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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Isabelle Lace Sweetheart Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
A timeless silhouette with just the right amount of allure, the Isabelle lace mermaid gown is made for your most unforgettable entrances. The strapless neckline and lace-up back sculpt the figure, while the floor-length hem with a soft train brings that slow-motion, can’t-look-away finish.
Fit & Features
- Lace fabric, knit lining
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, twist bust accent, padded bra cups
- Non-slip grip lining
- Lace-up back design, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem with a train
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bridal celebrations, weddings, engagement photoshoots and parties, formal galas, rehearsal dinners, upscale birthdays, anniversary parties, sorority formals, fancy graduation events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001275
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Aven Satin Lace-Up Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sleek, sculpted, and made for a candlelit entrance, the Aven dress is that satin moment you’ll think about long after the last dance. Designed with a structured corset bodice and a lace-up back, this mermaid floor-length silhouette contours beautifully before flaring into a dramatic finish that feels effortlessly refined.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric lined with knit
- Sweetheart neckline with ruched seam, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Structured corset bodice with sculpted seams
- Lace-up back, lower hidden zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie weddings, galas, balls, opera or symphony nights, anniversary celebrations, formal milestone celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001259
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY, LAVENDER
Available Size: S, M, L, XS
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Brittany Glitter Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Brittany glitter mesh mermaid gown contours the body with a sleek silhouette and soft, sculpting ruching. The delicate straps and open back add just enough allure—perfect for when you want to make them stop and stare.
Fit & Features
- Glitter mesh-lined fabric
- V-neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Open back with ruffled details
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, galas, birthday dinners, cocktail events, formal celebrations, anniversaries
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001270
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Giana Lace One-Shoulder Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Giana floral lace mermaid gown moves with quiet confidence and undeniable polish. The one-shoulder neckline and cinched shoulder strap frame the silhouette, while the ruched waist sash sculpts and flows into a floor-length finish that feels equal parts modern and timeless.
Fit & Features
- Floral lace/mesh fabric, knit lining
- One-shoulder neckline, cinched shoulder strap detail
- Padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Ruched waist mesh sash
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bridal celebrations, weddings, engagement photoshoot and parties, rehearsal dinners, formal garden parties, graduations, themed summer soirees, dinner celebrations, birthdays, cocktail event
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001261
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Jaycee Satin Corset Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
The Jaycee formal dress brings sleek glamour with sculpted satin and a striking mermaid silhouette. The structured corset bodice shapes the waist, while the halter neckline and leg slit add just the right amount of drama.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric with full-length knit lining
- Sleeveless plunging V-neckline, padded bust
- Corset bodice, flexible boning
- Halter strap, partially open back, zipper with hook-eye closure
- Pleated waist, high-cut side slit
- Floor-sweeping mermaid silhouette with train
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, galas, black-tie parties, red-carpet events, formal birthday celebrations, evening dinners, and chic soirees.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001284
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: YELLOW, SAGE, ROYAL
Available Size: XXS, XS, S
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Alissa Satin Corset Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Alissa satin mermaid gown sculpts and glides in all the right places. The structured corset bodice and high side slit strike that perfect balance of polished and daring—because the RSVP said dress to impress.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin-lined fabric
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, non-slip grip lining
- Padded bra cups, knotted bust accent
- Corset bodice, flexible boning, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High side slit
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black-tie weddings, formal galas, birthday events, engagement parties, formal occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001281
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Sierra Lace Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Sierra ruched mesh mermaid gown brings soft romance and sculpted glamour into perfect balance. Featuring an off-the-shoulder neckline, floral lace detailing, and a curve-skimming silhouette, it’s the kind of dress that guarantees a “where did you get that?” moment the second you walk in.
Fit & Features
- Lace fabric, lined
- Off-the-shoulder neckline
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Ruched mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Wedding guests, bridesmaids, galas, rehearsal dinner, engagement parties, birthday events, fancy showers, formal milestone parties, black tie occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001272
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: LIGHT, BLUE, SAGE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Best Seller
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Jacklyn Satin Corset Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made for a true spotlight moment, the Jacklyn satin mermaid gown drapes effortlessly while the rhinestone corset bodice adds a sculpted, light-catching finish. The lace-up back and fluid silhouette create a look that feels sleek, elevated, and undeniably striking from every angle.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, bust lining
- Strapless cowl neckline, padded bra cups
- Sheer corset bodice, rhinestone-embellished
- Corset bodice, lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid floor-length hem with train
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, big birthday events, black tie occasions, galas, red-carpet nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001277
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $119.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Sabrina Lace Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Soft, sculpted, and made for golden hour moments—the Sabrina brings a romantic energy with its textured lace mermaid silhouette and delicate ruched bodice. The strappy open back with tie detail adds just enough intrigue, giving you that “don’t forget to turn around” moment.
Fit & Features
- Lace-lined fabric
- Scoop neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Open tie-back design
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, bridesmaids, spring galas, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, birthday celebrations, formal soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001294
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: YELLOW, LIGHT, BLUE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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June Strappy Babydoll Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Light-catching and effortlessly flirty, the June babydoll dress was made for twirling under string lights and making a lasting impression. Designed with a soft V-neck, an airy babydoll mini-length silhouette, and a strappy tie-open back, it blends romantic charm with a modern, party-ready edge.
Fit & Features
- Shimmer organza woven fabric with woven lining
- V-neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Strappy open tie back design, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Babydoll silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, outdoor weddings, bridal showers, brunches, sorority events, birthday parties, vacation resorts, date nights, garden parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000680
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Alex Floral Tie-Back Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Softly sculpted and effortlessly striking, the Alex floral mesh gown is designed for the kind of entrance that feels both graceful and unforgettable. A V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, and an open tie-back frame the silhouette, while princess seams and a mermaid floor-length shape create a beautifully contoured finish.
Fit & Features
- Floral mesh fabric, knit lining
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Open tie-back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Princess seams down the front
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, bridesmaids, destination events, engagement parties, formal celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001297
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: SAGE, BERRY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Best Seller
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Zooey Faux Pearl Trim Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
A study in modern romance, the Zooey knit gown is designed to sculpt and glide with every step. The strapless sweetheart neckline with faux pearl detailing and a mermaid floor-length silhouette creates a look that feels polished, confident, and quietly unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit-lined stretch fabric
- Strapless sweetheart neckline adorned with faux pearl trim
- Padded bra cups for support and shaping
- Tie-back design
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, formal dances, galas, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, milestone celebrations, birthday events, red-carpet occasions, fashion events, award nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001301
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK, NAVY
Available Size: M, L, XS, S, XL
Product Badge:- Best Seller
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Alicia Glitter Lace-Up Formal Dress
Special Occasion
A little shimmer, a daring neckline, and a lace-up back made for double takes, the Alicia glitter mesh mermaid gown was designed for after-dark entrances and unforgettable exits. The ruched silhouette hugs in all the right places while the sleek strappy detail keeps the look effortlessly polished.
Fit & Features
- Glitter mesh-lined fabric
- V-neckline with notch cutout
- Spaghetti straps
- Open lace-up back
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, galas, vacations, resorts, destination events, cocktail parties, birthday dinners, engagement parties, anniversaries, formal celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001299
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Audriana Satin A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Graceful and quietly striking, the Audriana dress brings an effortless sense of occasion the moment you slip it on. Crafted in smooth satin with a flowing A-line silhouette, it’s finished with a statement tie-back detail that adds soft movement and an elegant open-back moment.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin-lined fabric
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
- Tie-back design, hidden zipper and hook-eye closure
- A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie weddings, galas, bridesmaids, balls, formal celebrations, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, anniversaries, special date nights, vacations, honeymoons
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001306
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: HUNTER
Available Size: S
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Katy Crochet Lace A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Light, romantic, and made for movement, Katy gown feels effortless from first step to final twirl. A sheer crochet lace bodice meets a tiered chiffon skirt, creating a silhouette that feels graceful, feminine, and quietly striking.
Fit & Features
- Sheer chiffon fabric with stretchy knit lining
- Sheer crochet lace and mesh bodice
- Sweetheart neckline, structured underwire, flexible boning
- Thin adjustable shoulder straps
- Open lace-up back design, hidden lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Tiered ruffled A-line silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, rehearsal dinners, galas, anniversary celebrations, formal dances, milestone birthdays, fancy celebrations, black-tie receptions, and special date nights.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001308
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE
Available Size: XS, S
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Rose Satin Sequin Corset Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for the kind of entrance that lingers in memory, the Rose satin column dress pairs fluid drape with a sequin sheer mesh applique corset bodice that sculpts and sparkles with every step. The cutout lace-up back and high front slit add striking movement, balancing elegance with just the right amount of drama.
Fit & Features
- Smooth satin fabric with fluid drape
- Sequin sheer mesh applique corset bodice
- Delicate straps with structured bodice support
- Cutout lace-up back with adjustable fit
- Column skirt with high front slit
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie galas, weddings, elegant celebrations, upscale birthday dinners, special occasion soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001305
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $129.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: M
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Brienna Satin Tie A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Effortlessly refined with a modern sense of ease, the Brienna gown is designed for moments that call for quiet confidence. Smooth satin shapes a flowing A-line floor-length silhouette, while the strapless neckline and tie back detail add a soft, romantic finish.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin fabric
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
- Tie back design, zipper and hook-eye closure
- A-line silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, black tie celebrations, galas, bridesmaids, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, birthday soirees, special date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001307
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Janie Sequin Lace-Up Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for the kind of entrance that lingers, the Janie sequin mermaid gown catches the light with every step while sculpting your silhouette. The lace-up open back adds a hint of allure, balancing polished elegance with just the right amount of drama.
Fit & Features
- Sequin embellished mesh-lined fabric
- Scoop neckline, padded bust, spaghetti straps
- Lace up open back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem with train accent
Where to Wear:
Prom, big birthday events, red carpet occasions, award nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001311
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $139.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: CORAL, SAGE
Available Size: M, L, XS, S
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Elora Floral Sequin Lace-Up Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
When the invitation says formal, the Elora answers with pure radiance. This floral sequin mermaid dress features a sculpted silhouette and an intricate lace-up back, blending romance and drama in a way that feels unforgettable yet effortlessly refined.
Fit & Features
- Satin knit fabric with full-length knit lining, moderate stretch
- Floral sequin embroidery
- Sleeveless V-necklined, padded bust, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Open back, cross-back lace-up strappy design with tie closure
- Lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, galas, black-tie parties, formal bridal showers, rehearsal dinners, and fancy affairs.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001310
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $119.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, PRINT
Available Size: XXS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Allie Glitter Lace-Up Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Make an unforgettable entrance in the Allie glitter formal dress. Crafted with shimmering glitter throughout, the dress features an elegant lace-up back and ruched mermaid silhouette that flatters your curves while creating a graceful flow.
Fit & Features
- Glitter pattern lined fabric
- Sweetheart twist neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, padded bust
- Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Ruched mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem with train
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black-tie galas, formal milestone celebrations, red-carpet occasions, award shows
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001314
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $94.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: RED
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Josephine Glitter Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed to catch the light with every step, the Josephine glitter mermaid gown brings drama in the most refined way. A sculpted silhouette and lace-up back create a striking finish that feels polished, confident, and made for unforgettable evenings.
Fit & Features
- Glitter fabric with an allover textured pattern
- Sweetheart neckline with spaghetti straps
- Fitted mermaid silhouette
- Lace up back detail
- Floor length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie weddings, galas, red-carpet occasions, formal celebrations, destination fancy events, theatre nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001313
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $94.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: S, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Klaudia Satin Corset Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Graceful and refined with a quietly striking presence, the Klaudia satin mermaid gown is designed for evenings that call for polished sophistication. The structured corset bodice, lace-up back, and sleek slit work together to create a sculpted silhouette that feels timeless yet undeniably captivating.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin-lined fabric
- Square neckline, wide shoulder straps, padded bra cups
- Corset-structured bodice
- Lace-up back detail, zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, galas, garden parties, formal celebrations, big birthday dinners, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, date nights, anniversaries, cocktail receptions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001328
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Sarah Chiffon Ruffle A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Float through every entrance in this effortlessly romantic Sarah chiffon A-line gown, designed to catch every glance. The halter keyhole neckline and softly layered ruffled hem bring just the right amount of movement—perfect for that RSVP that calls for something unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Chiffon-lined fabric
- Halter keyhole neckline
- A-line silhouette
- Ruffled floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Wedding guests, bridesmaids, formal galas, upscale birthday events, garden parties, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, milestone celebrations, summer soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001320
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: SAGE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Julianna Chiffon Halter A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
An effortlessly graceful silhouette, the Julianna chiffon A-line formal dress flows with every step. The halter neckline and open back detail strike a balance between soft romance and modern allure, making it a standout for any special occasion.
Fit & Features
- Sheer chiffon fabric with full-length lining
- Sleeveless V-neckline
- Halter tie-back straps
- Partially open back, lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Pleated detailing
- Floor-length A-line silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, wedding guests, bridesmaids, black-tie parties, dressed-up dinners, elevated date nights, and formal parties.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001322
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $99.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS, S
Product Badge:- Ships Free