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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Aila Sweetheart Beaded A-Line Glitter Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Step out of the pages of your favorite princess tale in the Aila A-line glitter formal dress for prom or as the gorgeous birthday girl! The sweetheart neckline, built-in underwire padded bust, and flexible boning offer support and structure while adjustable spaghetti straps ensure a perfect fit. The beaded applique along the bodice adds a touch of elegance to the A-line silhouette, and the glitter mesh fabric with satin woven lining creates a dazzling and glamorous look. Designed for the most exclusive occasions, this floor-length dress will make you feel like a dazzling princess! Complete the look with a stunning hair accessory and earrings.
Fit & Features
- Glitter mesh fabric lined with satin woven fabric
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Built-in padded underwire bust
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Flexible boning, beaded applique bodice
- A-line silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7992
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Aubrielle Formal Glitter Mini Dress
Special OccasionBring the glitz and glam as you shine in our Aubrielle dress! She features a rich burgundy color, an off the shoulder neckline with a fold over accent, a ruched detail along the left seam and an asymmetrical mini length silhouette. Dress is composed of a glitter embellished crepe fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Glitter will transfer.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-4054
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $46.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Jana Rhinestone Party Dress
Special OccasionDazzle and charm them all in our lovely Jana dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a scoop neckline, a double row of adjustable spaghetti straps and vertical princess seams on the bust. Her waist features a sparkling rhinestone trim that leads to a party length silhouette that is accented with hidden side pockets and pleating details. Dress is composed of a lined textured satin fabric that offers a form hugging fit with minimal stretch. Includes a mini skirt length knit lining and a back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0008
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Cassey Satin Applique Ruffle Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Built for nights that call for a show-stopping entrance, the Cassey satin strapless mini dress drapes effortlessly with side ruching and a cascading ruffle. Beaded floral appliqué adds a luxe finish, striking the perfect balance of sultry and sophisticated.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin-lined fabric
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups, non-slip grip lining
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Pleated hip design with beaded applique, ruffled sash
- Bodycon fit, mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, bridal celebrations, weddings, cocktail parties, galas, romantic dates, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, bachelorettes, birthdays, holiday parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000202
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $64.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: DENIM, WHITE
Available Size: M, XS, S, L
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Nova Ruched Sides Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Dress to impress with our Nova! Classically elegant, she features ruching for a curve-flattering fit.
Fits & Features
- High Neckline
- Fitted Long Sleeves
- Ties At The Open Back
- Midi Length Silhouette With Ruching
- Smooth Tricot Knit Fabric I Fully Lined
- Body-Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 25" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0321
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Britney Formal Glitter Asymmetrical Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the glow in our Britney dress as you make an enchanting entrance at your special event. Britney features a dramatic plunging v-neckline with sleek corded straps, an all-over glitter knit composition, and a mini length silhouette with asymmetrical hem. Complete your radiating evening outfit with rhinestone earrings and metallic stiletto heels.
Fit & Features
- Plunging v-neckline
- Corded straps
- Mini length silhouette
- Partially-open back with metal fasten closure
- Asymmetrical hem
- Woven glitter knit fabric
- Form hugging fit
Model is 5'8" with 32" bust, 24" waist and 36.5" hips. She is wearing a size three.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0400
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Heather Formal Floral Burnout Organza Party Dress
Charm in a floral dress to create a romantic vibe for a memorable date night or for the blushing bride at her bridal shower. Heather features a flattering V-neckline, a burnout floral print, and trendy side pockets to pose with. Complete your unforgettable look with rhinestone earrings and matching rhinestone bracelet.
Fit & Features
- Plunging v-neckline
- Supportive tank-like straps
- Empire waistband
- Party-length silhouette with subtle pleating
- Floral burnout print
- Side pockets
- Lined organza fabric
Model is 5'6" with 31" bust, 26" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size three.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0437
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $8.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Clarissa Formal Bandage Lattice Dress
Special OccasionWrap yourself in our figure flattering Clarissa dress! She features an all over bold red hue, a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V neckline with wide shoulder straps, padded cups and princess seams. Her back features a multi strap lattice back that is complemented with a lower back zipper closure. Her slim fit bodice leads to an hourglass-like floor length silhouette accented with bandage details to highlight curves! Dress is composed of a lined textured ponte 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: 05002-6185
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $20.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Diandra Crepe High Low Gown
Special OccasionStand out in style in our eye-catching crepe Diandra gown. She features adjustable spaghetti straps, a seamed, scalloped V bodice with light padding, an elasticized back with zip closure, and a gently pleated, A-line high-low skirt. Diandra is fully lined and made from a mid-weight woven material with some stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6789
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Zaya Rhinestone Applique A-Line Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Look and feel like you've stepped outside the pages of your favorite fairytale in the Zaya ball gown! Leave everyone at prom or formal celebrations completely breathless. She features a sleeveless V-neckline, padded bust, satin adjustable spaghetti straps, a partially sheer mesh bodice with flexible boning, and delicate applique with rhinestones for a touch of glam! Her flattering A-line silhouette effortlessly flows into the floor-length hem that effortlessly glides with each step. The ball gown is composed of a sheer mesh tulle fabric with smooth satin lining and no stretch. Complete your stunning look with an elegant hair accessory and heels!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, padded bust
- Satin adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Sheer bodice, flexible boning, applique, and rhinestones
- A-Line silhouette, floor-length hem
- Tulle mesh fabric, smooth satin lining, no stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0087
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $239.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Solana A-Line Glitter Sequin Tulle Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Solana formal dress is designed to be eyed from head to toe in a display of glistening glitter and sequin embellishments! Perfect for black tie events or prom, this formal gown features a plunging V-neckline that highlights your bust and adjustable spaghetti straps for a flattering fit. The open strappy back adds an alluring touch to the A-line silhouette, while the floor-length hem ensures a graceful and sophisticated look. Style the formal dress with a glitter clutch and block heels for a stunning evening out!
Fit & Features
- Glitter sequins, sheer tulle fabric lined with satin
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Strappy back
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Front slit along lining
- A-Line silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7786
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Party Starter Latex Ruffle Skater Dress
Steal every glance in the room with this latex skater dress built to slay. With a ruched curve-hugging fit and flirty ruffled design, it’s the ultimate party starter.
Fit & Features
- Sleek latex fabric, high stretch
- Strapless straight-across neckline, padded bra cups
- Back zipper hook-eye closure
- Ruching, drop waist
- Tiered ruffled design
- Mini-length skater silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-000450
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $25.00 $56.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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Seraphina Velvet And Mesh Long Sleeve Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Bring elegance in a long mermaid dress that features a mock neck, a sheer mesh bodice with a lined velvet bust, and a floor-length-velvet silhouette accented with a high-side slit. Complete your formal outfit with a rhinestone clutch.
Fit & Features
- Mesh and velvet fabrication, stretchy knit lining
- Mock neck, padded bra cups
- Sheer mesh bodice, lined velvet bust
- Back zipper closure
- High side slit
- Mermaid silhouette, long length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8667
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Plus Evanna Evening Dress
Special OccasionCreate the most blissful evening with our glamorous Evanna copper dress! This show stopper of a gown features an off the shoulder neckline, a sweetheart bust with padded cups for added support and a fit and flare silhouette with a high side slit. Her full sequin body helps to highlight your curves in all the right ways while her moderately stretchy fabric allows for flexibility and comfort. She also includes a hidden back zipper.
Model is 5'11 with a 42" bust, 35" waist and 49" hips. She is wearing a size 1X.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 15002-0010
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Plus Denise Formal Plunging Ruched Dress
Special OccasionSpecial Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 15002-0147
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Janelle Winner's Circle Mesh Dress
Special OccasionYou're a true winner and anyone would be lucky to have you by their side! Our natural Janelle sheer mesh dress truly shines with a wide neckline, long fitted sleeves, an exposed back zipper closure, and a swirled pattern of iridescent heat stones all over. She is composed of a semi-sheer mesh fabric that offers plenty of stretch. Includes a partial skirt knit lining.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-3984
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Rosie Formal Glitter Mesh Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Radiate beauty and illuminate the night in the stunning Rosie formal glitter mesh mermaid dress! She features a sleeveless deep V-neckline with a padded bust, adjustable spaghetti straps, a lace-up design at the back for a customized fit, a chic lower back cutout, a form-hugging fit at the waist to accentuate your curves, and a floor-length mermaid silhouette. The lined mesh fabric features all-over glitter and sequin detailing in an intricate leaf-shaped pattern for an elegant look. Style with rhinestone fringe earrings for your next black-tie event.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless deep V-neckline, built-in padded bust
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, back lace-up design, tie closure, lower back cutout
- Lower back zipper, hook and eye closure
- Form-hugging fit, floor-length hem, mermaid silhouette
- Glitter and sequin detailing, leaf-shaped pattern
- Sheer mesh fabric, full knit lining, minimal stretch
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0093
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Bryn Satin Lace Up Formal Dress
Special OccasionCreate an effortlessly elegant look in our sultry satin Bryn dress. She features a sleeveless bodice, spaghetti straps that lead to a lace up back detail, a square neckline with seam detailing, a back zipper and hook and eye closure, and a thigh high sexy slit. The burgundy dress is composed of an unlined satin fabric that offers a flattering relaxed fit with moderate stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6687
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Tati Formal Satin Wrap Dress
Special OccasionWrap yourself in elegance as you make your entrance in our captivating Tati dress! She features a rich burgundy hue, a sleeveless bodice, a plunging wrap V neckline, narrow shoulder straps and a floor length silhouette with a wowing high side slit. Dress is composed of stretchy satin fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch.
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size smallSpecial Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6750
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Marisa Sequin Corset Tulle Skater Dress
Special Occasion
Made to shimmer with every step, the Marisa tulle skater dress features delicate sequin embroidery and a tiered silhouette that feels both playful and polished. A sheer corset bodice and textured straps add a romantic finish, perfect for unforgettable nights out.
Fit & Features
- Sequin embroidery, tulle-lined fabric
- Sweetheart neckline
- Sequin-embellished adjustable shoulder straps
- Sheer corset-structured bodice
- Back zipper closure
- Ruffled layered skater silhouette, short-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, weddings, birthdays, formal events, glamorous cocktail parties, milestone celebrations, holidays
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000561
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $159.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: 3, 5, 7, 9, 13
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Lilah Formal Satin Lace-Up Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Lustrous satin breathes elegance onto the Lilah formal long dress to capture the attention at galas or black-tie parties! She features a sleeveless plunge sweetheart neckline with a wire insert, and sleek shoulder straps that lace up along the open back with a lower ruched seam to accentuate your curves. Her flattering mermaid silhouette is designed with a skin-flaunting high-side slit and a floor-length hem. The formal dress is composed of silky satin fabric with lining and moderate stretch. Complete your dressy look with a statement rhinestone necklace.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless plunge sweetheart neckline, wire insert
- Sleek shoulder straps, lace-up open back
- Lower back ruched seam, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette, high-side slit, floor-length hem
- Lined silky satin fabric, moderate stretch
- Sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7244
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Milana Iridescent Rhinestone Sheer Mesh Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Showcase a stunning sultry sparkle with the iridescent radiance of the Milana rhinestone sheer mesh formal dress! She features a completely sheer mesh top with a high mock neckline, long fitted sleeves, and a back zipper closure. Her high V-cut waist leads to a long knit bottom with a floor-sweeping hem, a back slit accent, and a slim-fit silhouette. She features iridescent rhinestones with a sexy bust design and more rhinestone embellishments that cascade down the length of the dress. The mesh and knit fabrics offer a moderate stretch. Complete your look for a glamorous soiree with rhinestone fringe earrings.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh top, mock neckline
- Long fitted sleeves, back zipper, hook and eye closure
- High V-cut waist seam, knit bottom, floor-sweeping hem, back slit
- Slim-fit silhouette
- Iridescent rhinestone embellishments down the dress, bust design
- Moderate stretch
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7441
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $159.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Delightful And Sweet Cowl Neck Floral Maxi Dress
Create delightful memories looking sweet in this floral maxi dress at garden parties to brunch! With spaghetti straps and a playful cowl neckline, this dress effortlessly hugs your form and features a flowy maxi-length hem for a touch of chic. Complete the look with hoop earrings and sandals.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, smooth knit fabric, moderate stretch
- Cowl neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Form-hugging, maxi silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-3184
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $52.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Halston Sequin Mesh Off The Shoulder Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Create a simply stunning look for your special night out in the gorgeous Halston mini dress! She features an off the shoulder neckline, long fitted sleeves, a back zipper and hook and eye closure, and a mini-length, form-hugging silhouette. The dress is composed of a sheer mesh fabric with an all-over intricate sequin pattern and includes a smooth and stretchy knit lining. Complete your outfit with dazzling duster earrings and sleek heels.
Fit & Features
- Off the shoulder neckline
- Long fitted sleeves
- Back zipper and hook and eye closure
- Short, curve-hugging fit
- Sheer mesh fabric with a knit lining
- All-over sequin pattern
- Moderate stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0416
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free