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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Teddi Sequin Long-Sleeve Gown
Special Occassion
Catch the light and steal the spotlight in our shimmering sequined Teddi gown! She features all-over sequin embellishment atop a mesh underlay, a round neckline with back zip and hook-and-eye closure, long sleeves, and a long, slim-line skirt. Teddi is fully lined and has a bodycon construction. She's made from woven and mesh materials with minimal stretch.
Model is 5'7" with a 34" 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: 05002-0309
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $36.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Massie Floral Tulle Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Twirl the night away in our absolutely adorable Massie formal dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, adjustable spaghetti straps that lead to a cross back, a plunging V neckline, a high waist seam, a back zipper and hook and eye closure, and a double layered tulle short skirt. The dress is composed of a sheer tulle fabric with an all over velvet floral pattern, and includes a stretchy knit lining.
Model is 5'8" 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: 05001-0172
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $46.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Anja Printed Halter Party Dress
Feel flirty in the Anja dress. This spaghetti strap dress features adjustable straps, a back zipper closure, padded chest and side seam pockets. It's made of a satin fabric with no stretch - the perfect dress for your next festivity!Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0178
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $25.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Lisa Glitter Lurex A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Our lovely Lisa will bring the glitz and glam in an elegant way!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Sweetheart Neckline I Padded Bust I Princess Seams
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure At Back
- Flowy, A-Line Skirt With Pleated Detailing
- Glitter Lurex Fabric I Fully Lined
- Form-Hugging Fit I Moderate 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: 05002-0416
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Mavis Chiffon Wrap Gown
Special Occasion
Wrap yourself in luxury with our stunning Mavis gown. She features a deep V neckline, and long sleeves that puff at the wrist. Her bodice meets skirt at mid waist with a wrap design, and is fully lined. Her skirt sweeps the floor and features a high thigh slit at one side. We are obsessed with the modern elegance Mavis offers! She is composed of a chiffon material that offers a lightweight flow with minimal 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: 05002-0300
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $21.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Stacey Lurex Glitter A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
We can't stop staring either! You'll be shimmering and glimmering in our glamorous Stacey.
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Plunging V Neckline I Princess Seams
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- A-Line, Floor Length Pleated Skirt
- Lined, Lurex Glitter Fabric
- Form Flattering Fit I Moderate 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: 05002-0419
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Jerry Cross Back Draped Gown
Special Occasion
Sultry and sophisticated, our slinky Jerry gown ups the ante on evening elegance. She features spaghetti straps leading to an X back, a deep V wrap bodice with drape detail, a back zip, and a long, slim-line skirt. Jerry is made from a nylon blend with ample stretch for making moves!
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: 05002-0329
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $36.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Muriel Illusion Lace Crepe Dress
Special Occasion
Strategic paneling and ever-sultry lace make our Muriel dress a sophisticated standout for evening. She features long lace sleeves, a back zip, a sweetheart bodice with lightly padded, contrast-paneled bust and lace-trimmed waist, and a body con, midi-length slim skirt. Muriel is made from a woven crepe material with a touch of stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0225
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Ingrid Lurex X Front Dress
Special Occasion
Show off those shoulders and sparkle all night long in our elegant Ingrid dress! She has a bodycon construction and features a dramatic, draped X-front neckline, a tank-style back with zip closure, and a seamed, midi-length skirt with a small front slit. Complete look with rhinestone heels and a rhinestone clutch.
Fit & Features
- Halter neck, racer bust
- Bodycon fit
- Midi length silhouette
- Front center slit at hem
- Form hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0222
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Presley Glitter Party Dress
Special Occasion
Party in the Presley! She features a V neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, padded cups, and a stitching vertically down both sides of the breast area. Her bodice is fitted and flattering, it meets mid waist to a pleated skater skirt that has a good flow that allows you to move and dance around freely. Her spaghetti straps lead to a slanted low back line with a criss cross detail, and a lower back zipper closure. She includes a full body fitted inner lining and a tulle lining. Composed of a glitter material that has moderate stretch.
Model is 5'7" with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0070
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $33.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Satin Crop Bolero Jacket
When you need a little something to add to your look we recommend a bolero jacket! With a collarless design, and quarter sleeves. This style is composed of a satin like material. Hem hits mid torso for a cropped design.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05008-0002
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $22.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Lhea Satin Floral A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Show your feminity in our lovely Lhea! Her flowy silhouette features romantic floral prints throughout.
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Plunging V Neckline
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Side Seam Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Hemline I A-Line Silhouette
- Lined, Satin Fabric I Floral Prints Throughout
- Form-Flattering Fit I Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size 3.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0414
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $37.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Raena Sequin Lace Party Dress
Look and feel your best, girl! The Raena dress features a sequined lace top with a satin skater skirt. It has a padded no-slip chest. Both pieces have a back zipper closures and zero stretch. Pair with your favorite evening heels for your most confident look!
