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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Kate Strappy Back Ombre Glitter Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Effortlessly dazzle in the Kate strappy back ombre glitter formal dress looking like a vision at upscale celebrations and prom! The cowl neckline and adjustable spaghetti straps create a sleek look, while the strappy back adds an exclusive touch. The floor-length mermaid silhouette and front ruched seam with a slit accentuate your curves and the ombre glitter mesh fabric sparkles with every step. Complete the look in stiletto pumps.
Fit & Features
- Ombre glitter mesh fabric lined with soft stretchy knit
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Front ruched seam and slit
- Mermaid silhouette
- Sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8474
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Rani Sleeveless Strappy Open-Back Beaded Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
The long mermaid dress features a sleeveless v-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, an open-back design accented with multiple spaghetti straps, and a beaded embellished pattern. Complete the formal outfit with a rhinestone clutch.
Make your entrance unforgettable in this dress. For more glam styles, explore intricate embellishments on beaded prom dresses or be ready to celebrate in wedding guest dresses.
Fit & Features
- Lined mesh fabrication, beaded embellishments
- Sleeveless v-neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Open back accented with multi-strap design
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Long length hem
- Mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8948
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.97 $149.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Marjorie Charming Florals Ball Gown
Special OccasionTransport yourself to beauty garden as you charm in florals! Marjorie features a combination black with red hue, a sleeveless lined floral lace bodice, a V neckline with padded cups, satin-like adjustable narrow straps and a partially open back with a scalloped lace trim. Her slim fit bodice leads to a voluminous red hued ball gown skirt accented with pleating details, hidden side pockets and a wide banded hem. Her skirt is composed of a textured satin-like fabric adorned with a gorgeous floral print. Dress offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. Includes a lower back zipper closure, knit lining and petticoat.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0475
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $149.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Annika Formal Mid-Length Bandage Dress
Special Occasion
Create the snatched silhouette of your dreams in the iconic Annika formal mid-length bandage dress! She features a sleeveless square neckline, spaghetti straps, a hidden back zipper closure, a midi-length hem with a chic back slit accent, and a bodycon silhouette that will hug your figure. The bandage knit fabric offers a smooth and sculpted look with plenty of stretch. Style with clear heels for your next cocktail hour.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline, spaghetti straps
- Hidden back zipper, hook and eye closure
- Midi-length hem, back slit
- Bodycon silhouette, sculpted look
- Bandage knit fabric, plenty of stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1570
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Stacey Lurex Glitter A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
We can't stop staring either! You'll be shimmering and glimmering in our glamorous Stacey.
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Plunging V Neckline I Princess Seams
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- A-Line, Floor Length Pleated Skirt
- Lined, Lurex Glitter Fabric
- Form Flattering Fit I Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size 3
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0419
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Alycia Velvet Lace-Up Gown
Special Occasion
Steal the show with the glamorous Alycia gown. She features a lightly padded chest, a square neckline, adjustable shoulder straps that lead to a back lace-up and tie closure, a leg slit and a floor-length design. Alycia is partially lined, has a little bit of stretch and is made from a classic velvet fabric.
Model is 5'8" 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: 05002-0209
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $32.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Tina Sequin Halter Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for dance floors and spotlight moments, the Tina dress stuns with its allover sequin embellishments, sleek high halter neckline, and sculpted bodycon mini silhouette. A scene-stealer made for your most glamorous nights out.
Fit & Features
- Sequin embellished mesh-lined fabric
- High halter neckline, tie back closure, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthdays, date nights, rooftop hotel bars, GNO, Vegas, bachelorettes, cocktail dinner soirees, glam events
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000187
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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Luisa Strapless Crepe Slim Dress
Special OccasionA standout strapless neckline lend our Luisa dress its unmistakable elegance. She features a surplice sweetheart bodice with boning, a back zip, and hook-and-eye closure and a curve-hugging slim skirt with gather detail at hip and side slit. Luisa is fully lined and made from a woven crepe material with a touch of stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0013
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Alicia Lace Crepe Mermaid Gown
Special OccasionBeautiful and bold, our Alicia gown makes an elegant evening statement. She features a V neck seamed bodice, open back with two lace panels and single button closure, and a curve-hugging skirt with back zip, front slit, and dramatic mermaid hem. Alicia is fully lined and made from a mid-weight crepe material with moderate stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0010
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Juniper Satin Two Piece Gown
Special Occasion
Make a lasting impression with your one of a kind style in our Juniper two piece gown! She is designed with a cropped top half that features tank straps that break off into double thinner straps and lead to a zipper closure with a hook and eye additional closure. She is fully lined and features an empire stitching as well as princess seams for a flattering breast area. Her Skirt is designed with a high waist line that has slight stretch and a zipper closure, pockets, and a side seam with a slit detailing. Her hem is floor length and she is also fully lined. Juniper is designed with a lightweight satin that offers flow, and no stretch.
Model is 5'6.5" with a 32" bust, 23.5" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05006-0041
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $45.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Lissa Formal Sequin Lace-Up Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Twinkle like a star in the Lissa formal sequin dress that brilliantly shines all night! She features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline with a wired insert, a padded bust, spaghetti straps that create the lace-up back design, a high front slit, and a flattering mermaid silhouette that highlights your curves along the floor-length hem. The formal dress is crafted from a stunning sequin scroll embellished pattern on mesh fabric with a stretchy knit lining. Complete the look for a school dance, gala, or fancy soiree with a necklace and heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, wired insert
- Spaghetti straps, padded bust
- Lace-up back design, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette, high front slit
- Floor-length hem
- Sequin scroll pattern, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- No bra required
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7337
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $49.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Flaunt It Glitter Mesh Midi Dress
Flaunt your gorgeous figure in this curve-hugging glitter mesh midi dress! It features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customized fit, ruching down the side seams, a midi-length hem, and a chic front slit to showcase some leg. The sparkly sheer glitter mesh fabric includes a full lining. Complete the look with strappy stilettos.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper, hook and eye closure
- Ruching down the side seams
- Midi-length hem, fitted bodycon silhouette
- Front slit
- Sheer glitter mesh fabric, full knit lining, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-1717
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $20.97 $46.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Rita Formal Lace Tulle A-Line Long Dress
Special Occasion
Turning heads all evening comes easy in the Rita formal long dress sure to own the spotlight at galas or black tie holiday parties! She features a cowl neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps that cross in the back, and a lace-embroidered bodice with a tulle overlay padded bust with flexible boning inserts. Her flattering A-line silhouette will make everyone say Va Va Voom thanks to the ruffled tiered tulle skirt showcasing a high front slit and floor-length hem. The formal long dress is designed with a mix of lace embroidery and tulle fabric for a voluminous look and has a stretchy knit lining. Complete the look with a collar necklace and clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, cross back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Lace embroidered bodice, padded tulle overlay bust
- Flexible boning inserts
- A-line silhouette, high front slit, floor-length hem
- Tiered ruffle tulle, stretchy knit lining
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7704
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Kori Velvet V-Neck Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Luxe and alluring, the Kori velvet mini dress is designed with ruched draping that skims the body for a sculpted, polished fit. A sultry V-neckline and sleek slit detail complete the look with understated glamour.
Fit & Features
- Soft velvet fabric
- V-neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Bodycon silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, weddings, date nights, birthdays, milestone celebrations, cocktail receptions, bachelorettes, rooftop hotel bars, engagement parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000164
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $49.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: HUNTER
Available Size: XS, S, M
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Milena Formal Velvet Bell Sleeve Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
The Milena formal velvet mermaid dress will bring that luxe look with all the drama! Entrance them all with your beauty in this sultry long dress featuring a plunging V-neckline, a center diamond-shaped panel below the bust with ruching, long fitted sleeves with bold flared hems, a hip-hugging fit, a floor-sweeping hem, and a figure-flaunting mermaid silhouette. The smooth velvet fabric has a moderate stretch. Complete your look with a choker necklace and heeled boots.
Fit & Features
- Plunge V-neckline, center diamond-shaped panel, ruched detailing
- Long fitted sleeves, flared hems
- Back zipper, hook and eye closure
- Hip-hugging fit, floor-sweeping hem, mermaid silhouette
- Velvet fabric, knit lining at the bust, moderate stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7733
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $56.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Daniela Velvet Open Back Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Exuding sophistication and poise, the Daniela formal long dress is sure to make an unforgettable statement! Crafted from a luxurious velvet burnout pattern, this floor-length masterpiece has a square neckline, spaghetti straps, and an elegantly cascading mermaid silhouette with an open back finished with a dainty tie closure. Complete the look in statement earrings for a black tie party or gala!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Open back with tie closure
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Velvet burnout pattern, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7792
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Abbey Rhinestone Strappy A-Line Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The exquisite details of the Abbey A-line satin formal dress will keep you in the spotlight all night at galas and fancy soirees! With a sophisticated V-neckline, elegant spaghetti straps, and padded bra cups for support, this A-line silhouette gown is adorned with a rhinestone-embellished strappy back design. The high front slit along the floor-length hem reveals just the right amount of skin, making you the focus of any event! Complete the look in rhinestone platform heels and earrings for an unforgettable opulence.
Fit & Features
- Satin fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Spaghetti straps
- Padded bra cups
- Rhinestone embellished strappy back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit
- A-line silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8307
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Plus Roseanna Formal Glitter Dress
Special OccasionShine from within as you make your entrance in our enchanting Roseanna! She features a chic black color, a plunging V neckline, adjustable bra-like straps to offer support and an elongating floor length silhouette with a flared hem. She is composed of lined mesh fabric adorned with a wowing baroque-inspired glitter design. Dress offers a curve flattering fit with a moderate fit.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 15002-0089
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Andrea Formal Glitter Lace Dress
Special OccasionShine and sparkle as you radiate in our glow-worthy Andrea dress! She features a white hue, an off the shoulder neckline, unlined elastic short sleeves, a sweetheart bust with a scalloped lace trim and padded cups. Her relaxed fit bodice leads to a mini length silhouette to show off your fab heel game! Dress is composed of a lined scalloped lace fabric featuring a gorgeous floral pattern and glitter accents throughout. Garment offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Includes a back zipper closure. Glitter may transfer.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-4037
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $56.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Melody Formal Satin Ball Gown
Special OccasionCreate an enchanting evening as you twinkle under the stars in our charming Melody dress! She features an all over blue hue, a sleeveless bodice, a V neckline, padded cups, princess seams and adjustable narrow straps. Her back features a partially open design with narrow tie straps that create a bar back accent. Her slim fit bodice is accented with an empire waist detail that leads to a voluminous ball gown silhouette accented with hidden side pockets, pleats and a petticoat. Dress is composed of a textured satin fabric that offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. Includes a smooth knit lining and lower back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0554
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Journee Metallic Party Dress
Special Occasion
Look like a champagne dream in Journee. She features a v neckline, twisted rope style straps, padded cup inserts, and a hidden zipper located at the center back. Her bodice has a relaxed fit that meets her skirt high waisted flowy skirt. Journee is fully lined and includes a tulle skirt beneath. She is composed of a beautiful shimmering crimped material that offers a relaxed fit with moderate stretch. Hand over the bubbly!
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0026
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Lileah Sequin Corset Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Made for the spotlight, The Lileah turns every entrance into an event. This sequin scroll–adorned bodycon mini dress stuns with its sculpted sweetheart corset bodice, marrying modern allure with timeless glamour.
Fit & Features
- Sequin scroll pattern, mesh-lined fabric
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Corset bodice, flexible boning inserts
- Bodycon mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, bridal and wedding showers, rehearsal dinner, engagement photoshoots, bachelorettes, date night, birthday events, milestone celebrations, Vegas, GNO
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000320
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE
Available Size: XS, S, M
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Winona Heat Stone Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Take yourself out in our Winona mini dress! She is designed with a mock neckline, long sleeves, and beautifully designed heat stone embellishments. Her bodice is sheer where the stones show a scalloped deep v design and leads into a lined mini skirt. Her arms and upper back are sheer as well, and she has a zipper closure that leads from lower back to neck. She is composed of a mesh material that offers moderate stretch and from fitting silhouette.
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0206
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Carrie Satin Rose Party Dress
Special Occasion
A sweet pick for upcoming weddings and fancy soirees! The Carrie satin party mini dress features a classic strapless sweetheart neckline with non-slip grip lining, a padded bust, and a front statement rose with cascading ruffle, a bodycon silhouette, and a flirty mini-length hem. She's composed of a smooth silky satin fabric with moderate stretch. Complete the look with fluttery faux lashes for a doll vibe!
Fit & Features
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, non-slip grip lining, padded bust
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Statement rose with cascading ruffles
- Bodycon silhouette, mini-length hem
- Silky satin fabric, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1683
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $42.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale