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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Candence Rhinestone Formal Dress
Special Occasion
For the kind of entrance that lingers long after you’ve crossed the room, the Candence dress is pure after-dark elegance. Designed in a rhinestone embellished pattern over mesh, this mermaid fit stuns with a plunge V-neckline and dramatic open back—perfect for when the invitation calls for something unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Rhinestone-embellished pattern, mesh-lined fabric
- Plunge V-neckline, wide shoulder straps
- Open back design, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie galas, formal milestone celebrations, big birthday events, red-carpet evenings
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001472
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $159.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLUE
Available Size: M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Heather Crepe Satin Lace-Up Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Effortlessly refined, the Heather crepe mermaid gown is designed for moments that call for quiet confidence and timeless polish. Satin fabric drapes the strapless neckline while a lace-up back adds a subtle statement, creating a look that feels elevated, intentional, and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Satin fabric trim and crepe fabric
- Strapless pleated neckline, non-slip grip lining
- Lace-up back
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie weddings, formal ceremonies, cocktail receptions, milestone celebrations, anniversary dinners, award dinners, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, fashion events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001460
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Molly Floral Pleated A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Molly floral chiffon A-line gown moves like a dream with every step. The sweetheart strapless neckline and softly pleated skirt create a romantic silhouette that feels effortlessly elevated for any special occasion.
Fit & Features
- Paisley floral print, chiffon fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Keyhole bust cutout with tie
- Mini lace-up back, open back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Pleated A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Destination and outdoor weddings, vacations, resort dinners, honeymoons, birthday soirees, summer cocktail parties, bridal showers, fashion-forward events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001464
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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Susan Floral A-Line Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Romantic yet refreshingly modern, the Susan floor-length gown feels like stepping into a garden soirée with confidence. The statement floral print sweeps across the structured bodice and full skirt, while hidden side pockets add an effortless ease.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin fabric, floral pattern, tulle and satin linings
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- A-line silhouette, hidden side pockets
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie weddings, galas, spring balls, fancy bridal showers, anniversary parties, derby event, big birthday events
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-000032
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $159.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Constance Satin A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for elegant entrances and unforgettable evenings, the Constance dress moves with quiet confidence and timeless allure. Crafted in satin with a strapless neckline and fluid A-line silhouette, it delivers graceful drama through soft pleating and a sweeping floor-length hem.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin fabric, crepe bonded hem lining
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups, non-slip grip lining
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Form-hugging bodice, asymmetric low waist seam
- A-line pleated silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie weddings, galas, balls, formal celebrations, nights at the opera, award dinners, fancy date nights, anniversary parties, fashion-forward events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001462
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Jemma Halter Lace-Up Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
The Jemma gown is the definition of understated drama, designed for the kind of entrance that feels effortless yet unforgettable. Crafted in sleek knit with a sculpting mermaid silhouette, it features a refined square halter neck and a striking lace-up back that adds a modern, alluring finish.
Fit & Features
- Sleek knit-lined fabric with subtle sheen
- Square halter neckline with tie straps
- Lace-up back design
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black-tie weddings, galas, formal celebrations, engagement parties, elegant anniversaries, rehearsal dinners, and birthday soirees.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001461
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN, NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Megan Leopard Floral A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Romantic with a touch of drama, the Megan A-line dress moves beautifully with every step, designed for moments that call for something unforgettable. Featuring a leopard floral print, a flattering V-neck, and a lace-up open back, it finishes with ruffled trim and a high front ruffled slit for a look that feels both polished and bold.
Fit & Features
- Lace-lined fabric with leopard floral print throughout
- V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- A-line silhouette with ruffled trim
- High front ruffled slit
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, formal celebrations, destination vacations, special date nights, birthday events, fancy brunches, engagement parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001463
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Jaylene Satin Corset Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made for the kind of entrance that turns heads mid-step, the Jaylene mermaid gown delivers sculpted drama with every movement. The sequin embellished corset bodice, low open back, and high front slit come together in an undeniably striking silhouette.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, smooth knit lining
- V-neckline, adjustable spagehtti straps, padded bra cups
- Sheer sequin corset mesh bodice, flexible boning
- Low open back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front wrap slit
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie occasions, weddings, galas, balls, formal celebrations, red carpet events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001476
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $99.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE, NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Vivienne Floral Brocade Lace-Up Dress
Special Occasion
The Vivienne is the kind of gown that turns every entrance into a slow-motion moment. Designed in a dreamy brocade fabric with an airy A-line silhouette, this dress pairs a softly draped cowl neckline with a striking lace-up back for that unforgettable “where did you get that?” effect.
Fit & Features
- Chiffon fabric with smooth woven lining
- Sleeveless with adjustable straps
- Draped cowl neckline
- Floral brocade design
- Side hidden zipper and hook-eye closure
- Lace-up back design
- Floor length A-line silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, galas, weddings, and black-tie affairs.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001478
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $109.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK, SAGE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Natasha Satin A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Natasha gown captures that perfect balance of elegance and allure for evenings that call for something unforgettable. Designed in satin with a softly draped cowl neckline, this A-line gown features a lace-up strappy back and a high front wrap slit that moves beautifully with every step.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin fabric, smooth knit lining
- Cowl neckline, spaghetti straps, padded bra cups
- Strappy lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front wrap slit
- A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, bridesmaids, weddings, formal rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, black tie galas, balls, milestone celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001474
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK, NAVY
Available Size: L, S
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Sandy Satin Tie-Back Chiffon Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Effortless elegance meets modern allure in the Sandy gown designed to glide with every step. A mermaid silhouette flows into a sheer chiffon floor-length hem, while the tie-open back adds a soft, romantic finish that feels refined yet unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, short knit lining
- V-neckline, spaghetti straps, padded bra cups
- Open tie-back design, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Sheer chiffon floor-length hem with train
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, black tie galas, formal celebrations, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, red-carpet occasions, fashion-forward events, award dinners, fancy birthday parties, milestone celebrations, special date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001484
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Sale
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Mckensie Glitter Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made for your slow-turn moment, the Mckensie glitter knit mermaid gown hugs in all the right places before softly flaring for a fluid, sculpted finish. The delicate tie front and open back detail add a touch of intrigue, striking that perfect balance between polished and alluring.
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit-lined fabric, moderate stretch
- Plunge V-neckline with tie front
- Spaghetti straps
- Open tie-back
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black tie events, galas, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, birthdays, prom, resort destinations, vacations, formal celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001486
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN, LAVENDER
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Elana Floral A-Line Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Elana floral organza gown floats with every step, blending a structured corset bodice with a soft, romantic a-line silhouette. Tie shoulder straps and a high front slit add just the right amount of movement and allure, perfect for moments that call for a little extra drama.
Fit & Features
- Floral pattern, organza woven fabric with lsatin lining
- Sweetheart neckline, tie shoulder straps, padded bra cups
- Corset-structured bodice, flexible boning
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit
- A-line silhouette, ruffled trim floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, galas, bridal showers, engagement celebrations, resort dinners, vacations, derby days, anniversaries, formal events, big birthday celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001489
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $149.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: RED
Available Size: 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Karla Leopard Floral A-Line Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Playful yet polished, the Karla A-line mini dress is designed for moments that call for a confident, fashion-forward look. A corset-inspired bodice meets a flirty A-line mini fit, while leopard and floral prints create a striking mix that feels elevated and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Leopard, floral print, metallic thread organza fabric
- Tulle and woven linings
- Corset-inspired bodice with structured seaming, drop waist seam
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- A-line mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, birthday parties, milestone celebrations, bachelorettes, bridal showers, fashion-forward events, date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000698
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: LEOPARD
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Sale
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Sallie Floral A-Line Dress With Pockets
Special Occasion
Playful yet polished, the Sallie A-line short dress is made for twirl-worthy moments that still feel refined. The garden floral print, V-neckline, and ruffle trim shoulder straps bring a romantic charm, while the lace-up open back adds a hint of allure from every angle.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, jacquard fabric, smooth woven lining
- V-neckline, ruffle trim straps
- Lace-up open back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Hidden side pockets
- A-line silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bridal celebrations, engagement photoshoots and parties, graduations, birthday brunches, afternoon tea, dressy baby showers, vacations, honeymoons
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000699
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $64.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: IVORY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Best Seller
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Jayla Sequin Cutout Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for entrances that linger, the Jayla sequin mermaid gown catches the light with every step. A sculpted cutout detail adds modern allure, balancing sleek lines with a confident, polished feel made for unforgettable evenings.
Fit & Features
- Sequin-embellished mesh fabric, knit lining
- V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, padded bra cups
- Cutout bodice, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie galas, formal milestone celebrations, special date nights, fancy birthdays, red-carpet occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001490
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: RED
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M
Product Badge:- Sale
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Faith Sequin Pearl Bead Formal Dress
Special Occasion
This is the gown you choose when the night calls for pure glamour and a little drama. Designed in a beaded sequin mermaid silhouette with a plunging halter v neck and open back, it skims every curve before flaring into a floor-length finish that glistens from every angle.
Fit & Features
- Bead, sequin, and faux pearl embellishments
- Mesh fabric with knit lining
- Halter V-neckline with hook-eye strap, padded bra cups
- Open back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, galas, upscale receptions, red carpet awards event, luxury dinners, pageants, milestone anniversary party, birthdays, fashion-forward events, special date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001494
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $134.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: LAVENDER
Available Size: S, M
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Melissa Corset Tulle A-Line Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Designed to feel nothing short of breathtaking, the Melissa ball gown brings a sense of grandeur to every entrance. Layers of airy tulle flow from a sculpted corset bodice adorned with rhinestones, applique, and gemstone detailing, creating a look that feels regal, romantic, and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Soft tulle fabric with knit lining
- Corset bodice with rhinestone, applique, and gemstone detailing, padded bra cups
- Sweetheart neckline, spaghetti straps
- Lace up back, hidden zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit
- A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, formal balls, galas, black tie celebrations, sweet sixteen, milestone birthday events, formal award ceremonies, elegant red-carpet occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-000048
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $239.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Clarie Floral Poplin A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Clarie A-line formal dress is made for those beautifully dressed moments. Crafted from floral print woven poplin, this midi-length A-line dress features a softly ruched bodice, delicate tie straps, and a full skirt that moves with effortless charm.
Fit & Features
- Floral hem print, poplin woven fabric, sewn-in knit lining
- Square neckline,
- Tie spaghetti straps
- Ruched bodice
- Hidden side pockets
- A-line midi-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bridal celebrations, baby showers, birthday brunches, garden parties, honeymoons, vacations, formal celebrations, winery weekends
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000701
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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Quinn Soutache A-Line Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Striking a balance between romance and refinement, The Quinn dress is designed for moments that call for quiet drama and confident presence. Delicate soutache detailing elevates the flowing A-line silhouette, while the high front slit and bonded floor-length hem create a finish that feels polished and intentional.
Fit & Features
- Mesh satin-lined fabric with dimensional soutache detailing
- V-neckline with adjustable spaghetti straps, padded bra cups
- Hidden back zipper and hook-eye closure
- A line silhouette
- High front slit
- Bonded floor length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie galas, weddings, engagement parties, milestone celebrations, big birthday events, elegant cocktail receptions, red-carpet occasions, formal balls
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001495
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $149.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Nyla Satin Floral A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made for twirling entrances and lingering glances, the Nyla satin A-line dress brings a romantic floral print to life with every step. The structured corset bodice and lace-up back sculpt the silhouette, while hidden side pockets add stylish convenience.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, premium satin, woven lining
- Sweetheart strapless neckline, pleated bust, padded bra cups
- Corset-structured bodice, flexible boning
- Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Hidden side pockets
- High front slit, A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, bridal celebrations, rehearsal dinners, engagement photoshoots and parties, garden parties, fancy birthdays, galas, destination celebrations, formal soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001497
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Denise Satin Bow A-Line Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The Denise dress turns a simple entrance into a moment—sleek, luminous, and designed to captivate from every angle. Crafted from premium satin in an a-line fit, it features delicate faux pearl trim and a statement back bow that feels equal parts timeless and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin fabric, lined
- Sweetheart neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps with faux pearl trim
- Low-cut back, statement bow with faux pearl trim
- A-line mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bridal celebrations, wedding receptions, birthdays, graduations, sorority formals, garden parties, fancy brunches, rehearsal dinners, engagement photoshoots and parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000702
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $74.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: IVORY
Available Size: M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Best Seller
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Bow Steals the Show Satin Wrap Shawl
All eyes, no effort. This satin statement bow wrap shawl with train ties the whole look together—perfect for elevated nights out, formal moments, or when the outfit needs a little drama without trying too hard.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin structured woven fabric
- Statement oversized bow
- Dramatic shawl design with flowing train
Style Number/Barcode: 05008-000001
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK, WHITE
Available Size: S/M, M/L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Madeline Strapless Tie-Back A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Softly fluid and endlessly chic, the Madeline strapless A-line dress brings effortless glamour to any formal moment. A chic tie-back detail enhances the silhouette with a subtle, feminine touch.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit fabric with full-length knit lining, high stretch
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, padded bust, ruching
- Open back with tie-back design
- Lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Floor-length A-line silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, wedding guests, bridesmaids, black-tie parties, dressed-up dinners, galas, red-carpet events, and chic soirees.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001508
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE, DENIM
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free