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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Mckensie Glitter Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made for your slow-turn moment, the Mckensie glitter knit mermaid gown hugs in all the right places before softly flaring for a fluid, sculpted finish. The delicate tie front and open back detail add a touch of intrigue, striking that perfect balance between polished and alluring.
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit-lined fabric, moderate stretch
- Plunge V-neckline with tie front
- Spaghetti straps
- Open tie-back
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black tie events, galas, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, birthdays, prom, resort destinations, vacations, formal celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001487
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: LAVENDER
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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Karla Leopard Floral A-Line Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Playful yet polished, the Karla A-line mini dress is designed for moments that call for a confident, fashion-forward look. A corset-inspired bodice meets a flirty A-line mini fit, while leopard and floral prints create a striking mix that feels elevated and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Leopard, floral print, metallic thread organza fabric
- Tulle and woven linings
- Corset-inspired bodice with structured seaming, drop waist seam
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- A-line mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, birthday parties, milestone celebrations, bachelorettes, bridal showers, fashion-forward events, date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000698
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: LEOPARD
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Elana Floral A-Line Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Elana floral organza gown floats with every step, blending a structured corset bodice with a soft, romantic a-line silhouette. Tie shoulder straps and a high front slit add just the right amount of movement and allure, perfect for moments that call for a little extra drama.
Fit & Features
- Floral pattern, organza woven fabric with lining
- Sweetheart neckline, tie shoulder straps
- Corset-structured bodice, flexible boning
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit
- A-line silhouette, ruffled trim floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, galas, bridal showers, engagement celebrations, resort dinners, vacations, derby days, anniversaries, formal events, big birthday celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001489
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $149.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: RED
Available Size: 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13
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Sallie Floral A-Line Dress With Pockets
Special Occasion
Playful yet polished, the Sallie A-line short dress is made for twirl-worthy moments that still feel refined. The garden floral print, V-neckline, and ruffle trim shoulder straps bring a romantic charm, while the lace-up open back adds a hint of allure from every angle.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, jacquard fabric, smooth woven lining
- V-neckline, ruffle trim straps
- Lace-up open back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Hidden side pockets
- A-line silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bridal celebrations, engagement photoshoots and parties, graduations, birthday brunches, afternoon tea, dressy baby showers, vacations, honeymoons
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000699
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $64.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: IVORY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Jayla Sequin Cutout Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for entrances that linger, the Jayla sequin mermaid gown catches the light with every step. A sculpted cutout detail adds modern allure, balancing sleek lines with a confident, polished feel made for unforgettable evenings.
Fit & Features
- Sequin-embellished mesh fabric, knit lining
- V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, padded bra cups
- Cutout bodice, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie galas, formal milestone celebrations, special date nights, fancy birthdays, red-carpet occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001490
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $119.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: RED
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Melissa Corset Tulle A-Line Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Designed to feel nothing short of breathtaking, the Melissa ball gown brings a sense of grandeur to every entrance. Layers of airy tulle flow from a sculpted corset bodice adorned with rhinestones, applique, and gemstone detailing, creating a look that feels regal, romantic, and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Soft tulle fabric with knit lining
- Corset bodice with rhinestone, applique, and gemstone detailing, padded bra cups
- Sweetheart neckline, spaghetti straps
- Lace up back, hidden zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit
- A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, formal balls, galas, black tie celebrations, sweet sixteen, milestone birthday events, formal award ceremonies, elegant red-carpet occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-000048
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $239.90
Availability: Out of Stock
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Faith Sequin Pearl Bead Formal Dress
Special Occasion
This is the gown you choose when the night calls for pure glamour and a little drama. Designed in a beaded sequin mermaid silhouette with a plunging halter v neck and open back, it skims every curve before flaring into a floor-length finish that glistens from every angle.
Fit & Features
- Bead, sequin, and faux pearl embellishments
- Mesh fabric with knit lining
- Halter V-neckline with hook-eye strap, padded bra cups
- Open back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, galas, upscale receptions, red carpet awards event, luxury dinners, pageants, milestone anniversary party, birthdays, fashion-forward events, special date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001493
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $134.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: LIGHT, BLUE
Available Size: M, L
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Quinn Soutache A-Line Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Striking a balance between romance and refinement, The Quinn dress is designed for moments that call for quiet drama and confident presence. Delicate soutache detailing elevates the flowing A-line silhouette, while the high front slit and bonded floor-length hem create a finish that feels polished and intentional.
Fit & Features
- Mesh satin-lined fabric with dimensional soutache detailing
- V-neckline with adjustable spaghetti straps, padded bra cups
- Hidden back zipper and hook-eye closure
- A line silhouette
- High front slit
- Bonded floor length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie galas, weddings, engagement parties, milestone celebrations, big birthday events, elegant cocktail receptions, red-carpet occasions, formal balls
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001495
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $149.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Nyla Satin Floral A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made for twirling entrances and lingering glances, the Nyla satin A-line dress brings a romantic floral print to life with every step. The structured corset bodice and lace-up back sculpt the silhouette, while hidden side pockets add stylish convenience.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, premium satin, woven lining
- Sweetheart strapless neckline, pleated bust, padded bra cups
- Corset-structured bodice, flexible boning
- Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Hidden side pockets
- High front slit, A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, bridal celebrations, rehearsal dinners, engagement photoshoots and parties, garden parties, fancy birthdays, galas, destination celebrations, formal soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001497
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $129.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: IVORY
Available Size: 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Denise Satin Bow A-Line Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The Denise dress turns a simple entrance into a moment—sleek, luminous, and designed to captivate from every angle. Crafted from premium satin in an a-line fit, it features delicate faux pearl trim and a statement back bow that feels equal parts timeless and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin fabric, lined
- Sweetheart neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps with faux pearl trim
- Low-cut back, statement bow with faux pearl trim
- A-line mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bridal celebrations, wedding receptions, birthdays, graduations, sorority formals, garden parties, fancy brunches, rehearsal dinners, engagement photoshoots and parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000702
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $74.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: IVORY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Best Seller
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Bow Steals the Show Satin Wrap Shawl
All eyes, no effort. This satin statement bow wrap shawl with train ties the whole look together—perfect for elevated nights out, formal moments, or when the outfit needs a little drama without trying too hard.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin structured woven fabric
- Statement oversized bow
- Dramatic shawl design with flowing train
Style Number/Barcode: 05008-000001
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK, WHITE
Available Size: S/M, M/L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Madeline Strapless Tie-Back A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Softly fluid and endlessly chic, the Madeline strapless A-line dress brings effortless glamour to any formal moment. A chic tie-back detail enhances the silhouette with a subtle, feminine touch.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit fabric with full-length knit lining, high stretch
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, padded bust, ruching
- Open back with tie-back design
- Lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Floor-length A-line silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, wedding guests, bridesmaids, black-tie parties, dressed-up dinners, galas, red-carpet events, and chic soirees.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001508
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE, DENIM
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Mackenzie Satin Corset Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
A look that lingers long after you’ve left the room, the Mackenzie knit satin mermaid gown is all about sculpted elegance and soft-glow detail. The strapless corset lace sequin bodice adds dimension and shimmer, creating a silhouette that's unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, knit lining
- Strapless sweetheart pleated neckline, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Lace sequin corset bodice, flexible boning
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, prom, red-carpet occasions, fancy birthday events, cocktail dinner parties, award nights, and black-tie galas.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001502
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $129.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: S
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Mindy Satin A-Line Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Effortlessly refined with just the right amount of allure, the Mindy gown was made for a sweeping entrance and a second glance. Crafted in satin with a flattering V-neckline, high front slit, and a cut-out back with a mini lace-up detail, this a-line floor-length silhouette moves with elegance while revealing just enough.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric lined with knit
- V-neckline, padded bra cups, spaghetti straps
- Cutout back with mini lace-up, hidden zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit
- A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, black tie galas, balls, formal milestone celebrations, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, anniversary parties, date nights, birthday events, upscale cocktail soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001506
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Klaudia Glitter A-Line Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Effortlessly polished with a soft sense of drama, The Klaudia gown is made for moments that call for understated glamour. Crafted in glitter fabric, this A-line floor-length silhouette flows beautifully with a high front wrap slit that moves with every step.
Fit & Features
- Glitter woven fabric, knit lining
- Strapless folded neckline, padded bra cups, non-slip grip lining
- Back zipper and hook-and-eye closure
- Hidden side pockets
- High front slit for movement
- Voluminous A-line silhouette, floor-length hemline
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie weddings, galas, balls, milestone celebrations, anniversaries, red-carpet occasions, elegant birthday events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001505
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $119.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: GOLD
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Ally Strapless A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made for elegant evenings that linger long after the last toast, the Ally knit gown delivers effortless polish with a modern edge. A strapless neckline, flowing A-line floor-length silhouette, and high front slit create a look that feels refined, confident, and striking in motion.
Fit & Features
- Sleek knit fabric with subtle sheen effect
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit for movement
- A-line silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, bridesmaids, black tie galas, anniversaries, milestone birthday evenings, receptions, red-carpet occasions, seasonal soirees, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001507
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: HUNTER, NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Riley Strapless Gemstone Corset Mini Dress
Special Occasion
All eyes on The Riley mini dress. Drenched in rhinestones and gemstones and sculpted with a strapless sweetheart neckline, this bodycon mini was made to own the room. With its corset-inspired fit and luminous mesh finish, it’s giving pure bombshell energy—no introduction needed.
Fit & Features
- Gemstone and rhinestone-embellished
- Mesh-lined fabric, minimal stretch
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, sheer mesh insert
- Built-in underwire padded bust
- Side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Corset-structured bodice, flexible boning
- Bodycon fit, mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear
Bridal celebrations, bachelorettes, birthdays, glam holiday soiree, red-carpet occasions, fashion events, upscale cocktail parties, luxe date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000496
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $119.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Janella Sequin Striped Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made to catch the light from every angle, the Janella mermaid gown brings a fluid, shimmering energy to your evening lineup. The striped sequin pattern and strappy open back create a sleek, sculpted silhouette that feels both playful and undeniably polished.
Fit & Features
- Striped sequin pattern with allover shine, knit lining
- V-neckline, sleek adjustable spaghetti straps
- Strappy open back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Fitted mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, spring galas, formal celebration parties, fashion-forward events, vacations, honeymoons, resorts, fancy cocktail parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001510
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $99.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BEIGE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Poppy Satin Corset Formal Dress
HanSpecial Occasion
For nights that call for a little extra drama, the Poppy satin mermaid gown sculpts and smooths in all the right places. The structured corset bodice and lace-up back bring a refined edge, while the sleek silhouette and slit create a striking, head-turning finish.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, knit lining
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups, mesh applique, beaded trim
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Corset-structured bodice, lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit, mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie occasion, wedding, gala, red carpet events, milestone parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001511
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $99.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: S
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kara Formal Floral High-Slit Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
For the evening when elegance feels instinctive, The Kara stuns in floral lace with a sculpted mermaid silhouette and a striking front slit that reveals just the right amount of movement. Beaded sequins shimmer across the V-neck bodice and delicate straps, creating a look that feels refined, romantic, and unforgettable from ceremony to last dance.
Fit & Features
- Floral lace fabric with a smooth knit lining
- Sleeveless V-neckline with adjustable spaghetti straps
- Padded bra cups
- Lace-up back with lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front-slit
- Fitted mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, galas, black-tie parties, red-carpet events, and formal affairs.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001512
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $129.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, PRINT
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Adele Floral Beaded Mini Dress
Special Occasion
A true scene-stealer, the Adele beaded mesh bodycon dress shimmers with every step while the floral garden hem print adds a soft, romantic finish. The sculpted silhouette hugs in all the right places, giving you that effortlessly polished look made for standout moments.
Fit & Features
- Floral garden hem print, beaded, mesh-lined fabric
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, non-slip grip lining, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon mini silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, bridal celebrations, birthday brunches, graduations, date nights, bachelorettes, dressy occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000705
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, PRINT
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Jackie Floral Satin A-Line Ball Gown
Special Occasion
The kind of gown that makes an entrance feel effortless, the Jackie gown is crafted with a sculpted corset bodice, an A-line floor-length silhouette, and hidden side pockets blend polish with practicality for your most memorable occasions.
Fit & Features
- Floral pattern, premium satin fabric with sheen, tulle and knit linings
- Scoop neckline, padded bra cups, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Corset bodice, boning inserts
- Hidden side pockets
- A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, spring balls, galas, awards ceremony, anniversary celebrations, big birthday events, grand milestone parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-000033
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $149.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, PRINT
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Audra Satin Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for your most RSVP-worthy moments, the Audra satin mermaid gown moves with quiet drama and undeniable polish. A sweetheart neckline, wide shoulder straps, and lace-up back come together for a sculpted, floor-length silhouette that feels equal parts timeless and striking.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, knit lining, high stretch
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bust, ruched seam
- Wide shoulder straps
- Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie weddings, formal galas, upscale celebrations, red carpet events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001516
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Grace Satin A-Line Bubble Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made for a dramatic entrance and an even better exit, the Grace dress brings modern romance to the ballroom. Crafted in luminous satin with a strapless pleated bodice, A-line silhouette, and a statement front slit, this gown balances regal volume with a flirt of leg for a look that feels both timeless and daring.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin fabric, sewn-in tulle and knit linings
- Strapless straight neckline with pleating
- Lace-up back with hidden zipper and hook-eye closure
- Side pockets
- High front slit design
- A-line silhouette, bubble high-low hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie weddings, galas, balls, red carpet events, pageant evenings, luxury anniversary parties, big birthday events, formal milestone celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001519
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $139.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M
Product Badge:- Ships Free