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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Jasmine Formal Glitter A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the glam and shine with our captivating Jasmine dress! Her glitter detailing bring the charm and her pockets add a special touch!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline | Padded Cups
- Spaghetti Straps
- Open Low Back
- Pleated A-line Silhouette
- Pockets
- Lined Glitter Mesh
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Model is 5'9" with a 32" 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: 05002-0471
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Elisa Floral Chiffon Cross Back A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
You'll look as beautiful as a garden in our ethereal Elisa! Her wrap skirt is crafted from flowy chiffon, revealing a playful front slit that lets you show off your heels. Elisa is the perfect wedding guest dress for that special outdoor wedding.
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
- Surplice V Neckline
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hem I A-Line Silhouette
- Chiffon Lined, Wrap Skirt Reveals A Front Slit
- 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: 05002-0464
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $66.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Irina Floral Chiffon A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Look fabulous in florals with our beautiful Irina! Her flowy skirt and long sleeves are a dreamy and elegant touch to her form-flattering silhouette.
Fits & Features
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Plunging v neckline
- Unlined long sleeves, three-button cuff
- Dual button closure at the nape of the neck
- Open back with smocked detailing
- A-line silhouette, mini skirt length lining
- Floral print, chiffon fabric
- Relaxed fit, minimal stretch, runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0460
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Plunging v neckline
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Dana Glitter Two Piece Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the sparkle to your evening to create some serious magic! Our Dana two piece dress will have them all captivated!
Fit & Features
- Two Piece Dress
- Lace Top
- Long Sleeves
- Glitter
- Satin Skirt
- High Slit
- Form Fit | Slight Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05006-0034
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Tatum Satin Floral High Low Dress
Special Occasion
Grace any soiree with our charming Tatum! Her floral prints are eye-catching and a pleasant pop of color!
Fits & Features
- Spaghetti Straps I Racerback With Zip Closure
- Square Neckline I Padded Bust
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- High-Low Skirt I Pleated Accents I Mini Length Lining & Petticoat
- Woven Fabric I Floral Prints Throughout
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate 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: 05002-0458
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Anita High Slit Crepe Dress
Special Occasion
Simple and classic, eyes will be trailing you in our elegant Anita!
Fits & Features
- Wide Shoulder Straps
- V Neckline With Princess Seams I Empire Waist
- Slim Bodice I Floor Length, Wrap Skirt
- Thigh High Slit
- Fully Lined I Crepe Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
- Zipper Not Included
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0422
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $39.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Maria Lace Two Piece Dress
Special Occasion
Liven up the night with our mesmerizing Maria dress! Her lace and sequins captivate with timeless glam!
Fit & Features
- Floral Lace Bodice | High Round Neckline
- Sequins
- Padded Cups
- Keyhole Back
- Smooth Knit Skirt
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Wrap Styled Silhouette
- Form Hugging Fit | Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05006-0024
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Elvina Embroidered Floral Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
With her stunning mermaid silhouette and intricate embroidery, our elegant Elvina will give you a timelessly look!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Plunging V Neckline I Back Zip
- Floor Length Skirt I Scalloped Hemline
- Lined Mesh Fabric With Floral Embroideries All Over
- Curve Hugging Fit
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: 05002-0459
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $149.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Dani Shimmer Halter Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Channel those princess vibes in our beautiful Dani! Her ethereal beauty will make a remarkable impression!
Fits & Features
- Halter Plunging V Neckline | Padded Cups
- Open Back With Zip Closure
- Narrow Waistband I Hidden Hand Pockets
- Sweeping, Floor Length Skirt
- A-Line Silhouette I Horsehair Trim Hem
- Knit Lined Fabric I Shimmer Finish
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size 3.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0025
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $164.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Coco Beaded Tulle Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Coco brings the glam and elegance with her hand-beaded detailing and airy tulle fit for a princess! Adorn her with glitter pumps and sparkling rhinestones to create a breath-taking look!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline | Padded Cups
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Pleated Tulle Bodice
- Hand Beaded Bodice | Pearl Accents
- Ball Gown Silhouette
- Lined Tulle | Petticoat
- Relaxed 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: 05004-0024
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $63.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Calliope Rhinestone Trim Halter Dress
Special Occasion
You'll love the touch of rhinestones that accent our stunning Calliope! Complete Calliope with a pair of rhinestone earrings and heels.
Fits & Features
- Elastic Halter Neckline I Mesh Inset At Center Front
- Triple Rhinestone Trim Bar Accents At Sides
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Silhouette I Wrap Style Skirt Showcases Slit
- Crepe Fabric
- Curve Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size 3.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0456
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Briella Lace High Neck Tulle Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Everyone's eyes will be drawn to Briella's intricate and sparkling floral threading. With a sweeping tulle skirt to match, this gown will leave a lasting impression the minute you walk in!
Fits & Features
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High Neckline I Halter With Dual Button Closure I Lightly Padded Bust
- Partially Lined Mesh Bodice With Floral Brocades & Rhinestone Details
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I Petticoat
- Tulle Lined Skirt
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0023
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.97 $169.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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High Neckline I Halter With Dual Button Closure I Lightly Padded Bust
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Juniper Satin Two Piece Gown
Special Occasion
Make a lasting impression with your one of a kind style in our Juniper two piece gown! She is designed with a cropped top half that features tank straps that break off into double thinner straps and lead to a zipper closure with a hook and eye additional closure. She is fully lined and features an empire stitching as well as princess seams for a flattering breast area. Her Skirt is designed with a high waist line that has slight stretch and a zipper closure, pockets, and a side seam with a slit detailing. Her hem is floor length and she is also fully lined. Juniper is designed with a lightweight satin that offers flow, and no stretch.
Model is 5'6.5" with a 32" bust, 23.5" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05006-0041
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $45.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Constance Lace Back Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
Get ready for your close-up in our stunning Constance sequin dress! You'll be a dazzling vision as you glow all over thanks to her captivating sequins. She features a sleeveless plunging V-neckline, dual spaghetti straps that lead to a strappy lace-up back design, and a floor-length fitted silhouette. The mesh fabric has stunning all-over sequin embroidery in an intricate design. Complete the look with rhinestone statement earrings.
Fit & Features
- Deep V-neckline
- Dual spaghetti straps
- Open back, strappy lace-up design, tie closure, lower back zipper closure
- Floor-length silhouette
- Curve-hugging fit
- Lined mesh fabric, all-over sequin embroidery
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0322
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Calissa Lace Up Back Floral Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Stun at any occasion in our beautiful Calissa! With gorgeous floral prints lining her A-Line silhouette from top to bottom, you'll be like a breath of fresh air!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps That Cross At Back
- Lace-Up Design I Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Scoop Neckline I Padded Bust
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Skirt I Petticoat
- Woven Fabric I Metallic Sheen Finish
- Moderate Stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0020
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $149.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Justina Floral Velvet Burnout Chiffon Dress
Special Occasion
Get swept away in this dreamy floral dress!
Fits & Features
- Plunging V Neckline I Empire Waist
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure At Back
- A-Line, Floor Length, Flowy Fit Skirt
- Chiffon Fabric With Velvet Burnout Floral Detailing I Fully Lined
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0452
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $124.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Julina Wrap Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Elevate your OOTN with our sultry Julina! Add a pair of rhinestone heels to really amp up your look.
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Surplice V Neckline I Low Open Back With Zipper
- Floor Length Skirt With Wrap Skirt Design
- Lined, Stretch Satin Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit
Model is 5'9" with a 32" 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: 05002-0448
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $27.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Brielle Stretch Satin V Neck Formal Dress
Our Brielle satin V neck dress will give you an aura of elegance!
Fit & Features
- Double spaghetti straps | Cross back
- Lattice back with a tie closure
- Deep V neckline
- Princess seams
- High waist seam
- Flowy floor-length skirt with an A-line silhouette | Front slit
- Stretch satin fabric
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0447
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $31.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Lara Formal Velvet High Slit Dress
Special Occasion
Bring a level of elegance that only Lara offers! She features a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V neckline, padded cups, adjustable spaghetti straps, and vertical princess seams. Her relaxed fit bodice features a ruched detail that runs along the left side and leads to sexy high slit to reveal your glam heels! Her back features a back zipper closure and is accented with a ruched detailing. Dress is composed of a lined velvet fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0315
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $22.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Julia Formal Heat Stone Dress
Special Occasion
Dazzle under the lights as you twirl the night away in our Julia dress! Her dreamy heat stones and sequins are all you need for a glam look!
Fit & Features
- Round Neckline
- Unlined Long Sleeves
- Heat Stones
- Sequins
- Mini Skirt Lining
- High Center Slit
- Form Hugging Fit | Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'9" with a 32" 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: 05002-0327
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $44.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Quinn Cross Back Satin Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
Stand out in satin in our luxurious Quinn!
Fits & Features
- Spaghetti Straps Lace-Up & Cross At Back
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Square Neckline I Padded Bust
- Floor Length Hem I Wrap Skirt
- Stretch Satin Fabric
- Curve Hugging Fit
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: 05002-0446
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $27.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Jenelle Cowl Neck Evening Gown
Special Occasion
Show off those curves in the most flattering way, with our Jenelle slim evening gown, doll!
Fit & Features
- Cowl neckline | Criss-cross spaghetti straps
- Sleeveless bodice
- Form fitting silhouette
- Low back-line with zipper closure
- Flared hemline
- Smooth Knit I Ample stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0443
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Amelia Formal Sequin Scroll Dress
Special Occasion
Draw all eyes on you as you bring the shine in our glam Amelia dress! Her dazzling sequins effortlessly elevate your evening and are accented with sweeping godet details!
Fit & Features
- V-Neckline | Padded Cups
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Sequin Scroll Pattern
- Lined Mesh
- Sheer Mesh Godets
- Mermaid Silhouette
- Form Hugging Fit | Minimal 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: 05002-0445
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $49.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Courtney Formal Crepe A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Keep it graceful and elegant as you stun with our captivating Courtney dress! Her pockets and A-line silhouette bring the charm!
Fit & Features
- Off The Shoulder Neckline | Fold Over Accent
- Padded Cups | Vertical Princess Seams
- Pockets
- A-Line Silhouette
- Crepe
- Bodysuit Bottom Lining | Snap Button Closure
- Form 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: 05002-0389
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance