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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Melissa Crochet Floral Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Melissa crochet mermaid gown brings effortless glamour with every step. The plunging halter neckline, floral applique insets, and open tie back create a striking silhouette that brings a coastal allure to every occasion.
Fit & Features
- Crochet texture woven fabric, sheer mesh lining
- Plunge halter neckline, tie straps, beaded accents
- Open tie-back design, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bridal celebrations, beach weddings, destination weddings, coastal formals, engagement parties, vacations, honeymoons, bridal showers, birthday dinners, celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001395
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: IVORY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Valerie Polka Dot Ruffle Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made for that slow-turn, stop-and-stare moment, the Valerie polka dot mermaid gown moves with every step like it knows it’s being watched. The strapless sweetheart neckline, ruched bodice, and cascading ruffle tiers bring a playful kind of drama that feels equal parts polished and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Polka dot print, organza woven fabric with full-length lining
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, keyhole cutout at the bust, padded bra cups, non-slip grip lining
- Lace-up back with tie closure, lower back cutout detail, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Sculpted ruffled design
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette with a bonded hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, garden parties, galas, upscale birthday events, formal milestone celebrations, fancy brunches, tea parties, race days, derby days, and black-tie occasions.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001396
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $129.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: IVORY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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McKenzie Floral Slit A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Softly draped and undeniably striking, the McKenzie floral dress was made for candlelit receptions, rooftop celebrations, and every entrance worth remembering. This floral mesh gown features an off-the-shoulder neckline, allover ruching, and a dramatic thigh-high slit that brings movement and modern romance to the silhouette.
Fit & Features
- Floral pattern, mesh-lined fabric
- Ruched off-the-shoulder neckline
- High front slit
- A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, summer galas, birthday dinners, cocktail soirees, garden parties, black tie celebrations, special date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001398
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Untamed Charm Stone Beaded Maxi Dress
The kind of dress that changes the whole mood the second you walk in. With textured zebra burnout fabric, statement stone beaded straps, and a leg-baring front slit, this maxi dress was made for destination dinners, cocktail hour, and plans that call for a little extra confidence.
Fit & Features
- Burnout velvet zeubra striped pattern, mesh-lined fabric
- V-neckline
- Stone beaded spagehtti straps and back strap accent
- Open back design
- High front slit
- Flowy maxi-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001400
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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Nanci Floral Sequin Lace Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for evenings that call for something unforgettable, the Nanci lace bodycon dress catches the light with delicate sequins and floral applique. The sleek silhouette sculpts the figure while the cutout back adds a striking finish that feels equal parts polished and alluring.
Fit & Features
- Floral applique, sequin lace-lined fabric
- Strapless neckline with a padded bust
- Cutout back with hook strap, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon mini silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, bridal celebrations, birthdays, fancy brunches, engagement parties, cocktail soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000686
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $119.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, PRINT
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Emily Floral Open Back Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Emily mesh mermaid gown hugs in all the right places with a sculpted silhouette and striking hardware cutout detail. The ruched finish and halter neckline bring just the right amount of drama—perfect for when the RSVP calls for something unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, mesh-lined fabric
- Halter sweetheart neckline with tie straps
- Open back
- Cutout bodice with hardware insert
- Ruched mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear
Bridal celebrations, engagement photoshoots, garden parties, birthday brunches, rehearsal dinners, honeymoons, vacations, formal celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001399
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, PRINT
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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Brookelle Sequin Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Brookelle formal dress was made for the spotlight—sleek, luminous, and endlessly glamorous. Draped in shimmering sequins over mesh, it features a soft cowl neckline, delicate straps, and a daring side slit that moves with liquid shine. Every step feels like a grand entrance.
Fit & Features
- Mesh-lined fabric with allover sequin embellishment
- Draped cowl neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Form-fitting silhouette
- High side slit
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black-tie weddings, gala events, holiday parties, New Year's Eve celebrations, formal dinners, red-carpet occasions, luxe soirees, glam industry events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001402
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Gretchen Satin Plunge Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Gretchen formal dress was made for the spotlight—sleek, sculpted, and utterly captivating. Crafted from a satin knit that catches the light with every move, it features a plunging neckline, elegant pleating, and a high slit that defines effortless glamour.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric
- Plunge sweetheart neckline
- Draped pleating accents
- High front wrap slit
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black-tie gala, red-carpet occasions, formal weddings, upscale receptions, holiday parties, anniversaries, date nights, fashion-forward events, fancy birthday dinners
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001401
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Coleen Cowl Neck Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for a slow, striking entrance, the Coleen mermaid gown drapes effortlessly with its soft cowl neckline and fluid silhouette. Spaghetti straps, sculpting princess seams, and a high front slit bring just the right balance of elegance and allure for your most memorable RSVP.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit-lined stretchy fabric
- Cowl neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- High front slit, princess seams
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, prom, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, cocktail parties, graduations, formal celebrations, anniversaries, birthday dinners, date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001404
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: RUST
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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Vivian Satin High Low Formal Dress
Special Occasion
For evenings that call for something unforgettable, the Vivian satin high-low gown balances drama and polish in one sweeping silhouette. The embroidered corset with sequins and boning sculpts the bodice, while the lace-up back and flowing A-line fit create a striking finish from every angle.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric with smooth drape
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
- Embroidered sheer corset, sequins, flexible boning
- Lace-up back design
- High-low A-line silhouette with mini underlay
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie weddings, galas, spring balls, upscale receptions, formal celebrations, big birthday events, elegant engagement parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001415
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $139.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Emeline Crepe Strapless Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Emeline formal gown is all about timeless allure with a modern twist. Crafted from sleek crepe, it features a scalloped strapless neckline that flatters every curve, paired with a sculpted fit and high front slit—made for the kind of entrance that turns heads and lingers in memory.
Fit & Features
- Crepe fabric
- Scallop trim strapless sweetheart neckline
- Back zipper closure
- Sculpted bodice
- High front slit
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black-tie weddings, formal receptions, galas or charity event dinners, luxe celebrations, engagement parties, holiday soirees, red-carpet evenings, romantic date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001406
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Michelle Glitter Cutout Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Michelle formal dress was made to mesmerize under the lights. Designed in glitter mesh that catches every angle, this long-sleeve gown features a sweetheart neckline, side cutout, and ruched detailing that flatters every curve. Finished with a thigh-high slit and mermaid silhouette—it’s your moment to own the night.
Fit & Features
- Glitter mesh-lined stretch fabric
- Sweetheart neckline, wrap bodice
- Fitted sheer long sleeves
- Cutout bodice
- High front slit
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black-tie galas, formal celebrations, holiday and NYE parties, red-carpet events, birthdays, fashion-forward occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001411
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Regina Satin Halter Corset Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Regina formal gown was made for unforgettable entrances. Crafted in lustrous satin with a plunging halter neckline and corset bodice, it sculpts and drapes in all the right places. The soft pleating and high front slit add a touch of old-Hollywood allure with a modern, red-carpet finish.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin fabric with glossy sheen
- Plunge halter neckline
- Corset-structured bodice, flexible boning
- Back zipper closure
- High side slit
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Formal galas, evening receptions, weddings, black-tie events, anniversary dinners, red-carpet occasions, holiday parties, elegant celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001405
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Jill Floral Jacquard A-Line Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Made for the kind of entrance that lingers, the Jill floral jacquard A-line dress moves with a soft, sculpted ease that feels both polished and playful. The cutout bar back adds just enough intrigue, balancing the structured silhouette with a hint of unexpected allure.
Fit & Features
- Floral jacquard print woven fabric, tulle and knit linings
- Square neckline, wide shoulder straps, padded bra cups
- Cutout back with hook-eye strap
- Drop waist seam
- Voluminous A-line mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bridal showers, engagement parties and photoshoots, birthday brunches, graduations, sorority events, daytime soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000687
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, PRINT
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Sam Crepe One-Shoulder Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Built for your slow-motion entrance, the Sam one-shoulder gown turns every step into a moment. The crepe fabric hugs just right, while the asymmetric cutout and thigh-high slit deliver that chic, whisper-sexy energy—effortless, modern, and impossible to forget.
Fit & Features
- Crepe fabric
- One-shoulder neckline with cutout
- Fitted long sleeve
- High side slit
- Column silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black-tie weddings, formal celebrations, galas, holiday parties, cocktail soirees, big birthday events, engagement parties, red-carpet events, New Year's Eve
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001413
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Lexis Glitter Crew Neck Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Lexis formal dress is drama done right—sleek, sculpted, and designed to shimmer. With a geometric glitter pattern that catches the light from every angle, this long-sleeve gown features a high side slit that moves effortlessly with you all night long.
Fit & Features
- Geometric glitter pattern, knit-lined stretch fabric
- Crew neckline
- Fitted long sleeves
- High side slit
- Form-hugging silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black-tie galas, upscale evening events, holiday parties, New Year's Eve celebrations, wedding receptions, red-carpet occasions, formal dinners, luxe cocktail parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001409
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Reya Low Back Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Reya gown skims the figure with fluid slinky fabric that moves beautifully from every angle. The draped cowl neckline, artful ruching, and thigh-high slit bring a modern elegance to this mermaid gown, creating a look that feels effortlessly polished.
Fit & Features
- Knit fabric with subtle sheen, knit lining
- Cowl neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Low back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- High side slit
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black tie weddings, bridesmaids, galas, luxury vacations, anniversaries, elegant date nights, cocktail soirees, award dinners, fancy birthday celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001403
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: TEAL
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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Georgina Glitter Cutout Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Georgina formal dress blends shimmering glitter knit fabric with a sleek, form-hugging long silhouette. A sleeveless halter sweetheart neckline with hardware stone and ball inserts, side cutout bodice, hoop detail, and high side slit create a look that feels equal parts polished and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit fabric, smooth knit lining, high stretch
- Halter neckline, padded bra cups, hardware stone and ball inset
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Side bodice cutout, hoop waist insert
- High side slit
- Form-hugging long-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Destination weddings, cocktail celebrations, birthday dinners, vacations, honeymoons, resort getaways, date nights, luxury cruises, yacht parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001423
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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Gina Satin Corset Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed to command attention, the Gina formal gown blends sleek satin with sculpted detailing for a look that defines modern allure. The strapless scoop neckline and corset bodice accentuate every curve, while ruched cutouts and a floor-length mermaid silhouette bring pure red-carpet energy to any event.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin fabric
- Strapless scoop neckline
- Corset-structured bodice, flexible boning
- Side cutouts and ruched waist detailing
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black-tie weddings, galas, evening receptions, formal celebrations, holiday parties, anniversaries, fancy date nights, cocktail soirees, red-carpet occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001410
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Chance Floral Sequin Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Softly romantic with a confident silhouette, the Chance floral sequin mermaid gown is made for moments that call for quiet drama and polished allure. The lace-up back adds a custom feel, balancing elegance with just enough intrigue.
Fit & Features
- Mesh fabric with large floral print, full-length knit lining, high stretch
- All-over clear sequin embellishments
- Sleeveless V-neckline, padded bust
- Dual spaghetti straps, lace-up back with tie closure
- Hidden side zipper with hook-eye closure
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, big birthday events, resort formal evenings, milestone celebrations, special date nights, and destination soirees.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001420
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLUE
Available Size: XXS, XS, S
Product Badge:- Sale
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Miley Satin High Low A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for the kind of entrance that lingers, the Miley satin gown pairs a sculpted A-line silhouette with an embellished strapless corset bodice that catches the light with every step. The lace-up back adds a custom-fit feel, balancing structure and softness in a look that’s equal parts polished and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin lined fabric
- Strapless corset sheer bodice, embellished, flexible boning
- Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- High-low A-line silhouette
- Floor-length detail
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie weddings, spring galas, glamorous events, red-carpet occasions, big birthday events, elegant celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001416
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $139.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE
Available Size: XS
Product Badge:- Sale
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Sinclair Satin Corset Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Softly luminous and undeniably refined, the Sinclair satin mermaid gown is made for evenings that linger a little longer. The embroidered bodice with sequins and sculpted detailing highlights the neckline, while the curve-skimming skirt and front slit create a fluid, floor length finish that feels both polished and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin-lined fabric with subtle sheen
- Embroidered bodice with sequins and lining
- Sweetheart neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Fitted mermaid silhouette with front slit
- Floor length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie weddings, galas, balls, elegant anniversary parties, grand celebrations, big birthday events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001418
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $149.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: DENIM
Available Size: XS
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Julyana Printed Ruffle Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made for moonlit entrances and unforgettable evenings, this mesh gown brings dramatic movement to every step. The halter neckline, beaded tie detail, and tiered ruffle skirt create a striking silhouette that feels equal parts effortless and alluring.
Fit & Features
- Mixed animal print, mesh fabric, knit lining
- Halter neckline, spaghetti straps
- Open tie-back detail, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Layered ruffled A-line silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Destination weddings, vacations, honeymoons, cocktail parties, birthday dinners, engagement parties, fashion-forward events, formal celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001435
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $99.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kelsey Sequin Floral Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for entrances that linger, the Kelsey sequin mermaid gown moves with a soft, romantic fluidity that feels instantly elevated. A floral pattern, lace-up back, and high side slit bring polish with just enough allure for unforgettable moments.
Fit & Features
- Floral pattern, sequin fabric, knit lining
- V-neckline, padded bra cups, spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back design, zipper and hook-eye closure
- High side slit
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, black tie galas, resort soirees, fancy milestone celebrations, red-carpet occasions, balls, anniversaries, garden parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001424
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK
Available Size: XXS, XS, S
Product Badge:- Sale