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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Kylie Formal Knit Corset Mermaid Long Dress
Special Occasion
Look your most breathtaking in the Kylie formal long dress perfect for chic events and fancy soirees! She features a V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, pleated and padded bust, and a corset-design bodice with flexible boning to snatch your figure. While her flattering mermaid silhouette showcases a front wrap slit and floor-length hem to elongate your figure. The formal long dress is crafted from a silky soft knit fabric with a sheen and has a short stretchy knit lining. Complete the look in platform heels for a black-tie wedding or gala!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Pleated and padded bust
- Corset-designed bodice, flexible boning
- Mermaid silhouette, high front wrap slit, floor-length hem
- Silky soft knit fabric, short knit stretchy lining
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7827
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Alia Sequin Applique A-Line Tulle Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Unveil whimsical allure in the Alia A-line tulle formal dress to capture every heart in the room! Designed with a statement sequin applique along the sheer bodice, this floor-length dress is a dream come true.
All eyes are on you in this radiant dress. If sparkle is your signature, discover stunning sequin prom dresses or opt for effortless sophistication with our eye-catching formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Airy tulle fabric lined with tulle and stretchy knit
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Sequin applique sheer bodice
- A-Line silhouette, high slit
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, balls, galas
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9404
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Ximena Formal Satin Ruched Dress
Special Occasion
Wow them all in our ravishing Ximena dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V neckline, vertical princess seam and adjustable spaghetti straps. Her slim fit bodice leads to a curve hugging floor length silhouette accented with ruching throughout and a high side slit. Dress is composed of a lined satin fabric that offers a moderate stretch.
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size small
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0285
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Aurie Formal High Slit Satin Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Enchant with a formal satin dress that radiates timeless elegance! Aurie features a plunging sleeveless wired V-neckline, vertical seams at the bust, a high side slit, and a curve-hugging mermaid silhouette. The dress is composed of a lined satin fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with satin gloves and a bold red lip to complete your look!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless wired V-neckline
- Vertical seams at the bust
- High side slit
- Mermaid silhouette
- Lined satin fabric
- Form hugging fit, slight stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1581
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Superior Shine Glitter Lace-Up Skater Dress
Own the night in this shimmering glitter skater dress - a stunning style for homecoming or a dressy birthday event! The dress features a sleeveless cowl sweetheart neckline, spaghetti straps that lace up along the back, and a flattering short skater silhouette on airy glitter mesh fabric. Complete the look with a gorgeous necklace and earrings set.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl sweetheart neckline
- Spaghetti straps, lace-up back
- Skater silhouette
- Short-length hem
- Airy glitter mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-1817
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $5.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Arya V-Neck Strappy A-Line Floral Chiffon Formal Dress
Special Occasion
A floral embroidered pattern romances the Arya chiffon formal dress making her ready to flourish at garden soirees and weddings! The plunging V-neckline creates a sultry silhouette, while the hidden hook-eye closure ensures a perfect fit. The adjustable spaghetti straps and strappy open back add a touch of elegance. With a pleated bust and A-line shape, this floor-length chiffon dress is perfect for any formal occasion. Complete the look with earrings and lace-up heels.
Fit & Features
- Floral embroidered pattern, chiffon fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Strappy back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Plunge V-neckline with hidden hook-eye closure
- A-line silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8415
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Rosanna Crepe A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Make it a night to remember in our classically elegant Rosanna!
Fits & Features
- Dual Spaghetti Straps Lead To Lace-Up Back
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Surplice, Padded V Neckline
- Slant Hand Pockets I Floor Length, A-Line Skirt With Front Slit
- Crepe Fabric I Fully Lined
- Curve Hugging Fit I 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: 05002-0386
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Polly Formal High Slit Dress
Special OccasionBring the glamour in the ever so lovely Polly dress! She features a vibrant yellow hue, a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V neckline, padded cups, princess seams and adjustable narrow straps. Her slim fit bodice leads to an elongating sweeping floor length A-Line skirt that is accented with a high side slit to show off your heel game! She offers a form hugging fit with minimal stretch.
Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0089
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Allison High Slit Embellished Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Showcase a stunning sparkly vibe in the gorgeous Allison formal dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, adjustable spaghetti straps, a trendy cowl neckline, and a floor-length skirt with a slim fit and a thigh-high side slit. The knit fabric is embellished with all-over heat stones for an elevated and glamorous look. Complete your outfit with rhinestone statement earrings and a chic clutch.
Fit & Features
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Cowl neckline
- Back zipper closure
- Floor-length skirt with a slim fit
- High side slit
- Knit fabric embellished with heat stones
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1244
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Melissa Long Sleeve Ruched Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Showcase a gorgeous, figure-flattering silhouette in the chic Melissa ruched midi dress. She features a V-neckline with a wrap-front design, long fitted sleeves, ruched detailing, and a mid-length, curve-hugging fit. Complete the look with statement earrings and a sleek clutch.
Fit & Features
- V-neckline, wrap-front design
- Long fitted sleeves
- Ruching
- Mid-length, form-fitting silhouette
- Lined slinky knit fabric, plenty of stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0664
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Shelia Lace-Up Mermaid Glitter Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Cheers to a glam and gorgeous night in the Shelia glitter formal dress! Designed with a head-turning lace-up back and mermaid silhouette, you'll be the hit of the event or party.
This dress is all about confidence. Want more ways to stand out? Shop our sleek black prom dresses or find a celebration-ready look in our wedding guest dresses.
Fit & Features
- Glitter fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Cowl neckline, padded bra cups
- Wide shoulder straps
- Lace-up back
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, formal parties, milestone celebrations, galas
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9504
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Serene Formal Sequin Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Keep it sultry and glamorous for dances or parties in the Serene formal sequin bodycon mini dress! She features a sleeveless square neckline, a built-in padded bust that eliminates the need for a bra, adjustable spaghetti straps, an open back with a lace-up strappy design for a customized fit, a mini-length hem, and a bodycon silhouette that will hug your natural curves. The lined mesh fabric features glitzy sequin embroidery in a stunning scroll pattern to catch everyone's eye. Style with metallic heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline, built-in padded bust
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, open back, lace-up strappy design, tie closure
- High waist seam, mini-length hem, bodycon silhouette
- Sequin embroidery, scroll pattern
- Sheer mesh fabric, full knit lining, minimal stretch
- Bra optional
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1813
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Mallory Formal Off The Shoulder Dress
Special OccasionElevate your evening look in our breathtaking dress! She features an off the shoulder neckline, a plunging wired V bust, shoulder strap accents, lifting padded cups and princess seams. Her slim fit bodice leads to a sweeping floor length silhouette and accented with a high slit that is complemented with a contrasting nude lining. Dress is composed of a lined smooth knit 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: 05002-5534
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $24.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Christa Formal Cutout Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Choose a bold formal dress to have all eyes on you! A perfect option for prom, Christa features a sleeveless square neckline with spaghetti straps, a sexy cutout at the midriff, ruching through hip and back, and an A-line silhouette accented with a high side slit. The dress is composed of a lined stretch satin fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete the look with a sphere clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline, spaghetti straps
- Strapless or adhesive bra recommended
- Cutout at the midriff
- Ruching, high side slit
- A-line silhouette
- Stretch satin fabric
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1959
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $37.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Maizie Formal Satin Cowl Neck Dress
Special Occasion
Sleek, sultry, and satin - Maizie brings the sophisticated vibes to your dressy night out! She features a classy, sleeveless, cowl neck, spaghetti straps, and a form-fitting silhouette perfect for showcasing your curves on the floor-length hem. The formal dress is composed of a luxe buttery soft satin fabric with lining. Complete the look with a sparkly clutch purse.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless, cowl neck, spaghetti straps
- Bra-friendly design
- Form-fitting silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Luxe buttery soft satin fabric, lining, moderate stretch
- Fits true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2043
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Bri Taffeta Puff Sleeve Party Dress
Special Occasion
Show up and stun in the adorable and flirty Bri taffeta party dress! She features a sweetheart neckline, short puff sleeves, a fitted bodice with flexible boning, a high waist seam, a short skater skirt with pleating, and a fab fit and flare silhouette. The woven taffeta fabric includes a full knit lining and a tulle underskirt for extra volume. Style with platform heels for your birthday festivities.
