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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Cami Formal Heat Stone Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Create a magical evening in our shimmering Cami dress! Her heat stones twinkle from all your best angles!
Fits & Features
- Round Neckline
- Fitted Unlined Long Sleeves
- Heat Stones | Diamond Pattern
- Mesh
- Fully Lining
- Back Zipper | Hook and Eye Closure
- Form 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: 05001-0207
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $27.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Yesenia Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Look like a straight boss in a midi with all the right features! Our Yesenia features a crew neckline, long sleeves, and a midi length that hits over the knee. She as a cut out detail at the back and is composed of a crepe material that offers a form fit with slight stretch.
Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0220
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Jocelyn Damask Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
Capture all of the attention and lights in our stunning sequined Jocelyn!
Fits & Features
- Dual Spaghetti Straps | Lace Up At The Back
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Plunging V Neckline With Padded Bust
- Mini Length Silhouette
- Mesh Lined Damask Pattern Sequin Fabric
- 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: 05001-0176
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $38.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Uma Heat-Stone Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Slay today and everyday after! Our Uma midi dress features a form fitting silhouette, a v neckline, and spaghetti straps that lead to a square back. She is composed of a knit material with a mesh overlay adorned in heat stones, and has a side slit detail. Mesh material offers 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: 05001-0196
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Allesia Velvet Evening Gown
Special Occasion
Ring in your special day with a sleek and sexy look. Pair with your favorite statement earrings for a stunning look.
Fits & Features
- V Neckline
- Tank Straps Lead To Low Back With Bar Detail
- Floor Length Hemline With Slight Fare
- Velvet Fabric I Fully Lined
- Curve Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0306
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Arya Formal Embroidered Tulle Dress
Special Occasion
Make a captivating impression in our glowing Arya dress! She features a sleeveless metallic embroidered bodice, a plunging V- neckline and adjustable cross-straps. Her slim fit bodice leads to a sweeping floor length A-line silhouette. Dress is composed of a lined tulle fabric that offers a relaxed fit with a minimal stretch. Includes a lower back zipper closure.
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: 05002-0296
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $46.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Monique Formal Satin A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the luxe as you draw all eyes on you in our daring Monique satin dress! She captivates with a bold lace up back and glam satin!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline | Padded Cups
- Double Row Spaghetti Straps
- Lace Up Back
- High Slit
- Mini Skirt Lining
- Lined Satin
- Form Hugging Fit | Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0388
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $31.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Trisha Formal Sequin Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the charm in our captivating Trisha dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V neckline, an unlined waistband and a curve hugging midi length silhouette. The all over filigree design is composed of twinkling sequins. Dress is composed of a semi-sheer mesh fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a minimal stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.
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: 05001-0218
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $56.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Gal Lace Up Back Chiffon Floral A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Glide along effortlessly in our beautiful Gal! Perfect for the springtime wedding guest, she's crafted from airy chiffon with beautiful rose print throughout. Features like her thigh-high slit let you show off your heels and dance throughout the night without any constrictions. Pair her with a crossbody clutch for a chic (and practical) touch!
Fits & Features
- Buttoned Halter Straps
- Cross & Laces Up At The Back I Elastic Back Waistband
- Plunging V Neckline I Padded Bust
- Floor Length Hemline I A-Line Silhouette
- Front Slit
- Fully Lined Chiffon Fabric I Floral Print
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0430
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $31.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Raegan Formal Sequin Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the glitz and shine in our dazzling Raegan dress!
Fits & Features
- Plunging V Neckline
- Vertical Princess Seams Along The Bust I Padded Cups
- Double Row Spaghetti Straps
- Partially Open Back
- Curve-Hugging Fit I Minimal Stretch
- Midi Length Silhouette
- Lined Mesh Fabric Adorned With Sparkling Sequins Throughout
Burgundy: Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24.5" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Gold: 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: 05001-0212
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $21.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Perrie Sequin Open Back Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Sparkle like the diva you are in our glam Perrie dress! She features a mock neck with a double row button closure at the nape of the neck, long fitted sleeves and a sexy open back. Her slim fit bodice leads to a midi length silhouette with a center high slit at the back. Dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric adorned with sequins throughout. Perrie offers a form hugging fit with a 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: 05001-0197
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $21.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Kim Rise And Slay Halter Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Shine and slay in this eye-catching piece!
Fits & Features
- Halter neck bodice
- Flattering V neckline
- Mini length silhouette
- Sparkling heat stone embellishments I Textured mesh knit
- Form-fitting with moderate stretch
- Zipper not included
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0184
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $24.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Katherina Rhinestone Formal Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Twinkle like the star your are in our Katherina! She is designed with an off shoulder fold over straight neckline that is embellished with rhinestones, a fitted bodice and a mini hemline. Dress is composed of a crepe fabric that offers moderate stretch and a form fitting silhouette.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0232
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Zuri Formal Scalloped Lace Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Grace them all with enchanting lace in our Zuri dress! She features a partially lined scalloped floral lace bodice with a high round neckline, unlined long sleeves, a sweetheart bust lining that leads to a mini length silhouette and a midi length with scalloped lace hem. Dress is composed of a scalloped lace and smooth knit fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a slight stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0233
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Alissa Formal Two Piece Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
You'll be entering every soiree like a shimmering goddess in our beautiful two-piece Alissa!
Fits & Features
Top:
- High Scoop Neckline I Padded Cups
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure At Back
- Cropped Hemline
- Lined Mesh Fabric With Scroll Patterned Sequins
- Curve-Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Skirt:
- Elongated, Slim Fit Floor Length Skirt I Elastic Waistband
- Subtle High-Low Hemline
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure At Back
- Lined Mesh Fabric With Scroll Patterned Sequins
- Curve-Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05006-0047
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $139.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Alina Chiffon Floral Dress
Special Occasion
Adorn yourself in pretty floral prints in our lovely Alina! She'd be the perfect look for attending weddings!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Wrap V Neckline
- Square Back I Back Zipper
- Floor Length Hemline I Slit At The Side
- Lined, Chiffon Fabric I Floral Prints Throughout
- Form Hugging Fit I 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: 05002-0423
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Lorena One Shoulder Crepe Dress
Special Occasion
Ring in all your festive celebrations with the lovely Lorena dress! She features a one-shoulder neckline, padded cups, vertical dart detailing, empire waist, and an A-Line silhouette with a high side slit. The dress is composed of a lined crepe fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels.
Fits & Features
- One-shoulder neckline
- Padded cups, vertical dart detailing
- Empire waist
- A-Line silhouette
- High side slit
- Lined crepe fabric
- Form hugging fit, moderate stretch, runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0426
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Alani Formal Off The Shoulder Dress
Special Occasion
Pair sultry and sweet in our captivating Alani dress! She features an off the shoulder neckline, a fold over accent that creates a sweetheart bust and ruched detailing. Her relaxed fit bodice leads to a curve hugging midi length silhouette to showcase an hourglass illusion. Dress is composed of a lined ultra smooth knit fabric that offers a moderate stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0228
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kayden Sequin Glitter Party Dress
Special Occasion
Who is she?! She is a glam goddess that sparkles to the heavens! Introducing our Kayden glitter party dress!
Fits & Features
- Deep V neckline
- Long Sleeves with puff wrists
- Keyhole cut out at the back with button closure atop I Zipper closure at lower back
- Vertical seam at center and flattering ruching down to the mini hem
- Glitter lurex mesh composition I Fully lined
- Form-fitting and offers moderate stretch
- Glitter pattern with dainty sequins throughout
Model is 5'9" with a 32" 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: 05001-0224
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $25.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Pretty In Lace Long Sleeve Mini Dress
Wow in the Pretty In Lace long sleeve mini dress! It features a lace crafted top with smooth knit lining, scalloped trim V-neck, and long sleeves. The bottom half of this darling piece is composed of a crepe fabric that offers a curve-hugging fit with moderate stretch. Zipper is included at the back.
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0144
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $15.97 $40.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Palmer Formal Satin Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the elegance to your evening in our breathtaking Palmer dress! Her wrap design is accented with pockets and a flattering A-Line silhouette.
- Off The Shoulder Neckline | Sweetheart Bust
- Fold Over Accent | Padded Cups
- Removable Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Satin
- Wrap A-Line Silhouette | Pockets
- Built In Bodysuit Lining
- 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: 05002-0393
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Cate Satin Cross Back Dress
All elegance, all class. Look stunningly sleek in our beautiful Cate!
Fits & Features
- Plunging V Neckline I Padded Cups With Princess Seams
- Adjustable Shoulder Straps That Cross At The Back
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure At Back
- Side Seam Hand Pockets
- Elongated Floor-Length Silhouette With Pleating Details
- Satin-Like Composition I Mini Length Lining
- Minimal 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: 05002-0397
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $40.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Alvira Satin Evening Wrap Gown
Special Occasion
You have the best night ahead of you, and you need to feel like your best self! That is why we created the Alvira satin gown. She is a flattering design that is bound to have you feeling 100!
Fit & Features
- Square neckline
- Spaghetti straps that lead to a strappy back
- Padded cups
- Banded waist line
- Floor length hem | Dramatic slit
- Satin material with moderate stretch | Unlined
- Hidden zipper lower back
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0396
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $27.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Harlie Formal Satin Sleeveless Dress
Special Occasion
Wow them all as you enchant in our breathtaking Harlie dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a plunging wrap V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps that lead to a matching V back and vertical princess seams at the bust. Her slim fit bodice is accented with a tie waist belt and leads to a sweeping A-line silhouette with a high side slit and hidden side pockets. Dress is composed of a lined satin fabric that offers minimal stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.
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: 05002-0341
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $30.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance