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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Mildred Chiffon Strapless Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Mildred chiffon A-line gown is all about soft movement and effortless allure. Designed with a strapless neckline and a romantic ruffle overlay, it drapes beautifully through a drop waist silhouette that feels equal parts polished and undone.
Fit & Features
- Chiffon fabric, woven lining
- Strapless neckline, non-slip grip lining
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Relaxed bodice
- Drop waist seam
- Flowy A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, wedding guests, bridesmaids, destination formal events, bridal showers, engagement parties, formal milestone celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001098
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: SAGE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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Christina Satin Bow Strap Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made for the kind of entrance that turns heads, the Christina satin gown drapes effortlessly over the figure for a sleek, polished silhouette. Tie bow straps add a soft, romantic detail while the high slit brings graceful movement with every step.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin lined fabric
- V-neckline
- Bow tie shoulder straps
- Low-cut back design
- High front slit
- A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, black tie galas, bridesmaids, formal event, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, anniversary, elegant celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001094
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $74.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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Patricia Satin Chain Column Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for nights that call for polished drama, the Patricia satin gown glides effortlessly with a sleek, elongated presence. A high halter chain strap neckline meets an open back with a tie and a detachable chain at the waist, creating a refined statement from every angle.
Fit & Features
- Premium smooth satin fabric with a fluid drape
- High halter neckline with chain strap detail
- Open back with adjustable tie for a customized fit
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Detachable chain at the waist
- Column floor length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, bridesmaids, evening receptions, formal galas, black tie events, upscale cocktail parties, evening celebrations, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, red-carpet events, special occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001113
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $24.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: HUNTER
Available Size: XS, S, XL
Product Badge:- Sale
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Nicki Beaded Fringe Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for the kind of entrance that feels quietly iconic, the Nicki beaded mesh mermaid silhouette moves with intention and undeniable polish. A beaded triangle bust with fringe and a high front slit brings just enough drama to a look made for weddings, galas, and unforgettable nights.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit-lined fabric, moderate stretch
- Beaded triangle bust silhouette with fringe
- Halter spaghetti strap
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette with high front slit
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, big birthday events, fashion-forward soirees, upscale cocktail parties, glamorous occasions, red-carpet events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001093
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $99.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE, GOLD
Available Size: XS, M, L, XL, S
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Linda Floral Beaded Column Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Graceful and quietly striking, the Linda beaded column dress is designed for moments that call for polished confidence and refined allure. A floral finish, high side slit, and sculptural cutout back create a silhouette that feels timeless yet unmistakably modern.
Fit & Features
- Sheer floral printed mesh fabric with full-length knit lining, high stretch
- All-over beaded and sequin embroidery
- Sleeveless square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Cutout back detail
- High side slit, long-length hem
- Column silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, receptions, galas, garden parties, rehearsal dinners, milestone celebrations, birthday events, and formal soirees.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001102
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $149.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: IVORY
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Gloria Lace-Up Corset A-Line Ball Gown
Special Occasion
For the kind of entrance that feels soft, sparkling, and unforgettable, the Gloria gown delivers pure occasion magic. Designed in glitter mesh fabric covered with mini crystal beads, this A-line bonded floor-length silhouette features a floral embroidered sequin bead corset bodice and a lace up back that makes every angle worth admiring.
Fit & Features
- Glitter mesh fabric lined with tulle and satin linings
- Scoop neckline, padded bra cups, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Floral embroidered corset bodice, sequins and beading, flexible boning
- Lace-up back, lower hidden zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mini crystal bead embellished A-line silhouette
- Bonded floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, grand ballroom galas, black tie balls, big birthday events, opera opening nights, symphony, ballets, theatres, luxe costume party events
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-000025
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $149.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: SAGE
Available Size: XS
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Vanna Payette Sequin Crochet Column Dress
Special Occasion
Made for evenings that call for a little extra shimmer, the Vanna payette sequin crochet column dress catches the light with every step. The sleek silhouette is finished with a strappy open back and high-cut side slits, creating an effortlessly striking look from every angle.
Fit & Features
- Sheer crochet knit fabric with mesh lining, moderate stretch
- All-over payette sequin embroidery
- Sleeveless V-neckline
- Spaghetti straps with beading and seashell accents, open cross-back strappy design
- Dual high side slits
- Floor-length column silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, bridal celebrations, honeymoons, birthday dinners, anniversaries, formal parties, and vacations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001099
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NATURAL
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Olivia Beaded Floral Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Plucked fresh from the garden, the Olivia beaded gown is made for elegant moments that feel beautifully elevated. A strapless neckline, garden floral pattern, and a sculpted mermaid floor-length hem come together with a sleek bar back detail for a look that feels polished from every angle.
Fit & Features
- Garden floral pattern with intricate beaded detailing
- Strapless neckline
- Bar back design
- Mermaid silhouette with a floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Outdoor and indoor weddings, black tie receptions, spring galas, formal school dances, destination celebrations, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, bridal celebrations, milestone events, baby showers
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001097
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $169.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Melony Floral Beaded Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for entrances that linger, the Melony beaded mermaid gown turns every step into a statement. The floral pattern shimmers across the fitted bodice and strapless neckline, flowing into a floor-length silhouette that hugs, highlights, and finishes with undeniable polish.
Fit & Features
- Floral pattern, beaded, mesh-lined fabric
- Strapless sweetheart neckline
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, destination weddings, vacations, honeymoons, milestone birthday celebrations, fashion-forward events, date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001108
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $169.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK, PRINT
Available Size: XXS, XS, S
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Mara Floral Print Beaded Sequin Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
The Mara formal dress pairs a romantic floral print with shimmering beaded sequin embellishment in a sleek mermaid silhouette. The plunging V-neckline and sculpted waist create a striking, curve-skimming look that feels effortlessly glamorous from first entrance to final glance.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with full-length knit lining, high stretch
- Large floral print down the silhouette
- All-over beaded and clear sequin embroidery
- Sleeveless V-neckline
- Thin adjustable shoulder straps, hidden side zipper with hook-eye closure
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, birthday celebrations, engagement parties, bridal showers, rehearsal dinners, formal date nights, and dressed-up dinners.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001106
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $169.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, PRINT
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Darline Lace Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Softly sculpted with a hint of romance, the Darline lace mermaid gown moves with an effortless, floaty feel that catches attention from every angle. The halter sweetheart neckline, sheer detailing, and cascading ruffle slit create a look that feels equal parts delicate and daring.
Fit & Features
- Lace fabric with sheer paneling throughout
- Halter sweetheart neckline, ruched center, padded bra cups
- Open back with halter tie closure
- Mermaid silhouette with high slit and ruffle trim
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, galas, fancy showers, anniversaries, birthdays, vacations, and honeymoons.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001100
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: LIGHT, BLUE, BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Laila Floral Print Beaded Sequin Mini Dress
Special Occasion
For the moments that call for a little extra shine, the Laila brings glamour and effortless confidence. This floral print mini dress features delicate beaded sequin embellishment and a sculpted strapless silhouette, creating a look that's both romantic and party-ready.
Fit & Features
- Floral printed sheer mesh fabric with full-length knit lining, high stretch
- All-over beaded and clear sequin embroidery
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, twisted design at the bust, ruching
- Padded bust, no-slip strip
- Side zipper with hook-eye closure
- Mini-length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Birthday celebrations, engagement parties, bridal showers, bachelorette parties, rehearsal dinners, dinner parties, and formal nights out.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000650
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, PRINT
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Fable Rose Floral Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Romantic and quietly dramatic, the Fable mermaid gown feels like it was made for candlelit moments and unforgettable entrances. A softly draped cowl, halter neckline, and open back with a ruched seam highlight the rose floral print, creating a silhouette that moves with effortless elegance.
Fit & Features
- Rose floral print, mesh-lined fabric with stretch
- Cowl neckline with halter straps
- Open back design
- Ruched skirt detailing
- Fitted waist and hips
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
Where to Wear:
Weddings, destination celebrations, candlelit receptions, formal anniversary celebrations, vow renewals, black tie dinners
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001112
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: RED
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Sera Formal Sequin Beaded Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
An entrance is inevitable in a silhouette like this. The Sera is crafted from intricately beaded mesh in a sculpted mermaid silhouette, finished with a softly draped cowl neckline and striking ruched X back that feels equal parts glamorous and refined
Fit & Features
- Beaded mesh-lined fabrication
- Sequin scroll pattern
- Sleeveless cowl neckline
- Hidden side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Spaghetti straps that cross at back
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, big milestone celebrations, red carpet occasions, black tie galas, weddings, spring balls
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001110
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $149.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: LAVENDER, IVORY
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Marcy Beaded Floral Print Column Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Effortlessly striking with a refined sense of drama, the Marcy floral printed dress is designed for evenings that call for confident elegance. Beaded and sequin detailing, delicate spaghetti straps, and a form-hugging silhouette flow into a long-length hem with a high side slit that feels both polished and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Sheer floral printed mesh fabric with full-length knit lining, high stretch
- Intricate beaded and sequin embroidery
- Sleeveless square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lower back cutout
- High-cut side slit for movement
- Floor-length form-hugging column silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, garden parties, destination celebrations, cocktail receptions, formal dances, birthday dinners, anniversaries, special date nights, art gallery openings, and milestone celebrations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001103
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $149.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Jenna Floral Bead Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Softly romantic with a refined edge, the Jenna floral sequin beaded gown is made for moments that feel truly special. A sleek strapless neckline flows into a mermaid silhouette, while the cutout back adds an unexpected finish that feels polished and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Floral pattern, delicate beading, mesh lined knit fabric
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups, non-slip grip lining
- Cutout back with clasp closure strap
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, bridal celebrations, fancy baby showers, engagement parties, garden parties, gala events, formal celebrations, rehearsal dinners, dressy brunches, spring holidays
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001096
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $169.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: LAVENDER
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Athena Beaded Sequin Floral Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Romantic with a modern edge, the Athena dress is designed to glide through the evening with effortless allure. The floral pattern and beaded and sequin detailing enhance the form-hugging silhouette, finished with a high side slit that brings movement and quiet drama.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with full-length knit lining, high stretch
- Large floral print, all-over beaded and sequin embroidery
- Sleeveless V-neckline, padded bust
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper with hook-eye closure
- High-cut side slit
- Floor-length form-hugging silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, birthdays, special date nights, vacations, resort destinations, and cocktail soirees.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001101
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $149.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: LAVENDER
Available Size: XXS, XS, S
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Elissa Beaded Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Graceful and refined, the Elissa beaded mermaid gown is designed for moments that call for understated glamour and timeless poise. Delicate beadwork flows into a floral hem pattern, creating a silhouette that feels romantic, polished, and unforgettable from ceremony to soirée.
