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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Bella Chiffon Lace-Up Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Bella chiffon dress floats with effortless elegance from every angle. Designed in airy chiffon with a sweeping A-line silhouette, this gown is finished with sculptural hardware straps and a lace-up open back that feels equal parts timeless and striking.
Fit & Features
- Chiffon fabric, smooth lining
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Hardware inserts, wide shoulder straps
- Lace-up strappy back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Flowy A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Wedding guests, summer galas, engagement parties, birthday dinners, special date nights, vacations, honeymoons, resorts, cocktail soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001563
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $99.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Lana Formal Ruched Glitter Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
There is a certain kind of evening that calls for shimmer in motion. The Lana is crafted from luminous glitter mesh in a sculpted mermaid silhouette, featuring a softly draped neckline and artful ruching at the back that creates a breathtaking finish from every angle.
Fit & Features
- Glitter mesh-lined fabrication high stretch
- Sleeveless v-neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Open back with tie-back detail
- Ruching
- 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: 05002-001575
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: LIGHT, BLUE
Available Size: L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Solana Crepe Bow Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for the kind of entrance that lingers, the Solana crepe midi dress delivers quiet drama with every step. Featuring cap sleeves, an open back, and a satin statement bow, the bodycon fit and center back slit create a silhouette that feels equal parts polished and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Crepe fabric, knit lining
- Boat neckline
- Cap sleeves
- Open back, statement satin bow, center back slit
- Form-hugging midi silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bridal celebrations, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties and photoshoots, cocktail receptions, anniversary dinners, honeymoons, birthdays, graduations, formal soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000727
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Best Seller
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Sofie Metallic Floral High-Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made for golden hour entrances and late-night celebrations, the Sofie is the kind of metallic floral formal dress that stuns at every RSVP. Designed in a shimmering slinky silhouette with a dramatic high-slit and delicate open-back tie detail, it moves like liquid glam from rooftop cocktails to destination weddings.
Fit & Features
- Metallic foiled floral print, knit fabric with full-length knit lining, high stretch
- Sleeveless cowl neckline
- Spaghetti straps, open cross-back strappy design with tie closure
- Ruched detailing
- Floor-length hem, high-cut side slit
- Curve-hugging silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Vacations, dressed-up dinners, rooftop parties, wedding guests, birthday celebrations, and glam nights out.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001597
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $64.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: RED
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
- Metallic foiled floral print, knit fabric with full-length knit lining, high stretch
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Karol Off-The-Shoulder Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made for candlelit entrances and champagne toasts, the Karol dress brings quiet drama in the chicest way. Crafted from smooth knit in a form-hugging midi silhouette, it features an off-the-shoulder wrap overlay neckline and a front wrap slit that moves beautifully from ceremony to after-party.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit-lined stretch fabric
- Off-the-shoulder wrap overlay
- Form-hugging midi silhouette
- Front wrap slit accent
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, cocktail receptions, galas, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, milestone celebrations, anniversary dinners
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000731
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $49.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK, WINE
Available Size: S, XS
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Kasey Floral Rhinestone Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Kasey floral mesh mermaid gown blends soft romance with a sculpted, body-skimming fit. The ruched detailing, delicate shimmer accents, and lace-up back create a look that feels equal parts polished and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Floral print mesh fabric with lining, rhinestone embellished
- Cowl neckline, spaghetti straps, padded bra cups
- Lace-up open back
- Ruched mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Destination weddings, vacations, honeymoons, anniversaries, cocktail parties, birthday dinners, and summer black-tie events.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001602
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $84.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: CORAL
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Brielle Halter Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for the kind of night that starts with compliments and ends with unforgettable photos, the Brielle bodycon mini dress balances a sleek halter neckline with a dramatic draped sash for striking movement. The open back and sculpting silhouette create a polished yet playful look that's ready for every special invitation on your calendar.
Fit & Features
- Lurex knit fabric
- High halter neckline
- Open back
- Center front sash
- Bodycon mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, engagement parties, birthday dinners, date nights, bachelorettes, vacations, cocktail parties, fashion-forward events, Vegas, girls night
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000741
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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Carolyn Crepe Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
A study in modern romance, the Carolyn crepe midi dress moves with quiet confidence and just the right touch of allure. From the square neckline to the sheer lace cap sleeves and cutout back with delicate button detailing, it’s designed for that effortlessly polished entrance—and the compliments that follow.
Fit & Features
- Crepe fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Square neckline
- Sheer lace cap sleeves
- Cutout back, sheer lace panel with button closure
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette, flared midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bridal celebrations, rehearsal dinners, engagement photoshoots and parties, bachelorettes, weddings, cocktail parties, date nights, graduations, birthdays, wineries, honeymoons, vacations
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000747
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $54.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: S
Product Badge:- Best Seller
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Adella Velvet Strapless Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sleek and unforgettable, the Adella velvet gown is designed for evenings that call for refined drama and confident elegance. A strapless twist neckline, sculpted mermaid silhouette, and subtle cutout back come together in a look that feels timeless yet undeniably striking.
Fit & Features
- Plush velvet fabric
- Strapless twist neckline
- Cutout back, lower ruched seam
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black tie galas, formal dances, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, milestone celebrations, fancy date nights, award ceremonies, elegant parties, opera nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001646
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $24.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: S, M, L
Product Badge:- Sale
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Audrey Floral Chiffon Rhinestone Dress
Special Occasion
The Audrey chiffon A-line mini dress pairs cascading tiered ruffles with sparkling rhinestone trim for a look that feels equal parts romantic and celebratory. The halter neckline, lace-up back, and airy silhouette create a dreamy finish.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, chiffon fabric, smooth lining
- V-neckline with rhinestone trim bodice and tie straps
- Lace-up back detail
- A-line silhouette
- Layered ruffled mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bridal showers, fancy birthdays, graduation parties, milestone events, garden parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000758
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: IVORY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Jasmine Halter Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made for the kind of night that starts with compliments and ends with everyone asking where you found it, the Jasmine column dress delivers a striking silhouette with effortless allure. The halter neckline, cascading hardware, and side slit create a bold yet polished look that feels made for destination soirées and RSVP moments alike.
Fit & Features
- Texture knit fabric, smooth knit stretchy lining
- Halter cutout plunge neckline with chunky hardware
- High side slit
- Column silhouette
- Long-length hem
Where to Wear:
Bridal celebrations, bachelorettes, destination weddings, beach weddings, beach clubs, vacations, honeymoons, birthday dinners, resorts, yacht parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001664
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- New Arrival
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Mindy Satin Corset Lace-Up Dress
Special Occasion
The Mindy mini dress delivers polished glamour with a modern edge. Designed in stretch satin, this bodycon mini silhouette features a structured corset bodice with boning, a pleated waist drape accent, and an unforgettable lace-up back.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, knit lining
- Square neckline, wide adjustable shoulder straps
- Corset bodice with flexible boning
- Back lace-up, side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Pleated waist drape accent
- Curve-hugging A-line mini silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bridal celebrations, receptions, elopements, courthouse weddings, bachelorettes, birthdays, engagement photoshoots, graduations, date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000760
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, NAVY
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- New Arrival
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Claire Floral Slit Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Romantic with just the right amount of allure, the Claire ruched mesh gown feels made for moonlit weddings and champagne-filled evenings. The soft floral print, delicate cowl neckline, and thigh high slit create a mermaid silhouette that moves beautifully from ceremony to reception.
Fit & Features
- Floral abstract print, mesh-lined fabric
- Cowl neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit, ruching
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, engagement parties, bridal showers, vacations, honeymoons, birthday dinners, formal milestone celebrations, date nights, garden parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001648
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $64.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Sofia Linen Halter Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Polished with a playful edge, the Sofia linen-blend mini dress is made for those effortlessly chic arrivals that still turn heads. The scallop-contrast trim halter-strap neckline and curve-hugging silhouette create a striking allure, while the mini-length hem is perfect for outdoor soirees.
Fit & Features
- Linen-blend cotton fabric, sewn-in knit lining
- Contrast trim, scallop halter tie strap neckline
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Contrast trim throughout
- Curve-hugging, scallop mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Graduations, garden parties, brunches, milestone celebrations, vacations, resorts, honeymoons, dressy occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000772
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: KHAKI
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Elowen Floral Lace Mesh Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Elowen gown feels made for champagne toasts and candlelit entrances. This floral mesh mermaid dress features a delicate lace bust, sweetheart neckline, and cutout back that brings effortless allure.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, mesh and lace fabric, lined
- Sweetheart neckline, wide tank straps
- Cutout back
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Outdoor weddings, destination weddings, vacations, honeymoons, birthday dinners, cocktail soirees, engagement parties, anniversaries, garden parties, showers, graduations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001668
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- New Arrival
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Melody Satin Corset Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Melody satin midi dress delivers sleek glamour with a sculpted corset bodice and plunging halter neckline. The curve-skimming silhouette, lace-up back, and side slit make it perfect for those RSVP moments where understated still needs to stun.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, knit lining
- Halter plunge neckline, tie straps
- Corset bodice, flexible boning, hook-and-eye front closures
- Lace-up back, side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Side slit
- Bodycon midi-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, cocktail soirees, birthday dinners, date nights, bachelorettes, vacations, honeymoons, destination celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000753
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: GOLD, NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- New Arrival
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Anabelle Floral Chiffon Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Float through the evening like the best-dressed guest in the room with the Anabelle A-line gown, a romantic chiffon silhouette designed for unforgettable celebrations. Featuring a soft floral print, cascading tiered ruffles, and a lace-up back detail, this A-line dress brings effortless movement and modern femininity to every step.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, chiffon fabric, smooth lining
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back detail, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Tiered frilly ruffled design
- A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, bridal celebrations, engagement photoshoots and parties, fancy brunches, garden parties, formal milestone celebrations, anniversaries, fancy cocktail soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001647
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $139.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: IVORY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Tara Formal Satin Lace-Up Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
An entrance you do not rush—this satin mermaid gown is designed for that slow, head-turning walk into the room. With a softly draped cowl neckline and an intricate lace-up back, it skims the body before flaring into a sculpted silhouette that feels equal parts polished and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit fabric with subtle sheen, lined
- Sleeveless draped cowl neckline with sleek straps
- Open lace-up back
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length with flared hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, black tie galas, red carpet occasions, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, anniversaries, birthday events, formal soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001700
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $74.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Arielle Strapless Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made for candlelit entrances and compliments that follow you across the room, this strapless gown delivers sleek glamour with a sculpted fit. The ruched mermaid silhouette and cascading side sash create elegant movement with every step.
Fit & Features
- Slinky knit stretchy fabric with sheen effect
- Strapless neckline
- Front sash wrap waist
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Wedding guests, bridesmaids, black tie galas, formal milestone parties, rehearsal dinners, anniversaries, vacations, destination celebrations, fancy occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001703
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: YELLOW, WINE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Best Seller
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Vivienne Formal Woven Satin Pleated Dress
Special Occasion
Elegance, distilled to its most captivating form. The Vivienne is designed in lustrous woven satin with a sculpted mermaid silhouette, featuring a sleek strapless bodice and artfully pleated skirt that creates fluid movement with every step.
Fit & Features
- Woven satin fabric with subtle sheen, stretchy knit lining
- Strapless straight neckline
- Hidden side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Fitted bodice with seam detail, flexible boning
- Pleated draping at the hip
- 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: 05002-001708
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Caterina Mesh One-Shoulder Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Effortlessly sculpted with a touch of softness, the Caterina mesh gown drapes the body in a ruched mermaid silhouette that moves with you from every angle. A one-shoulder neckline and flowing sash detail add a modern, elevated finish that feels both refined and quietly striking.
Fit & Features
- Mesh fabric, partial knit lining, high stretch
- One-shoulder neckline with asymmetrical strap
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Ruched bodice and hip
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Attached sash detail
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, black tie occasions, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, fashion-forward events, fancy date nights, vacations, honeymoons, garden parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001710
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK, NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Tori Mesh Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Tori mesh mermaid gown contours every curve with a sheer bodice that feels equal parts refined and daring. From the soft ruching to the fluid drape detail, it’s the kind of silhouette that makes every step feel like a moment worth capturing.
Fit & Features
- Mesh-lined fabric, high stretch
- Sweetheart halter neckline, padded bra cups, tie straps
- Sheer bodice with attached drape
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, destination weddings, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties and photoshoots, vacations, honeymoons, bachelorettes, birthdays
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001713
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: MOCHA
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Simone Strapless Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sleek and sculpted, the Simone strapless mermaid gown is designed for a striking, statuesque entrance. The sweetheart neckline and softly draped sash detail contour the silhouette, creating an effortlessly refined look that feels equal parts modern and timeless.
Fit & Features
- Slinky knit stretchy fabric
- Strapless sweetheart neckline
- Front knotted sash
- Mermaid floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Wedding guests, bridesmaids, prom, galas, black tie events, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, upscale birthdays, vacations, anniversaries, formal milestone celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001718
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN, HUNTER
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Best Seller
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Harper Floral Corset Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Romantic with a sculpted allure, the Harper floral midi dress is made for moments that feel both polished and unforgettable. The garden rose floral print softens the structured corset bodice, while the lace-up back and bodycon silhouette create a beautifully defined shape with just the right hint of romance.
Fit & Features
- Garden rose floral print, cotton-blend woven fabric, stretch knit lining
- Strapless lace trim neckline, padded bra cups
- Corset bodice, flexible boning
- Lace-up back placket, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette, center back slit
- Midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Wedding guests, bridal showers, fancy brunches, garden parties, formal celebrations, afternoon tea soirees, summer cocktail parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000788
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free