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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Brienna Satin Tie A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Effortlessly refined with a modern sense of ease, the Brienna gown is designed for moments that call for quiet confidence. Smooth satin shapes a flowing A-line floor-length silhouette, while the strapless neckline and tie back detail add a soft, romantic finish.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin fabric
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
- Tie back design, zipper and hook-eye closure
- A-line silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, black tie celebrations, galas, bridesmaids, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, birthday soirees, special date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001307
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Audriana Satin A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Graceful and quietly striking, the Audriana dress brings an effortless sense of occasion the moment you slip it on. Crafted in smooth satin with a flowing A-line silhouette, it’s finished with a statement tie-back detail that adds soft movement and an elegant open-back moment.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin-lined fabric
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
- Tie-back design, hidden zipper and hook-eye closure
- A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie weddings, galas, bridesmaids, balls, formal celebrations, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, anniversaries, special date nights, vacations, honeymoons
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001306
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: HUNTER
Available Size: S
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Janie Sequin Lace-Up Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for the kind of entrance that lingers, the Janie sequin mermaid gown catches the light with every step while sculpting your silhouette. The lace-up open back adds a hint of allure, balancing polished elegance with just the right amount of drama.
Fit & Features
- Sequin embellished mesh-lined fabric
- Scoop neckline, padded bust, spaghetti straps
- Lace up open back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem with train accent
Where to Wear:
Prom, big birthday events, red carpet occasions, award nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001311
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $139.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Elora Floral Sequin Lace-Up Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
When the invitation says formal, the Elora answers with pure radiance. This floral sequin mermaid dress features a sculpted silhouette and an intricate lace-up back, blending romance and drama in a way that feels unforgettable yet effortlessly refined.
Fit & Features
- Satin knit fabric with full-length knit lining, moderate stretch
- Floral sequin embroidery
- Sleeveless V-necklined, padded bust, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Open back, cross-back lace-up strappy design with tie closure
- Lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, galas, black-tie parties, formal bridal showers, rehearsal dinners, and fancy affairs.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001310
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Allie Glitter Lace-Up Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Make an unforgettable entrance in the Allie glitter formal dress. Crafted with shimmering glitter throughout, the dress features an elegant lace-up back and ruched mermaid silhouette that flatters your curves while creating a graceful flow.
Fit & Features
- Glitter pattern lined fabric
- Sweetheart twist neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, padded bust
- Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Ruched mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem with train
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black-tie galas, formal milestone celebrations, red-carpet occasions, award shows
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001314
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $94.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: RED
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Josephine Glitter Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed to catch the light with every step, the Josephine glitter mermaid gown brings drama in the most refined way. A sculpted silhouette and lace-up back create a striking finish that feels polished, confident, and made for unforgettable evenings.
Fit & Features
- Glitter fabric with an allover textured pattern
- Sweetheart neckline with spaghetti straps
- Fitted mermaid silhouette
- Lace up back detail
- Floor length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie weddings, galas, red-carpet occasions, formal celebrations, destination fancy events, theatre nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001313
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $94.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Sarah Chiffon Ruffle A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Float through every entrance in this effortlessly romantic Sarah chiffon A-line gown, designed to catch every glance. The halter keyhole neckline and softly layered ruffled hem bring just the right amount of movement—perfect for that RSVP that calls for something unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Chiffon-lined fabric
- Halter keyhole neckline
- A-line silhouette
- Ruffled floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Wedding guests, bridesmaids, formal galas, upscale birthday events, garden parties, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, milestone celebrations, summer soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001320
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: SAGE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Klaudia Satin Corset Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Graceful and refined with a quietly striking presence, the Klaudia satin mermaid gown is designed for evenings that call for polished sophistication. The structured corset bodice, lace-up back, and sleek slit work together to create a sculpted silhouette that feels timeless yet undeniably captivating.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin-lined fabric
- Square neckline, wide shoulder straps, padded bra cups
- Corset-structured bodice
- Lace-up back detail, zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, galas, garden parties, formal celebrations, big birthday dinners, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, date nights, anniversaries, cocktail receptions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001328
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS, S
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Lettie Floral Jacquard A-Line Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Made for your twirl-worthy entrance, the Lettie formal dress is all about soft structure and playful movement. Crafted in floral jacquard with an A-line mini silhouette and flirty ruffle hem, it’s the kind of piece that turns every RSVP into a moment. Both polished and pretty, this is your go-to for when the dress needs to do the talking.
Fit & Features
- Floral jacquard woven fabric with lining
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, ruched detailing, padded bust
- Adjustable tank shoulder straps
- Open back, elasticized bar strap with bar closure, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Drop waist design, asymmetric tiered ruffled design
- Mini-length A-line silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Birthday celebrations, bridal showers, bachelorette parties, dressed-up dinners, date nights, garden parties, and chic brunches.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000684
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $74.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Julianna Chiffon Halter A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
An effortlessly graceful silhouette, the Julianna chiffon A-line formal dress flows with every step. The halter neckline and open back detail strike a balance between soft romance and modern allure, making it a standout for any special occasion.
Fit & Features
- Sheer chiffon fabric with full-length lining
- Sleeveless V-neckline
- Halter tie-back straps
- Partially open back, lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Pleated detailing
- Floor-length A-line silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, wedding guests, bridesmaids, black-tie parties, dressed-up dinners, elevated date nights, and formal parties.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001322
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $99.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Ariana Satin Mermaid Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Elegant with a confident edge, the Ariana satin mermaid gown is designed for moments that call for poise and presence. A sculpted corset bodice with lace-up detailing and a sleek slit brings modern drama to a timeless silhouette.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric with knit lining
- Square neckline, wide shoulder straps, padded bra cups
- Corset-structured bodice with a lace-up back
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie weddings, bridesmaids, galas, formal celebrations, milestone birthdays, special date nights, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, cocktail parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001330
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: HUNTER
Available Size: XS, S
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Cameron Ruffled High-Slit Corset Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
A true main-character moment—this smooth knit mermaid gown is designed to sculpt, shape, and captivate from every angle. With a structured sweetheart bodice, lace-up back, and cascading ruffle skirt with a front slit, it’s made for that slow-turn, stop-and-stare entrance.
Fit & Features
- Lined smooth knit fabrication
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Corset-like bodice with boning
- Lace-up back detail, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Ruffled skirt with front slit
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie weddings, galas, formal celebrations, big birthday dinners, evening receptions, milestone events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001334
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $109.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Maryanna Halter A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Light, fluid, and made for graceful movement, the Maryanna crepe chiffon gown brings an effortless elegance to every step. The halter neckline and softly flared A-line silhouette are elevated with godet applications that create a beautiful, airy flow from every angle.
Fit & Features
- Crepe chiffon-lined fabric
- Halter neckline with tie straps
- Back hidden zipper with hook-eye closure
- A-line silhouette, voluminous design
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, prom, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, balls, spring galas, bridal showers, destination events, formal celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001321
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $99.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: LAVENDER
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Amy Floral Rhinestone Mesh Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made for the kind of entrance that lingers, the Amy mesh mermaid gown shimmers with all-over mini rhinestone embellishments and a tropical floral print that feels both bold and refined. A scoop neckline, delicate spaghetti straps, and lace-up open back contour into a ruched, floor-length silhouette designed to captivate from every angle.
Fit & Features
- Tropical floral print, mini rhinestone embellishments
- Mesh-lined fabric with high stretch
- Scoop neckline, padded bra cups, spaghetti straps
- Lace-up open back
- Ruched mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, vacations, destination weddings, honeymoons, resorts, sunset receptions, birthday dinners, date nights, engagement parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001331
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: ORANGE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Mireille Leopard Chiffon Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Mireille floor-length gown brings effortless drama to every RSVP. Designed in airy chiffon fabric with a leopard print, this A-line dress features a plunging neckline, strappy open tie back, and high front slit that moves beautifully from cocktail hour to the dance floor.
Fit & Features
- Leopard print, chiffon fabric, mesh lining
- Plunge halter neckline with bar accent
- Open back with detachable beaded chain, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Side waist cutout, hardware insert
- High front slit
- Flowy A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, engagement parties, vacations, honeymoons, destination celebrations, birthday dinners, cocktail soirees, and fashion-forward events.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001317
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $129.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: LEOPARD
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Helga Satin Beaded Lace-Up Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for evenings that call for drama and poise, the Helga knit satin dress features a mermaid silhouette that moves with fluid elegance and sculpted confidence. A beaded sequin bodice, lace-up back, and high front wrap slit create a striking balance of structure and allure.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin-lined fabric
- Sweetheart pleated neckline with satin trim
- Spaghetti straps, padded bust
- Lace-up open back design, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Beaded sequin fitted bodice with flexible boning
- High front wrap slit
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black-tie weddings, gala dinners, red-carpet occasions, milestone birthdays, award nights, destination celebrations, special date nights, engagement parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001319
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $119.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kiley Foil Strappy Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for shining under the dance floor lights, the Kiley gown moves with a liquid-like drape that catches the light with every step. Crafted in slinky foil fabric, the mermaid silhouette is finished with a soft cowl neck, a strappy open tie back, and a high front slit that feels equal parts refined and captivating.
Fit & Features
- Slinky foil fabric with knit lining, moderate stretch
- Cowl neck with spaghetti straps
- Strappy open tie back with adjustable fit
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- High front slit
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black-tie weddings, galas, upscale cocktail parties, milestone birthdays, special occasion dinners, formal celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001329
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: GOLD, LIGHT, BLUE
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
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Alice Glitter Mesh Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made for your slow-motion entrance, the Alice glitter mesh mermaid gown catches the light with every step while sculpting your silhouette in all the right places. The sweetheart neckline and ruched bodice bring a soft, romantic allure.
Fit & Features
- Glitter mini rhinestone embellished mesh fabric, knit lining
- Sweetheart neckline, ruched bust, spaghetti straps, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Gathered front knot accent
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, birthdays, red-carpet occasions, black tie weddings, galas, award events, fancy celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001324
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Elle Lace Off-The-Shoulder Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Elle dress is designed for the kind of entrance that lingers long after the evening ends. Crafted in delicate lace with a sculpted mermaid silhouette, it features an off-the-shoulder neckline, flared bell sleeves, and a softly contoured fit that feels equal parts timeless and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Lace fabric, smooth knit lining
- Off-the-shoulder, sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Sheer fitted long bell sleeves
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, formal galas, engagement parties, special date nights, vacations, honeymoons, cocktail soirees, fancy birthday brunches, bridal showers, fashion-forward events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001337
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- New Arrival
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Soraya Glitter A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for your most RSVP-worthy moments, the Soraya glitter mesh gown catches the light with every step and flows into an effortless A-line silhouette. A flattering V-neckline and lace-up cutout back add just the right amount of allure.
Fit & Features
- Glitter pattern, mesh fabric, tulle and satin linings
- V-neckline, padded bra cups, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lace-up cutout back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- A-line silhouette, bonded floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, big birthday events, black tie galas, spring balls, red carpet occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001356
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $149.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: ROYAL
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Elira Floral Chiffon Ruffle Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The kind of dress that turns every step into a moment, the Elira floral-print chiffon gown floats effortlessly in its tiered, ruffled A-line silhouette. A strapless corset bodice with lace-up back and a high front slit makes for an unforgettable entrance.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, chiffon fabric, knit lining
- Strapless corset bodice, flexible boning, padded bra cups
- Lace-up back placket, zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit
- Tiered ruffled A-line silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, galas, rehearsal dinners, cocktail parties, engagement parties, bridal showers, baby showers, fancy birthday brunches, elevated birthdays, and milestone celebrations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001339
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $149.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PEACH
Available Size: 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kensie Floral Chiffon Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Kensie floral print chiffon gown floats with every step while the corset bodice sculpts and defines. The lace-up back and a-line fit strike that perfect balance of romantic and refined, ideal for when the RSVP calls for something unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Floral print design, chiffon-lined fabric
- Sweetheart neckline with sheer insert, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Corset-structured bodice, flexible boning
- High front slit, A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, bridal celebrations, rehearsal dinners, engagement photoshoots and parties, birthday brunches, formal milestone events, graduations, anniversaries, spring balls, galas
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001345
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $129.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, PRINT
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Dana Corset Lace-Up Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for your most unforgettable entrance, the Dana mermaid gown sculpts and shimmers in all the right places. A sheer mesh corset bodice with sequin embellishment meets a sleek skirt and lace-up cutout back, creating a daring look.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit-lined stretchy fabric
- Strapless sheer mesh corset bodice, sequin embellished
- Flexible boning, lace-up cutout back
- Lower back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Ruched waist accent
- Mermaid floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black-tie weddings, galas, fancy celebrations, and red carpet events.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001362
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $129.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Leslie Sequin Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
For evenings that call for undeniable glamour, the Leslie dress captures attention with effortless poise. Sequin embellished fabric pairs with a satin pleated sweetheart neckline and mermaid silhouette, while a high front slit and cutout back add a striking finish.
Fit & Features
- Sequin-embellished, mesh-lined fabric
- Satin pleated sweetheart neckline
- Sewn-in padded bra cups, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Cutout back with hook strap closure, zipper with hook-eye closure
- High front slit
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie weddings, elegant receptions, formal galas, balls, glamorous celebrations, anniversary dinners, engagement parties, dressy date nights, red carpet occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001366
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY, PINK
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M
Product Badge:- Sale