Fit & Features
- Beaded, embellished, mesh-lined fabric
- Strapless twist sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid floor-length hem with floral pattern
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, bridal celebrations, black tie galas, milestone celebrations, formal resort destinations, birthday events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001114
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $169.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: IVORY
Available Size: XXS, XS, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Margo Beaded Floral Print Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Romantic with a refined edge, the Margo beaded mermaid dress is designed to move beautifully through every elegant moment. A floral pattern, plunging V-neck, and low back create a striking silhouette that feels polished, confident, and undeniably memorable.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with full-length knit lining, high stretch
- Floral print toward the bottom of the dress, all-over beaded and sequin embroidery
- Sleeveless V-neckline, ruched detailing
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, low back design
- Hidden side zipper with hook-eye closure
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, bridal celebrations, resort formal soirees, milestone parties, anniversary dinners, birthday events, and special date nights.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001104
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $169.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Bethany Tropical Bead A-Line Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The Bethany mini dress was made for sunny destinations. This beaded mesh mini dress features a tropical pattern, an open back, and a flattering A-line silhouette that brings just the right amount of getaway glamour.
Fit & Features
- Tropical beaded pattern, mesh fabric, smooth lining
- Square neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Cutout back detail
- A-line mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Vacations, honeymoons, birthday dinners, getaways, date nights, parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000656
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: CORAL
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Ember Floral A-Line Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Softly romantic with a polished edge, the Ember floral print midi dress floats with every step, made for those RSVP moments where effortless elegance is the goal. The linen-like fabric, scallop square neckline, and lace-up open back bring a modern, feminine twist to a timeless A-line silhouette.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, linen-like woven fabric, knit lining
- Scallop square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Side zipper closure
- Scallop side cutouts
- Lace-up open back
- Pleated A-line midi silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bridal celebrations, engagement parties and photoshoots, birthday brunches, garden parties, afternoon tea, winery tastings, vacations, honeymoons, formal celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000659
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $119.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: IVORY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Liana Floral Print Beaded Sequin Mini Tube Dress
Special Occasion
Made for that moment when the night is just getting started, and all eyes are already on you, the Liana floral print mini tube dress brings shimmer and allure. The sleek, body-hugging silhouette and strapless neckline feel effortlessly sultry, while the intricate beading and sequins add a shine that moves with you.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with knit lining, high stretch
- All-over beading and sequin embroidery
- Strapless straight-across neckline, padded bra cups
- Back metal bar closure, lower back cutout
- Mini-length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Birthday celebrations, bachelorette parties, vacations, date nights, sunset dinners, and glam nights out.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000660
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $99.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Celine Gingham Lace-Up Bubble Dress
Special Occasion
Playful polish meets polished charm in the Celine mini dress, a gingham taffeta A-line skater dress made for twirling into the spotlight. With its structured bodice, delicate spaghetti straps, and voluminous skirt, this silhouette feels equal parts flirty and refined—perfect for those what are you wearing moments.
Fit & Features
- Gingham pattern, taffeta fabric, sewn-in knit lining
- Scoop neckline, spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back
- Drop waist seam
- A-line skater silhouette
- Bubble mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, garden party, bridal showers, engagement brunch, birthdays, graduation celebration, sorority formal, baby showers, outdoor soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000655
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, PRINT
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kensley Chiffon A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Light, airy, and made for your most graceful entrances, the Kensley chiffon A-line gown floats with every step while creating a soft, romantic silhouette. The strapless draped bodice and gathered skirt bring an effortless elegance that feels equal parts polished and ethereal.
Fit & Features
- Chiffon-lined fabric
- Strapless neckline, relaxed bodice
- Drop waist asymmetrical seam
- A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, vacations, resort destinations, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, cocktail parties, special date nights, bridal showers, baby showers, formal celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001117
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: YELLOW
Available Size: XS, S, M, L