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.
Now Trending
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!
-
Belle Rhinestone Pearl Mini Dress
Special Occasion
For the moments that call for pure sparkle and poise, this rhinestone and faux pearl knit-lined mini brings a sculpted, spotlight-worthy glow. The strapless corset bodice, flexible boning inserts, and bodycon silhouette work together to create a look that feels refined, radiant, and undeniably unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit-lined fabric with structured stretch
- Strapless neckline with contoured bodice seaming
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Boned construction throughout the bodice for shaping
- Rhinestone and faux pearl embellishments arranged across the dress
- Bodycon mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Holiday parties, New Year's Eve, date nights, bachelorettes, fashion-forward soirees, VIP nights out, Vegas, birthday dinners, cocktail parties, hotel rooftop bars
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000710
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Lindsey Jungle Print Bead Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Designed to turn heads from the first step inside, the Lindsey sequin bodycon mini dress delivers a bold yet polished take on event dressing. Intricate jungle print beading and a sculpted silhouette create a striking balance of confidence and refined glamour.
Fit & Features
- Jungle multi-print pattern
- Beaded, sequin embellishments, mesh-lined fabric
- Strapless sweetheart twist neckline, padded bust
- Side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, milestone birthdays, bachelorettes, date nights, resort destinations, vacations
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000712
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK, PRINT
Available Size: XXS
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Alessandra Corset A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
For the kind of entrance that quiets the room in the best way, the Alessandra gown is all about sculpted drama and fluid movement. Designed with an applique sequin corset bodice, lace-up cutout back, and a mermaid floor-length skirt finished with a high front slit and side pockets, it’s a statement-maker that still feels effortlessly refined.
Fit & Features
- Silky smooth fabric
- pplique sequin corset bodice with structured boning
- Strapless neckline
- A-line floor length silhouette, high front slit
- Lace up cutout back for adjustable fit
- Hidden side pockets
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie weddings, galas, balls, upscale birthday event, red carpet awards ceremony, formal milestone celebrations, anniversary parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001531
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $129.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Summer Tropical Strappy Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Summer dress pairs a sleek satin mermaid fit with a bold tropical floral print that feels equal parts polished and unforgettable. Mini rhinestone embellishments catch the light with every step, while the strappy back detail adds an unexpected, head-turning finish.
Fit & Features
- Tropical floral print, smooth-lined knit fabric with stretch
- Mini rhinestone embellishments
- Strapless neckline, non-slip grip lining, padded bra cups
- Bungee strappy back with mini hoop inserts
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Destination weddings, honeymoons, vacations, resorts, outdoor soirees, prom
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001532
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $74.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: ORANGE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
-
Adeline Satin Column Formal Dress
The Adeline satin column gown brings effortless glamour to every RSVP on your calendar. The strapless neckline, soft pleating, and leg-baring side slit create a sleek silhouette that's polished and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, knit lining
- Strapless tube pleated neckline
- Flexible boning
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Column silhouette
- High side slit, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Wedding guest, bridesmaids, black tie events, engagement parties, galas, formal milestone parties, vacations, honeymoons
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001541
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: GOLD
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- New Arrival
-
London Satin Slit Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
For the invite that calls for something sleek and undeniably chic, the London satin midi dress delivers effortless polish. Designed with a strapless neckline, artful ruching, and a side slit along its form-hugging silhouette, it’s a refined statement made for cocktail hours and candlelit celebrations.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric lined with knit
- Strapless straight neckline, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Form-hugging silhouette
- Ruched detailing through bodice and hips
- Side slit accent
- Midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, cocktail parties, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, date nights, formal celebrations, graduations, bachelorettes, birthday dinners, fashion-forward events
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000715
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY, GOLD
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
-
Carlie Satin Slit Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sleek, sculpted, and made for a polished entrance, the Carlie satin mermaid gown drapes effortlessly with soft pleating and a high front slit that adds just the right touch of allure. It’s the kind of silhouette that feels timeless at first glance—and unforgettable the second you walk in.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, knit lining
- Sweetheart neckline, wide shoulder straps, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Softly pleated bodice
- High front slit
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, bridesmaids, black tie gala, formal celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001547
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: HUNTER, RUST
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Ashton Glitter Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
For the kind of entrance that feels effortless yet unforgettable, the Ashton dress brings just the right amount of shimmer to the room. Designed in glitter fabric with an off-the-shoulder neckline, bodycon midi silhouette, and sleek front slit, it’s a polished statement made for formal evenings alike.
