Formal Dresses

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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.

  • Audrey Satin A-Line Dress

    Special Occasion

    Make an impressionable appearance with our lovely Audrey!

    Fits & Features

    • Adjustable Spaghetti Straps I Low Open Back With Zipper & Hook And Eye Closure 
    • Plunging V Neckline With Subtle Pleating Details At The Bust
    • Side Seam Hand Pockets
    • Floor Length Hemline 
    • A-Line Silhouette I Flowy Skirt 
    • Satin-Like Composition I Fully Lined
    • 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: 05002-0395

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $89.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Jane Wrap Front Formal Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Our wrap front formal Jane dress is simple yet oh so stunning! Her front slit gives the dress a sultry feel.

    Fit & Features

    • Thick tank-like shoulder straps
    • Slight V neckline | Princess seams
    • Wrap front detail with ruched detailing
    • Slim skirt with a front slit
    • Crepe fabric | 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: 05002-0589

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $39.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Tasha Strapless Crepe Dress

    Special Occasion

    Our beautiful Tasha is the definition of class. Strut your stuff in her captivating silhouette!

    Fits & Features 

    • Square Neckline
    • Padded Busts With Vertical Seams
    • Gathering Detail At The Waist 
    • Slim Fit Bodice
    • Floor Length, Wrap Skirt I Thigh-High Slit 
    • Lined, Crepe Composition 
    • Body-Hugging Fit I Moderate Fit 

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0429

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $39.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Addison Formal Wrap Midi Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Stunningly timeless, Addison brings an elegant aura to your special moments! She features an off the shoulder neckline, a wrapped sweetheart bust, off the shoulder cap sleeves with ruched detailing and a midi length silhouette with an asymmetrical hem. Dress is composed of a lined crepe fabric that offers a curve hugging fit with a 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: 05001-0230

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $44.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Tabitha Satin A-Line Dress

    Special Occasion

    Wrap yourself up in our luxe Tabitha! Her a-line silhouette will allow you to glide effortlessly along the dance floor. 

    Fits & Features

    • Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
    • Surplice V Neckline I Square Back 
    • Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure 
    • Slant Hand Pockets
    • Floor Length, Full Wrap Skirt I A-Line Silhouette 
    • Lined Satin-Like Fabric I Pleating Details
    • 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: 05002-0392

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $109.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Cecilia Satin Off Shoulder A-Line Dress

    Special Occasion

    Bring out our inner princess with our beautiful Cecilia! 

    Fits & Features

    • Off Shoulder Neckline With Fold Over Design I Padded Bust 
    • Removable, Adjustable Spaghetti Straps 
    • Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure I Slant Hand Pockets
    • Floor Length Hemline I Slit At Center Front I A-Line Silhouette
    • Includes A Built-In Cheeky Bodysuit With Dual Snap Button Closure
    • Satin-Like Fabric I Pleating Accents
    • 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: 05002-0394

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $99.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Bindi Satin A-Line Dress

    Special Occasion

    Look your finest in our sleek and stunning Bindi! 

    Fits & Features

    • Adjustable Spaghetti Straps Cross At Back 
    • Plunging V Neckline I Lightly Padded Bust 
    • Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure 
    • Hidden Hand Pockets
    • Floor Length, A-Line Skirt I Pleating Details I Mini Length Lining
    • Satin-Like Fabric 
    • 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: 05002-0398

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $33.97 $89.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Rowanne Satin A-Line Gown

    Special Occasion 

    Elegant, sleek, and practical are the definition of our Rowanne gown. With a lustrous satin finish and an elegant lace back, you'll be happy to know she even has pockets for storing your necessities! 

    Fits & Features

    • Deep V Neckline I Padded Cups I Princess Seaming Details
    • Lace Back With Zipper Closure 
    • Low Open Back With Zipper & Hook And Eye Closure
    • Slim Fit Bodice I Little-To-No-Stretch 
    • Slant Hand Pockets 
    • A-Line, Floor Length Silhouette
    • Fully Lined, Satin Composition 

     

    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: 05002-0343

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $31.97 $89.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Jazzy Formal Heat Stone Dress

    Special Occasion

    Bring the glitz in our shimmering Jazzy dress to make a glowing statement!

    Fits & Features

    • Plunging V neckline
    • Long fitted sleeves
    • Slim fit silhouette with flared hem
    • All over heat stone embellishments
    • Mesh knit composition I Fully lined
    • Zipper & hook and eye 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: 05002-0345

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $49.97 $109.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Iris One-Shoulder Crepe Dress

    Special Occasion

    The lovely Iris long formal dress will set the tone for elegance! Captivate any room you walk into! She features a one-shoulder strap design, a padded bust for support, and a curve-hugging wrap skirt with a sexy high slit. The floor-length silhouette elongates your figure on crepe fabric with a moderate stretch. Complete your stunning look in this long dress with dangly earrings and statement heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless bodice, one-shoulder strap
    • Built-in padded bust, no bra required
    • Floor-length silhouette, curve-hugging wrap skirt 
    • High-cut slit
    • Slip-on/off styling
    • Crepe fabric, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1799

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $44.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Natalia Metallic Ruched Midi Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Natalia brings the shine from all your best angles! She features a plunging V neckline, long fitted sleeves and a curve enhancing midi length silhouette with ruched detailing along the sides. Dress is composed of a lined metallic knit fabric that offers a moderate stretch. Dress includes a back zipper closure with hook and eye closure for secure 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: 05001-0229

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $24.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Candace Crepe Midi Dress

    Special Occasion

    Up your evening outfit with our stunning Candace! She's the perfect little partner-in-crime for a date night or GNO! 

    Fits & Features

    • Adjustable Spaghetti Straps 
    • Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
    • Sweetheart Neckline With Deep Wire V At Center I Princess Seams
    • Midi Length Silhouette I Front Slit 
    • Crepe Fabric
    • Form-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: 05001-0271

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $44.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Ever Formal Sequin Midi Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Dazzle and impress them all as you shine in our sparkling Ever dress! 

    Fit & Features

    • Off The Shoulder Neckline 
    • Plunging Wired V-Neck Bust
    • Sequins
    • Scroll Print 
    • Lined Mesh 
    • Form Hugging Fit 
    • Minimal 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: 05001-0275

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $31.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Dulce Sequin Lace Up Formal Gown

    Special Occasion

    Have a sweet night in our Dulce! She is designed with a v-neckline, padded cups, and spaghetti straps that lead to a strappy design with a low back. She has a fitted bodice that leads to a floor sweeping hem. She is composed of a mesh material with a beautiful art deco style sequin pattern that offers moderate stretch. She has a mini skirt partial lining and includes a zipper at lower back.

    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: 05002-0320

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $47.97 $89.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Paisley Formal Sequin Leaf Dress

    Special Occasion

    Shine like the rare gem you are in our captivating Paisley dress! She features a plunging V neckline, padded cups, vertical princess seams at the bust and tank-like straps. Her relaxed fit empire waist leads to a curve hugging mermaid silhouette. She is adorned with sparkling sequins throughout that are set in a leaf pattern. Dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a slight stretch. Includes a back zipper closure with fish and hook closure.

    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: 05002-0303

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $99.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Nina Glitter Off Shoulder Dress

    Special Occasion

    Elevate your look with the beautiful Nina! Her elegant mermaid silhouette amps up the glam factor. 

    Fits & Features

    • Off Shoulder Neckline & Long Sleeves
    • Princess Seaming Details 
    • Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure At Back 
    • Elongated Floor Length, Mermaid Silhouette I Subtle Gathering Detail At The Side 
    • Lined, Crepe Fabric With Glitter Throughout
    • Curve Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
    • Glitter May Transfer 

     

    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: 05002-0420

      Category Name: Formal Dresses

      Price: $14.97 $69.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Ships Free
    • Marcella Formal Satin Midi Dress

      Special Occasion

      You're not afraid to make a statement, and that's why our Marcella satin dress is the one for you! Designed with a sweetheart neckline with a deep v wired center, padded cups, and spaghetti straps that lead to a strappy lace up back detail and a lower back zipper, and hook and eye closure. Her fitted bodice leads to a high waist horizontal seam. Her skirt features a slanted ruche detailing with a slit at the hip that offers a flattering curve hugging silhouette. Marcella is composed of a satin material that offers a form fit with moderate stretch. 

      Model is 5'9" with 32" 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: 05001-0273

      Category Name: Formal Dresses

      Price: $19.97 $49.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Ships Free
    • Lillyanne Formal Satin Asymmetrical Midi Dress

      Special Occasion 

      Enchant them all with the captivating Lillyanne formal midi dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a trendy cowl neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customized fit, and a strappy cross-back design. Her high waist seam elongates your silhouette and leads to a mid-length skirt with an asymmetrical wrap hem creating a front slit. The midi dress is composed of a satin fabric that offers a curve-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete the look with clear heels and a sleek satin clutch.

      Fit & Features

      • Sleeveless cowl neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
      • Strappy cross-back design
      • Asymmetrical wrap skirt, back zipper closure
      • High waist seam, midi-length hem
      • Lined satin fabric, moderate stretch
      • Strapless or sticky bra recommended
      • Runs true to size

      Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0807

      Category Name: Formal Dresses

      Price: $29.97 $44.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Sale
    • Coretta Velvet Evening Gown

      Special Occasion

      Show your sexy side while still keeping a modest touch! Our Coretta evening gown features a square neckline, long sleeves, and a floor length hem. She shows a little leg with a high thigh slit at one side, and she has a hidden zipper closure at center back. She is composed of a velvet material that has a form fit that offers some 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: 05002-0305

      Category Name: Formal Dresses

      Price: $20.97 $54.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Ships Free
    • Maude Floral Woven Satin Gown

      Special Occasion

      Embody pure elegance in our striking floral-skirted Maude gown! She features an off-the-shoulder neckline, a seamed sweetheart bodice with padded bust and back zip, a high-seam banded waist with belt loops and removable tie, and a full, A-line floral satin skirt with pockets at either hip. Maude is partially lined and made from woven crepe and satin materials with minimal stretch.

      Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

      Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0298

      Category Name: Formal Dresses

      Price: $19.97 $64.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Sale
    • Greta Formal Tie Waist Dress

      Special Occasion 

      Make a captivating entrance in our luxe Greta dress! She features a plunging V neckline with satin trim, long bishop sleeves with single button cuff, a cinching satin tie waist belt and a sweeping A-line silhouette. Dress is composed of a partially lined airy chiffon fabric that offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.

      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: 05002-0299

      Category Name: Formal Dresses

      Price: $29.97 $59.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Sale
    • Dalia Sequin Long Dress

      Special Occasion

      Take time for make your look divine in our Dalia dress! She features a high scoop neckline, long sleeves and a form fit that offers a sleek silhouette. Her hem is floor length and she is composed of a mesh material that offers minimal stretch and showcases a luxurious sequin scroll pattern. Zipper located mid back.

      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: 05002-0304

      Category Name: Formal Dresses

      Price: $36.97 $99.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Ships Free
    • Melisande Long Velvet Gown

      Special Occasion

      Create a stunning look in our Melisande! She features a v neckline, double spaghetti straps that lead to a cross back strappy back, and a lower back zipper closure. She has a fitted bodice, padded cups, and princess seams that lead to mid waist. Her skirt meets bodice mid waist and is designed with an a-line wrap style that is fully lined with a layer of satin beneath. She features pockets, and a high thigh slit at one side that  makes her easy to move around in. Skirt leads to a floor sweeping hemline. She is composed of a velvet material that offers a form fit at the top and a flowy fit at the skirt with moderate stretch.

      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: 05002-0301

      Category Name: Formal Dresses

      Price: $39.97 $109.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Clearance
    • Eliana Formal Plunging Wrap Dress

      Special Occasion 

      Take the plunge in romantic florals! Eliana features a plunging wrap V neckline, long bishop sleeves with single button cuff and a high waist that leads to a sweeping A-line silhouette. Her all over airy chiffon fabric is semi-sheer and adored with a trendy floral print. She includes a mini skirt length knit lining. Dress offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch.

      Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

      Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0297

      Category Name: Formal Dresses

      Price: $25.97 $69.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Clearance