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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Elise Floral Mesh Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Elisa formal dress brings a pretty, polished mood to the occasion lineup. The floral mesh mermaid dress features a cowl neckline, ruched body, and fitted floor-length shape for a look that feels elegant without trying too hard. Adjustable spaghetti straps and padded bra cups help finish the design with thoughtful structure.
Fit & Features
- Metallic trim floral pattern, lined mesh fabric
- Cowl neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Ruched mermaid long-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, HOCO, cocktail parties, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, birthday events, special date nights, formal dinner soirees, vacations, honeymoons
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001659
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $74.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: TAUPE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- New Arrival
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Steffanie Floral Chiffon Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Steffanie dress brings romance to every RSVP. Crafted from airy chiffon with a floral print, this flowing A-line gown features an asymmetrical neckline, cascading tiered ruffles, and a striking open-back detail that moves beautifully with every step.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, chiffon fabric, lined
- One-shoulder neckline
- Side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Dual spaghetti straps
- Open strappy detail
- Tiered ruffled A-line silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Outdoor weddings, bridal celebrations, baby showers, engagement photoshoots and parties, birthday brunches, garden parties, anniversaries, honeymoons, vacations, and summer galas.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001663
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $139.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, PRINT
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Amara Mesh Halter A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Easy, alluring, and made for warm-weather RSVPs, the Amara mesh A-line gown brings a breezy kind of drama to every step. A ruched halter bodice, front cutout, and double-slit skirt create movement that feels effortless, polished, and just a little unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Mesh fabric, full coverage panty knit lining
- Halter neckline, tie straps, padded bra cups
- Open tie-back design
- Thigh-high front slit
- Flowy A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Destination weddings, beach weddings, honeymoons, vacations, resorts, birthday dinners, cocktail events, bachelorette weekends, sunset celebrations, yacht parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001671
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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McKenzie Corset A-Line Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The McKenzie midi dress brings soft structure and romantic volume together in all the right ways. The corset lace bodice overlay and front bow tie detail balance beautifully against the voluminous A-line midi silhouette.
Fit & Features
- Crinoline, lace, woven fabric, multiple tulle and stretch knit linings
- Lace sequin corset overlay bodice, flexible boning, bow tie
- Underwire padded bra top bust, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Lace-up back
- A-line midi-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bridal celebrations, engagement photoshoots and parties, rehearsal dinners, formal school dances, big birthday events, formal milestones, religious ceremonies, race derby days, high tea parties, fashion-forward cocktail soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000778
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $129.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: IVORY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Dahlia Sequin Knit Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Dressed-up plans get a sleek dose of shine with this floor-length silhouette. This sequin knit mermaid dress pairs a cowl neckline with halter ring trim and an open back for a polished occasion look. The mermaid shape keeps the finish long, refined, and striking from every angle.
Fit & Features
- Sequin knit fabric
- Cowl neckline
- Halter strap with ring trim
- Open back design
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, engagement parties, vacations, honeymoons, resort getaways, cocktail parties, special date nights, destination celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001681
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Jenny Sequin Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made for the kind of entrance that lingers, the Jenny sequin knit mermaid gown sculpts with a luminous finish and a sleek V-neckline. Spaghetti straps, a curve-skimming silhouette, bring just the right amount of after-dark drama.
Fit & Features
- Sequin-embellished crochet fabric, mesh lining
- Halter V-neckline with tie straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black tie weddings, summer galas, big birthday events, engagement parties, red-carpet occasions, formal milestone celebrations, honeymoons, upscale resort getaways, vacations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001683
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $74.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: MOCHA
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Anika Sequin Applique Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sequin shine and starfish appliques give this dress a fresh, trend-right finish. This sequin applique dress pairs a V-neckline with spaghetti straps, a side slit, and a slim floor-length silhouette for a sleek statement look. The open lace-up back keeps the styling striking from every angle.
Fit & Features
- Sequin-embellished fabric
- V-neckline, spaghetti straps
- Starfish appliques
- High side slit
- Open lace-up back
- Form-hugging long-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Destination celebrations, weddings, vacations, honeymoons, resort getaways, yacht parties, birthday dinners, cocktail events, special date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001682
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $74.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Sonya Crochet A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made for moonlit celebrations and unforgettable entrances, the Sonya chiffon A-line gown balances airy movement with intricate crochet detailing and a striking front cutout. The flowing skirt, tie-front bodice, and open back create a look that feels effortlessly romantic with just the right amount of allure.
Fit & Features
- Airy chiffon fabric, smooth knit lining
- V-neckline, spaghetti straps
- Crochet bodice detailing, cutout
- Open tie-back detail
- High front slit
- A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, elopements, courthouse weddings, destination weddings, bridal celebrations, engagement photoshoots, birthdays, vacations, honeymoons, formal soirees, cocktail parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001690
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Alison Striped Chiffon Formal Dress
Special Occasion
When the invite calls for something light, polished, and memorable, this one understands the assignment. The striped halter dress moves in airy chiffon with a front slit, open tie back, and A-line maxi shape. It gives your plans a statement finish while keeping the look effortless.
Fit & Features
- Striped chiffon fabric, knit lining, built-in knit shorts lining
- A-line maxi silhouette
- Halter neckline with open tie back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Side cutouts and ruched waist
- Front thigh-high slit detail
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Destination weddings, vacations, honeymoons, resort getaways, birthday dinners, date nights, brunch celebrations, cocktail parties, bachelorette trips, cruises
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001688
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: GREEN
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Maria Open Back A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Effortless movement meets understated drama in The Maria formal dress, a textured jersey gown designed to turn every step into a statement. The plunge cowl halter neckline, open back design, and high side slit bring modern allure to the flowing A-line floor-length silhouette.
Fit & Features
- Textured jersey knit fabric, smooth knit lining, high stretch
- Plunge cowl halter neckline, tie straps
- Open back design
- High side slit
- A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, rehearsal dinners, engagement photoshoots, bridal celebrations, formal birthday events, honeymoons, vacations, resort getaways, yacht parties, cruises, date nights, anniversaries
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001687
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, BROWN
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Shay Tropical Printed Bead Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Made for the nights when blending in simply isn't on the itinerary, the Shay mini dress brings bold glamour to every RSVP. This beaded mesh dress features a sculpted strapless silhouette, intricate tropical-inspired print, and a twisted sweetheart neckline that catches attention from every angle.
Fit & Features
- Printed tropical design, beaded embellishments, mesh-lined fabric
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups, non-slip grip lining
- Side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bachelorettes, birthday dinners, date nights, cocktail parties, fashion-forward events, vacations, honeymoons, resort getaways
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000783
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Tara Formal Satin Lace-Up Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
An entrance you do not rush—this satin mermaid gown is designed for that slow, head-turning walk into the room. With a softly draped cowl neckline and an intricate lace-up back, it skims the body before flaring into a sculpted silhouette that feels equal parts polished and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit fabric with subtle sheen, lined
- Sleeveless draped cowl neckline with sleek straps
- Open lace-up back
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length with flared hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, black tie galas, red carpet occasions, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, anniversaries, birthday events, formal soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001700
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $74.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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Arielle Strapless Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made for candlelit entrances and compliments that follow you across the room, this strapless gown delivers sleek glamour with a sculpted fit. The ruched mermaid silhouette and cascading side sash create elegant movement with every step.
Fit & Features
- Slinky knit stretchy fabric with sheen effect
- Strapless neckline
- Front sash wrap waist
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Wedding guests, bridesmaids, black tie galas, formal milestone parties, rehearsal dinners, anniversaries, vacations, destination celebrations, fancy occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001703
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: YELLOW, WINE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Best Seller
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Nara Floral Cowl Neck High Slit Midi Dress
Special Occasion
A bold floral pattern gives this fitted shape its standout appeal. The Nara floral midi dress features a pleated cowl neckline, shoulder straps, and a front slit for added movement. A cutout back finishes the look for a chic style.
Fit & Features
- Knit fabric, high stretch, knit lining
- Large floral print
- Sleeveless pleated cowl neckline, padded bra cups
- Shoulder straps, back strap with bar closure, lower back cutout
- High-cut side slit
- Fitted midi-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, cocktail parties, bridal showers, engagement parties, birthday celebrations, dressed-up dinners, and date nights.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000784
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $64.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLUE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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May Floral Chiffon A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Light, romantic, and made for memorable celebrations, the May dress drifts effortlessly with every step in floral chiffon woven with subtle lurex detail. The plunging V-neckline, delicate straps, and flowing A-line silhouette create an elegant look that feels polished yet wonderfully easy to wear.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, subtle metallic thread striped pattern, chiffon fabric, knit lining
- Plunge V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Open cross-back detail, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Flowy A-line silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bridal celebrations, weddings, engagement parties, winery weekends, formal milestone celebrations, honeymoons, vacations, resorts, birthday brunches, afternoon tea parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001705
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $64.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, PRINT
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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RSVP Season Floral Satin Lace-Up Maxi Dress
The dress that quietly steals the conversation. With a glossy floral satin finish, beaded straps, and an open lace-up back, this maxi dress is made for weddings, rooftop dinners, and every invite that calls for something unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Satin woven fabric with full-length lining
- Large floral print
- Sleeveless cowl neckline, spaghetti straps with front beaded accents
- Open cross-back and lace-up design
- Pleated detailing at the waist
- High-cut side slit, maxi-length fitted A-line silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-001228
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $52.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PLUM
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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Vivienne Formal Woven Satin Pleated Dress
Special Occasion
Elegance, distilled to its most captivating form. The Vivienne is designed in lustrous woven satin with a sculpted mermaid silhouette, featuring a sleek strapless bodice and artfully pleated skirt that creates fluid movement with every step.
Fit & Features
- Woven satin fabric with subtle sheen, stretchy knit lining
- Strapless straight neckline
- Hidden side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Fitted bodice with seam detail, flexible boning
- Pleated draping at the hip
- 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: 05002-001708
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Caterina Mesh One-Shoulder Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Effortlessly sculpted with a touch of softness, the Caterina mesh gown drapes the body in a ruched mermaid silhouette that moves with you from every angle. A one-shoulder neckline and flowing sash detail add a modern, elevated finish that feels both refined and quietly striking.
Fit & Features
- Mesh fabric, partial knit lining, high stretch
- One-shoulder neckline with asymmetrical strap
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Ruched bodice and hip
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Attached sash detail
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, black tie occasions, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, fashion-forward events, fancy date nights, vacations, honeymoons, garden parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001710
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK, NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Tori Mesh Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Tori mesh mermaid gown contours every curve with a sheer bodice that feels equal parts refined and daring. From the soft ruching to the fluid drape detail, it’s the kind of silhouette that makes every step feel like a moment worth capturing.
Fit & Features
- Mesh-lined fabric, high stretch
- Sweetheart halter neckline, padded bra cups, tie straps
- Sheer bodice with attached drape
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, destination weddings, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties and photoshoots, vacations, honeymoons, bachelorettes, birthdays
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001711
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, BLACK, DENIM
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Simone Strapless Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sleek and sculpted, the Simone strapless mermaid gown is designed for a striking, statuesque entrance. The sweetheart neckline and softly draped sash detail contour the silhouette, creating an effortlessly refined look that feels equal parts modern and timeless.
Fit & Features
- Slinky knit stretchy fabric, knit lining
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Front knotted sash
- Mermaid floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Wedding guests, bridesmaids, prom, galas, black tie events, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, upscale birthdays, vacations, anniversaries, formal milestone celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001718
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN, HUNTER
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Best Seller
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Gretta Leopard Lace-Up Formal Dress
Special Occasion
A little wild, very polished, the Gretta satin midi dress brings a sleek kind of drama to every RSVP. Designed with a strapless sweetheart neckline, structured corset bodice, lace-up back, and bodycon silhouette, it is made for the woman who arrives already unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin fabric, leopard print
- Strapless sweetheart neckline
- Lace-up back detail
- Corset-structured bodice
- Bodycon midi-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Cocktail parties, birthday dinners, girls' night out, date nights, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, semi-formal events, fashion-forward events, vacations, honeymoons, resort getaways
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000787
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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Harper Floral Corset Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Romantic with a sculpted allure, the Harper floral midi dress is made for moments that feel both polished and unforgettable. The garden rose floral print softens the structured corset bodice, while the lace-up back and bodycon silhouette create a beautifully defined shape with just the right hint of romance.
Fit & Features
- Garden rose floral print, cotton-blend woven fabric, stretch knit lining
- Strapless lace trim neckline, padded bra cups
- Corset bodice, flexible boning
- Lace-up back placket, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette, center back slit
- Midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Wedding guests, bridal showers, fancy brunches, garden parties, formal celebrations, afternoon tea soirees, summer cocktail parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000788
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kristie Pleated Satin A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Kristie formal dress pairs pleated satin woven fabric with a luminous sheen and effortless movement. A plunge halter neckline framed by a snake chain strap, open back, and underbust tie front detail creates a striking look, while the flowy A-line floor-length silhouette glides with every step.
Fit & Features
- Pleated satin woven fabric with sheen, woven lining
- Plunge halter neckline, snake chain strap
- Underbust tie-front detail
- Open back
- Flowy A-line silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black tie weddings, galas, destination celebrations, birthday events, cocktail soirees, date nights, anniversaries, red carpet events, fancy dinner parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001716
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: OLIVE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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Talia Chevron Cutout Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Made for golden hour plans and every sunshine moment, the Talia mermaid dress brings resort-minded allure with an effortlessly sculpted finish. Designed in chevron knit with a sleek floor-length silhouette, front and side cutouts, and beaded strap details, it is your answer to sunset dinners, rooftop parties, and summer nights that call for a little extra.
Fit & Features
- Sheer knit fabric with an abstract chevron pattern, full-length knit lining, moderate stretch
- Sleeveless plunging V-neckline, padded bust
- O-ring cutout, waist cutouts, beaded strap design
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Open back, back strap with metal bar closure
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Vacations, resorts, brunch with the girls, sunset dinners, rooftop parties, and summer nights out.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001724
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: OLIVE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
- Sheer knit fabric with an abstract chevron pattern, full-length knit lining, moderate stretch