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit stretch fabric, sewn-in knit lining
- Off-the-shoulder neckline
- Flexible boning inserts along the bodice
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Front high slit
- Bodycon midi-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, cocktail parties, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, date nights, anniversary dinners, birthdays, shower celebrations, milestone parties, award nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000720
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $64.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: LIGHT, BLUE
Available Size: XS, S
-
Annabelle High Slit Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Sleek with just the right amount of drama, the Annabelle midi dress is made for the kind of entrance that lingers. Smooth satin shapes the body in a cowl neck midi-length silhouette, finished with soft pleating, ruched detail, and a high slit for that effortlessly chic look.
Fit & Features
- Sleek knit fabric with full-length knit lining, high stretch
- Sleeveless cowl neckline, thin tank shoulder straps, padded bra cups
- Partially open back, ruched lower back
- Pleated detailing
- Faux wrap-front design, high slit
- Midi-length hem, form-hugging silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Wedding guests, bridesmaids, rehearsal dinners, cocktail parties, date nights, anniversaries, and dinner parties.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000716
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE, BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- New Arrival
-
Emma Lace Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Elegant with just the right amount of intrigue, the Emma lace dress was designed for evenings that call for a lasting impression. This lace mermaid gown features a sculpting silhouette, plunging halter neckline, and open back detail that feels timeless, flattering, and undeniably chic.
Fit & Features
- Lace fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Halter neckline, tie straps, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid floor length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Wedding guests, galas, engagement parties, formal milestones, special date nights, vacations, anniversaries, honeymoons
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001549
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Camille Plunge Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Camille mermaid gown brings effortless glamour to every RSVP. The plunging halter neckline, sculpted silhouette, and crystal hardware detail strike the perfect balance between sleek sophistication and after-dark drama.
Fit & Features
- Slinky knit-lined stretchy fabric
- Plunge halter neckline, rhinestone-embellished hardware insert
- Open back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Center front long sash detail
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bridal celebrations, elopements, courthouse weddings, rehearsal dinners, engagement photoshoots, black tie galas, fancy birthday events, red carpet occasions, cocktail soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001550
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Meryl Jacquard Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Tailored yet romantic, the Meryl jacquard mermaid gown is all about sculpted elegance with a modern edge. The structured corset bodice with boning and soft ruching defines the silhouette, while the elongated shape creates a look that feels effortlessly refined from every angle.
Fit & Features
- Jacquard fabric with subtle textured pattern
- Square neckline, wide tank straps
- Corset bodice with structured boning
- Mermaid silhouette with floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, wedding guests, graduations, birthdays, formal events, rehearsal dinners, vacations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001554
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: RED, BROWN
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Willa Western Faux Suede Fringe Dress
Special Occasion
For the nights that call for something a little unexpected, the Willa faux suede dress brings western-inspired flair. The embroidered studded design and swaying beaded fringe create movement with every step, while the lace-up back adds a striking finish from every angle.
Fit & Features
- Western-embroidered studded pattern
- Faux suede fabric lined with knit
- V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bdoycon fit
- Fringe beaded edge trim, mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Festivals, concerts, rodeos, Western trips
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000723
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Chantelle Chevron A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
There’s something effortlessly captivating about a dress that moves with ease from ceremony to afterparty, and the Chantelle chevron crochet gown does exactly that. Designed with beaded spaghetti straps and a strappy open tie back, the A-line floor-length silhouette feels polished with just the right amount of allure.
Fit & Features
- Chevron crochet fabric, stretchy knit lining
- V-neckline
- Spaghetti straps with beaded accents
- Strappy open tie back design, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Destination weddings, vacations, honeymoons, resorts, dinner parties, semi-formal events and occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001562
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $84.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLUE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Ginger Beaded Open Back Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for the kind of entrance that lingers long after the evening ends, the Ginger dress balances sultry elegance with striking detail. Crafted in printed mesh with a mermaid silhouette, it features a draped halter cowl neckline, artful ruching, and a beaded open-back design that feels equal parts glamorous and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Snakeskin print, mesh fabric, knit lining
- Cowl halter neckline
- Open back with beaded strap detail, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bachelorettes, birthday dinners, vacations, honeymoons, resort getaways, date nights, cocktail parties, fashion-forward events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001564
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $74.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK, PRINT
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
-
Holly Crochet Halter Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Holly crochet mermaid gown was made for the kind of entrance that lingers long after the night ends. Featuring a plunging halter neckline, sculpted silhouette, and open back detail, it brings a modern romance to every dressed-up evening on your calendar.
Fit & Features
- Crochet fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Halter V-neckline with tie straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, elopements, courthouse weddings, receptions, bridal celebrations, rehearsal dinners, engagement photoshoots, anniversaries, honeymoons, formal milestone parties, galas
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001565
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $64.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: IVORY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
-
Bella Chiffon Lace-Up Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Bella chiffon dress floats with effortless elegance from every angle. Designed in airy chiffon with a sweeping A-line silhouette, this gown is finished with sculptural hardware straps and a lace-up open back that feels equal parts timeless and striking.
Fit & Features
- Chiffon fabric, smooth lining
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Hardware inserts, wide shoulder straps
- Lace-up strappy back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Flowy A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Wedding guests, summer galas, engagement parties, birthday dinners, special date nights, vacations, honeymoons, resorts, cocktail soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001563
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $99.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Seraphine Off-The-Shoulder Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Seraphine mesh gown was made for candlelit entrances and dance floors that don’t quit. The off shoulder neckline, ruched waist detail, and thigh high slit create a sculpted mermaid silhouette that feels equal parts polished and alluring.
Fit & Features
- Mesh fabric, knit lining
- Off-the-shoulder folded neckline, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High side slit
- Wrap knot waist accent
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black tie weddings, galas, engagement parties, birthday dinners, formal celebrations, vacations, honeymoons, date nights, cocktail parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001558
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- New Arrival
-
Harley Halter Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Built for your after-dark entrance, the Harley mermaid gown brings sleek drama with a plunging halter neckline and sculpted ruching through the bodice. A hardware accent and flowing front drape add movement, polish, and just enough intrigue for the RSVP that said dress to impress.
Fit & Features
- Slinky knit stretchy fabric
- Plunge scallop trim halter neckline
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black tie weddings, summer galas, upscale birthday events, honeymoons, vacations, resort getaways, Vegas, girls night, dressy date nights, fashion-forward occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001561
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
-
Nadia Open Back Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The kind of silhouette that leaves a lasting impression, the Nadia formal dress is designed for moments that call for effortless glamour. Crafted from slinky knit fabric, this floor-length mermaid gown features a flattering V-neck, delicate spaghetti straps, and an open back finished with detachable beaded straps and a graceful drape accent.
Fit & Features
- Slinky knit-lined stretchy fabric
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Open back, detachable beaded straps, lower drape accent
- Mermaid form-hugging silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, birthday dinners, vacations, honeymoons, resort getaways, cocktail parties, date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001570
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: RUST, OLIVE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Gianna Striped Linen A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasions
Effortlessly striking and made for sun-drenched celebrations, the Gianna dress brings together a softly textured striped linen fabric with a modern asymmetrical silhouette. The ruched bodice, side cutout detail, and flowing a-line skirt create beautiful movement, while the open tie-back design adds an unexpected finishing touch.
Fit & Features
- Striped pattern, subtle metallic threads, linen-blend fabric, sewn-in bodice lining
- Asymmetrical neckline, spaghetti straps
- Open tie-back detail, side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Side cutout, ruched bodice accent
- A-line silhouette, high side slit
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Outdoor weddings, vacations, honeymoons, resorts, birthday brunches, cocktail events, engagement parties, summer dinner parties, wineries
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001567
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $99.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NATURAL
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Skye Chiffon Slit A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Graceful from every angle, the Skye gown brings texture and movement together in a way that feels effortlessly captivating. Crafted from airy chiffon, this halter A-line gown features an intricate basketweave bodice, flowing fringe-inspired skirt detail, and a dramatic slit that creates beautiful motion with every step.
Fit & Features
- Chiffon fabric, sewn-in chiffon bodice lining
- High halter neckline with tie straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Basket weave fitted bodice, drop waist seam
- Thigh-high front slit
- A-line fringe floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, elopements, courthouse weddings, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties and photoshoots, bridal celebrations, galas, black tie parties, cocktail soirees, honeymoons, vacations, big birthday events, resorts
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001568
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $119.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Lana Formal Ruched Glitter Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
There is a certain kind of evening that calls for shimmer in motion. The Lana is crafted from luminous glitter mesh in a sculpted mermaid silhouette, featuring a softly draped neckline and artful ruching at the back that creates a breathtaking finish from every angle.
Fit & Features
- Glitter mesh-lined fabrication high stretch
- Sleeveless v-neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Open back with tie-back detail
- Ruching
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, big milestone celebrations, red carpet occasions, black tie galas, weddings, spring balls
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001575
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Caroline Lace Long Sleeve Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Dressed-up plans get a softer kind of drama with this lace look. The Caroline lace formal dress pairs ruffle trim, sheer bell sleeves, and a slim, floor-length silhouette for a romantic, movement-rich finish. The front slit and side cutouts bring just enough flair to the occasion.
Fit & Features
- Lined lace fabric
- V-neckline
- Long sheer bell sleeves
- Ruffle trim, side cutouts
- Front slit, curve-hugging silhouette
- Long-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Destination weddings, bridal celebrations, honeymoons, vacations, resort getaways, cruises, yacht parties, birthday dinners, cocktail soirees, dressy celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001577
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NATURAL
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- New Arrival