Fit & Features
- Sweetheart neckline
- Short puff sleeves, elasticized hems
- Fitted bodice, flexible boning inserts, high waist seam
- Back zipper, hook and eye closure
- Short skater skirt, pleating, fit and flare silhouette
- Taffeta fabric, knit lining, tulle underskirt, minimal stretch
- Bra-friendly design
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1501
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Emilia Satin High Slit Formal Midi Dress
Special Occasion
The silky satin fabric and chic details and design of the Emilia formal midi dress will elevate your cocktail party look! She features a sleeveless cowl neckline, spaghetti straps, a midi-length hem with a high-cut side slit to showcase some leg, and a slim-fit silhouette to flaunt your figure. The sleek satin-knit fabric offers a moderate stretch. Style this midi dress with rhinestone duster earrings and classic block heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl neckline, spaghetti straps
- High waist seam
- Midi-length hem, high side slit
- Slim-fit silhouette
- Satin-knit fabric, moderate stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2037
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Alessandra Formal High Slit Glitter Dress
Special OccasionGo gaga for glitter in our glam Alessandra dress! She features an all over black hue, a mock neck, fitted long sleeves, princess seams and a narrow waistband accent. Her slim fit bodice leads to an elongating floor length silhouette accented with high side slits to show off your glowing gams! She is composed of a glitter knit fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Bodysuit-like lining included with snap button closure and full bottom. Includes a smooth knit lining and a back zipper closure. Glitter will transfer.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6097
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Larrea Halter Bodycon Slit Sequin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
For endless sparkles and radiance, the Larrea sequin formal dress dazzles in a figure-skimming bodycon fit with a sultry side slit for effortless movement on the dancefloor!
Fit & Features
- Sequin embellished pattern, mesh-lined fabric
- Halter V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette
- Side slit
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, big birthday events, glam functions, red-carpet events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9241
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Ella Off-The-Shoulder Side Slit Dress
Special Occasion
Make a lasting impression when you stroll in this sultry dress! Ella is designed with a high side slit, off-the-shoulder long sleeves, and a sweetheart neckline. Wear her with sparkling earrings and strappy heels for a stunning date night.
Fit & Features
- Off-the-shoulder long sleeves
- Sweetheart neckline
- High side slit
- Midi length
- Form hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1662
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $46.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Leonie Formal Pleated Corset A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Showcase your luxe style with a formal dress that stuns with glam accents. Leonie features a plunging V-neckline with a pleated bust, a corset-like bodice with flexible boning, spaghetti straps, and a flowy A-line silhouette accented with a high side slit. Leonie is composed of a lined crepe fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with formal rhinestone heels and a satin clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline with pleated bust
- Corset-like bodice, flexible boning
- Spaghetti straps
- A-line silhouette, high side slit
- Lined crepe fabric
- Form hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1762
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Sparkly Illusions Glitter Mesh Mini Dress
Ready for a night of dazzling fun? This glitter mesh mini dress provides endless sparkle! Featuring a square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, and ruched side seams, this mini dress is sure to make a statement while the bodycon silhouette and mini-length let you show off your curves. Complete the look in strappy heels for a holiday party!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Side ruched seams, bodycon silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Glitter mesh fabric, sewn-in knit lining
- Minimal stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05103-5352
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $39.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Jade One Shoulder Ruched Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Alluring and chic, the Jade One Shoulder Ruched Formal dress never disappoints to create an eye-catching entrance on your next evening affair! She features a one-shoulder, long-sleeve bodice on a curve-hugging silhouette and a front ruching with a tie so you can customize the fit. Her sultry side slit shows some skin while elongating your figure on the floor-length hem. Composed of a slinky knit-lined fabric with plenty of stretch. Finish your look in a memorizing hairpiece.
Fit & Features
- One-shoulder asymmetrical neckline, single long fitted sleeve
- Adhesive bra recommended
- Front ruching with adjustable tie
- Side slit, floor-length hem
- Slinky knit-lined fabrication
- Curve-hugging silhouette, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2218
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $48.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Alayna Formal Crepe Lace Slit Long Dress
Special Occasion
A little bit sultry and a little bit sweet, the Alayna formal dress is a stunning option for galas, cocktail parties, or vow renewal celebrations! She features a strapless neckline with lovely cowl draping, a sheer lace bodice with flexible boning, and a slim silhouette with a high side slit and long hem. The formal dress is composed of a lined crepe fabric with a moderate stretch. Complete the look with a teardrop necklace and matching earrings!
Fit & Features
- Strapless neckline, cowl draping
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Sheer lace bodice, flexible boning
- Slim silhouette, high side slit, long hem
- Lined crepe fabric, moderate stretch
- Strapless bra or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7312
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale