Formal Dresses
Windsor's formal dresses are redefining elegance for 2025. Think illusion panels that sculpt and contour, printed mesh gowns with bold florals or swirls, and slinky jersey knits that drape like liquid luxe. Daring cutouts bring a sleek edge to eveningwear, while cascading ruffles add movement and modern drama. These trendy gowns prove that formal doesn’t have to mean predictable—they’re made for weddings, galas, and every post-worthy moment in between. Discover styles that are chic, camera-ready, and designed to make you unforgettable.
HomeFormal Dresses

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Formal Dresses That Make Every Moment Feel Major
Windsor’s formal dresses are designed for those unforgettable nights when your look has to be flawless. From sweeping formal gowns to sleek short silhouettes, this collection delivers drama, polish, and trend-right details that set the tone for any occasion. Think structured corset bodices, adjustable straps, lace-up backs, and high slits that blend comfort with high-impact style.
- Heading to a big event? Explore Winter formal dresses in luxe fabrics like velvet, satin, and crepe that feel rich and elegant.
- For December celebrations, our formal holiday dresses sparkle with sequins, rhinestones, and glitter mesh, while bold jewel tones and classic black create timeless appeal.
- Looking to ring in the New Year? Formal NYE dresses with metallic finishes and statement cutouts are made to shine under the lights.
If you’re planning a gala, wedding, or milestone party, Windsor offers a range of formal party dresses in both fitted and flowy silhouettes to match your vibe. Go for a strapless satin gown with a sweetheart neckline for timeless elegance, or choose an asymmetrical hemline or bow-back detail for a fresh twist that feels modern and fun.
No matter where the night takes you, Windsor’s formal dresses give you options that feel special, stylish, and photo-ready. Shop Windsor’s formal dresses near you, online, in-app, or at one of 350+ stores nationwide, and find the look that will make your night unforgettable.
Tips for Choosing the Best Formal Dress for Your Body Type
- Hourglass: Slay those curves with a fitted corset bodice and flowing skirt.
- Pear‑Shaped: Balance out your look with a structured top and full skirt.
- Rectangle: Create curves with a cinched waist and flared hem.
- Apple‑Shaped: Draw eyes upward with a V‑neckline and empire waist.
For more styling inspo, hit up our blog guides like “The Ultimate Gala Dresses Guide” or “Sexy Formal Dresses – Create an Eye‑Catching Look” and get ready to own every moment.
What’s the Difference Between a Formal and a Semi-Formal Dress?
Formal and semi-formal dresses differ based on event dress codes and styling. Formal attire, often called black-tie, features glamorous floor-length gowns with luxe details like rhinestones, lace, and beading—perfect for galas, weddings, and proms. Popular silhouettes include mermaid, ball gown, and A-line styles.
Semi-formal dresses offer more variety in length and design, making them ideal for homecoming, weddings, and cocktail parties. These styles range from midi to short lengths.
The venue and occasion can also guide your choice—an upscale wedding may call for a floor-length gown, while an outdoor event might be perfect for a sleek midi dress with a stylish neckline.
Are Formal Dresses Always Long?
Not always! While long gowns are classic for formal events, modern formal attire includes various lengths and styles. Windsor’s collection of women’s formalwear features short, midi, and long dresses. Explore dramatic mermaid and column silhouettes for timeless elegance, or opt for trendy alternatives like high-low hemlines and two-piece designs for a fresh take on formal fashion.
Find your perfect formal dress at Windsor any time of year, available online, in-app, and in over 350 stores across the U.S. and Canada. Shop now for trend-driven styles that make you shine and every event unforgettable!
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Alena Floral Satin Ruffle Sleeve Column Dress
Special Occasion
Bloom with beauty in the Alena floral satin column dress designed with sleek premium satin with a gorgeous floral print pattern. You'll adore the short ruffled sleeves, open lace-up back, and high-cut front slit for effortless movement.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin fabric with full-length stretchy knit lining
- Floral print
- Square neckline, pleated draped overlay, padded bust
- Short ruffled sleeves
- Open lace-up back, lower zipper with hook-eye closure
- Thigh-high front slit, floor-length column silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, bridal showers, graduations, garden parties, and chic brunches.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000023
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Cece Formal Velvet Lace Sweetheart Long Dress
Special Occasion
Show off your romantic side in the sultry Cece formal velvet dress made to turn heads! She features a sweetheart neckline, wide shoulder straps, delicate lace, and underwire bust, a slim silhouette that beautifully flaunts your curves, and a lace-trim high front slit perfect for showing off your shoes! The formal dress is crafted from a soft velvet knit fabric that brings luxurious allure. Complete the look in strappy stiletto heels for a gala or black tie party.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, wide shoulder straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Lace and underwire bust
- Slim silhouette, lace trim high front slit, floor-length hem
- Soft velvet fabric, moderate stretch
- Pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7688
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Janice Satin Lace-Up Wrap Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Janice formal gown flows in glossy satin with a curve-hugging silhouette and floor-length hem. A chic V-neck and lace-up back add drama, while the high front wrap slit was made for striking a pose.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, sewn-in knit lining
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Spaghetti straps
- Lace-up open back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front wrap slit
- Curve-hugging, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, formal dances, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, black tie galas, fancy dinner parties, anniversaries, award ceremonies, receptions, big birthday events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000218
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, L, XL
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Janella Sequin Lace-Up Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Turn every step into a shimmer moment in the Janella sequin bodycon dress that hugs in all the right places. Its strappy open back adds a daring twist, making it perfect for the kind of night that calls for unforgettable entrances.
Fit & Features
- Sequin embellished fabric
- Halter V-neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Strappy lace-up back
- Bodycon fit
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthdays, date nights, rooftop hotel bars, bachelorettes, cocktail soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000551
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK
Available Size: L
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Leanna Satin Strappy Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Watch the party come to life when you make an appearance in the Leanna satin mini dress perfect for celebrations! She shines in a sleeveless cowl neckline, bodycon silhouette, and sleek bungee spaghetti straps that shape the strappy, open-back design. The formal dress is composed of lined stretch satin fabric with a glossy sheen. Style with rhinestone heels and a clutch to complete the look!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl neckline, bungee spaghetti straps
- Strappy open back design
- Bodycon silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Lined satin fabric, glossy sheen, moderate stretch
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1497
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $42.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Minerva Strapless Floral Sequin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Minerva floral sequin formal dress is the ultimate glamorous, stunning dress designed with an alluring high front slit and floor-length hem for a chic flair.
Flawlessly chic and bold, this dress is a statement. If strapless styles are your go-to, explore our strapless prom dresses or embrace effortless fashion with our formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Floral applique, sequin embellished mesh-lined fabric
- Strapless neckline
- Back zipper closure
- Form-hugging bodice
- High front slit
- Flare floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, charity ball, black-tie spring soiree, big birthday events, fancy parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9126
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $179.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Giselle Formal High Slit Crepe Dress
Special Occasion
Stun with a formal dress that brings the elegance to your special evening! Giselle features a sleeveless V-neckline with ruching at the bodice, adjustable spaghetti straps that cross at the back, and an A-line silhouette with a high side slit. The dress is composed of a crepe fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with a choker and earrings.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, ruching at the bodice
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, cross-back
- A-line
- High side slit
- Crepe fabric
- Form hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1631
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $39.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Diana V-Neck Mermaid Floral Ruffle Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Make your graceful entrance in the Diana floral formal dress designed with captivating ruffles along a curve-hugging mermaid silhouette that brings the drama!
Fit & Features
- Floral print, mesh-lined fabric
- V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- All-over ruffles
- High side slit
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, bridesmaids, garden parties, cocktail soirees, dressy celebrations, parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000017
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $74.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Dianna Strapless Slit Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Dianna is a lesson in less-is-more allure, designed in a soft ruched knit that smooths and sculpts with ease. With its sleek strapless cut, bodycon fit, and asymmetric slit, this midi is pure understated drama.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit stretchy fabric, sewn-in knit lining
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Ruched bodycon silhouette
- Side slit
- Midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, bridal showers, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, baby showers, birthdays, date nights, anniversaries, cocktail soirees, dinner parties, photoshoots
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000359
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $64.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: IVORY, BLACK, RED
Available Size: XS, L, XL, S, M
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Tatum Formal Glitter Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Make a twirl-worthy entrance in a formal dress that makes a shine-stopping entrance! Tatum features a sleeveless square neckline, padded cups, adjustable spaghetti straps, and cross-straps that fasten with a slide hook closure. The slim-fit waist leads to a mermaid silhouette that is accented with ruching throughout. The dress is composed of a lined glitter mesh fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels and a clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline
- Padded cups
- Cross-straps with slide hook fasten
- Ruching
- Lined glitter mesh
- Mermaid silhouette
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1773
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Amabella Ruffled Glitter Tulle Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Live out your fairytale dream in the Amabella glitter tulle ball gown that exudes ethereal glamour. The tiered ruffled A-line silhouette creates a gorgeous voluminous look you'll adore.
Make a statement in this stunning dress. Love bold details? Explore our playful ruffle prom dresses or find a sleek look in our formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Sheer glitter tulle fabric, full-length stretchy knit lining
- Sleeveless pleated V-neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper with hook-eye closure
- High waist seams
- Floor-length tiered ruffled design, high front slit
- A-line silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, galas, birthday celebrations, and fancy parties.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0273
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $139.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Laura Off-The-Shoulder Mermaid Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
You'll be the image of grace and beauty in the Laura mermaid satin formal dress as a gorgeous bridesmaid, wedding guest, or at a gala! Her alluring sweetheart neckline and corset bodice with pleating accentuate your curves, while padded bra cups and flexible boning offer support and a perfect fit. The sleek mermaid silhouette and high front slit add a touch of drama to this floor-length dress, crafted from luxurious satin fabric. Complete the look with earrings, a clutch, and heels.
Fit & Features
- Satin fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Off-the-shoulder, sweetheart neckline with pleating
- Padded bra cups, flexible boning
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit
- Mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8261
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Brittany Off-The-Shoulder Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Brittany is your sleek, effortless choice for after dark soirees. This mesh mermaid gown stuns with an off-the-shoulder neckline, sheer bodice, and ruched silhouette that flows into a barely-there floor-length hem.
Fit & Features
- Partially lined mesh fabric, moderate stretch
- Folded off-the-shoulder neckline
- Sheer bodice
- Side ruched seams, mermaid silhouette
- Sheer floor-legnth hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black tie galas, upscale milestone celebrations, date nights, red carpet events, dinner parties, formal soirees, cocktail events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000168
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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Aurora High-Slit Fitted Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Effortlessly elevate your look with the classic and chic Aurora midi dress. She features a sleeveless wired deep V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, a high waist seam, and a mid-length, curve-hugging silhouette with a stylish thigh-high front slit. Complete the outfit with cute mules.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless wired V-neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook and eye closure
- Princess seams, high waist seam
- Mid-length, form-hugging fit, high front slit
- Crepe fabric, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0653
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Meara Formal Cutout Crepe Dress
Special Occasion
Dare to go bold with a formal dress that shows off a hint of skin in all the right places. Meara features a sleeveless V-neckline with a notched bodice, spaghetti straps, dual cutouts at the waist, and 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 and a rhinestone headband.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, notched bodice
- Spaghetti straps
- Dual cutouts at the waist
- High side slit
- Lined crepe fabric
- Form hugging fit, moderate stretch, runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1753
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $34.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Faye Cold Shoulder Mermaid Beaded Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Capture the attention of the room in the Faye beaded sequin formal dress designed with a flirty cold shoulder and mermaid silhouette that flatters your curves!
Fit & Features
- Sequin beaded embellished
- Mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Cold shoulder neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, big milestone celebrations, fancy dinner parties, and red-carpet events.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9165
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Delaney Lace-Up Mermaid Sequin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Pretty and marvelous! The Delaney sequin formal dress makes every special event sparkle. Designed with a shimmering sequin scroll pattern on mesh fabric, this gown steals the spotlight. She features a flattering square neckline and adjustable spaghetti straps for the perfect fit, while the padded bra cups provide support. Turn heads with her lace-up back that accentuates the stunning mermaid silhouette and delicate floor-length hem to elongate your figure. Complete the look with grand earrings and a necklace.
