Formal Dresses
Windsor’s fall formal dresses are redefining what it means to dress up in 2026. Unexpected details take center stage, from sleek cutouts with hardware and sheer illusion panels to dramatic side and front draping. Plunging V-necklines, sculptural cowl necks, off-the-shoulder silhouettes, and corset bodices bring a confident edge, while intentionally ruched mesh adds texture and a distinctly modern touch. For classic black-tie plans, silky satin high-neck gowns deliver polished drama without feeling predictable. Made for weddings, galas, and every dressed-up moment on your calendar, these on-trend formal dresses are elevated, camera-ready, and impossible to overlook.
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STYLE SPOTLIGHT
Formal Dresses for Fall & Winter’s Biggest Moments
Windsor’s formal dresses bring elevated style to weddings, galas, military balls, homecoming, black-tie events, and other moments worth dressing up for. Discover elegant dresses in timeless black, romantic wine, rich jewel tones, metallic hues, and soft neutrals, with silhouettes ranging from classic A-lines and columns to fitted bodycons and mermaid gowns. New styles arrive every week with appliqués, draping, hardware, ties, and adjustable details that help you find a look that feels polished, current, and confidently yours.
Find a Formal Look That Fits the Occasion
The right dress starts with the event. Long formal dresses bring classic elegance to black-tie weddings, galas, military balls, and upscale evening celebrations, while polished midis and select short formal dresses can suit events with a less traditional dress code. For dressy occasions that call for something elevated without a full-length gown, explore formal cocktail dresses for another way to match your look to the invitation.
How Should I Dress for a Black-Tie or Formal Wedding?
Start by checking the invitation for the exact dress code. Black-tie events traditionally call for an elevated evening look, making floor-length gowns and refined silhouettes strong choices. Consider a column, A-line, or mermaid gown, then use color and details to make it your own. Black and navy offer timeless sophistication, while shades of red, green, purple, or gold can bring more personality to the occasion. Draping, appliqués, and polished necklines add another layer of interest without losing the formal feel.
What’s the Difference Between a Cocktail Dress and a Formal Dress?
The biggest differences are usually the dress code, overall level of polish, and length. Cocktail dresses commonly fall around the knee or midi length and work well for semi-formal parties, receptions, and dressy dinners. Formal dresses tend to feature longer hemlines, more structured silhouettes, or elevated details suited to galas, formal weddings, and black-tie occasions. If the invitation has you second-guessing your choice, The Windsor Edit’s guide to cocktail dresses vs. formal dresses breaks down the differences with styling examples.
Can Formal Dresses Be Short?
Sometimes—the invitation and venue should guide your choice. Short formal dresses with structured silhouettes, elevated fabrics, appliqués, or polished details can work for certain dressy events, but traditional black-tie occasions generally call for an ankle-length or floor-length gown. When the dress code feels somewhere between cocktail and formal, consider the event time, setting, and host guidance before choosing your hemline.
Which Formal Dress Fabrics Work Best for Fall and Winter?
Fabric can change both the look and feel of your dress. Richer, more substantial materials create a seasonally polished effect for cooler-weather occasions, while fluid fabrics add movement to long gowns and draped silhouettes. Your event setting, desired structure, and comfort preferences can all help narrow the choice. For a deeper look at how materials affect your outfit, explore Windsor’s guide to formal dress fabrics.
How Do I Find a Formal Dress That Feels Secure and Comfortable?
Look for design details that let you personalize the fit instead of spending the evening adjusting your dress. Lace-up backs can help fine-tune the bodice, corset construction adds structure, wrap designs offer flexibility, and adjustable or removable straps can change how a neckline fits and feels. Halter, cowl, off-the-shoulder, plunge, scoop, and square necklines also give you options depending on the coverage and support you prefer.
What Should I Wear to a Winter Formal?
Winter is your moment to lean into deeper color, shine, and elevated details. Explore Windsor's 2026 winter formal dresses in shades like plum, hunter green, chocolate, ruby, and copper, or make the night feel extra special with rose gold and other metallic finishes. Prefer a lighter palette? White and ivory can create a striking winter look, especially with appliqués, draping, or dimensional details. Finish with a silhouette you feel confident in, from fitted columns and mermaid gowns to flowing A-lines.
Make Your Formal Moment Your Own
Whether you’re shopping for special occasion dresses, an affordable bridal look, bridesmaid style, party gown, or military ball dress, Windsor gives you options that balance current trends with timeless silhouettes. New styles arrive every week online, in the Windsor app, and at more than 350 stores across North America, making it easier to find the dress that fits both your event and your personal style.
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Kailey Formal Taffeta Mermaid Dress
Special OccasionTwirl under the lights in our enchanting Kailey dress! She features an all over black hue, a V neckline with wide shoulder straps, padded cups and princess seams. Her waist features unlined mesh insets for a little of skin and leads to a voluminous multi layered mermaid silhouette. Kailey is composed of lined taffeta fabric that offers a relaxed fit with a moderate stretch. Includes a back zipper closure and petticoat.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6244
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Helen Intricate Indulgence Beaded Dress
Special OccasionIndulge in your perfectly sophisticated sense of style in our Helen black beaded dress! She features a deep sweetheart neckline, padded cups, narrow shoulder straps that lead to a plunging V back, a hidden back zipper closure, and a slim fitting bodice paired with a flowy floor-length skirt. Perfectly placed sequins and beading create a flattering shape, and a stylish Roaring 20's inspired pattern. Helen is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch.
Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size three.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6260
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Daleyza Formal Beaded Mermaid Dress
Special OccasionGet ready for your close up in our glam Daleyza dress! She features an all over rich plum hue, a sleeveless bodice, a V neckline, padded cups for support and narrow straps. Her back features a plunging V neck that leads to a hidden zipper closure. Her slim fit bodice leads to a fluttering floor length mermaid silhouette. Daleyza is composed of a fully lined mesh fabric adorned with dazzling sequins and beads set in a geometric pattern. Dress offers a form hugging fit with a slight stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6259
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Courtney Formal Satin Sleeveless Dress
Special OccasionStay sophisticated in satin as you make an unforgettable impression in our Courtney dress! She features a rich burgundy hue, a sweetheart neckline with a built in no slip strip, padded cups, built in boning and princess seams. The sides features a nude hued mesh inset with a lattice detail. Her slim fit bodice leads to a sweeping floor length wrap silhouette . Dress is composed of a partially lined satin fabric that offers a from hugging fit with minimal stretch. Includes a hidden back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6256
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $169.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Edyn Sleek Off The Shoulder Dress
Special OccasionEdyn is the epitome of perfection. Her simple and sleek style is perfect for any formal occasion! She offers a flattering, off the shoulder neckline with short sleeves, a fitted bodice accented with a sheer waist panel and a delicate floral embroidery, and a flowy floor-length skirt with a high leg slit for a sexy touch and easy movement. Edyn is composed of a stretchy crepe fabric. Includes an exposed back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6252
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Gwenyth Iridescent Lace Up Dress
Special OccasionAren't you a rare sight? This magical lavender Gwenyth lace up dress is a true fantasy! She features a deep V neckline, a plunging back with lace up straps, an exposed back zipper closure, and all over iridescent purple sequins. A body-hugging silhouette is complemented with her floor length trumpet skirt that flares at the hem. Gwenyth includes a short knit lining and has minimal stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6247
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $33.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- 50% Off
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Salma Formal Sequin Scroll Print Dress
Special OccasionMake your night one to remember in our fiery Salma dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V neckline, a double row of corded straps that lead to a cross back design. Her slim fit bodice leads to a floor length silhouette that hugs curves to create an hourglass illusion. Dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric adorned with sparkling sequins set in a scroll print. Dress offers a form hugging fit that offers a slight stretch. Includes a lower back zipper closure and partial skirt lining.
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6261
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $40.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Gabrielle Formal High Slit Satin Dress
Special OccasionMake a memorable impression in sophisticated satin! Gabrielle features a sleeveless bodice, a square neckline with racer bust and princess seams. Her back features an open lower back design that leads to a lower zipper closure. Her slim fit bodice leads to a fluttering double lined floor length silhouette accented with a high side slit and hidden side pockets. Dress is composed of a stretchy satin fabric that offers a relaxed fit with slight stretch.
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.
*Also available in Plus.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6253
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Sasha Formal High Slit Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
Create a captivating entrance in this formal wrap dress for your next soiree. All eyes are on you in this stylishly chic long formal dress with a plunging V-neckline to perfectly display a sparkling rhinestone lariat or delicate layers of dainty necklaces.
Fit & Features
- Crepe fabric, moderate stretch
- Asymmetrical wrap V-neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Ruched detailing, slim-fit bodice
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High front slit, floor-length wrap silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black-tie weddings, and formal parties.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6236
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $39.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS
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Whitney Formal Sequin Halter Dress
Special OccasionStay sophisticated in sequins as you radiate a glam look in our Whitney black dress! She features an all over black hue, a halter neckline with a V neck bust and padded cups. Her bodice features a ruched detailing throughout and an empire waist accent. Her floor length silhouette features a gorgeous mesh fabric that is adorned with silver hued sequins. Dress offers a relaxed fit with a minimal stretch. Includes a hidden back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6230
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $49.97 $159.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Tara Formal Glitter Lace Dress
Special OccasionLight up the night in sparkling glitz and glam! Tara features a rich burgundy hue, a plunging V neckline with a scalloped lace trim, padded cups and an open back with a fish hook clasp closure at the nape of the neck. Her slim fit bodice leads to a sweeping floor length silhouette that a has a dramatically flared hem. Dress is composed of a lined scalloped lace fabric adorned with glitter accents throughout. Garment offers a relaxed fit with a slight stretch. Includes a zipper closure. Glitter may transfer.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6229
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $149.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Zelda Formal Cut Out Mermaid Dress
Special OccasionShow off your best angles as you stun in our Zelda dress! She features a vibrant orange hue, a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V neckline with pleating details and sexy waist cut outs. Her slim fit bodice leads to an elongating mermaid silhouette that is accented with vertical seams to create an hourglass illusion. Dress is composed of lined crepe fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6216
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Sascha Formal Sparkling Sequin Dress
Special OccasionBring radiance to your night as you glow in our alluring Sascha dress! She features an all over rich burgundy hue, a sleeveless bodice, a square neckline with wide tank straps and padded cups. Her slim fit bodice leads to a sweeping floor length silhouette to grace each step! She is composed of a lined mesh fabric that is adorned with gleaming sequins throughout to shine in your best moments! She offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. Dress includes a hidden back zipper closure.
Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6226
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $159.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Kendall Formal Sweetheart Crepe Dress
Special OccasionGet romanced in red as you stun in our Kendall dress! She features an off the shoulder neckline, a sweetheart bust with a fold over accent and princess seams. Her slim fit bodice leads to an elongating floor length silhouette that is accented with a high side slit to show off a hint of leg. She is composed of a red hued lined crepe fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6233
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $39.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kylie Formal Sparkling Sequin Dress
Special OccasionBring the spotlight to you in our stunning Kylie dress! She features a high round neckline, a racer bust and a sweeping floor length silhouette that makes the perfect entrance! She is composed of a pewter gray hued lined mesh fabric that is adorned with iridescent sequins set in a chic swirl design that reflect a dreamy navy hued sheen. Dress offers a form hugging fit with minimal stretch. Includes a hidden back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6225
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $49.97 $134.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Leighanne Formal Off The Shoulder Dress
Special OccasionStun in mesmerizing red as you captivate in our Leighanne dress! She features an all over vibrant red hue, an off the shoulder neckline, a built in no slip strip for secure fit, narrow straps, padded cups and a sweetheart bust with fold over accents. Her slim fit bodice leads to a curve hugging floor length silhouette accented with vertical seams to create an hourglass-like effect and a high side slit. Dress is composed of a smooth knit fabric that offers a moderate stretch. Includes a hidden back zipper closure with fish hook clasp.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6223
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Keyla Formal Glitter Dress
Special OccasionShine on under spotlight as you dazzle in our Keyla dress! She features an all over hunter green hue, a boat neckline, padded cups, princess seams and an open back with a multi-strap design. Her slim fit bodice leads to an elongating floor length silhouette that is accented with vertical seams to create an hourglass illusion with a flared hem. Dress is composed of a lined glitter knit fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Includes a lower back zipper closure. Glitter may transfer.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6218
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Jane Formal Open Back Dress
Special OccasionStay original in orange as you stun in our one of a kind Jane dress! She features a vibrant orange hue, a high round neckline with racer bust, padded cups, a keyhole at the bust, princess seams and narrow cross straps that lead to an open back design. Her slim fit bodice features a narrow waistband accent and leads to a floor length silhouette that has flared godet details. Dress is composed of a lined crepe fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Includes a lower back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6217
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Geneva High Class Sequin Dress
Special OccasionExpress your high standards with our stylish Geneva black sequin dress. She exceeds expectations with a high round neckline, narrow shoulder straps that cross at the back, an elegant low back leading to a hidden back zipper closure, light padding at the bust, and a sweeping flared floor length skirt. Geneva's sheer mesh fabric with a geometric sequin pattern pops against a contrasting nude lining. She offers a slim fit and a moderate stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6220
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Ciara Formal Beaded And Sequin Dress
Special OccasionElevate your formal wear with our glitzy Ciara navy dress! She features a plunging V neckline dress with wide shoulder straps and lifting padded cups. Her slim fit bodice leads to a fluttering floor length silhouette accented with sheer panels at the hem. Her all over iridescent sequins are set in a baroque pattern and reflect navy hues. She is composed of a lined pewter gray mesh fabric that offers a form hugging fit with minimal stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6228
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $49.97 $169.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Cecilia Formal Sequin Mermaid Dress
Special OccasionDazzle and shine in shimmering sequins! Cecilia features a deep navy blue hue, a partially lined bodice, a high round neckline with beaded trim detailing, a sweetheart bust lining and a floor length mermaid silhouette. Her skirt is partially unlined to create a dramatically flared effect. Her all over mesh fabric is adorned with sparkling sequins and beaded detailing throughout. She offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6205
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Clarisse Well Refined Lace Back Dress
Special OccasionYou've got great refined taste! Our Clarisse black lace back dress is absolutely a simple beauty. She has a deep V neckline, adjustable shoulder straps that lead to a sheer lace back with a waist cut out, an exposed back zipper closure, a high waist seam, and a floor-length skirt with a leg slit that flares at the hem. Clarisse is composed of an unlined crepe fabric with a moderate stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6213
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Arianna Formal Scalloped Lace Glitter Dress
Special OccasionWe've got so much love for glamour, shine on in our twinkling Arianna dress! She features an all over bronze hue, a V neckline with a scalloped lace trim, narrow adjustable straps that lead to a cross back design. Her slim fit bodice leads to a form hugging floor length silhouette to sweep them off their feet! Arianna is composed of a lined scalloped lace fabric adorned with glitter accents. Dress offers a moderate stretch. Glitter will transfer.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6231
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $10.00 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Cameron Formal Twist Knot Dress
Special OccasionCreate a captivating entrance in our Cameron black dress! She features a plunging V neckline with a knotted bodice, fitted long sleeves and a daring high slit to show off your glowing gams! She is composed of a smooth knit fabric that offers a body hugging fit with a moderate stretch.
Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6215
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $46.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance