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

Product Recommendations
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!
-
Avianna Formal High Slit Dress
Special OccasionBring the drama and radiate confidence in our dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a V neckline, princess seams and slim shoulder straps. Her slim fit bodice leads to a sweeping floor length silhouette that is accented with a high side slit. Dress is composed of a double lined stretchy scuba fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Includes a back zipper closure with a fish hook clasp.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6328
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Rebecca Glitter Knit A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
This prom season, illuminate the dance floor in the gorgeously glam Rebecca formal dress. She features a sleeveless cowl neckline with a padded bust, thin shoulder straps, and an open back with a strappy lace-up design. Her lower back features stylish ruched detailing, and her fitted floor-length A-line skirt is accented with a thigh-high front slit. The dress is composed of a glitter knit fabric with a full knit lining. Style this stunning prom dress with embellished heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl neckline, thin shoulder straps
- Padded bust, no bra required
- Open back, lace-up strap design
- Lower back ruching, floor-length A-line skirt, high front slit
- Glitter knit fabric, knit lining
- Fitted silhouette, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2209
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Casey Strapless Formal Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Love the sleek and sultry look? Then the stunning Casey formal midi dress is the one for you. She features a strapless neckline, a chic wrap-front bodice with structured boning to provide support, a high waist seam, and a fitted mid-length silhouette with a stylish front slit. Complete the look with strappy stilettos.
Fit & Features
- Strapless neckline
- Wrap-front bodice, structured boning
- Back zipper, hook and eye closure
- High waist seam, mid-length silhouette, front slit
- Lined satin fabric, moderate stretch
- Sticky or strapless bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0999
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $56.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Lessie Formal High Slit A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Show up to your event like the true diva you are with a formal dress that wows from the moment you enter the room! The Lessie long formal dress features a sleeveless cowl neckline, spaghetti straps, a high fitted waist, and a floor-length A-line silhouette that is accented with a high side slit to show some leg. The dress is composed of a smooth knit fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl neckline, spaghetti straps
- Adhesive bra recommended
- Open back, cross-back strap design
- High waist, high side slit
- Floor-length A-line silhouette
- Lined smooth knit fabric
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1894
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Holly Floral Cold Shoulder Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Like a love letter in dress form—soft, floaty, unforgettable. The Holly Floral mermaid dress hugs in all the right places and flows with every step you take, whether you're bridesmaid-ing or main event-ing.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, mesh-lined fabric
- Cold shoulder neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Padded bra cups
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, garden parties, summer galas, dinner parties, fancy celebrations, formal events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000029
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: TAUPE
Available Size: XS, S
-
Estelle Lace-Up Abstract Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Get ready to be a perfect vision in the decadent Estelle mermaid formal dress at weddings, banquets, or fancy parties! The square neckline, padded bra cups, and shoulder straps add support and flatter, while the open lace-up back adds a daring element. The mermaid silhouette and floor-length hem create a flattering silhouette, and the abstract print mesh fabric adds a unique touch. Complete the look with fringe earrings and heels.
Channel elegance in this stunning dress. Loving rich hues? Explore our bold green prom dresses or make a statement in our elevated formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Abstract print, mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Square neckline, shoulder straps
- Padded bra cups
- Open lace-up back
- Mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8545
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Tessa Off The Shoulder Ruched Dress
Special OccasionInvoke elegance and grace in our Tessa dress! She features an off the shoulder neckline, a sweetheart bust and ruching along the bodice to add a rippling effect. Her slim fit bodice leads to an elongating mermaid skirt that is accented with a dramatic flare and a wide banded hemline. She is composed of a crepe fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Dress includes a smooth knit lining and back zipper closure with a fish hook clasp.
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: 05002-5713
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $27.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Sylvia Lace-Up Mermaid Tulle Ruffle Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
Your stylish glow will be undeniable in the Sylvia sequin formal dress for a glamorous entrance into prom or black tie events! The V-neckline and padded bra cups offer flattering support while the wired insert creates a structured silhouette. Adjustable spaghetti straps and lace-up back lets you customize the sultry style. Embellished with a sequin scroll pattern on mesh fabric, the dress is finished with tulle ruffle inserts with bonded edges for a stunning floor-length effect! Complete the look with a gorgeous rhinestone headband and clutch.
All eyes are on you in this radiant dress. If sparkle is your signature, discover stunning sequin prom dresses or opt for effortless sophistication with our eye-catching formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Sequin scroll pattern, mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lace-up
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8898
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $199.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Daria Lace Back A-Line Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Gracefully glide into the night in the Daria ball gown designed to shine at formal dances, black-tie events, and charity auctions! She features a sleeveless square neck, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customizable fit, a lightly padded bust, and a romantic lace-back panel. Her empire waist seam leads to the flattering A-line silhouette with hidden side pockets to keep your hands warm and a sultry asymmetrical floor-length hem with a high-cut front slit. The ball gown is composed of a shimmery knit fabric with a stretchy knit lining. Style with a bracelet and hair barrette to complete the look!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neck, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lightly padded bust, bra optional
- Lace back panel, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Empire waist seam, hidden side pockets, A-line silhouette
- Asymmetrical high-cut front slit, floor-length hem
- Shimmer knit fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-3331
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Fran Formal Crepe Sweetheart Column Dress
Special Occasion
Easy to impress and so chic, the Fran formal crepe column dress exudes sophistication. It features a classy sweetheart neckline with a pleated bust, spaghetti straps, and a flattering fitted column silhouette with a high front slit and long-length hem.
Fit & Features
- Crepe knit fabric, moderate stretch
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline
- Pleated bust
- Spaghetti straps
- Column silhouette
- High front slit, long-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, bridesmaids, and formal dinner parties.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7925
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Alex Satin V-Neck Slit Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed to command the room, the Alex formal dress is all sleek confidence with its satin fabric, sculpting midi silhouette, and dramatic plunge neckline. A subtle side slit adds just the right touch of allure, perfect for the kind of entrance that turns heads.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric
- Plunge V-neckline, wide shoulder straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Side slit
- Form-hugging silhouette\
- Midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, date night, birthdays, black tie galas, bridal showers, anniversaries, dinner parties, receptions, cocktail soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000233
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Kelly Sequin Satin Lace-Up Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The Kelly mini dress is made to shimmer under soft lights and second glances. With a luxe sequin satin damask pattern and a curve-hugging bodycon silhouette, its lace-up back adds a flirty finish to every step.
Fit & Features
- Sequin embellishments, satin fabric, damask pattern
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, weddings, bridal showers, engagement parties and photoshoots, rehearsal dinners, bachelorettes, date nights, birthdays, GNO, rooftop cocktail soirees, dinner parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000188
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Emma Formal Bow Long Dress
Special Occasion
You'll be a breath-taking view in the Emma formal dress at your next black tie affair! She features a sultry, off-the-shoulder neckline with a front bow design, an empire waist seam, and a form-hugging, floor-length hem with a sexy high-cut front slit. The formal dress is composed of a crepe-lined fabric with plenty of stretch. Complete your dressy look with a radiate necklace and earrings set.
Fit & Features
- Off-the-shoulder neckline, front bow design
- Empire waist seam
- Form-hugging silhouette
- Floor-length hem, high-cut front slit
- Crepe-lined fabric, moderate stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2526
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Julissa V-Neck Sequin Mesh Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
The Julissa V-neck sequin mesh mermaid dress will captivate the room with her glam perfection at dances, galas, or soirees! Crafted from a sheer mesh fabric with a full-length lining, she is accented with gleaming sequin embroidery in a luxe scroll pattern for that enchanting look. Her bodice is shaped with a sleeveless sweetheart neckline with a structured bust for support and adjustable spaghetti straps for a perfectly customized fit. Her cascading floor-sweeping mermaid silhouette will flaunt your stunning curves. Complete the look with rhinestone fringe earrings and stiletto heels for a dazzling vibe.
Sequins bring the perfect mix of elegance and fun. Want more options? Shine in a sparkling sequin prom dress or make an entrance in our glamorous party dresses.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with full-length knit lining, moderate stretch
- Sequin embroidered scroll pattern
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline with center notched V-neck
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper closure
- Mermaid fit
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8201
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Olivia Formal Velvet Off-The-Shoulder Dress
Special Occasion
Capture all the attention in the room in this gorgeous long velvet dress! Olivia features a flattering off-the-shoulder neckline, a high side slit, and a curve-hugging fit. The dress is made from a form-fitting velvet material with a moderate stretch. Wear it with glimmering earrings and stilettos to really bring the glam.Fit & Features
- Off-the-shoulder neckline, short sleeves
- Strapless or adhesive bra recommended
- Back zipper closure, ruched detailing
- High waist seam, floor-length fitted silhouette, high side slit
- Curve-hugging fit
- Velvet fabric with moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1546
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Camren Lace-Up Mermaid Mesh Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Feel confident and look beautiful in the Camren mesh formal dress! With cute cap sleeves and a mermaid silhouette, this dress exudes sophistication. The lace-up back adds a touch of playful charm while also providing the perfect fit.
Fit & Features
- Mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Cap sleeves
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Back lace-up, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Side ruched seams
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black tie soirees, fancy date nights, parties, award dinners
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000125
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
-
Marlowe Formal Long Pleated Dress
Special OccasionRadiate beauty and grace in our alluring Marlowe dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a V neckline, princess seams, and narrow adjustable straps that lead to a cross-back design. Her slim-fit bodice features a narrow waistband accent that leads to a floor-length silhouette with pleated accents and hidden side pockets. The dress is composed of a crepe fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, princess seams
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, cross-back design
- Pleats, hidden side pockets
- A-line silhouette
- Crepe fabric
- Form hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6510
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Mckayla Formal Glitter Strappy Back Dress
Special Occasion
Light-catching glitter brings the sparkle to the Mckayla formal dress to dazzle the crowds at school dances, weddings, and dressy dinner parties! She features a sleeveless square neck, sleek bungee spaghetti straps, an open with bungee straps, and a form-hugging slim silhouette with a high side slit and long hem. The formal dress is composed of a stretchy glitter knit and a bust lining. Complete the look in sparkle platform heels and glam jewelry to add extra shine!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neck, sleek bungee spaghetti straps
- Open back, bungee straps
- Form-hugging, slim silhouette
- High side slit, long hem
- Stretchy glitter knit fabric, bust lining
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7151
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Lorelli Formal Satin Wrap Long Dress
Special Occasion
A luxe style with stunning detail, unveil modern glamour in the Lorelli formal satin dress at banquets and bridesmaids. She features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline, wide shoulder straps, a lightly padded bust, a corset-seam bodice, and an asymmetrical wrap skirt with a slit along the floor-length hem. The formal dress is composed of buttery smooth satin fabric with minimal stretch. Style this long dress with a clutch and block heels to complete the look!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, wide shoulder straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Lightly padded bust, bra optional
- Corset-seam bodice
- Asymmetrical wrap skirt, front slit, floor-length hem
- Smooth satin fabric, minimal stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-5426
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Adalynn Lace-Up Sequin Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The Adalynn sequin mini dress features a flattering square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, and a lace-up back that will turn heads. The bodycon silhouette is finished with a front slit and a mini-length hem. The luxe sequin embroidered scroll pattern will elevate the glam factor of your formal look.
This dress proves that short and stylish is always a vibe. Want more? Discover our bold short prom dresses or find a celebration-ready fit in our party dresses.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Sequin embroidered scroll pattern
- Square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, lower zipper with hook-eye closure
- Front slit
- Mini-length bodycon fit
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2294
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Kiana Floral Chiffon A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Our beautiful Kiana formal dress is the perfect prom dress for the girl who loves a romantic floral look! Get the best outdoor pictures with her gorgeous silhouette flowing with the wind. She features a classy sleeveless V-neckline with adjustable spaghetti straps and a fitted bodice. Showcase some leg with her sultry front slit on an A-line, floor-length silhouette. The formal dress is composed of floral printed chiffon fabric with lining. Complete your stunning look in glitzy heels.
Fits & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lightly padded bust
- Back zipper, hook and eye closure
- Floor-length A-line silhouette, high front slit
- All-over floral print
- Lined chiffon fabric
- Flowy fit, minimal stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0543
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $33.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Mayven Lace-Up Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made to turn heads with every step, the Mayven is your RSVP-ready answer to sleek sultriness. Designed in a bodycon silhouette with a halter square neck and lace-up back, this midi dress serves drama with a front slit made for grand entrances.
Fit & Features
- Sleek knit stretchy fabric
- Square halter neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back
- Front slit
- Bodycon silhouette, midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, weddings, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, birthdays, date nights, cocktail parties, milestone celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000374
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: HUNTER
Available Size: XS, XL
-
April Formal Glitter Long Sleeve Midi Dress
Special Occasion
The April formal glitter midi dress is a statement piece for any special occasion. Crafted from a glitter knit fabric, she features a cowl neckline, fitted long sleeves, bodycon silhouette, and a front ruched seam and slit that will flatter any figure along her midi-length hem. The formal dress is crafted from a glitter knit stretchy fabric ensuring you'll radiate sparkle all night long! Complete the look for a banquet or wedding with rhinestone heels.
Fit & Features
- Fitted long sleeves
- Cowl neckline
- Bodycon silhouette
- Front ruched seam and slit
- Midi-length hem
- Glitter knit fabric, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1233
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Jessa Formal Satin V-Neck Slit Dress
Special Occasion
Elegance comes easy in the Jessa formal satin dress designed in a sultry silhouette to showcase your true beauty! She features a sleeveless V-neck with a wire insert, adjustable spaghetti straps, and side ruched seams that accentuate your curves. Her floor-length hem offers a show of leg thanks to the high-cut side slit perfect for styling with rhinestone heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless, V-neck with wire insert
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Bra-friendly design
- Side ruched seams, high-cut side slit
- Floor-length hem
- Stretch-satin luxe fabric
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7029
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free