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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Marianne Tulle Glitter Ball Gown
Special OccasionLayer yourself in our dreamy Marianne burgundy dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V neckline, padded cups, wide overlapping pleated straps across the bodice and adjustable narrow straps. Her slim fit bodice leads to a dramatically layered tulle ball gown silhouette with wide banded hem and glitter accents throughout. Dress is composed of lined tulle fabric that offers a form hugging fit with minimal stretch.
Model is 5'7" with 30" bust, 22" waist and 33" hips. She is wearing a size three.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0013
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $131.97 $249.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Chrysta Formal Satin Corset Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Love your curves in the Chrysta formal satin dress for a stunning bridesmaid dress or cocktail soiree! She features a sleeveless cowl neckline adorned with adjustable spaghetti straps, a padded bust, flexible boning along the bodice to help snatch your figure, and a flattering bodycon silhouette, center back slit, and midi-length hem. The formal dress is composed of a silky luxe satin fabric that brings chic allure and offers minimal stretch. Complete the look in classy block heels and a necklace.
With a smooth, luminous finish, this dress was made to shine. Keep the luxe look going with breathtaking satin prom dresses or go for a sophisticated statement with our wedding guest dresses.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Padded bust, flexible boning
- Bodycon silhouette, center back slit, midi-length hem
- Satin fabric, minimal stretch
- Bra optional
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1953
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Liza Corset Tulle Skater Dress
Special Occasion
Cue the curtain call—the dreamy Liza corset mini dress brings all the ballet-core magic. A sheer mesh bodice shimmers with sequins and faux pearls, while the layered skater tulle skirt floats with every step, giving you that effortlessly en pointe vibe.
Fit & Features
- Sheer tulle and mesh fabric, multiple satin and tulle linings
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Sheer mesh corset bodice, sequins, faux pearls, flexible boning
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Drop waist seam, skater silhouette, mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthday events, glam cocktail receptions, engagement parties, night at the ballet or theatre
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000095
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $119.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK
Available Size: 1, 3, 5, 9, 11, 13
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Olympia Glitter Full A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Flow through the dance floor in a dazzling display of shine! Olympia's sweeping hemline adds a lovely touch of regal elegance. Everyone's eyes will trail you as Olympia leaves behind a twinkling shine and changes color in the light!
Fits & Features
- Dual Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
- V Neckline I Padded Bust I Princess Seams
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Skirt I A Line Silhouette
- Glitter Woven, Lined Fabric I Changes Color In The Light
- Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'6" with a 31" bust, 26" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0578
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Blanca Formal Glitter Lattice Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the glamour with our dazzling Blanca glitter dress! She pairs perfectly with rhinestones and glam heels for a head-turning look!
Fit & Features
- Square Neckline | Tank Straps
- Princess Seams
- Lattice Back
- Lined Glitter Knit Fabric
- Mermaid Silhouette
- Form Hugging Fit
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0713
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Plus Set In Heat Stone Dress
Up your sultry sparkle factor in a major way with this glam mesh mini! Dress features all-over heat-stone and embroidery-texture detail, a round neckline, a deep V leading to a back zip, and long semi-sheer sleeves. Dress is lined and made from a woven mesh material with moderate stretch.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 15001-0040
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $31.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Seraphina Formal Caged Back Dress
Special OccasionMake an unforgettable entrance in our timelessly gorgeous Seraphina dress! She features a sweetheart neckline, built in boning for support, padded cups, a double row of straps and an open back with multi strap caged design with fish hook closure. Her slim fit bodice leads to a floor length silhouette with ruching on the left side seam and an asymmetrical high slit. Dress is composed of a lined crepe fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Includes an additional mini skirt length knit lining.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6680
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Toni Open Back Mermaid Glitter Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Shimmering glitter catches the light on the Toni long formal dress perfect for galas or fancy parties! Crafted from glitter knit fabric, this mermaid dress will make you stand out. She features a V-neckline and spaghetti straps to flatter your bust, while the back ruched seam and open back with crisscross straps add a touch of allure. Complete the look with rhinestone hoop earrings.
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit fabric with plenty of stretch
- Spaghetti straps
- Open back, crisscross straps
- Back ruched seam
- Mermaid silhouette
- Pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7853
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Chloe Rhinestone Mesh Party Dress
Special Occasion
Shimmering rhinestones make the Chloe party dress stand out from the rest! Unveil flawless glam for birthdays and bachelorette weekends. She stuns in a sleeveless plunge V-neck with a sheer mesh insert, spaghetti straps, a lace-up back with tie closure, and a bodycon short-length hem. The formal dress features all-over rhinestone embellishments with an iridescent hue and is composed of a sheer fishnet mesh fabric with a stretchy knit lining. Style with platform stiletto heels to complete the look!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless plunge V-neck, sheer mesh insert
- Spaghetti straps, lace-up back, tie closure, lower back zipper, hook and eye closure
- Short bodycon silhouette
- All-over rhinestone embellishments, iridescent hue
- Sheer fishnet mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1116
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Gianna Halter Open Back Skater Dress
Special Occasion
A modern take on timeless elegance, the Gianna jacquard halter mini dress stuns with its textured finish and flirty open back. A tied bow detail and flared skirt bring just the right mix of polished and playful.
Fit & Features
- Jacquard woven fabric, stretch knit lining
- High halter neckline
- Open back with tie straps, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Hidden side pockets
- Skater silhouette, mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, weddings, cocktail parties, milestone celebrations, birthday dinners, date nights, holiday soirees, nights at the theatre
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000534
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $64.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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Kiri Formal Floral Velvet Sweetheart Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Blossom beautifully in the Kiri formal floral velvet midi dress to showcase a gorgeous style at dressy parties! Featuring a classic sweetheart neckline, padded bust, adjustable spaghetti straps, a midi-length hem, and a flirty side slit, the midi dress is crafted from a delicate floral velvet pattern for the epitome of sophistication and exclusivity. Complete the look in a chic bolero and heels!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline
- Padded bust, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Form-hugging silhouette
- Side slit, midi-length hem
- Floral velvet pattern, stretchy knit lining
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2086
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $24.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Nora Lattice Back Crepe Dress
Special Occasion
Make them glance again and again in our beautiful Nora!
Fits & Features
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Adjustable Spaghetti Straps With Lattice Detailing At Back
- Plunging V Neckline I Padded Bust I Princess Seaming Details
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Thigh High Slit I Floor-Length Hemline
- Lined, Crepe Fabric
- Form-Flattering Fit I Moderate Stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0847
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Adjustable Spaghetti Straps With Lattice Detailing At Back
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Astrid Chiffon Floral Gown
Special OccasionA bold black background makes the florals on our chiffon Astrid gown positively pop! She features a surplice-style V back and bodice with adjustable spaghetti straps, a self-tie belt, and a gently pleated full skirt with back zip. Astrid is lined to approximately mid thigh and semi-sheer from mid thigh to hem. She is made from a lightweight, chiffon-like material with little to no stretch.
Model is 5’9” with a 32” bust, 24.5 waist, and 35” hips. She is wearing a size small.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0099
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Janet Sweetheart Slit Formal Dress
Special OccasionA little sweet, a little naughty. Our stunning Janet formal dress charms with her sweetheart neckline, built in boning and full A-line silhouette but is ready to bring the heat with her thigh high slit! Her taffeta fabric and pleating at the bust and waist-line add the perfect amount of shimmer and texture for a uniquely elegant look. Includes banded hemline, hidden side pockets and a back zipper closure. Includes an additional bodysuit contrast bottom lining with snap button closure.
Model is 5'7" with 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: 05002-6554
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Helen Formal Bustier A-Line Long Dress
Special Occasion
Many kodak moments will be made while wearing the Helen formal dress! She's dressed to impress at prom in her sleeveless, bustier-style bodice with adjustable spaghetti straps, a sweetheart pleated neck, and an open back with a stunning lace-up design. Her fitted empire waist effortlessly flows in an a-line silhouette to elongate your figure and she includes side hidden pockets to keep your hands warm. Composed of a metallic woven fabric with inner tulle and knit lining with minimal stretch. Finish your radiate prom look with a chic clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless, bustier-style bodice, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Sweetheart pleated neck, built-in padded bust
- Open-back, lace-up design, zipper closure
- A-line silhouette, side hidden pockets
- Floor-length hem
- Metallic woven fabric, inner tulle and knit lining, minimal stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2104
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Sydney High Neck Scalloped Lace Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Make a stunning entrance in our gorgeous Sydney midi dress! She features a flattering high neck with an open back and a curve-hugging mid-length silhouette. The dress has pretty scalloped lace detailing and a chic back slit. Pair this pretty dress with some clear heels for your next date night with bae.
Fit & Features
- High neck
- Open back
- High waist seam
- Mid-length form-hugging fit
- Back slit
- Scalloped lace fabric
- Short lining that hits mid-thigh
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: 05001-0357
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Dani Sequin Corset Lace-Up Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Designed to dazzle after dark, the Dani mesh mini dress features a bodycon silhouette, sweetheart neckline, and a sultry lace-up back that turns heads everywhere you go.
Fit & Features
- Sequin-embellished pattern, lined mesh fabric
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Spaghetti straps
- Corset bodice, flexible boning
- Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthdays, bachelorettes, clubbing, cocktail events, dressy soirees, and date nights.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000284
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $25.00 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M
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Bella Sequin V-Neck Party Dress
Special Occasion
Designed with sparkling sequins, the Bella party dress is sure to turn heads at rehearsal dinners or formal celebrations! She features a sleeveless V-neckline, sleek bungee spaghetti straps, a padded bust, and a high-waist seam that leads to her flared short-length hem. The party dress is composed of a sequin-embroidery on mesh fabric with a stretchy knit lining. Complete the look with statement earrings and heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, bungee spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Padded bust, high waist seam
- Flared, short-length hem
- Sequin-embroidery, mesh fabric, stretch knit lining
- Bra optional
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1460
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Britney Formal Open Back Dress
Special OccasionCreate a head turning moment as you stun in our Britney dress! She features an all over teal hue, a boat neckline, padded cups and princess seams. Her open back features a plunging V shape and is complemented with godet seams. Her slim fit bodice leads to a floor length silhouette with a flared hemline. She is composed of a lined crepe fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Includes a lower back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6177
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Carly Formal Illusion Mermaid Dress
Special OccasionAllure in the ever stunning Carly illusion dress! She features a hunter green color, a high round neckline, padded cups, narrow straps and unlined illusion stripes. Her relaxed fit bodice leads to a flaring mermaid silhouette with unlined illusion stripes and a dramatic flared hem. Dress is composed of a lined crepe fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.
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: 05002-6483
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $32.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Liv Formal High Slit Velvet Dress
Special Occasion
Make a dazzling impression with a formal dress that brings the elegance to your evening! Live features a sleeveless square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, and an A-line silhouette with a high side slit. The dress is composed of a velvet fabric that offers a form hugging fit. Complete look with rhinestone heels and an anklet.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Padded cups, flexible boning
- A-line silhouette. high side slit
- Velvet fabric
- Form hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1545
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Step Out In Glamour Satin Lace-Up Midi Dress
Step out in this glam satin midi dress sure to capture the spotlight! The dress features a sleeveless square neckline, spaghetti straps that create the lace-up back design, a cutout bust, and a flattering bodycon silhouette with a center-back slit accent. Complete the look in strappy rhinestone heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline
- Spaghetti straps, lace-up back
- Cutout bust, center back slit
- Bodycon silhouette
- Midi-length hem
- Silky satin knit fabric, bust lining, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-2680
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $39.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Katherine Halter Open Back Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Step out in the sultry and sensational Katherine mermaid formal dress for black tie parties and formal events! Crafted from a smooth knit lined fabric, this dress offers both comfort and chic style. She features a plunge halter cowl neckline with a bar strap accent, spaghetti strap tie, and a revealing strappy open back to show skin. Her form-flattering mermaid silhouette effortlessly gives you an hourglass appearance while the floor-length hem adds a hint of drama. Complete the look with earrings.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit lined fabric, moderate stretch
- Halter plunge cowl neckline, bar strap accent
- Spagehtti strap tie
- Open strappy back
- Mermaid silhouette
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8672
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Fairy Glow Rhinestone Mini Dress
Giving glass-slipper sparkle but make it ethereal. This fairy dress turns up the charm in a rhinestone-embellished, bodycon silhouette that hugs in all the right places and brings enchanted energy to every Halloween party!
Fit & Features
- Rhinestone, mirror bead-embellishments
- Mesh fabric, sewn-in knit lining
- V-neckline. adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Sheer side mesh inserts
- Bodycon fit, uneven mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000204
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $109.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free