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: 05006-0007
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Velvet Crop Bolero Cover Jacket
Perfect to add to any formal dress, this bolero features a short tailored hem, long sleeves and a collarless design. This bolero cover up is composed of a velvet material that offers a form fit.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05008-0001
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $24.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Elena Skater Dress
Special Occasion
Flirty yet sophisticated is the Elena Dress - a bold and sweet rendition of the classic skater silhouette. She features an all over lace bodice with sequin detail and a padded bust. Leading to a cut-out waist, this piece also had a layered skirt with side seam pockets. It's topped with a back top zipper closure and a back skirt zipper closure. Bodice is made of lace embroidery while the skirt consists of a full lined crepe fabric.
Model is 5'8" 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: 05006-0008
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Lissi Formal Lace And Sequin Dress
Bring the sparkle as you shine in our Lissie dress! She features a dazzling sequin embellished lace bodice, a round neckline, a plunging sweetheart neckline and fitted unlined long sleeves. Her slim fit bodice leads to a midi length silhouette accented with a side slit. Dress is composed of a combination crepe and lace fabric that offers a curve hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Includes a knit lining and 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: 05001-0234
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Luciana Formal Lace Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Bring elegance with timelessly captivating lace! Luciana features a laced bodice with a plunging V neckline with delicate trim, unlined floral lace long sleeves, and a matching V-shaped back. Her high waist leads to a curve-hugging mermaid silhouette skirt. The dress is composed of a partially lined lace and lined crepe fabric that offers a moderate stretch. Complete the look in statement earrings.
Fit & Features
- Lace long sleeves | Dual V-neckline
- Adhesive bra recommended
- Lace crochet lined bodice
- Empire waist | Form-fitting silhouette
- Mermaid floor-length hem
- Crepe lined fabric
- Fits true to size | Moderate stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0411
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Sparkle Stunner Long Sleeve Cover Up
Special Occasion
Layer on some sparkle to your stunning look with this glitter knit cover up. It features long fitted sleeves and an open front with a cropped hem.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05008-0000
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $29.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Polka Dot Party Tie Front Top
It's party time in this cute knotted-front top. This blouse features a deep V neck front, exposed button cuffs, and is made of a lightweight and luxurious satin fabric. Pair with jeans for a dressed-down look, or a leather skirt for an evening-ready vibe.Style Number/Barcode: 06204-0263
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $10.97 $29.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Sleek Satin Wrap Front Dress
Get that sleek and chic look with this satin wrap front dress. It features a collar, a plunging wrap front V neckline, long sleeves with buttons to cuff, ruched detailing on the side, a hidden side zipper closure, and a sultry thigh high front slit. The dress is composed of a satin-like fabric with moderate stretch.
Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0333
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $52.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Rosabel Party Dress
Special Occasion
Get flirty in our Rosabel Party Dress! She has a one shoulder neckline, a thin strap that crosses over in the back, and a fitted bodice with a zipper closure. Her skirt meets high waist and flows out with the help of a partial tulle lining. She is composed of a satin-like material that offers moderate stretch with a relaxed fit.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0020
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Shonda Charmeuse Satin A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Light up any room as you make a stunning appearance in our beautiful Shonda!
Fits & Features
- High, Racer Front Design I Padded Bust
- Spaghetti Straps Lace Up & Cross At The Back I Cut Out Details
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Hem I A-Line Silhouette I Front Slit
- Charmeuse, Satin Lined Fabric
- Moderate Stretch
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0409
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $159.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Maya Floral Applique Satin A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Sweep everyone off their feet as you walk in with our gorgeous Maya!
Fits & Features
- Strapless, Sweetheart Neckline With Interior No-Slip Strip
- Center Back Lace-Up Detail & Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure I Boning At Back
- Partially Lined Mesh Bodice With Floral Appliques And Beaded Details
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Lined Satin-Like, Floor Length Skirt I A-Line Silhouette I Front Slit
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0003
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $110.97 $209.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Bonnie Satin A Line Dress
Special Occasion
Our beautiful Bonnie dress will make you feel like a vision of perfection! She features a flattering V-neckline, a sweeping A-line silhouette with a high slit, and pleats. She is composed of a fully lined satin-like fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete your special evening outfit with a sleek clutch.
Fits & Features
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- V neckline, back zip with hook & eye closure
- Pleating details, front slit
- Sweeping floor-length hem, A-Line silhouette
- Satin-like fabric, fully lined
- Moderate stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0401
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $40.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free