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.
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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!
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Kaiya Strapless Bodycon Ruched Mesh Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The lined mesh mini dress features flexible boning at the bodice to add structure, all-over ruching to showcase your curves, and a front draped design leading to a train that cascades down the side for a flowy chic accent. The short bodycon silhouette will flaunt your gorgeous figure. Style with stiletto heels for your next formal party.
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
- Sheer mesh fabric with knit lining, plenty of stretch
- Strapless straight neckline, no-slip strip flexible boning at bodice
- Ruching
- Front draped design, long flowy side train
- Back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Mini-length bodycon fit
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Formal dances, weddings, rehearsal dinners, bridal celebrations, baby showers, engagement parties, date nights, birthday parties, cocktail soirees, rooftop hotel bars, vacations, honeymoons
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2605
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $84.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: RED, LIGHT, BLUE, YELLOW
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Abigail Cowl Neck Corset Lace-Up Sequin Party Dress
Special Occasion
Arrive looking like a sparkling sensation in the Abigail sequin dress boasting a chic corset bodice that flaunts your figure and a lace-up for alluring exits from the party!
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
- Sequin floral pattern, mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Corset bodice with flexible boning
- Bodycon fit
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthdays, date nights, milestone celebrations, bachelorettes, Vegas
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2239
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Melinda V-Neck Slit Mermaid Glitter Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Prepare for glowing praise when you step out in the Melinda mermaid glitter formal dress at banquets or weddings! Made with glitter knit fabric, this floor-length dress will ensure you stand out in any formal event. The V-neckline and adjustable spaghetti straps create a sensual allure, while the high front slit and mermaid silhouette accentuate your natural curves while flaunting some skin. Complete the look with a necklace.
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit fabric lined with stretchy knit
- V-Neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spagehtti straps
- Back zipper hook-eye closure
- High front slit
- Mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8369
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Gabrielle Formal Sequin Long Dress
Special Occasion
You'll shine in head-to-toe sequins on the Gabrielle formal dress boasting a lace-up back that stuns and a mermaid silhouette with a sultry high slit perfect for showing off your heels!
This dazzling dress was made for the spotlight! Love the shimmer? Discover more sequin prom dresses or find a sophisticated look in our wedding guest dresses.
Fit & Features
- Sequin-embroidery, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Cowl neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Form-hugging, mermaid silhouette
- Front slit, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, big birthday events, glamorous parties, and special occasions.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2975
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $49.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Layne Square Neck Slim Mesh Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sultry and sophisticated, the Layne mesh formal dress is a stunning option for bridesmaids, wedding guests, or attending a banquet! Featuring a sleeveless square neckline and shoulder straps, this dress is designed to flatter your figure with flexible boning and side-ruched seams. The slim silhouette and high side slit add a touch of sophistication, while the long length hem and mesh-lined fabric exude chic. Complete the look with earrings and block heels.
Fit & Features
- Mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Square neckline, shoulder straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Flexible boning
- High side slit
- Slim silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8519
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Veronica Glitter Velvet Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Shimmer in the elegant Veronica velvet formal dress at black tie parties and celebrations. The formal dress is designed with a structured sweetheart neckline and a striking mermaid floor-length silhouette. Pair with earrings and heels.
Fit & Features
- Glitter velvet fabric with knit lining, moderate stretch
- Sweetheart neckline, structured and padded bust
- Tank shoulder straps
- Back hook and bar closure, lower back cutout, zipper with hook-eye closure
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8717
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Rena Lace Evening Dress
Make it an evening to remember in our breathtaking Rena dress. She is composed of fully lined lace and features a V neckline, adjustable shoulder straps that lead to a low back and a beautiful trumpet silhouette with rear godet paneling for a sweep train effect. Dress includes a back zipper closure. Fabric offers 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: 05002-5375
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $24.94 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Darcie Sweetheart Ruffle Slim Crepe Formal Dress
Special Occasion
You're certain to stun in the Darcie crepe formal dress as a classy bridesmaid, wedding guest, or banquet! The adjustable spaghetti straps and built-in padded underwire bust provide a flawless silhouette, while the front ruffle trim adds a touch of elegance. The high front slit and long-length hem create a sense of drama and luxury to the crepe fabric. Complete the look with statement earrings and heels.
Fit & Features
- Crepe fabric, bust lining, moderate stretch
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Built-in padded underwire bust
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Flexible boning
- Ruffle trim, slim silhouette, high front slit
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8394
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Allison Crepe Ruffle Midi Dress
Special OccasionWow in classic red to get that va va voom reaction as you make a memorable impression in our Allison dress! She features a strapless neckline paired with a sweetheart front, a silicone no slip strip for a secure fit and padded cups to enhance curves. Her flattering princess seams lead to an hourglass silhouette that hugs curves as they lead to a flirty ruffled horsehair hem. She is composed of a crepe fabric that offers a moderate stretch. Includes back zipper closure. Dress is lined with a thin knit fabric.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-3793
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $36.87 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Payson Embroidered Chiffon Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Feel like a princess on your special day! Our Payson does just that. She features a sweetheart neckline, padded cups, a sleeveless bodice that has a lace up detailing at the back, and a wired corset structure that is delicately embroidered with rhinestone accents. Her skirt meets mid high waist and features a ball gown design composed of a chiffon material that offers a lightweight flow. Dress is lined.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0454
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $74.97 $209.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Cleo Formal Off The Shoulder Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the elegance in our Cleo dress! She features an off the shoulder neckline, shoulder strap accents, a plunging V neckline and a partial open back. Her slim fit bodice leads to a sweeping A-line silhouette. Dress is composed of an airy chiffon fabric.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0456
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $77.97 $209.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Colleen Lace Up Mermaid Glitter Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Steal the dancefloor with glamorous intrigue in the Collen mermaid glitter formal dress at weddings and parties! Dazzling glitter knit fabric shimmers in the light as you walk, while the mermaid silhouette flatters your figure. A cowl neckline, padded bra cups, and lace-up back add sophisticated touches to this floor-length stunner. Complete the look with a necklace and heels.
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Spaghetti straps
- Padded bra cups
- Lace up
- Mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8471
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $15.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Hot Glam Sequin Mini Dress
Hot damn girl! Look party-perfect in this sexy mini dress!
Fits & Features
- Off Shoulder Neckline I Mesh Knit Sequin Overlay
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Mini Length Silhouette
- Mesh Lined Sequin Fabric
- Form-Hugging Fit
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 25" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0283
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $27.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Yasmine Formal Lace Corset Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Your curves deserve a moment in the Yasmine formal dress - an undeniably beautiful style for banquets or galas! She features a sleeveless scoop neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, a semi-sheer lace corset bodice with padded cups and flexible boning, and side ruched seams that accentuate your figure along her floor-length mermaid silhouette. The formal dress is composed of a slinky knit-lined fabric with moderate stretch. Complete the look in rhinestone fringe earrings for a glam effect!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless scoop neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Semi-sheer lace corset bodice, flexible boning, padded cups
- Side ruched seams, mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Lined slinky knit fabric, moderate stretch
- No bra required
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7207
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Melissa Sleeveless Ruffle Slim Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Impress everyone with your impeccable taste in the Melissa satin formal dress perfect for wedding guests, bridesmaids, or attending a fancy soiree! Crafted from luxurious satin, this slim fit dress features a square neckline and delicate spaghetti straps. The ruffled high-side slit adds a touch of drama, while the long-length hem exudes elegance. Complete the look in dressy block heels and a clutch for a glamorous night.
Fit & Features
- Satin knit fabric, bust lining, minimal stretch
- Spaghetti straps
- Square neckline
- Ruffled high side slit
- Slim silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8537
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Tracey Mesh Faux Pearl Bodycon Party Dress
Special Occasion
Cue the compliments! The Tracey party dress will have all eyes on you at bachelorettes, school dances, or birthdays. The formal party dress is composed of an airy mesh fabric with tonal faux pearl embellishments for a chic allure and has a sewn-in knit lining for coverage. She features sheer fitted and ruched long sleeves with slit cuffs, a sweetheart neckline with a padded bust, a cowl overlay, side ruching to accentuate your natural curves along the bodycon silhouette, and a mini-length hem. Finish the look with dangly earrings and heels!
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
- Mesh fabric with sewn-in knit lining, moderate stretch
- Tonal faux pearl embellishments
- Sheer fitted and ruched long sleeves, slit cuffs
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bust, cowl overlay
- Back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Side ruched seams, bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2001
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Eliana Lace-Up Mermaid Glitter Knit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Eliana glitter knit formal dress will speak your shine language! Perfect for modern brides who love to sparkle, birthday girls, or wedding guests. Her V-neckline, padded bra cups, and spaghetti straps accentuate your curves while the lace up back adds a touch of allure. With a high front slit and a mermaid silhouette, this floor-length hem dress in glitter knit fabric is sure to make you shimmer. Complete the look with dangly earrings.
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Spagehtti straps
- Padded bra cups, V-neckline
- Lace-up
- High front slit
- Mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8368
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Macy Lace Up Slim Glitter Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Cause commotion as you shine through the night in the Macy glitter satin formal dress at banquets or weddings! Crafted from glitter satin fabric, it's the perfect choice for your next special occasion. Her V-neckline and padded bra cups provide a flattering fit, while the dual spaghetti straps add an elegant touch. The lace-up detail and curve-hugging slim silhouette make this floor-length dress a show-stopper! Complete the look with a dainty bracelet and ring set.
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
- Glitter satin fabric, bust lining, minimal stretch
- Spagehtti straps
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Lace-up, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Curve-hugging slim silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8387
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Frankie Corset Sequin Satin Mini Dress
Special Occasion
A sparkling sequin satin mini dress features a flattering scoop neckline and a corset bodice that snatches your waist along the bodycon silhouette. Perfect for the school dance or a party.
Show off your style in this standout dress. Feeling the short and chic vibe? Discover more fashion-forward short prom dresses or elevate your style with our formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Sequin satin fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Scoop neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Corset bodice with flexible boning
- Bodycon mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2425
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Deyna Formal Mesh Off-The-Shoulder Long Dress
Special Occasion
Radiate sexy elegance in the Deyna formal long dress perfect for your upcoming black tie soirees! The dress accentuates your curves with side ruched seams and mermaid silhouette create a stunning and flattering shape, while the floor-length hem adds sophistication.
Unapologetically bold, this dress is all about confidence. Keep the luxe look going with our stunning strapless prom dresses or discover the perfect fit among our stylish wedding guest dresses.
Fit & Features
- Airy mesh fabric, full knit stretchy lining
- Off-the-shoulder neckline, ruffled cuffs, cascading ruffles
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Flexible boning inserts in the bodice
- Side ruched seams, mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, fancy garden parties, and dressed-up events.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8774
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Jolene Formal Chiffon Off-The-Shoulder Dress
Special Occasion
Chic and sophisticated, the Jolene formal midi dress is a stunning pick for rehearsal dinners or cocktail soirees! She features a chiffon bodice with an off-the-shoulder neckline, sheer peasant long sleeves, and a V-wired front. Her form-hugging silhouette offers a flattering front slit and a midi-length hem. The formal dress is composed of a crepe fabric with a sewn-in knit lining and plenty of stretch. Complete the look in sparkly platform heels.
Fit & Features
- Chiffon bodice, off-the-shoulder neckline
- Sheer peasant long sleeves, V-wired front
- Form-hugging silhouette
- Front slit, midi-length hem
- Crepe fabric, sewn-in knit lining, moderate stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1565
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $52.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Lyndia Formal Boho Sequin Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
The Lyndia formal sequin dress is party-perfect and pairs well with crowns and selfies! She features a classic sleeveless V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, a padded bust, and a curve-hugging mermaid silhouette that leads to her graceful floor-length hem. The formal dress is designed with a boho-inspired sequin pattern on mesh fabric for a flawless shimmer and has a stretchy knit lining. Complete the look for prom or birthday events with statement earrings.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Curve-hugging mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Boho-inspired sequin pattern
- Mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- No bra required
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7368
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Penelope Sweetheart Lace Panel Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Showcase your inner bombshell in the curve-flaunting Penelope mermaid formal dress at banquets and weddings! Made from crepe fabric, this floor-length dress boasts a timeless and exclusive look. Her elegant sweetheart neckline and adjustable spaghetti straps accentuate your silhouette, while the sheer lace bust and side panels with nude-tone lining give the illusion of an hourglass figure along the mermaid silhouette and floor-length hem designed to elongate. Complete the look with chandelier earrings for a grand debut.
Fit & Features
- Crepe fabrication with moderate stretch
- Sheer lace bust and side panels with nude-tone lining
- Sweetheart neckline with padded bust
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper with hook and eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8508
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free