Formal Dresses
Windsor’s formal dresses are redefining what it means to dress up. 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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Zelie Velvet Halter Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The contrast between rich velvet and lustrous satin gives this dress its undeniable allure. A plunging V-neckline and gathered bodice add dimension, while the satin mermaid skirt creates a sleek, fluid finish. It's a glamorous combination that feels equal parts daring and refined.
Fit & Features
- Velvet/premium satin fabric
- Velvet halter V-neckline, tie straps, ruched bodice with partial lining
- Open back
- Satin mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Wedding guests, black-tie galas, formal celebrations, balls, red-carpet events, glamorous parties, rehearsal dinners, special date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-002294
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY, WINE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Soft Curve Scoop Neck Halter Maxi Dress
This one is ready for the plans that call for something polished with a little movement. The scoop neck halter maxi dress pairs a ruched, fitted bodice with an open back and high side slit, while the flowing skirt keeps the silhouette soft. Wear it for weddings, formal events, or dressed-up date nights.
Fit & Features
- Slinky knit stretchy fabric
- Scoop halter neckline with tie straps
- Ruched fitted bodice
- High front side slit
- Flowy A-line maxi-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-001859
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $49.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: HUNTER
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- New Arrival
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Cosima Plunge V Ruched Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Ruched detailing gives this mermaid dress a sleek, sculpted finish. The plunging V neckline and halter tie frame the fitted silhouette, while the open twist back adds a striking contrast. It’s an elegant choice for a wedding guest.
Fit & Features
- Plunging V neckline
- Halter neck tie
- Ruched bodice and waist detailing
- Open back with twisted strap detail
- Fitted mermaid silhouette with floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, Prom, formal events, black-tie and galas, and wedding guest.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-002211
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Mazie Lace Corset Satin Bodycon Dress
Special Occasion
A little lace, a little satin, and a very polished point of view. This bodycon mini dress balances a structured corset bodice with a smooth satin skirt and lace-up back for a look that feels classic with a current edge. The finish is elegant, sleek, and quietly statement-making.
Fit & Features
- Knit lining with stretch
- Lace corset bodice, flexible boning
- Square neckline, padded bra cups, adjustable straps
- Satin bodycon mini skirt
- Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, birthdays, date nights, bachelorettes, Vegas, cocktail parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001405
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Melisande Rhinestone Velvet Column Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The rhinestone floral embellishment gives this formal dress its most distinctive finish. This column formal dress pairs a strapless sweetheart neckline with a fitted velvet silhouette, letting the jeweled floral pattern take center stage. The result feels glamorous, polished, and made for a formal entrance.
Fit & Features
- Velvet fabric, rhinestone floral-embellished pattern
- Strapless sweetheart neckline
- Column floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black-tie events, galas, cocktail parties, formal celebrations, special date nights, fashion-forward events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-002170
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $169.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Aria Rhinestone Snake Sheer Mesh Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Night out styling gets a sharper edge with this statement mini dress. The Aria bodycon mini dress pairs a rhinestone snake design with sheer long sleeves and a sheer waist insert for a sleek, high-impact finish. It’s a look that feels bold, dramatic, and oh-so-chic.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric, partial knit lining, high stretch
- Curved mock neckline with decorative frog closures
- Rhinestone snake design
- Sheer long fitted sleeves
- Sheer waist insert
- Mini-length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Nights out, birthday parties, semi-formal events, and bachelorette parties.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001361
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $99.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Mary Rhinestone Skeleton Mesh Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The skeleton detailing brings the drama, and the rhinestones make sure it sparkles. This formal mermaid dress pairs an embellished skeleton pattern with long sleeves and a floor-length silhouette for a striking look. Style it with heels and let the shimmer do the haunting.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with high stretch
- Rhinestone-embellished skeleton design
- Crew neckline
- Long fitted sleeves
- Back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
- Please note undergarments are not included
Where to Wear:
Themed parties and events, cocktail soirees, and birthday celebrations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-002093
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $55.96 $139.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NUDE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Sale
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Ceri Sequin Floral Sweetheart A-Line Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Floral print, sequins, and a ruched satin bodice give the Ceri mini dress a polished, playful finish. The sweetheart neckline, fitted waist, and A-line silhouette balance structure with movement, while the open back adds a chic detail.
Fit & Features
- Ruched satin bodice
- Sweetheart neckline with adjustable tank straps
- Floral print mesh fabric with knit lining, sequin embellishment, moderate stretch
- Open back, strap with bar closure, lower zipper with hook-eye closure
- Fitted waist
- Mini-length A-line silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, dances, formal parties, birthday celebrations, date nights, and dressy dinners.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001358
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK/PRINT
Available Size: S, M, L
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Avelina Beaded Floral Halter Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Florals, sparkle, and a fitted shape make a polished statement. The Avelina beaded floral halter bodycon mini dress combines sequin embellishment with a sleek silhouette and an open back for a look that feels fresh and refined. The finish is playful, glamorous, and confidently current.
Fit & Features
- Floral-printed mesh fabric with knit lining, moderate stretch
- Beaded and sequin embellishment
- Sleeveless halter neckline
- Side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Open back
- Mini-length hem
- Bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Cocktail parties, nights out, date nights, vacations, and birthday parties.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001359
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PURPLE, PRINT
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Soleia Pearl Rhinestone Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Pearls and rhinestones give this mini its statement finish. This pearl rhinestone bodycon mini dress layers shimmering embellishment over a sleek fitted silhouette for a look that feels polished and refined. The swirling motif adds just enough texture to keep the details interesting.
Fit & Features
- Scoop neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- All-over pearl and rhinestone embellishment, lined mesh fabric
- Side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon mini silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Receptions, rehearsal dinners, bridal celebrations, engagement photos and parties, birthday brunches, bachelorettes, Vegas, date nights, cocktail parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001349
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $119.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Dana Glitter A-Line Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The Dana mini dress captivates with its shimmering glitter finish and timeless A-line silhouette. The sweetheart neckline and lace-up back strike the perfect balance between elegance and allure—ideal for any RSVP that calls for turning heads.
Fit & Features
- Glitter fabric, sewn-in knit lining
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Cap sleeves
- Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- A-line silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, weddings, cocktail parties, birthdays, formal celebrations, rehearsal dinners, and date nights.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000789
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: LIGHT, BLUE, BLACK
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
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Marianna Rhinestone Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
This mini is all about a close, streamlined silhouette. A draped cowl neckline balances the bodycon shape, while slender straps keep the look light through the shoulders. Rhinestone embellishment adds texture and shine across the fitted form.
Fit & Features
- Allover rhinestone embellishment
- Abstract pattern, sewn-in satin woven lining
- Cowl neckline with adjustable spaghetti straps
- Side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette
- Mini length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthday dinners, date nights, Vegas, bachelorettes, cocktail parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001340
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $109.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: GOLD
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Marlena Knotted Sash Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
A beautifully draped silhouette makes a statement without needing to say much. The open-back detailing follows the silhouette of this long dress, creating soft definition, while the knotted back sash adds an unexpected twist. It feels sleek, sophisticated, and subtly sultry.
Fit & Features
- Smooth, lined knit fabric, high stretch
- Sleeveless cowl neckline
- Back hook-clasp fastener
- Open back with cascading knotted sash
- Mermaid ruched silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Wedding guests, balls, black-tie events, galas, rehearsal dinners, formal celebrations, cocktail parties, fashion-forward events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-002044
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN, NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Odessa Side Slit Lace Column Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The column silhouette keeps this long dress sleek and streamlined. This lace column long dress follows the figure through the body, while ruched detailing and a side slit add shape and movement without interrupting the clean line. The result feels polished, sculpted, and refined.
Fit & Features
- Floral lace fabric, knit lining
- Square neckline, spaghetti straps
- Visible boning through the bodice
- High side slit design
- Column floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black-tie parties, galas, rehearsal dinners, formal celebrations, dressed-up date nights, fashion-forward events, cocktail parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-002043
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PLUM
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Vamp Twist Strap Off Shoulder Maxi Dress
Let the details do the dressing. This off-the-shoulder maxi dress pairs twisted straps, ruched shaping, and a draped low back with a sleek, sculpted finish. Style it with stiletto heels and statement earrings for polished evening plans.
Fit & Features
- Smooth, slinky knit fabric with stretch
- Off-the-shoulder neckline with twisted straps
- Ruched detailing through the waist and hips
- Low draped back
- Curve-hugging silhouette
- Maxi length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05102-000840
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: OLIVE
Available Size: S, L
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Sweet Floral Beaded Lace-Up Bodycon Mini Dress
Sweet florals meet a seriously polished finish. This floral mini dress combines shimmering beaded and sequin embellishment with moderate-stretch knit fabric and an adjustable open back. It’s the kind of homecoming look that makes every photo count.
