Formal Dresses
Windsor's formal dresses are redefining elegance for 2026. 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 on-trend 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 elevated, camera-ready, and designed to make you feel incredible and look unforgettable.
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STYLE SPOTLIGHT
Formal Dresses That Make Every Moment Feel Major
Windsor’s formal dresses are designed for those special occasions 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 event. Think structured sheer corset bodices, dainty adjustable straps, adjustable lace-up backs, and glam high slits that blend comfort with high-impact style.
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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Misha Leopard Corset Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Playful elegance meets polished drama in the Misha formal dress, a silhouette designed to feel memorable from every angle. Crafted in leopard organza printed fabric, this tea-length midi features a sweetheart corset bodice and a drop waist seam that creates graceful movement with every step.
Fit & Features
- Leopard print, organza fabric
- Sweetheart neckline with spaghetti straps
- Corset-structured bodice
- Drop waist seam design
- Tea-length midi-silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Fashion-forward events, weddings, dressy cocktail parties, outdoor receptions, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, gallery openings, art events, cultural soirees, special date nights, milestone birthdays
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000645
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $99.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN
Available Size: S
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Katherine Floral Beaded Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
A shimmering take on occasion dressing, the Katherine floral beaded bodycon mini fit is designed to catch the light with every step. Intricate beadwork forms a delicate floral pattern while the V-neck and sleek silhouette sculpt a polished look.
Fit & Features
- Mesh-lined fabric with floral beaded embellishment
- V-neckline with adjustable spaghetti straps
- Bodycon mini silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, bridal celebrations, birthdays, date nights, garden parties, engagement photoshoots, cocktail soirees, honeymoons
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000658
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: IVORY
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Emmie Floral Jacquard A-Line Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Made for sunny invites and camera-ready moments, the Emmie floral jacquard mini dress feels equal parts polished and playful. The A-line silhouette and textured detailing create an effortlessly chic look that’s perfect for celebrating in style.
Fit & Features
- Floral jacquard fabric with metallic threading, woven lining, no stretch
- Sleeveless square neckline with tank straps
- Back zipper with hook-and-eye closure
- A-line silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Garden parties, dressy family gatherings, bridal showers, baby showers, birthday celebrations, chic brunches, graduations, spring school dances
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000653
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: IVORY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Best Seller
- Floral jacquard fabric with metallic threading, woven lining, no stretch
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Merlot Nights Halter Maxi Dress
Rich, sultry, and unforgettable—this halter maxi dress stuns with a draped cowl neckline, curve-hugging fit, and open back detail that brings the drama for any formal affair. Complete the look with jewelry and stiletto heels.
Fit & Features
- Slinky knit stretch fabric
- Cowl halter neckline
- Open strappy back
- Curve-hugging silhouette
- Relaxed maxi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-000632
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $48.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Catrina Crochet Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for destination moments that call for understated allure, the Catrina crochet column dress feels both romantic and refined. A strapless sweetheart neckline meets a sculptural hardware cutout and high side slit, creating a silhouette that feels effortless, modern, and perfectly bridal for sun-soaked celebrations.
Fit & Features
- Crochet fabric lined with mesh
- Strapless sweetheart neckline with hardware insert, padded bra cups
- Keyhole cutout
- Tie-back detail, zipper and hook-eye closure
- High side slit for movement
- Curve-hugging column silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Destination weddings, bridal rehearsal dinners, bachelorette trips, tropical resorts, sunset cocktail parties, honeymoons, upscale beachside restaurants, weekend getaways
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001128
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NATURAL
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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Janine Glitter Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
For the evening when subtle simply will not do, the Janine dress delivers high-impact glamour with effortless polish. Designed in shimmering glitter fabric with countless rhinestone embellishments, a sleek strapless neckline, and a curve-skimming mermaid floor-length silhouette, it is made for events where you plan to make them stop and stare.
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit fabric with rhinestone embellishments, knit lining
- Strapless neckline
- Cutout back with secure clasp strap and lower twist accent
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, galas, big birthday events, formal milestone celebrations, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, upscale cocktail parties, red-carpet occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001136
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $99.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Esther Glitter Cutout Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
For the evening when elegance calls for a little drama, the Esther dress makes an unforgettable entrance. Designed in glitter fabric with a plunge neckline and cutout bodice, this mermaid dress is finished with a cutout back featuring a hoop insert and a high front slit for striking movement.
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit fabric, smooth lining
- Plunge neckline, padded bra cups, halter tie strap
- Cutout bodice, cutout back with hoop insert
- Back hidden zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, formal weddings, black tie parties, galas, upscale dinners, anniversaries, glamorous events, red carpet occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001148
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Clementine Sequin Bead Formal Dress
Special Occasion
For the nights when you want every angle to feel unforgettable, the Clementine dress delivers a sculpted silhouette with luminous detail. Designed with intricate beaded sequins, a sleek mermaid shape, and an open lace-up back, this gown feels polished, feminine, and made for a slow turn across the room.
Fit & Features
- Allover beaded sequin fabric with subtle shimmer
- V-neckline, padded bra cups, spaghetti straps
- Fitted mermaid silhouette
- Open lace-up back, hidden zipper and hook-eye closure
- Floor length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, ballroom galas, black tie reception, anniversary dinners, engagement parties, elegant shower celebrations, pageant, awards ceremony, red carpet events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001139
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $129.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK
Available Size: M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Savanna Floral Sequin Lace-Up Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed to glow under evening lights, the Savanna gown delivers refined sparkle with a romantic edge. Crafted from floral sequin fabric, its mermaid silhouette and floor-length hem are elevated by a striking lace-up back that feels both polished and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Floral sequin mesh-lined fabric
- Sweetheart neckline with spaghetti straps
- Mermaid silhouette that skims and flares
- Lace-up back design, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Floor length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, formal dances, black-tie weddings, galas, milestone birthday celebrations, red-carpet occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001145
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $109.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK, MINT
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Taylor Glitter Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed to catch the light from every angle, the Taylor glitter gown delivers a striking balance of polish and allure. A softly draped cowl halter neckline with hardware detail flows into an open back and a mermaid floor-length silhouette made for unforgettable entrances.
Fit & Features
- Glitter fabric with a smooth knit lining
- Cowl halter neckline with statement hardware
- Open back design
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, formal galas, red-carpet events, luxury ballroom celebrations, award dinners, milestone birthday events, elegant occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001144
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY, MAUVE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Sheila Glitter Lace-Up Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for evenings that call for a little shimmer, the Sheila gown brings effortless glamour to the moment. Crafted in glitter knit with a square neckline and front princess seams, the mermaid floor-length silhouette is finished with a cutout back and mini lace up detail for a striking final touch.
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit fabric, knit lining
- Square neckline, tank shoulder straps, padded bra cups
- Cutout back, mini lace-up
- Princess seams down the front
- Mermaid floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, red carpet events, rehearsal dinners, anniversaries, engagement parties, big birthday events, glamorous occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001134
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: RED, BLACK
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Eva Glitter Lace-Up Column Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made for evenings that linger long after the last toast, The Eva delivers refined glamour with a confident edge. Crafted in glitter knit-lined fabric, this column floor-length silhouette features a softly draped cowl neckline, delicate spaghetti straps, and a high front slit that feels striking yet composed.
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit fabric lined with smooth knit
- Cowl neckline, spaghetti straps
- Lace-up open back detail
- High front slit for movement
- Column floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Formal weddings, black tie galas, upscale cocktail receptions, anniversary dinners, milestone birthday evenings, winter formals, special events, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001140
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: RED, BLACK, BROWN
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
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Marlowe Glitter Lace-Up Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Polished with a confident after-dark edge, The Marlowe midi dress is made for entrances that feel intentional and unforgettable. Crafted in glitter fabric, this bodycon midi silhouette features a clean square neckline, a lace-up cutout back, and a sleek side slit for effortless allure.
Fit & Features
- Glitter fabric lined with stretch knit
- Square neckline, padded bra cups
- Lace-up cutout back detail
- Side slit detail
- Bodycon midi-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Cocktail parties, evening receptions, formal weddings, engagement celebrations, rehearsal dinners, gallery openings, fashion-forward soirees, special nights out
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000670
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE, PINK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Aylin Tropical Floral Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Aylin dress was made for unforgettable entrances and warm evening celebrations. Designed in a statement tropical floral print with a sweeping mermaid floor-length silhouette, it features a flattering V-neckline, delicate adjustable spaghetti straps, and a tie-back open back that adds a striking finish.
Fit & Features
- Tropical floral print, knit-lined stretchy fabric
- V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Tie-back, open back
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, destination weddings, beachside ceremonies, tropical resorts, formal vacation dinners, anniversary trips, special getaways, and birthdays.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001155
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, PRINT
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Sandra Floral A-Line Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Effortlessly polished with a hint of romance, The Sandra dress brings a fresh take to occasion dressing with its crisp cotton-like fabric and soft floral print. The a-line midi fit flows with ease, while hidden side pockets add that perfectly unexpected, wear-it-all-day detail.
Fit & Features
- Cotton-like woven fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, twist bust, non-slip grip lining
- Side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Hidden side pockets
- A-line fit, bonded midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bridal celebrations, fancy brunches, baby showers, afternoon tea, dressy daytime events, graduations, birthdays, garden parties, honeymoons, vacations, winery weekends
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000674
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $74.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, PRINT
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Hollie Floral Halter Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed to command attention from every angle, the Hollie mesh mermaid dress pairs a statement floral print with a halter keyhole neckline for a look that feels both sculptural and fluid. The open back and floor-length finish create an unforgettable balance of drama and refinement.
Fit & Features
- Mesh-lined fabric with all-over floral print
- Halter neckline with deep V-shaped keyhole cutout
- Twist-front bust with ruched detailing
- Open back with adjustable halter tie
- High-waist seam for a contoured fit
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, destination resorts, honeymoons, birthday dinners, dressy cocktail parties, gala dinners, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, black tie occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001156
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $74.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Rylan Floral Linen Cutout A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Made for sun-drenched celebrations, the Rylan floral linen A-line dress brings effortless glamour to every RSVP. The plunging neckline and sculpted cutout detail give the flowy silhouette a modern feel that’s perfect for vacations, birthday dinners, and chic brunch plans.
Fit & Features
- Linen-blend woven fabric
- Floral print, piping contrast design
- Sleeveless V-neckline, tank shoulder straps
- Tie-front detail, asymmetric front waist cutout, side cutouts
- Open back, tie-back strap, lower zipper with hook-eye closure
- Floor-length A-line silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Birthday celebrations, vacations, honeymoons, summer parties, and brunch with the girls.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001150
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $94.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, PRINT
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kenzie Floral Formal Dress With Bag
Special Occasion
The Kenzie satin gown brings an effortless kind of glamour with its floral print and curve-skimming mermaid silhouette. The detachable spaghetti straps and matching clutch bag make it the kind of look that feels polished from ceremony to champagne toast.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, satin fabric
- Square neckline
- Detachable spaghetti straps
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
- Includes a matching clutch bag
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black tie galas, engagement photoshoots, anniversaries, vacations, honeymoons, destination celebrations, fancy garden parties, big birthday events, fashion-forward occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001153
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, PRINT, PRINT-2
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Adalynn Floral Lace Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Romantic with a modern edge, the Adalynn dress is designed to captivate from every angle with its delicate floral lace and sculpted mermaid floor-length silhouette. The subtle cutout back adds an unexpected allure, making it perfect for those moments when you want elegance with just a hint of intrigue.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, lace-lined stretch fabric
- Scoop neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Cutout back with hook closure strap
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bridal celebrations, garden parties, graduations, baby showers, prom, afternoon tea, engagement photoshoots and parties, vacations, honeymoons
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001152
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, PRINT
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
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Nora Floral Taffeta Sash Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Made for the entrance that turns a few heads, the Nora dress pairs crisp floral print taffeta with a sleek strapless mini silhouette that feels both polished and playful. A sculpted bodice shapes the fit while the attached side sash drapes dramatically along the skirt, creating movement that makes every step feel a little more memorable.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, taffeta fabric, sewn-in knit lining
- Strapless neckline, non-slip grip lining, bodice with boning inserts
- Hidden side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Attached side sash accent
- Pleated bodycon fit
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, bridal showers, brunch celebrations, daytime events, vineyard tastings, destination dinners, cocktail parties, birthdays, engagement parties and photoshoots, date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000675
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, PRINT, PRINT-2
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Priscilla Floral Chiffon Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Light, floaty, and made for twirling through every RSVP moment, the Priscilla floral gown brings effortless romance to the occasion lineup. The cascading ruffle slit, soft A-line fit, and flowy silhouette create a dreamy look that feels equally polished for garden ceremonies and sunset celebrations.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, chiffon fabric, smooth knit lining
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front ruffled slit
- A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, wineries, bridal showers, vacations, engagement parties, birthday dinners, dressy daytime events, cocktail soirees, resorts, destination celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001158
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $84.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: ORANGE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Clare Satin Off-The-Shoulder Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Sleek, chic, and made for the kind of entrance that turns quiet rooms into captivated ones. The Clare is a satin mermaid dress with an elegant off-the-shoulder neckline and softly draped bodice that gathers into a figure-defining silhouette with subtle ruching through the waist and hips.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin fabric, full-length knit lining
- Asymmetric off-the-shoulder neckline, draped bodice
- Ruched side seams at the waist
- Hidden side zipper with hook-eye closure
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, cocktail parties, evening dinners, rooftop parties, formal date nights, and chic soirees.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001160
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: HUNTER
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Daydream Darling Satin A-Line Mini Dress
Romantic lines, flirty details—this strapless satin mini dress is a total heart-stealer. The lace trim and A-line flow make it perfect for date nights, parties, or just feeling extra pretty.
Fit & Features
- Textured satin woven fabric
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, lace trim
- Ruched bust, tie-front accent, corset-style bodice
- Partially smocked back, zipper closure
- Mini-length A-line silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-000534
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $26.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Kennedy Tulle A-Line Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Designed for entrances that linger, the Kennedy tulle gown balances romance with structure for a look that feels effortlessly polished. A corset sequin applique bodice flows into an a line floor length silhouette that moves beautifully through every formal moment.
Fit & Features
- Airy tulle lined fabric
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Structured corset sequin applique bodice, flexible boning
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Voluminous A-line silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black-tie galas, balls, weddings, elegant seasonal soirees, big birthday events, special milestone celebrations, pageants
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-000029
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $139.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK, LIGHT, BLUE
Available Size: S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free