Fit & Features
- Sequin scroll pattern, mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Padded bra cups
- Lace-up, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8101
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Paula Satin Strapless High Slit Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Sleek with an elegant allure, the Paula strapless high slit mermaid dress is made with smooth stretch satin fabric for a gorgeous sheen. The back is detailed with a sheer mesh design with stunning floral appliques that add a soft romantic feel to turn heads.
Flawlessly chic and bold, this dress is a statement. If strapless styles are your go-to, explore our strapless prom dresses or embrace effortless fashion with our formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, sewn-in knit stretchy lining
- Strapless straight neckline, pleated cowl draped overlay
- Padded bra cups, flexible boning inserts
- Sheer mesh back with floral applique, zipper closure, lower back ruching
- High-cut front slit
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, engagement parties, and black-tie events.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9363
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Simone Satin Halter Slit Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sculpted for the spotlight, the Simone formal dress is your RSVP-ready answer to sleek allure. Designed in luxe satin with a halter high neckline and form-hugging fit, this midi silhouette is finished with a sultry side slit built for dramatic entrances.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric
- High halter neckline
- Side slit
- Form-hugging fit
- Midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, cocktail soirees, date nights, anniversaries, formal celebration parties, black tie galas
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000355
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Larissa Formal Tulle Glitter Ballgown
Special Occasion
Make your grand entrance at prom with a ball gown that feels like a dream! Larissa features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline, a built-in padded bust that eliminates the need for a bra, and adjustable spaghetti straps for a customizable fit, and a cowl overlay along her fitted bodice. The high waist seam leads to a voluminous A-line silhouette and floor-length hem that brings the drama! She is composed of an airy tulle fabric that is adorned with iridescent glitter-like accents throughout. Her full stretchy knit lining features a sexy high-side slit that showcases your stunning heel game. Style with statement earrings, a bracelet, and rings to complete your dressy look!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Built-in padded bust, cowl overlay
- High waist seam, front high slit
- A-Line silhouette, floor-length hem
- Iridescent glitter accents throughout
- Airy tulle fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2008
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Rae Lace-Up Glitter Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
The long mermaid dress features a glitter knit fabrication, a sleeveless cowl neckline, spaghetti straps that lead to a cross-back design, and a lace-up back design. Complete the formal outfit with a satin clutch.
Fit & Features
- Lined glitter knit fabrication
- Sleeveless cowl neckline
- Spaghetti straps lead to x-back design
- Lace-up back design
- Mermaid silhouette
- Long hem length
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8865
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Slick 'Em Satin Mini Dress
Show them what you're workin' with! Flaunt the Slick 'Em mini dress and show them how it's done.
Fits & Features
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Narrow Spaghetti Straps
- Surplice V Neckline I Square Back
- Asymmetrical Wrap Mini Skirt Accented With Pleats
- Smooth Satin Fabric I Fully Lined
- Curve Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
- Zipper Not Included
Teal Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Purple Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0535
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $33.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Narrow Spaghetti Straps
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Betsey Lace-Up Mermaid Sequin Bead Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Iridescent sequins sparkle and delicate beading adorns the Betsey formal dress. Steal the scene with the lace-up back that turns heads and flattering mermaid silhouette made to flaunt your figure.
Fit & Features
- Iridescent sequins, beading, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Scoop neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, upscale birthday events, red-carpet parties, glam functions and events, fancy date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9576
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.97 $149.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Melody Satin Slit Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Slip into the spotlight with the sleek Melody satin formal dress, where a draped cowl neckline meets curve-hugging ruching and a leg-baring front slit built for your chic entrance into any event or party!
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric
- Cowl neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Ruched curve-hugging silhouette
- Front slit accent
- Midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, galas, black tie parties, formal celebrations, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, date night, cocktail soirees, bachelorettes, birthdays
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000343
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $64.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: HUNTER, WHITE
Available Size: XS, S, M