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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Angelique Abstract Print Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Angelique formal dress is the kind of gown that makes every entrance feel mystical. Crafted from printed mesh in a sculpting mermaid silhouette, this floor-length dress features a plunging halter neckline, daring cutouts, and delicate beaded trim that catches the light from every angle.
Fit & Features
- Abstract print, mesh-lined fabric
- Halter V-neckline, spaghetti straps
- Open tie-back and strappy accents
- Cutout bodice with beaded-embellished straps
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Vacations, honeymoons, resort getaways, birthday dinners, cocktail parties, destination weddings, formal cruise events, and fashion-forward occasions.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001579
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLUE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Sorella Print Mesh A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Sorella dress brings together airy mesh fabric, a leopard butterfly print, and a striking hardware insert with flowing sash detail. The plunge halter neckline and sheer A-line silhouette create graceful movement with every step, while the front center slit adds just the right amount of drama.
Fit & Features
- Multi leopard/butterfly print, mesh-lined fabric
- Plunge halter neckline, tie straps
- Open back
- Ruched bodice with hardware inset
- Center front slit
- Sheer A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Destination weddings, fashion-forward events, vacations, honeymoons, resort getaways, sunset cocktail parties, date nights, yacht parties, upscale birthday dinners
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001578
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Solana Crepe Bow Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for the kind of entrance that lingers, the Solana crepe midi dress delivers quiet drama with every step. Featuring cap sleeves, an open back, and a satin statement bow, the bodycon fit and center back slit create a silhouette that feels equal parts polished and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Crepe fabric, knit lining
- Boat neckline
- Cap sleeves
- Open back, statement satin bow, center back slit
- Form-hugging midi silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bridal celebrations, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties and photoshoots, cocktail receptions, anniversary dinners, honeymoons, birthdays, graduations, formal soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000727
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Marsha Floral Tie-Back Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Marsha formal dress brings effortless drama with every step. This floral mesh mermaid gown features a softly draped neckline, an open tie back, and a figure-skimming silhouette that feels equal parts polished and striking.
Fit & Features
- Statement floral print, mesh fabric, knit lining
- Cowl neckline
- Open tie-back detail
- Mermaid form-hugging silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Vacations, honeymoons, resort getaways, destination weddings, date nights, birthday dinners, anniversaries, and cocktail soirees.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001587
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: ORANGE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Hailie Tropical Floral Lace Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for the guest list that calls for something unforgettable, the Hailie dress brings together tropical lace, cascading ruffles, and a sculptural orchid accent for a look that feels equal parts romantic and statement-making. The plunging halter neckline, open back, and mermaid silhouette create striking movement from every angle.
Fit & Features
- Tropical floral print, lace fabric, smooth knit lining
- Plunge ruffled halter neckline, tie straps
- Front tropical flower pin
- Open tie-back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Cascading ruffle trim
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Destination weddings, vacations, honeymoons, resorts, cruises, engagement parties, cocktail events, birthday dinners, date nights, summer galas, yacht parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001583
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Jaymie Floral Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The floor-length silhouette gives the Jaymie floral dress its polished, graceful shape. This floral satin formal dress pairs a V-neckline with halter-style straps and a front slit for a long, fluid finish. The open back keeps the shape striking from every angle.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, satin fabric
- V-neckline
- Halter-style straps
- Open back design
- Front slit
- Floor-length column silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, destination celebrations, vacations, honeymoons, resort getaways, date nights, cocktail parties, formal events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001585
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- New Arrival
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Maddie Halter Beaded A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Maddie formal dress blends effortless glamour with modern allure. Crafted from a soft slinky knit, this floor-length silhouette features a beaded halter neckline, subtle ruching, and an elegant draped front detail that moves beautifully with every step.
Fit & Features
- Sinky knit stretchy fabric, smooth knit lining, high stretch
- Halter neckline, detachable stone beaded necklace with lobster clasp closure
- Padded bra cups, non-slip grip lining
- A-line flowy silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Destination weddings, cocktail parties, birthday dinners, vacations, resorts, anniversaries, date nights, and engagement parties.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001581
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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Dallas Mesh Print Beaded Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Like a work of art in motion, the Dallas gown captivates with a printed butterfly abstract design that drifts across airy mesh fabric. The sweetheart neckline, cutout bodice, and detachable beaded straps bring a distinctive finish, while the open tie back and flowing A-line silhouette create an effortlessly striking presence.
Fit & Features
- Multi-printed mesh fabric, knit lining
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Spaghetti straps
- Open tie back
- Detachable beaded waist chain
- A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Destination weddings, vacations, honeymoons, bachelorettes, date nights, yacht parties, birthday celebrations, luxury resorts, beach clubs, anniversaries, and fashion-forward events.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001582
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $99.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: ORANGE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Katie Floral Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
A floral mermaid moment feels fresh with a sleek cowl neckline. The Katie floral cowl neck mermaid dress pairs wide tank-style straps, a smooth fitted shape, and a bar back detail for a trend-right formal look. The floor-length silhouette keeps the finish long and polished.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, smooth knit fabric with stretch
- Cowl neckline
- Wide tank-style straps
- Bar back detail
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Destination weddings, rehearsal dinners, vacations, honeymoons, resort getaways, cocktail parties, birthday dinners, formal celebrations, anniversaries, fashion-forward events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001590
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $74.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLUE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- New Arrival
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Maeve Sweetheart Ruffle Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Dressed-up plans get a graceful finish with this softly detailed silhouette. This sweetheart formal dress pairs asymmetrical ruffle trim, a front slit, and a floor-length mermaid shape for a polished look with movement. The cowl back adds an elegant finish from behind.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit fabric
- Sweetheart neckline, wide tank-style straps
- Asymmetrical ruffle trim
- Front slit
- Cowl back design
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, vacations, honeymoons, resort getaways, cocktail parties, birthday dinners, shower celebrations, special date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001595
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $94.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Arabella Lace Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Romantic, sculpted, and quietly sparkling, the Arabella lace mermaid gown is made for the kind of entrance that feels both timeless and unforgettable. A V-neckline, delicate spaghetti straps, lace-up back, and subtle rhinestone embellishments bring soft glamour to every formal evening.
Fit & Features
- Lined lace fabric, mini rhinestone embellishments
- V-neckline, spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back detail
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, elopements, courthouse weddings, bridal celebrations, rehearsal dinners, engagement photoshoots and parties, anniversaries, honeymoons, vacations, black tie events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001601
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $84.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: IVORY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Sofie Metallic Floral High-Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made for golden hour entrances and late-night celebrations, the Sofie is the kind of metallic floral formal dress that stuns at every RSVP. Designed in a shimmering slinky silhouette with a dramatic high-slit and delicate open-back tie detail, it moves like liquid glam from rooftop cocktails to destination weddings.
Fit & Features
- Metallic foiled floral print, knit fabric with full-length knit lining, high stretch
- Sleeveless cowl neckline
- Spaghetti straps, open cross-back strappy design with tie closure
- Ruched detailing
- Floor-length hem, high-cut side slit
- Curve-hugging silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Vacations, dressed-up dinners, rooftop parties, wedding guests, birthday celebrations, and glam nights out.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001597
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $64.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: RED
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
- Metallic foiled floral print, knit fabric with full-length knit lining, high stretch
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Karol Off-The-Shoulder Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made for candlelit entrances and champagne toasts, the Karol dress brings quiet drama in the chicest way. Crafted from smooth knit in a form-hugging midi silhouette, it features an off-the-shoulder wrap overlay neckline and a front wrap slit that moves beautifully from ceremony to after-party.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit-lined stretch fabric
- Off-the-shoulder wrap overlay
- Form-hugging midi silhouette
- Front wrap slit accent
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, cocktail receptions, galas, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, milestone celebrations, anniversary dinners
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000732
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $49.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE
Available Size: XS
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Catherine Crochet Cutout Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sunset plans, destination energy, and a dress that knows exactly how to make an entrance. This crochet mermaid gown brings the drama with a plunging halter neckline, waist cutouts, beaded accents, and fringe trim made to move with you.
Fit & Features
- Crochet knit fabric
- Plunging halter neckline
- Waist cutout design
- Beaded tie front accents
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Destination weddings, honeymoons, resort getaways, vacations, cruises, yacht parties, sunset cocktail events, date nights, birthday dinners
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001605
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $99.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: RUST
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Rynlee Strapless Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made for the kind of evening that lingers long after the last dance, Rynlee slinky knit mermaid gown blends sleek glamour with striking detail. The strapless neckline, wooden hoop insert cutout bust, and flowing center front sash create a sculpted silhouette that feels equal parts polished and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Slinky knit fabric, knit lining
- Strapless neckline
- Wooden hoop insert, cutout, center front sash
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Destination weddings, engagement parties, vacations, honeymoons, resort getaways, cocktail parties, date nights, birthday dinners, formal celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001603
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: SAGE, BROWN
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Kasey Floral Rhinestone Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Kasey floral mesh mermaid gown blends soft romance with a sculpted, body-skimming fit. The ruched detailing, delicate shimmer accents, and lace-up back create a look that feels equal parts polished and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Floral print mesh fabric with lining, rhinestone embellished
- Cowl neckline, spaghetti straps, padded bra cups
- Lace-up open back
- Ruched mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Destination weddings, vacations, honeymoons, anniversaries, cocktail parties, birthday dinners, and summer black-tie events.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001602
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $84.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: CORAL
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Amalie Floral Corset Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Flirty, polished, and made for twirling through every RSVP on your calendar, the Amalie mini dress captures that effortlessly dressed feeling from the very first glance. The floral pattern chiffon fabric, halter neck, and structured corset bodice pair beautifully with the lace-up back and playful A-line mini hem.
Fit & Features
- Floral pattern, chiffon fabric, tulle and woven linings
- Halter neckline with tie straps
- Lace-up back, side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Corset bodice with flexible boning
- A-line mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthdays, bachelorettes, date nights, vacations, destination celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000733
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK, PRINT
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- New Arrival
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Brielle Halter Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for the kind of night that starts with compliments and ends with unforgettable photos, the Brielle bodycon mini dress balances a sleek halter neckline with a dramatic draped sash for striking movement. The open back and sculpting silhouette create a polished yet playful look that's ready for every special invitation on your calendar.
Fit & Features
- Lurex knit fabric, knit lining
- High halter neckline with button closures
- Open back
- Center front sash
- Bodycon mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, engagement parties, birthday dinners, date nights, bachelorettes, vacations, cocktail parties, fashion-forward events, Vegas, girls night
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000741
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Lisi Mesh Applique Ruffle Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for moments that call for a little extra drama, the Lisi mesh gown floats between romantic and striking with every step. Floral applique details, ruffles throughout, and a curve-hugging silhouette frame the figure beautifully, while the open strappy back and side slit add an unforgettable finish.
Fit & Features
- Mesh fabric, floral applique insets, knit lining
- Ruffle trim V-neckline, spaghetti straps
- Lace-up open back detail
- Ruffled trim throughout
- Side slit, curve-hugging silhouette
- Long-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Wedding guests, bridesmaids, cocktail parties, engagement celebrations, rehearsal dinners, garden parties, black tie occasions, special date nights, fancy brunches
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001618
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $119.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: LIGHT, BLUE, YELLOW
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Carolyn Crepe Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
A study in modern romance, the Carolyn crepe midi dress moves with quiet confidence and just the right touch of allure. From the square neckline to the sheer lace cap sleeves and cutout back with delicate button detailing, it’s designed for that effortlessly polished entrance—and the compliments that follow.
Fit & Features
- Crepe fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Square neckline
- Sheer lace cap sleeves
- Cutout back, sheer lace panel with button closure
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette, flared midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bridal celebrations, rehearsal dinners, engagement photoshoots and parties, bachelorettes, weddings, cocktail parties, date nights, graduations, birthdays, wineries, honeymoons, vacations
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000746
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $54.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Back In Stock
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Demi Crinkle Satin Strapless Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The silhouette is sweet, simple, and made to move. The Demi strapless mini dress uses crinkle satin texture, a ruched bust, and an A-line shape to create a softly structured look. The flowy skirt keeps the finish light and effortless.
Fit & Features
- Strapless neckline
- Crinkle satin fabric
- Ruched bust detail, scarf included
- A-line mini silhouette
- Flowy mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthday parties, fancy brunches, bridal showers, engagement parties, semi-formal events, holidays, cocktail parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000748
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: YELLOW
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- New Arrival
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Carolina Mermaid Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Carolina slinky mermaid gown skims every curve with effortless elegance. A sculptural shell hardware detail at the halter neckline and a thigh-high slit bring a modern, artful finish that feels equal parts polished and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Slinky knit fabric, smooth knit lining
- Halter neckline with floral hardware detail
- Padded bra cups
- Open back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- High side slit
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, bridal celebrations, black tie galas, vacations, honeymoons, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, big birthday events, cocktail parties, red-carpet occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001644
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $99.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Ariella Floral Brocade Mini Dress
Special Occasion
A little floral texture makes this mini feel ready for the RSVP list. The Ariella floral brocade mini dress pairs a strapless neckline with an A-line silhouette and lace-up back detail for a polished event-ready look.
Fit & Features
- Floral brocade woven fabric
- Strapless neckline
- A-line mini silhouette
- Lace-up back detail
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, birthday parties, wedding guests, bridal showers, sorority formals, date nights, milestone celebrations, fashion-forward events, semi-formal occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000749
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- New Arrival
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Adella Velvet Strapless Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sleek and unforgettable, the Adella velvet gown is designed for evenings that call for refined drama and confident elegance. A strapless twist neckline, sculpted mermaid silhouette, and subtle cutout back come together in a look that feels timeless yet undeniably striking.
Fit & Features
- Plush velvet fabric
- Strapless twist neckline
- Cutout back, lower ruched seam
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black tie galas, formal dances, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, milestone celebrations, fancy date nights, award ceremonies, elegant parties, opera nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001646
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free