Fit & Features
- Knit fabric with moderate stretch
- Beaded, sequin, and faux pearl embellished floral design
- Strapless straight-across neckline
- Lace-up back design
- Side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Pleated detailing at the waist
- Mini-length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-001626
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $54.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: LAVENDER
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
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Delara Lace Bodice Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The mermaid silhouette gives this formal dress its sleek, sculpted shape. This mermaid formal dress follows the figure through the bodice and hips before opening into a floor-length flare, while the lace bodice adds texture and refinement. The result feels polished, feminine, and confidently formal.
Fit & Features
- Sleek knit lined fabric
- Foldover off-the-shoulder neckline
- Lace fitted bodice
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black-tie galas, balls, holiday parties, rehearsal dinners, red-carpet events, formal celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-002018
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kira Rhinestone Skeleton Long Sleeve Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Your look just found its easiest starting point. The Kira sheer mesh long sleeve mini dress combines a bodycon shape with a rhinestone skeleton design that keeps the sultry allure clear.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with high stretch
- Rhinestone-embellished skeleton design
- Crew neckline
- Long fitted sleeves
- Hidden back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Mini-length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Costume parties, themed events, parties, and nights out.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001319
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $119.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Dalphine Off-Shoulder Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The mermaid silhouette gives this formal dress its sleek, sculpted shape. This mermaid formal dress follows the figure through the bodice and hips before easing into a soft flare, while the off-the-shoulder neckline adds a graceful finish. The result feels polished, elegant, and confidently refined.
Fit & Features
- Lined mesh fabric with stretch
- Off-the-shoulder neckline
- Ruched detailing through the bodice and hips
- Long side sash detail
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette with a soft flared hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Wedding guests, bridesmaids, black-tie galas, balls, formal celebrations, cocktail parties, red-carpet events, anniversaries, fashion-forward events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-002017
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Lisandra Sequin Bead Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
A little shimmer, a little drape, and a silhouette that feels very now. This sequin bodycon mini dress pairs a softly draped cowl neckline with a ruched fitted skirt for a polished take on statement dressing. It’s an easy choice when your special occasion plans call for something charming with just enough sparkle.
Fit & Features
- Sequin and bead-embellished mesh-lined fabrication
- Draped cowl neckline with spaghetti straps
- Blouson-style bodice
- Ruched fitted bodycon mini skirt
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, birthday dinners, bridal showers, engagement photos and parties, fancy brunches, special date nights, cocktail parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001316
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $64.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: IVORY
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
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Petra Glitter Leopard Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The leopard pattern gets an elevated finish with allover glitter. This mermaid formal dress pairs a fitted shape with a lace-up open back for added definition. The textured shine gives the statement print a polished edge.
Fit & Features
- Glitter leopard print mesh fabric, knit lining, high stretch
- V-neckline, padded bra cups, spaghetti straps
- Lace-up open back
- Fitted mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, cocktail soirees, formal events, anniversaries
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-002015
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN/PRINT
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Coralie Beaded Mesh Halter Dress
Special Occasion
The shape is sleek, the attitude is anything but subtle. The Coralie bodycon halter dress keeps it sultry with a plunging neckline and open back for a sassy, fashion-forward finish. It’s the kind of silhouette that knows exactly what it’s doing.
Fit & Features
- Beaded, sequin-embellishments
- Lined mesh fabric
- Zebra print
- Plunge halter neckline, padded bra cups, clasp closure
- Open back, side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, birthday celebrations, date nights, Vegas, bachelorettes
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001311
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN/PRINT
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Evadne Corset Satin Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Old Hollywood glamour gets a fresh update. This beaded mesh corset satin mermaid dress pairs intricate embellishment with a sweetheart neckline, sculpted bodice, and draped satin skirt for a polished, cinematic finish. The lace-up back adds a modern touch to the vintage-inspired mood.
Fit & Features
- Lined mesh/satin fabric
- Beaded, sequin mesh corset bodice, flexible boning
- Sweetheart neckline, non-slip grip lining, padded bra cups
- Side waist ties
- Lace-up back, side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, elopements, courthouse weddings, bridal celebrations, rehearsal dinners, engagement photos and parties, black-tie galas, formal parties and events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-002003
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $119.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: IVORY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Evelisse Sheer Sleeve Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Elegance looks even better with a silhouette that knows how to flatter. The fitted shape follows the figure before flowing into a softly flared mermaid hem, while draping across the bodice adds graceful dimension. The result is sleek, feminine, and beautifully sophisticated.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit stretchy fabric
- Crew neckline with a pleated draped accent
- Fitted sheer mesh long sleeves
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Wedding guests, black-tie galas, cocktail parties, formal celebrations, balls, anniversaries, fashion-forward events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001996
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PLUM
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- New Arrival