect balance between timeless sophistication and now-moment allure.
Fit & Features
- Flocked velvet, mesh-lined stretch fabric
- V-neckline, padded br acups
- Spaghetti straps
- Open lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Formal wedding, black-tie event, holiday gala or party, anniversary dinner, red-carpet occasion, cocktail soiree, engagement party, rehearsal dinners
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000474
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Emelia Satin High Slit Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for the nights that call for a little extra allure, the Emelia satin midi dress glides with a sleek, sculpted silhouette and a bold high slit designed to turn heads. The lace-up back adds an irresistible touch of drama that elevates the entire silhouette.
Fit & Features
- Satin-knit fabric with knit lining, high stretch
- Sleeveless pleated cowl neckline, padded bust
- Tank-like shoulder straps
- Open lace-up back design with tie closure, lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Ruching, high-cut front slit
- Midi-length hem, form-hugging silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Cocktail parties, dressed-up dinners, formal date nights, wedding guests, bridesmaids, and winter formals.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000538
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: HUNTER
Available Size: XS
Product Badge:- Sale
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Corrine Velvet Bow Strap Skater Dress
Special Occasion
Playful yet polished, the Corrine short dress brings a touch of flirtation to your evening lineup. Crafted from luxe velvet with bow-tied shoulder straps and a softly flared mini skirt, this look moves with you—whether you’re toasting at dinner or twirling on the dance floor.
Fit & Features
- Luxe velvet fabric lined with tulle and stretchy knit
- High square neckline
- Bow accent shoulders
- Low-cut back detail, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Skater silhouette
- Short-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Holiday party, weddings, cocktail soiree, birthday dinners, special date nights, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, nights at the theatre
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000540
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Elle Rhinestone Mesh Mock Neck Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Made to sparkle under the lights, the Elle rhinestone mesh mini dress stuns with sheer fitted sleeves, a sleek mock neck, and wired underbust detail. Its bodycon silhouette brings all the after-dark allure with a glam, modern edge.
Fit & Features
- Rhinestone gem embellishments
- Mesh fabric, partial knit lining, moderate stretch
- Mock neck, wired underbust
- Sheer fitted long sleeves
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon fit, mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Birthday parties, milestone celebrations, bachelorettes, holiday parties, concerts, club nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000541
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Winnie Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Simple, striking, and made to turn heads. the Winnie formal dress captures classic romance in sleek woven satin, featuring a sweetheart neckline and delicate spaghetti straps. The mermaid silhouette and chiffon-lined finish create that fluid, effortless movement that defines understated elegance.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin fabric, chiffon lining
- Sweetheart neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Curve-hugging silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Formal weddings, black-tie galas, evening celebrations, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, anniversaries, elegant dinner soirees, fancy date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000478
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE
Available Size: L
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Adriena Velvet Rhinestone Party Dress
Special Occasion
An off-the-shoulder neckline brings sultry charm to the glamorous Adriena velvet party! She features short-sleeve cuffs, a sparkly rhinestone-embellished bust, a sheer mesh bodice with flexible boning, a flattering bodycon silhouette, and a mini-length hem with rhinestone-embellishments. The party dress is composed of a soft velvet fabric with glitzy rhinestones all over and has a sewn-in knit lining. Complete the look for a formal birthday or celebration with dangly earrings and heels.
Fit & Features
- Off-the-shoulder neckline, short-sleeve cuffs
- Rhinestone-embellished bust
- Sheer mesh bodice, flexible boning
- Bodycon silhouette, mini-length hem
- All-over rhinestone embellishments
- Velvet fabric, sewn-in knit lining, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1874
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Aliana Lace-Up High Slit Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for the one who owns every entrance, the Aliana formal dress slips through the room in smooth knit with a corset-inspired bodice that sculpts effortlessly. The mermaid silhouette, lace-up back, and high slit create a look that’s sleek, chic, and impossible to overlook.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit fabric with knit lining, high stretch
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, padded bust
- Corset bodice, flexible boning
- Spaghetti straps, open cross-back lace-up design, tie closure, lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Ruching, wrap-front design, high-cut slit
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Formal weddings, bridesmaids, galas, red-carpet events, birthday celebrations, and black-tie soirees.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000476
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $84.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: RED
Available Size: S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Arielle Velvet Lace Appliqué Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The Arielle dress defines after-dark allure—velvet meets illusion with a sheer corset bodice traced in lace appliqué and sequins. The bodycon fit sculpts every curve, while delicate straps keep the look chic and sultry.
Fit & Features
- Velvet-lined fabric
- Sweetheart neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Sheer mesh lace applique bodice
- Bodycon fit
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, birthdays, bachelorettes, date nights, Vegas, rooftop hotel bars, birthday dinners, girl's night
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000544
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $94.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Isla Velvet Applique Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
All eyes on you—the Isla mini dress turns up the allure with a mix of texture and shine. Crafted from plush velvet with an intricately beaded appliqué bodice and sheer illusion cutout, this bodycon mini hugs every curve while keeping the glamour high. A party-perfect piece made for nights that call for champagne and camera flashes.
Fit & Features
- Soft velvet-lined stretch fabric
- Sweetheart neckline, lace-trimmed bust
- Built-in underwire padded bust
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Sheer mesh lace applique bodice, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon fit, mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Holiday soirees, cocktail parties, birthday celebrations, night-out events, date nights, Vegas, bachelorettes, girl's night out
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000543
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $94.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale