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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Rowena Sequin Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Chic and glamorous, the Rowena sequin mermaid long dress will stylishly elevate your formal night-out look. With a lace-up strap design and fitted mermaid silhouette with a high slit, you'll deliver stunning style.
Sequins bring the perfect mix of elegance and fun. Want more options? Shine in a sparkling sequin prom dress or make an entrance in our glamorous party dresses.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric, knit lining, moderate stretch, embroidered sequin scroll design
- Sleeveless square neckline, padded bust
- Spaghetti straps, open back, lace-up strap design, tie closure
- Lower back zipper with hook and eye closure
- High waist seam
- Fitted floor-length mermaid silhouette, high front slit
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black-tie parties and galas, fancy engagement parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1512
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $109.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Ilse Velvet Bow Strap High Slit Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Elegantly chic, the Ilse formal mermaid dress is crafted with smooth velvet fabric for that oh-so-luxe look. It features a sleeveless high crew halter neckline, an open cross-back design with an adorable bow accent, a ruched front seam leading to a high-cut slit, and a floor-length mermaid silhouette to highlight your curves.
Fit & Features
- Velvet fabric with knit lining, moderate stretch
- High crew halter neckline, princess seams, back hook-eye closures
- Open cross-back, bow accent
- Ruched lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
- High waist seam, ruched front seam, high front slit
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8833
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Lynn Formal Glitter Wrap Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Glow this evening in a wrap dress that brings the elegance to your special event. Dress up in our Lynn dress that features a high round neckline with a racer bust, a floral lace back with a lower back keyhole, and a gorgeous mini wrap silhouette. Lynn is composed of a sparkling glitter knit fabric. Complete your formal evening look with rhinestone hoops and a sleek clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless high round neckline
- Unlined floral lace back
- Lower back keyhole
- Wrap mini length silhouette with lining
- Glitter knit fabric
- Form hugging fit
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0464
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $49.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Margo Satin Bustier Bandage Dress
Special Occasion
Step out of your comfort zone and into the Margo short dress to unleash your inner bombshell! From cocktail parties to afterparties, serve up major sass everywhere you go. She features a sleeveless satin bodice with a sweetheart neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, a built-in padded and pleated bust with underwire, and flexible boning inserts for structure. Her bandage mini skirt is designed to fit your body like a glove with a sheer mesh overlay and side-ruched seams. The formal dress is composed of lined satin and a bandage rib-knit fabric with a moderate stretch. Style with glitter block heels and a clutch to complete the look!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless satin bodice, sweetheart neck, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Built-in padded and pleated bust, underwire, flexible boning
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Sheer mesh overlay, side ruched seams, short-length hem
- Lined satin and bandage rib-knit fabric, moderate stretch
- No bra required
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1372
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Candace Crepe Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Up your evening outfit with our stunning Candace! She's the perfect little partner-in-crime for a date night or GNO!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Sweetheart Neckline With Deep Wire V At Center I Princess Seams
- Midi Length Silhouette I Front Slit
- Crepe Fabric
- Form-Hugging Fit
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: 05001-0271
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Keana Double Slit Scroll Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
With an elaborate arrangement of sequins, your presence will be known as you walk in with our alluring Keana. Her dramatic slits line the front, allowing you to show off those sparkly heels. Could anyone resist doing a double-take with all that shine?
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Plunging V Neckline
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I Double Thigh-High Slits At Front
- Mesh Lined Fabric With Scroll Pattern Sequins
- Built-In Cheeky Bodysuit With Dual Snap Button Closure
- Form 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: 05002-0566
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $45.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Cameron Formal Glitter and Lace Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Shine in the Cameron glitter lace dress. Draw all eyes on you as you enter the room in an enchanting mini dress. Cameron features a V-neckline with scalloped lace trim, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customized fit, and a partially open back. Her relaxed fit waist leads to a curve-hugging mini-length silhouette. Cameron is composed of a lined lace fabric adorned with mini glitter accents throughout. The dress offers a form hugging fit with a slight stretch. Complete your look with rhinestone earrings for an extra pop of glam and a sleek clutch to carry your essentials close to you.
Fit & Features
- V-neckline with scalloped lace trim
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Partially-open back
- Lace
- Glitter accents throughout
- Form-hugging fit, slight stretch
- Back zipper
Model is 5'6" with 31" bust, 26" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size three.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0358
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kynlee Formal High Slit Beaded Dress
Special OccasionDraw all eyes on you from the moment you enter the room in the breathtaking Kynlee black dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a plunging wired V neckline and narrow shoulder straps that lead to a caged back design. Her slim fit bodice features an unlined mesh inset adored with a triple row beaded accent that leads to a curve hugging floor length silhouette with a high side slit. Dress is composed of a crepe fabric that offers a moderate stretch. includes a mini skirt length knit lining.
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: 05002-6649
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Marylou Lace Mesh Plunge Neck Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the romantic allure to the evening affair in the Marylou lace mesh plunge formal dress! She embodies flirtatious style in a sleeveless plunge V-neckline with a built-in padded bust and adjustable spaghetti straps on her empire waist bodice. The sparkly embroidered lace mesh fabric effortlessly flows into a floor-length silhouette with a high-side slit to showcase some legs. She also features a curve-conscious silhouette to flaunt your stunning figure! Complete the look in an elegant hair clip.
Fit & Features
- Plunge V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Adhesive bra recommended, built-in padded bust
- High side slit, back zipper, hook and eye closure
- Empire waist, form-fitting silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Sparkly embroidered lace mesh fabric, full knit lining, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7177
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S
Product Badge:- Sale
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Ruby Formal Sleeveless Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
Brighten the evening with luxe sequins in our wowing Ruby formal dress!
Fit & Features
- V-Neckline | Tank Straps
- Padded Cups
- Geometric Sequin Design
- Lined Mesh Fabric
- Slim Silhouette
- Form Hugging Fit | Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0743
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Lara Marabou Feather Crepe Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Strut into the room with all the chic glamorous vibes in the gorgeous Lara formal mermaid dress. She features a sleeveless square neckline with a fab marabou feather trim, spaghetti straps, a fitted high waist with ruching, a floor-sweeping hem with a thigh-high front slit to show off some leg, and a mermaid silhouette that will showcase your stunning figure. The crepe fabric offers a moderate stretch. Style with strappy stilettos for your next black-tie affair.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline, marabou feather trim
- Spaghetti straps, back zipper closure
- Fitted high waist, ruching
- Floor-sweeping hem, high front slit, mermaid silhouette
- Crepe fabric, knit lining at the bust, moderate stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7446
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Janette Formal Rhinestone Mesh Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Flaunt your glam behavior in the Janette formal rhinestone long dress making the whole room shimmer! She features sheer fitted long sleeves, a sweetheart neckline, and a mermaid silhouette that hugs your gorgeous curves down to the floor-length hem. Crafted from mesh-lined fabric, the formal long dress captivates with a rhinestone-embellished pattern in a curve-flaunting design. Complete the look with earrings for a black tie gala or holiday soiree!
Fit & Features
- Fitted sheer long sleeves
- Sweetheart neckline
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Rhinestone-embellished pattern
- Mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Pasties or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7487
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $109.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Aerin Formal Sequin Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Have a night to remember in our Aerin! She features a boat neckline, long sleeves, and a sexy low back with a zipper closure. She is fully lined and composed of a mesh material that offers a form fitting silhouette and slight stretch. Her mid length hemline hits mid calf, and she features a high slit at one side that makes her easy to walk and dance in! She showcases a beautiful sequin swirling pattern throughout that gives an elegant finish!
Model is 5'9" with 32" 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: 05001-0267
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $27.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Lisa Marie Formal Pleated Crepe Dress
Special Occasion
Captivate and wow from the moment you walk in the room in our breathtaking Lisa Marie dress! Her neckline lets you show off your shoulders and her high slit reveals just a hint of leg!
Fit & Features
- Off The Shoulder Neckline | Spaghetti Straps
- Pleated Bodice
- Overlapping Strap Accents
- High Slit
- Mermaid Silhouette
- Lined Crepe
- Form Hugging | Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 26" waist and 38" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0387
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $31.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Marlee Formal Lace Mermaid Dress
Special OccasionStun them all in classic black! Marlee features a sleeveless lace bodice, a plunging V neckline with a scalloped lace trim and a beige hued lining to create a gorgeous two-tone effect. Her slim fit bodice leads to a curve hugging mermaid silhouette accented with vertical seams to showcase curves. Dress is composed of a combination lace and crepe fabric that offers a moderate stretch.
Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6600
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Gracelyn Formal Two Piece Lace Dress
Special OccasionMake an unforgettable impression in our swoon-worthy Gracelyn navy blue dress! Her unique two piece design features a partially lined floral lace crop top with a mock neck, unlined long sleeves and an open back with multiple-button closure. Her matching skirt features a high waist fit and an elongating velvet floor length silhouette. Gracelyn offers a form hugging fit with a slight 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: 05006-0478
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Rose Off The Shoulder Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Look classically chic in our stunning Rose off the shoulder midi dress!
Fit & Features
- Off the shoulder neckline
- Long fitted sleeves
- Princess seams | High waist seam
- Back zipper | Hook and eye closure
- Ruched side detailing
- Mid-length, curve hugging fit | Back slit
- Crepe fabric | Moderate stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0366
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $20.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Brooklyn Satin Ruched Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Create a head-turning moment in the gorgeous and chic Brooklyn formal dress. She features a sleeveless square neckline with a padded bust, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customized fit, front ruching, and a floor-sweeping A-line silhouette with a sultry front slit. Style this knit satin dress with sleek hoop earrings and heels.
Fit & Features
- Square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Built-in padded bust, no bra required
- Ruched bodice, back zipper, hook and eye closure
- A-line silhouette, floor-length hem, front slit
- Satin knit fabric, inner skirt lining
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8236
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $62.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: S, L
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Kelly High Slit Satin Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Elevate your special evening outfit in our chic Kelly dress. She features a sweetheart neckline, long sleeves, vertical seams at the bust, and a midi length silhouette with a high side slit. The dress is composed of lined stretch satin fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete your look with a dainty rhinestone bracelet.
Fit & Features
- Sweetheart neckline
- Long sleeves
- Vertical seams at the bust
- Midi length silhouette
- High slit
- Lined stretch satin fabric
- Form hugging fit, moderate stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0506
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Emelia Satin A-Line High Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Effortlessly sleek with a timeless style, the Emeila satin formal dress is ideal for weddings or fancy parties. She features a sleeveless cowl neckline, tie-shoulder spaghetti straps, a fitted high waist seam, a floor-sweeping skirt with a wrap-front design creating a high slit, and a flowy A-line silhouette. The smooth satin fabric gives the dress a major chic factor and is designed with a sewn-in stretchy knit lining. Complete the look with a rhinestone necklace and earrings set.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl neckline
- Tie-shoulder spaghetti straps, back zipper closure
- High waist seam
- Floor-sweeping hem, wrap-front, high slit, A-line silhouette
- Satin fabric, sewn-in stretchy knit lining
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1544
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Marnie Formal Satin Corset Midi Dress
Special Occasion
You'll wow the crowd in the classy Marnie formal satin dress at banquet dinners or weddings! She features a corset-style bodice, a sweetheart neckline adorned with wide shoulder straps, a pleated and padded bust, flexible boning inserts, a flattering bodycon silhouette, a front slit, and a midi-length hem. The formal dress is composed of a silky satin-knit fabric with a luxe sheen and a moderate stretch. Complete the look in stiletto heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless corset-style bodice
- Sweetheart neckline, wide shoulder straps
- Pleated and padded bust, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Flexible boning inserts
- Bodycon silhouette, front slit, midi-length hem
- Satin-knit fabric, sheen effect, knit lining at the top, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1978
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Chelsea Party Dress
Special Occasion
Step out in our Chelsea! She features a deep v neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps that lead to a square back and hidden zipper, and a fitted bodice with padded inserts. Chelsea has a swirly floral inspired embroidery adorned in sequins. High waisted and banded, her bodice meets a chiffon-like skirt that flows and is easy to move around and dance in! She is fully lined and composed of fabric that offers no stretch yet a relaxed fit.
Model is 5'7" with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0057
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Riya Formal High Slit Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the glamour to your evening with a formal dress that captivates! Riya features a sleeveless square neckline, spaghetti straps, a lace-up back, a high side slit, and an A-line silhouette. The dress is composed of a smooth knit fabric that offers a form hugging fit and a moderate stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels and a satin clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back
- High side slit
- A-line silhouette
- Smooth knit fabric with a sheen finish
- Form hugging fit, moderate stretch, runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1329
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Jenika Formal Embroidered Ball Gown
Special Occasion
The Jenika is picture-perfect and ready for a close-up in extravagant embroidery and rhinestone detail to shine under the dance floor lights! This gown will make jaws drop with a gorgeous corset bodice and form-hugging flared silhouette that gives major princess energy.
Fit & Features
- Multi-layers of tulle, inner lining
- V-neckline, spaghetti straps
- Built-in padded bust
- Open-back, lace-up, zipper closure
- Embroidery and rhinestone insets
- Corset-style mesh bodice, flexible boning
- Form-fitting flared floor-length bonded hem
Where to Wear:
Prom, charity galas, black tie parties, big birthday events, glam functions and events
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0058
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $249.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free