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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Lilly Sleeveless High-Slit Glitter Column Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the glamour in the Lilly formal glitter dress that wows from the moment you walk in! The long dress features a strapless straight neckline, ruching to enhance curves, a bold asymmetric front slit, and a floor-length column silhouette.
Unapologetically bold, this dress is all about confidence. Keep the luxe look going with our stunning strapless prom dresses or discover the perfect fit among our stylish wedding guest dresses.
Fit & Features
- Lined glitter knit fabric
- Strapless straight neckline, padded bra cups
- Ruching, back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Asymmetric high-front slit
- Long-length hem
- Column silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, galas, and black-tie parties.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8901
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Kelly Formal Velvet Affair Dress
Special Occasion
Make it a velvet affair in our luxe Kelly dress! She features a plunging wired V-neckline, long sleeves and a slim fit bodice that leads to a curve hugging floor length silhouette. Dress is composed of a lined velvet fabric that offers a moderate stretch for a comfortable wear. Includes a back zipper closure with hook and eye closure.
Model is 5'11" with a 38" bust, 37" waist and 48.5" hips. She is wearing a size 1X.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 15002-0140
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- 50% Off
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Marlowe Formal Feather Strap Long Dress
Special Occasion
Prepare to wow in the glam Marlowe formal dress showcasing subtle '90s couture fashion everyone will adore at banquets or dressy dinner parties! She features a sleeveless cowl neckline, feather shoulder straps, a slim curve-hugging silhouette, and a sexy high-side slit leading to her long hem. The formal dress is composed of a slinky knit fabric with plenty of stretch. Complete the look with teardrop earrings and a clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl neckline
- Feathered shoulder straps
- Slim, curve-hugging silhouette
- High side slit, long hem
- Slinky knit fabric, moderate stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7473
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $39.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Jaelene Formal Sequin Strapless Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Inspired by the starry night sky, countless sequin embellishments adorn the Jaelene formal dress! She features a strapless square neckline, flexible boning inserts along the bodice for a snatched appearance, and a flattering mermaid silhouette, high front slit, and floor-length hem. The formal dress is designed with a sequin-embellished scroll pattern on mesh fabric for a sparkly allure with a stretchy knit lining. Complete the look with earrings for a school dance or black tie occasion!
Fit & Features
- Strapless square neckline
- Flexible boning inserts along the bodice
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Sequin-scroll embellishments, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7579
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Jordan Formal Strappy Back Ruched Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Flaunt your figure and show off your stunning silhouette in the Jordan formal ruched mermaid dress. She features a sleeveless V-neckline, spaghetti straps that lead to a sultry open back with a cross-back strappy design, front and back ruched detailing, a wrap-front accent at the waist, a hip-hugging fit, and a floor-sweeping hem with a mermaid silhouette. The smooth knit fabric offers plenty of stretch. Style with rhinestone jewelry to add some sparkle to your gorgeous look.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline
- Spaghetti straps, open back, cross-back strappy design, tie closure
- Front and back ruched detailing, wrap-front accent at the waist
- Hip-hugging fit, floor-sweeping hem, mermaid silhouette
- Smooth knit fabric, lined bust, plenty of stretch
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7683
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Candace Formal Crepe One-Shoulder Ruffle Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for maximum impact, the Candance formal crepe long dress is the perfect style for bridesmaids or wedding guests! She features a one-shoulder neckline, dual spaghetti straps, an asymmetrical back strap, a curve-hugging slim silhouette, and a front ruffled trim slit and long hem. The formal maxi dress is composed of a slinky crepe knit fabric that offers a chic allure! Complete the look with a bracelet and heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless one-shoulder neckline
- Dual spaghetti straps, asymmetrical back strap
- Slim silhouette, high front ruffled trim slit
- Long hem
- Slinky crepe knit fabric, moderate stretch
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7716
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $46.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Shelby Rhinestone Velvet Bodycon Dress
Special Occasion
Create an alluringly chic formal night-out look in the stunning Shelby bodycon dress. She features a trendy square neckline, long fitted sleeves, a flattering high waist, and a mini-length, curve-hugging silhouette. The luxe velvet fabric features all-over rhinestone embellishment for a glamorous sparkle. Complete the outfit with strappy stilettos.
Fit & Features
- Square neckline
- Long fitted sleeves
- Back zipper and hook and eye closure
- High waist seam, mini-length, form-fitting silhouette
- Velvet fabric, moderate stretch
- All-over mini rhinestone embellishment
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0805
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Blossom Formal Halter Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Make a dazzling impression in a long mermaid dress that features a halter neckline with a sweetheart bust, sheer ruched cap sleeves, ruching throughout to enhance curves, and a high-side slit. Complete formal outfit with rhinestone heels.
Fit & Features
- Lined mesh fabrication
- Halter neckline, sweetheart bust
- Sheer ruched cap sleeves
- Ruched silhouette
- High side slit
- Mermaid silhouette
- Long length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8964
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Brooke Formal Tulle Corset Skater Dress
Special Occasion
Create a chic and stylish snatched look that will draw all the attention at HOCO with the Brooke formal tulle corset skater dress. She features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline with ruching at the bust, a corset-designed bodice with flexible boning inserts to provide structure, and adjustable spaghetti straps for that perfect customized fit. Her high waist seam flows out to a short skater skirt with an adorable fit and flare silhouette. Complete your homecoming look with a gemstone necklace and earrings set.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, ruching at the bust
- Corset-designed bodice, flexible boning inserts
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper closure
- High waist seam, short skater skirt, fit and flare silhouette
- Sheer tulle fabric, full-length lining
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1291
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kamila Formal Open Back Dress
Special OccasionMake a chic statement as you radiate elegance in our unforgettable Kamila black dress! She features a mock neck, fitted long sleeves, an asymmetrical keyhole at the bust and a plunging keyhole at the back. Her slim fit bodice leads to an elongating floor length silhouette that is accented with a high side slit. Dress is composed of a tricot fabric that offers a form hugging fit with slight stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6666
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Roxie Formal Sequin Long Dress
Special Occasion
Create a truly special entrance at the prom in the Roxie formal sequin dress! She features a sleek, sleeveless, v-neck, bungee spaghetti straps, and a sultry open-back with lace-up detailing. Her form-fitting mermaid silhouette creates the illusion of an hourglass while elongating your figure on the slightly, flared floor-length hem. The formal dress is composed of a mesh-lined fabric with minimal stretch. Complete the look in statement rhinestone earrings.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless, v-neck, bungee spaghetti straps
- Built-in padded bust
- Open-back, lace-up detail, zipper closure
- Form-fitting mermaid silhouette
- Flared floor-length hem
- Sequin-embroidery
- Mesh-lined fabric, minimal stretch, fits true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2361
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $159.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Plus Karla Formal Wrap Dress
Special OccasionWrap yourself in elegance as you grace them with your presence in our Karla dress! She features a plunging wrap V neckline, wide shoulder straps, ruching detailing and a floor length wrap silhouette that is accented with a high slit. Dress is composed of a smooth knit fabric that offers a relaxed fit with a moderate stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 15002-0132
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Rhianna Formal Iridescent Sequin Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Shine bright like a diamond in the Rhianna formal dress covered in iridescent sequins to wow from head to toe at banquets or bachelorettes! She features a sleeveless V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, a padded bust, a flattering bodycon silhouette, back slit accent, and a midi-length hem. The formal knee-length dress is composed of iridescent sequin-embellished mesh fabric that causes a rainbow-like color effect under lights and is designed with a smooth knit stretchy lining. Complete the look in a rhinestone bracelet, earrings, and ring set for extra glam!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, padded bust
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette, back slit accent, midi-length hem
- Iridescent sequin-embellished mesh fabric, stretch knit lining
- No bra required
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1353
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Willa Low Ruched Back Dress
Special Occasion
Our Willa is all about making a sleek and chic impression. Her smooth fabric embraces your curves, while her low, open back brings the flattering center ruche to attention. Walk into any room looking streamlined and elegant in our gorgeous Willa!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- V Neckline I Padded Bust
- Low, Open Back I Ruching At Center
- Floor Length Hemline I Mini Length Lining
- Smooth Tricot Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit I Plenty Of Stretch
- Zipper Not Featured
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0881
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $34.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Camryn Sweetheart Long Gown
Special Occasion
Start off your special night with the perfect attire. Introducing our Camryn, designed with a deep sweetheart neckline, off shoulder sleeves, and a form fitting silhouette. The ruching down the center gives a flattering curve hugging detail and shows a high slit up the center. Her hem is floor sweeping and she is composed of a crepe material that offers moderate stretch.
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: 05002-0375
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Enchanted Moment Floral Ruffled Lace Midi Dress
Look enchanting in this floral ruffled lace midi dress showcasing a bodycon silhouette and flirty slit for movement. Pair with heels.
Fit & Features
- Sheer floral lace fabric with knit lining, moderate stretch
- Square neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Ruched front
- Asymmetric midi-length hem with ruffled trim, front slit
- Bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-3696
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Leann Formal Ruched Knit Dress
Special Occasion
Make a mesmerizing entrance in the captivating Leann formal ruched knit dress. The dress features a sleeveless cowl neckline, sleek spaghetti straps, and ruched side seams with drawstrings that give you the option to wear the dress as a mini, midi, or long silhouette. The dress is composed of a smooth knit fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete the look with sleek rhinestone heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl neckline
- Sleek spaghetti straps
- Ruched body
- Dual drawstrings
- Can be worn as a mini, midi, or long silhouette
- Smooth knit fabric, form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1206
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Sway With Me Rhinestone Heels
Dance with me, sway with me, all night long! These rhinestone babies offer a low heel for the gal that likes to tango allll nighhht lonnnggg!
- Open almond toe
- Strappy rhinestone detailing
- Zipper located back
- Faux suede
- Low block heel
Style Number/Barcode: 07401-0565
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $12.97 $28.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Elliot Rhinestone And Pearl Mesh Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Exude glamour and luxe energy in the Elliot formal dress crafted with lined mesh fabric with chic tonal rhinestone and faux pearl embellishments. It features a sleeveless cowl neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customized fit, and a floor-sweeping mermaid silhouette to flaunt your stunning curves.
Every detail shines in this intricately designed dress. Love embellishments? Explore our embellished beaded prom dresses or find a refined silhouette in our formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with knit lining
- Tonal rhinestone and faux pearl embellishments
- Cowl neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper closure
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8679
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Destiny Formal Bustier Midi Dress
Special Occasion
The prettiest rhinestone embellishments make the Destiny formal midi dress stand out! Envoke sassy and sultry vibes at every dinner party or celebration you enter. She features a sheer mesh sleeveless bodice, a sweetheart neck, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customizable fit, and a built-in padded bust with underwire and pipe trim. Her form-hugging silhouette flaunts your curves along the midi-length hem with a flirty front slit. The formal dress is composed of a lined crepe fabric with a moderate stretch. Style with sleek stiletto heels to complete the look!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless sheer mesh rhinestone bodice
- Sweetheart neck, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Built-in padded bust, underwire, pipe trim
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Form-hugging fit, front slit, midi-length hem
- Crepe fabric, smooth knit lining, moderate stretch
- No bra required
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1417
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Cece Off-The-Shoulder Mermaid Mesh Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Revel in the romance of the Cece mermaid mesh formal dress stunning for banquets or weddings! She's designed with an off-the-shoulder sweetheart neckline and sheer short-sleeve cuffs for sophistication, while the ruched bust seam flatters your figure. The mermaid silhouette leads to her sheer floor-length hem, lined with delicate mesh fabric, creating a stunning and elegant look! Complete the look with a grand rhinestone necklace and earrings!
Fit & Features
- Mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Off-the-shoulder sweetheart neckline
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8420
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $76.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Amy V-Neck Mesh Mermaid Crepe Formal Dress
Special Occasion
You'll be a vision of rare beauty in the Amy mermaid formal dress at black tie parties and weddings! Her stunning V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, and mermaid silhouette create a flattering and elegant look. The dual-side sheer mesh panels add a touch of sophistication while the floor-length hem and polished crepe fabric provide a timeless and luxurious feel. Complete the look with statement earrings and a clutch purse!
Fit & Features
- Crepe fabric, bust lining, minimal stretch
- Dual side sheer mesh panels
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8539
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Pia Satin Floral Party Dress
Special OccasionOur Pia party dress is so flirty and feminine! Perfect for attending a wedding or garden party, Pia is a springtime dream with a deep V neckline, adjustable shoulder straps, a hidden back zipper closure, a fitted bodice with a high waist seam, and a pleated A-line skirt with pockets that's totally flattering on your figure! Pia is composed of a lined satin fabric with a red floral print, and has no stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-4031
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Kindra High-Slit Mermaid Halter Dress
Special Occasion
Go bold in a long mermaid dress that features a plunging halter neckline with a U-shaped bust, adjustable neck ties, ruching, a high side slit, and a captivating mermaid silhouette. Complete your formal outfit with a sleek rhinestone clutch.
Fit & Features
- Lined mesh fabrication, moderate stretch
- Plunging halter neckline, U-shaped bust
- Halter neck ties
- High side slit
- Ruching
- Mermaid silhouette
- Long length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8924
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale