Formal Dresses
Windsor's formal dresses are redefining elegance for 2025. Think illusion panels that sculpt and contour, printed mesh gowns with bold florals or swirls, and slinky jersey knits that drape like liquid luxe. Daring cutouts bring a sleek edge to eveningwear, while cascading ruffles add movement and modern drama. These trendy gowns prove that formal doesn’t have to mean predictable—they’re made for weddings, galas, and every post-worthy moment in between. Discover styles that are chic, camera-ready, and designed to make you unforgettable.
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Formal Dresses That Make Every Moment Feel Major
Windsor’s formal dresses are designed for those unforgettable nights when your look has to be flawless. From sweeping formal gowns to sleek short silhouettes, this collection delivers drama, polish, and trend-right details that set the tone for any occasion. Think structured corset bodices, adjustable straps, lace-up backs, and high slits that blend comfort with high-impact style.
- Heading to a big event? Explore Winter formal dresses in luxe fabrics like velvet, satin, and crepe that feel rich and elegant.
- For December celebrations, our formal holiday dresses sparkle with sequins, rhinestones, and glitter mesh, while bold jewel tones and classic black create timeless appeal.
- Looking to ring in the New Year? Formal NYE dresses with metallic finishes and statement cutouts are made to shine under the lights.
If you’re planning a gala, wedding, or milestone party, Windsor offers a range of formal party dresses in both fitted and flowy silhouettes to match your vibe. Go for a strapless satin gown with a sweetheart neckline for timeless elegance, or choose an asymmetrical hemline or bow-back detail for a fresh twist that feels modern and fun.
No matter where the night takes you, Windsor’s formal dresses give you options that feel special, stylish, and photo-ready. Shop Windsor’s formal dresses near you, online, in-app, or at one of 350+ stores nationwide, and find the look that will make your night unforgettable.
Tips for Choosing the Best Formal Dress for Your Body Type
- Hourglass: Slay those curves with a fitted corset bodice and flowing skirt.
- Pear‑Shaped: Balance out your look with a structured top and full skirt.
- Rectangle: Create curves with a cinched waist and flared hem.
- Apple‑Shaped: Draw eyes upward with a V‑neckline and empire waist.
For more styling inspo, hit up our blog guides like “The Ultimate Gala Dresses Guide” or “Sexy Formal Dresses – Create an Eye‑Catching Look” and get ready to own every moment.
What’s the Difference Between a Formal and a Semi-Formal Dress?
Formal and semi-formal dresses differ based on event dress codes and styling. Formal attire, often called black-tie, features glamorous floor-length gowns with luxe details like rhinestones, lace, and beading—perfect for galas, weddings, and proms. Popular silhouettes include mermaid, ball gown, and A-line styles.
Semi-formal dresses offer more variety in length and design, making them ideal for homecoming, weddings, and cocktail parties. These styles range from midi to short lengths.
The venue and occasion can also guide your choice—an upscale wedding may call for a floor-length gown, while an outdoor event might be perfect for a sleek midi dress with a stylish neckline.
Are Formal Dresses Always Long?
Not always! While long gowns are classic for formal events, modern formal attire includes various lengths and styles. Windsor’s collection of women’s formalwear features short, midi, and long dresses. Explore dramatic mermaid and column silhouettes for timeless elegance, or opt for trendy alternatives like high-low hemlines and two-piece designs for a fresh take on formal fashion.
Find your perfect formal dress at Windsor any time of year, available online, in-app, and in over 350 stores across the U.S. and Canada. Shop now for trend-driven styles that make you shine and every event unforgettable!
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Dahlia V-Neck Mermaid Lace Velvet Formal Dress
Special Occasion
This sleeveless velvet formal dress features a flattering V-neckline and adjustable spaghetti straps. The lace-trimmed sides boast an hourglass effect along form-hugging mermaid silhouette and floor-length hem.
Fit & Features
- Velvet fabric, lined, moderate stretch
- V-neckline with padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette with lace trimmed sides
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7558
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Aniyah Formal Sequin Lace-Up Dress
Special Occasion
Sparks fly when you enter the room in the Aniyah formal sequin dress that will have you shimmering from head to toe! Shine at school dances, celebrations, or a black tie event. She features a sleeveless square neck, a lightly padded bust, satin spaghetti straps that lace up in the back, a mermaid silhouette, and a skin-baring front high slit along the floor-length hem. The formal dress is composed of twinkling iridescent sequins on mesh fabric with a stretchy knit lining. Complete the look in stiletto heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neck, lightly padded bust
- Satin spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette, high front slit, floor-length hem
- Iridescent sequins, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Bra optional
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7384
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Arylee Polka Dot A-Line Ruffle Tulle Formal Dress
Special Occasion
A delicate polka dot pattern covers the Arylee tulle formal dress - a romantic gown for bridesmaids, wedding guests, or banquets! With sheer tiered short sleeves and a square neckline, this floor-length formal dress exudes luxury and charm. The A-line silhouette and tiered ruffles add a touch of femininity, while the non-slip grip lining along the neckline ensures a flawless fit. Complete the look with fringe earrings and strappy heels.
Fit & Features
- Polka dot tulle fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Non-slip grip lining
- Tiered sheer short sleeves
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- A-line silhouette, ruffles
- Sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7836
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Sarai Formal Sequin Striped Mermaid Long Dress
Special Occasion
Lines of sparkling sequins add drama and dimension to the glamorous Sarai formal long dress! She features a sexy wired plunge V-neckline, a padded bust for support, and adjustable spaghetti straps. Her curve-flaunting mermaid silhouette effortlessly showcases your femme allure while the floor-length hem adds a touch of grace to the style. The formal maxi dress is crafted from a lightweight mesh fabric with a dazzling sequin striped pattern and has a full knit stretchy lining. Complete the look with a bracelet and clutch for a black tie wedding or soiree!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless wired plunge V-neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, padded bust
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Sequin striped pattern, mesh fabric, full knit stretchy lining
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8185
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Jaya Long Sleeve Lace And Velvet Column Dress
Special Occasion
The Jaya long velvet dress features a sweetheart neckline with floral lace molded cups, sheer unlined lace long sleeves, and a floor-sweeping column silhouette. Complete your luxe look with a rhinestone clutch.
Fit & Features
- Lined velvet fabric
- Sweetheart neckline with molded lace cups
- Mini ribbon bow accent at the bust
- Sheer unlined lace long sleeves
- Back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Floor-length column silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black-tie weddings, dressed-up dinners, and fancy affairs.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8874
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Nadine Formal Sequin Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Stand out in sequins as you wow them all in our Nadine sequin dress!
Fit & Features
- V-Neckline I Padded Cups
- Spaghetti Straps
- Midi Length Silhouette With Split At Center Back
- Lined Mesh Fabric With Sequins Throughout
- Form-Hugging Fit
- Moderate 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: 05001-0265
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $20.97 $56.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Ivanka Taffeta Rhinestone Bubble Hem Dress
Special Occasion
Add a flirty flair to your formal wear in the Ivanka taffeta short dress! She features a V-neckline with a wired insert and foldover design, adjustable spaghetti straps, a padded bust, a flattering pleated waist, and an A-line silhouette with a bubble-style short hem. The formal mini dress is composed of a smooth taffeta woven fabric with colored rhinestone embellishments for a sparkly look and has a sewn-in stretchy knit lining. Complete the look with glitzy flat sandals for a sweet sixteen, wedding, or school dance!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, wire insert, foldover design
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, padded bust
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Pleated waist, A-line silhouette, bubble-style short hem
- Colored rhinestone embellishments
- Taffeta woven fabric, sewn-in stretchy knit lining
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1980
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Eden Crepe Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Don the elegant Eden for all your fancy affairs. You'll be getting compliments everywhere you go!
Fits & Features
- Surplice V Neck
- Long Fitted Sleeves
- Elongated, Floor-Length Wrap Mermaid Hem I Front Slit
- Crepe Fabric
- Bodycon Fit I Moderate Stretch
- Zipper Not Included
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: 05002-0767
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Ashley Sleeveless Bow Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Both feminine and sweet, the Ashley sleeveless bow mermaid formal dress will have you feeling like a princess! The back bow tie design and ruched seam create a flattering mermaid silhouette while the high slit gives effortless allure.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit stretchy fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, crisscross back
- Back bow tie design, zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit
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Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black-tie galas and weddings, fancy engagement parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8290
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: S
Product Badge:- Best Seller
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Reese Double Ruffle Off Shoulder Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Our gorge Reese will flatter your every curve! Pair her with some rhinestone heels and earrings to further elevate your look!
Fits & Features
- Spaghetti Straps I Double Ruffle Off Shoulder Sleeves
- Plunging V Neckline I Padded Bust I Princess Seams
- High Waist Seam I Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hem I Mermaid Silhouette
- Lined Crepe Fabric
- Curve Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 35.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0473
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $34.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Meg Formal Iridescent Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
Dazzle them all in a formal dress that elevates your glam to the next level. The Meg dress features a sleeveless V-neckline with padded cups, adjustable straps, an iridescent sequin scroll print, a lace-up back, and a mermaid silhouette. The dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a slight stretch. Includes a lower back zipper closure. Complete look with rhinestone heels and a rhinestone bracelet.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline with padded cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Iridescent sequin scroll print
- Lace-up back
- Mermaid silhouette
- Lined mesh fabric
- Form hugging fit, slight stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1123
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Darcey Formal Flocked Velvet Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
This Darcey formal dress creates a dazzling elegance to any black tie event. She features an off-the-shoulder, fold-over sweetheart neckline, short-sleeve cuffs, a flattering mermaid silhouette, a ruched front seam, and a stylish front slit along the floor-length hem. The formal dress is designed with a lovely flocked velvet pattern on smooth scuba knit fabric. Complete the look with dangly earrings and heels.
Fit & Features
- Off-the-shoulder, short-sleeve cuffs
- Fold over sweetheart neckline
- Front ruched seam, high slit
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Flocked velvet pattern, smooth scuba knit fabric, minimal stretch
- Strapless bra or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7564
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $24.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Vanessa One-Shoulder Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Exude grace and elegance in the Vanessa formal dress boasting a sleek one-shoulder neckline, fitted long sleeves, and an accentuating mermaid silhouette completed with a high slit. Pair with earrings.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit fabric, stretchy knit lining
- One-shoulder neckline
- Fitted long sleeves
- High slit
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9316
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Yvonna Cross Back Foil Dress
Special Occasion
Our Yvonna will surely elicit a wow from everybody you come across! Honestly, who could resist this beauty?
Fits & Features
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Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
- Plunging V Neckline With Knot Front Design I Keyhole Opening
- Slim Fit Bodice
- Floor Length Hemline
- Foil Texture Knit
- Curve Hugging Fit I Plenty Of Stretch
Model is 5'4" with 33" bust, 24.5" waist and 39" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0728
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
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Carla Formal Crepe Strapless Faux Pearl Dress
Special Occasion
You'll be a vision in the Carla formal crepe dress to make a stunning entrance as a modern bride, graduate, or black-tie guest! She features a classic strapless neckline with faux pearl trim along the front, a curve-accentuating side ruched seam, and a flattering slim silhouette, side slit, and a long hem. The formal dress is composed of a crepe fabric with a sewn-in knit stretchy lining. Complete your dressy look with fringe earrings and a bracelet.
Fit & Features
- Strapless neckline, faux pearl trim along the front
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Side ruched seam
- Slim silhouette, side slit, long hem
- Crepe fabric, sewn-in knit stretchy lining
- Strapless bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7392
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $24.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Keily Ruched And Ruffled Mesh Formal Dress
Special Occasion
You'll fall in love with the sultry silhouette and adorable accents of the Keily ruched and ruffled mesh formal dress! Crafted with a stretchy sheer mesh fabric with a knit lining for coverage, this gorgeous long dress will bring a flirtatious flair to weddings and parties. Her bodice is shaped with a sleeveless V-neckline and adjustable spaghetti straps so you can customize to find your perfect fit. The body of the dress will flaunt your stunning curves with the form-hugging fit and ruched detailing, leading to a flowy ruffled floor-length hem to add that chic drama. Complete the look with rhinestone statement earrings and strappy stilettos.
Fit & Features
- Stretchy sheer mesh fabric with knit lining
- Sleeveless V-neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Ruching, high front slit
- Bodycon fit, flowy ruffled floor-length hem
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8397
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Virginia Cowl Neck Tie-Back Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made to celebrate enchanting evenings, the Virginia mermaid formal dress is a stunning option! The cowl neckline and spaghetti straps add a touch of elegance, while the open tie-back design allows for a sultry reveal that turns heads.
Fit & Features
- Sleek knit fabric, moderate stretch
- Cowl neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Open tie-back design
- Mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bridesmaids, weddings, engagement parties, fancy celebrations, black tie soirees, glam events and functions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000119
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $64.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: L
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Julissa Knot Front Heat Stone Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Sparkle and glitter like the night sky in our statement Julissa!
Fits & Features
- Plunging V Neckline With Twist Front Design
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure At Back
- Ruching Along The Sides & Center Back
- Mini Length Silhouette
- Fully Lined, Mesh Knit Fabric With Heat Stone Embellishments All Over
- Curve Hugging Fit With Ample 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: 05001-0249
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $25.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Misty Off Shoulder Glitter Dress
Special Occasion
You'll be channeling princess vibes in this one. Look magical in our glistening Misty dress!
Fits & Features
- Off Shoulder Neckline I Fold Over Design
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Midi Length Silhouette I Front Slit
- Glitter Lurex Fabric I Fully Lined
- Curve Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0330
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $42.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Adley Formal Glitter Lace-Up Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Discover a look that's chic and sparkly in the Adley formal glitter midi dress! Boasting a square neckline and spaghetti straps that lace up in the back, she's designed with a flattering form-hugging silhouette, a stylish side slit, and glitter knit fabric for a luxurious aesthetic. Complete the look in heels for a banquet or holiday party!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline
- Spaghetti straps, lace-up back
- Form-hugging, side ruched seams
- Side slit, midi-length hem
- Glitter knit fabric, sewn-in knit lining. moderate stretch
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2017
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Payton Formal Sleeveless Sequin Dress
Special OccasionSet the right tone for the night in sparkling sequins! Payton features a sleeveless bodice, a high round neckline with racer bust and an open back with wide cross straps. Her slim fit bodice leads to a curve hugging floor length silhouette. Her all over silver hued sequins are set in a scroll-inspired design. Dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a moderate stretch. Includes a lower back zipper closure.
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size smallSpecial Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6613
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $36.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Sable Formal Satin Sleeveless Dress
Special Occasion
Keep it sophisticated in luxe satin as you make your entrance in our stunning Sable dress! Pair her with chandelier earrings and rhinestone embellished pumps to create a glam look!
Fit & Features
- Square Neckline
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Back Center Slit
- Sheath Silhouette
- Lined Stretchy Satin Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0832
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Rona Cowl Neck Lace Up Back Dress
Special Occasion
Look sleek and polished from head to toe with our Rona. With chic features like her lace-up back and cowl neckline, her streamlined silhouette can be highlighted with a pair of sparkling rhinestone earrings and an eye-catching clutch.
Fits & Features
- Spaghetti Straps That Lace Up At The Back
- Cowl Neckline
- Ruching At The Sides & Center Back
- Floor Length Hemline
- Smooth Jersey Knit Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit I Plenty Of Stretch
- Zipper Not Featured
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0888
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Ramona Rhinestone Detail Velvet Mesh Dress
Special Occasion
Sultry and alluring, the Ramona velvet mesh dress was made for a formal night out! She features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline with padded cups, a sheer mesh insert at the bust with iridescent rhinestone embellishment, and adjustable spaghetti straps. Her high waist seam leads to a floor-length, fitted silhouette with a chic thigh-high front slit with a matching sheer mesh insert with rhinestone detailing. Style this dress with statement earrings and clear heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, padded cups
- Sheer mesh insert at the bust, iridescent rhinestone embellishment
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper and hook and eye closure
- High waist seam, floor-length, fitted silhouette
- High front slit, sheer mesh insert, rhinestone detailing
- Velvet fabric, full knit lining, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1583
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale