Formal Dresses
Windsor's formal dresses are redefining elegance for 2026. 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 on-trend 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 elevated, camera-ready, and designed to make you feel incredible and look unforgettable.
Now Trending
STYLE SPOTLIGHT
Formal Dresses That Make Every Moment Feel Major
Windsor’s formal dresses are designed for those special occasions 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 event. Think structured sheer corset bodices, dainty adjustable straps, adjustable lace-up backs, and glam high slits that blend comfort with high-impact style.
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!
-
Julieta Sequin Open Back Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Made to catch the light and every gaze, the Julieta sequin mini dress stuns with a curve-contouring fit and daring open back. Sleek and glam, it’s the perfect dress for a night that calls for all-out allure.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with knit lining
- Sequin embroidered scroll pattern
- Sleeveless V-neckline, padded bust
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Open back, bar strap with hook and bar closure, lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Mini-length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthday celebrations, bachelorette parties, or glam nights out.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000296
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Joyce Open Back Wrap Bodycon Glitter Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Joyce glitter formal dress is the season's style for school dances or fancy soirees! Cut from a shimmering glitter woven fabric, this floor-length dress features a pretty open back design with a tie closure, a wrap bodycon silhouette that creates the illusion of an hourglass figure, and a high front slit for effortless movement. Pair with heels.
Fit & Features
- Glitter woven fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Cowl sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Open back with spaghetti strap tie closure
- Wrap bodycon silhouette
- High front slit
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8968
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Demi Beaded Tulle Ball Gown
Special Occasion
From the moment you put on our Demi ball gown dress, you'll feel like you're living out an enchanting evening that you'll never forget! Her hand-beaded accents make her a true one of a kind and her tulle silhouette perfectly pairs with dazzling pumps!
Fit & Features
- Off The Shoulder Neckline | V-Neck Bust
- Off The Shoulder Elastic Strap Accents | No-Slip Strip
- Padded Cups
- Hand-Beaded Rhinestonestones
- Multi-Layered Tulle Ball Gown Silhouette
- Lined Mesh Fabric
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0012
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $299.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Monroe Formal Rhinestone Mermaid Dress
Special OccasionExude elegance in our timelessly graceful Monroe green dress! She features an off the shoulder neckline with shoulder strap accents, padded cups, built in boning, verticals seams and a rhinestone embellished waist trim. Her slim fit bodice leads to an elongating mermaid silhouette with a flared wide banded hem. Includes a back zipper closure. Dress is composed of a textured satin fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a slight stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6378
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Joan Formal Crepe Feather Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
When the occasion calls for class, the Joan formal crepe dress delivers a luxurious style everyone will take notice of! Perfect for galas, red-carpet events, and anniversary parties. She features a sleeveless V-neckline with chic feather trim, adjustable spaghetti straps, and a curve-flaunting mermaid silhouette with a high front slit and long hem. The formal dress is composed of a crepe fabric that exudes glam! Complete the look with rhinestone hoop earrings and heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, feather trim
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, padded bust, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Curve-hugging, mermaid silhouette
- High front slit, long hem
- Lined crepe fabric, moderate stretch
- Strapless bra or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7533
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Devora Chiffon Tie Bow A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Made from a lightweight and airy chiffon, our Devora will have you feeling oh-so-elegant as you drift from room to room. At the back, a dainty and sheer tie bow finishes off the look. Accent your neckline with a gorgeous necklace and a matching bracelet!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- V Neckline I Padded Bust
- Sheer, Tie Bow At Back I Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I A-Line Silhouette I Front Slit
- Chiffon Fabric I Fully Lined
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0572
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Parker Off-The-Shoulder Beaded Sequin Column Dress
Special Occasion
Dazzle in the Parker formal column dress with an off-the-shoulder neckline, a cowl bust, adjustable spaghetti straps, long fitted sleeves, a beaded sequin design, and a floor-length fitted silhouette. Complete your luxe look with rhinestone heels.
All eyes are on you in this radiant dress. If sparkle is your signature, discover stunning sequin prom dresses or opt for effortless sophistication with our eye-catching formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Lined mesh fabric
- Beaded sequin design
- Off-the-shoulder neckline, cowl neck bust
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, long fitted sleeves
- Back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Floor-length fitted column silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black-tie parties, and red-carpet events.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8895
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $146.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Kasey Sweetheart Lace Pearl Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Going out tonight. Show up in the Kasey lace pearl bodycon dress for a gorgeous look wherever the night takes you!
This dress proves that short and stylish is always a vibe. Want more? Discover our bold short prom dresses or find a celebration-ready fit in our party dresses.
Fit & Features
- Faux pearl-embellished, lace-lined fabric
- Sweetheart neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper closure
- Bodycon silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, bachelorettes, date night, parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2549
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Daniela Formal Glitter Lace Dress
Special OccasionSparkle the night with glamour as you make an entrance in our Daniela black dress! She features a strapless sweetheart neckline, padded cups and a no slip strip. Her slim fit bodice leads to a curve hugging floor length silhouette with a flared hem. She is composed of a lined lace fabric complemented with piping accents, glitter, and a flared hemline with godets. Dress offers a form hugging fit with minimal stretch.
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size smallSpecial Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6531
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Liza Formal Rhinestone Mermaid Dress
Special OccasionShine bright like the diamond you are in our dazzling Liza navy dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a V neckline, padded cups and adjustable narrow straps. Her waist features a sparkling infinity rhinestone design that leads to a sweeping mermaid silhouette with vertical seams to create an hourglass illusion. 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 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: 05002-6441
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $31.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Mya Formal Sleeveless Chiffon Dress
Special OccasionStep into the room and make a glam entrance in our captivating Mya navy dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V neckline with an unlined mesh inset, padded cups and narrow adjustable cross straps. Her slim fit bodice leads to a sweeping floor length silhouette. Dress is composed of a lined chiffon fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a minimal 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: 05002-6366
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Miranda Strapless High Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Make a dazzling entrance in our stunning Miranda formal dress! Entrancing and alluring, her high slit detail and floor sweeping skirt will have all eyes on you.
Fit & Features
- Strapless sweetheart neckline
- High waist seam
- Floor length skirt
- Thigh high front slit
- Foiled glitter fabric
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0925
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $179.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Madilyn Strapless Bow Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Look and feel like such a cutie in the Madilyn mini dress that brings flirty allure to semi-formal parties and holiday events! She features a strapless square neckline with non-slip grip lining, flexible boning inserts along the fitted bodice, and dual pleat seams down the front and a slim fit silhouette. Turn-heads with her back bow detail that has a long-length train and a center slit accent along the hem. The formal dress is composed of a smooth woven fabric with lining and minimal stretch. Style with sparkly stiletto heels to complete the look!
Fit & Features
- Strapless square neckline, non-slip grip lining
- Hidden side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Flexible boning, fitted bodice, dual pleat seams
- Slim, mini-length silhouette
- Smocked back with attached bow, train, center hem slit
- Lined smooth woven fabric, minimal stretch
- Fits true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1534
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Sariah Strapless Rose Ball Gown
Special OccasionLook as gorgeous as a fresh bouquet of roses in our charming Sariah dress! She features a black hued bodice with a strapless sweetheart neckline, a built in no slip strip, padded cups, built in boning and lattice strap accents on the side with mesh insets. Her slim fit bodice leads to a satin red rose print ball gown silhouette accented with hidden side pockets, a petticoat and pleating details. Dress offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.
Model is 5'3" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size threeSpecial Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0493
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Isabel Strapless Slit Bodycon Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sleek and stunning! The Isabel midi formal dress delivers a chic look with a bodycon fit that hugs your curves and a front slit for movement.
Flawlessly chic and bold, this dress is a statement. If strapless styles are your go-to, explore our strapless prom dresses or embrace effortless fashion with our formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Slinky knit lined fabric, moderate stretch
- Strapless neckline
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Flexible boning
- Front slit
- Bodycon silhouette, midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2773
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Emeline Beaded Mesh & Chiffon Dress
Special OccasionWow the crowd when you make a grand entrance in our gorgeous ivory Emeline dress! All eyes will be locked on her nude, unlined mesh bodice with intricate embroidery and beading. She has a deep V neckline with a sheer mesh inset, padded cups, and a stunning plunging back that leads to a hidden zip up closure. Her sexy sheer bodice is complemented with a flowy, floor-length chiffon skirt with a high leg slit.
Model is 5'7 with a 34" bust, a 24" waist, and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0472
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $99.97 $249.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Felicity One-Shoulder Pleated Satin A-Line Midi Dress
Special Occasion
The Felicity satin midi dress brings a lovely look for bridesmaids, wedding guests, or banquets! Made from luxurious satin fabric, this dress is a must-have for any special occasion. Her elegant one-shoulder neckline and side cutout add a touch of sophistication, while the A-line pleated silhouette and midi-length hem create a flattering and timeless look. Complete the look in strappy block heels and earrings.
Fit & Features
- Satin fabric, woven lining, no stretch
- Hidden side zipper and hook-eye closure
- One-shoulder neckline
- Pleated A-line silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2192
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Jodie Heat Stone Mesh Slit Dress
Special Occasion
Shine like the night sky in our glamorous Jodie! Her sultry silhouette features glimmering heat stones and a sexy thigh-high slit. Wave your hair out and slip into a pair of rhinestone heels for that extra twinkle!
Fits & Features
- Spaghetti Straps That Lace Up At The Back
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Plunging V Neckline
- Mesh Fabric With Heat Stone Embellishments I Lined At The Bodice
- Built-In Bodysuit With Snap Button Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I Thigh-High Slit
- Form Hugging Fit I Plenty Of Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0956
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $32.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Cleo Formal Lace Mermaid Dress
Special OccasionBring the magic with you as you enchant in our lovely Cleo dress! She features a dreamy light blue color, a partially lined floral lace bodice with a high round neckline, a sweetheart bust, lined padded cups and cap sleeves. Her back features a single button closure at the nape of the neck and a large keyhole. Her slim fit bodice leads to a curve hugging mermaid silhouette. Dress is composed of a lined floral lace fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a slight stretch. Includes a hidden back zipper closure.
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: 05002-6544
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $174.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Janella Cross Back Pleated Ombre Dress
Special Occasion
Go for drama and stop traffic in our gorgeous Janella! Her unique ombre skirt is perfectly paired with accordion pleats to let you move around with ease! Style her up with some rhinestone duster earrings and a sparkly cuff!
Fits & Features
- Shoulder Straps That Cross At The Back
- Plunging V Neckline I Padded Bust I Boning At The Sides
- Contrast Piping At The Textured Mesh Lined Bodice
- Floor Length Hemline I Ombre-Hued Design I Accordion Pleating
- Smooth Woven Fabric Skirt I Pretty Metallic Sheen
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size 2.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0039
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $239.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Mikayla Floral Jacquard Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Step out in elegance when you slip into our angelic Mikayla!
Fits & Features
- Tank-Style Shoulder Straps
- Square Neckline I Scoop Back With Hook & Eye Closure
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Hemline
- Knit Lined Fabric I Jacquard Floral Design All Over
- Form Hugging Fit
Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size 3.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0040
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $68.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Ivy Glitter Corset Strapless Ball Gown
Special Occasion
The Ivy ball gown is absolute perfection! Captivate at prom, formal galas, and quinceañeras. She stuns in her strapless sweetheart neckline, non-slip grip lining, corset bodice with a padded bust, and flexible boning inserts. Her flattering A-line silhouette features hidden side pockets for keeping your hands warm and a floor-sweeping hem. The ball gown is designed with a gorgeous glitter leaf pattern on mesh fabric with multi-layers of tulle and smooth satin lining for a voluminous effect. Complete the look with a glitter clutch.
Fit & Features
- Strapless, sweetheart neckline, non-slip grip lining
- Corset bodice, padded bust, flexible boning
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Hidden side pockets, A-line silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Glitter leaf pattern, mesh fabric, multi-layer of tulle and satin lining
- No bra required
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0163
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $199.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Sianna Strapless Bodycon Satin Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Redefine chic elegance in the Sianna midi satin formal dress with a flattering bodycon fit and wrap front slit for effortless movement!
This dress brings the fun and the fashion. If you love a bold, playful look, explore our stylish short prom dresses or make an entrance in our stunning short wedding guest dresses in short and mini lengths.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, sewn-in stretchy knit lining
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Flexible boning
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Front wrap slit
- Bodycon fit
- Midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, bridesmaids, engagement parties, cocktail soirees, birthday dinners, dressed-up date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2728
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Amanda Tie-Back Mermaid Bow Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Looking to stand out? The Amanda tie-back formal dress brings the adorable charm to your night with a sparkling sequin-beaded bow pattern that'll impress while the chiffon tie-back design turns heads.
This dreamy dress is pure elegance and sure to leave a lasting impression. Looking for more? Elevate your look with a stunning pink prom dresses or a captivating formal dress.
Fit & Features
- Sequin-beaded bow pattern
- Mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Chiffon tie-back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, banquets, and weddings.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9517
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $139.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free