Formal Dresses
Windsor's formal dresses are redefining elegance for 2025. 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 trendy 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 chic, camera-ready, and designed to make you unforgettable.
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Formal Dresses That Make Every Moment Feel Major
Windsor’s formal dresses are designed for those unforgettable nights 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 occasion. Think structured corset bodices, adjustable straps, lace-up backs, and high slits that blend comfort with high-impact style.
- Heading to a big event? Explore Winter formal dresses in luxe fabrics like velvet, satin, and crepe that feel rich and elegant.
- For December celebrations, our formal holiday dresses sparkle with sequins, rhinestones, and glitter mesh, while bold jewel tones and classic black create timeless appeal.
- Looking to ring in the New Year? Formal NYE dresses with metallic finishes and statement cutouts are made to shine under the lights.
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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Lillia Formal Cowl Neck Sequin Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Make a stunning entrance with a sparkling formal dress that stands out in the center of the room. Lillia features a sleeveless cowl neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps that lead to a cross back, and a midi-length silhouette. The dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric adorned with glitzy sequins throughout. Complete the look with an anklet and clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl neckline
- Adhesive bra recommended
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, cross-back
- Midi-length silhouette
- Sequin-knit lined fabric
- Form-hugging fit, slight stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0648
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $56.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Alexandria Formal Sequin Scroll Dress
Special OccasionGlam it up in sophisticated sequins as you own the night in our emerald green Alexandria dress! She features a high round neckline, fitted long sleeves and an all over emerald green hued sequin detailing set in a chic scroll print pattern. Alexandria is composed of a sheer mesh fabric lined with a lining to create a flattering two-tone effect. Dress offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch and includes a back zipper closure.
Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6025
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $56.97 $124.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Johanna Formal Convertible Ties Satin Dress
Special Occasion
We love a dress that offers glam options, the Johanna dress offers so many ways to dress up for your next special occasion. Johanna features surplus convertible ties at the bodice that can be styled into different necklines that flatter. Her bodice leads to a form of hugging floor-length skirt that is accented with a high side slit. The dress is composed of a stretch satin fabric that offers a moderate stretch. Complete look with a rhinestone choker and bracelet.
Fit & Features
- Convertible ties to create customized necklines
- Sleeveless
- Floor-length A-line skirt
- High side slit
- Stretch satin fabric
- Form hugging fit
- Moderate stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1126
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $31.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Bella Formal Glitter Satin Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Sparkling glitter turns the Bella formal dress into a dancing queen's dream! Mesmerize the crowd at banquets, celebration parties, and dances. She shines in a sleeveless plunge V-neckline, wide shoulder straps that lace up along the back, a padded bust, side-ruched seams that flaunt your curves, a mermaid silhouette, and a floor-length hem with a sultry high-side slit. The formal dress is composed of a glitter satin fabric with a short and stretchy knit lining. Complete the look in a gorgeous necklace and earrings set.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless plunge V-neckline, padded bust
- Wide shoulder straps, lace-up back, zipper closure
- Side ruched seams, mermaid silhouette
- High-side slit, floor-length hem
- Glitter satin fabric, short and stretchy knit lining
- No bra required
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-3128
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $94.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Tess Floral Off-The-Shoulder Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Bloom with spellbinding beauty in the Tess floral formal dress! This floral mesh gown brings all the elegance with an off-the-shoulder neckline, mermaid silhouette that flaunts your curves, and leg-baring slit.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Off-the-shoulder neckline, short-sleeve cuffs
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- High front slit
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, garden parties, summer galas, black tie events, vacation, fancy date nights, dinner parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000009
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Ayanna Formal Glitter Ruched Mermaid Long Dress
Special Occasion
Let your curves shine on the Ayanna formal glitter long dress perfect for black tie soirees! She features a stunning cowl neckline adorned with spaghetti straps, side ruched seams that accentuate your figure, a mermaid silhouette, and a graceful floor-length hem. Crafted from a glitter knit fabric that brings endless sparkle and has a stretchy lining. Finish the look with rhinestone bracelets for extra elegance!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl neckline, spaghetti straps
- Side ruched seams
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Glitter knit fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Strapless bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8554
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Lizzie Formal Glitter Caged A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Sparkly and sultry, the Lizzie glitter formal dress is designed to captivate every guest at prom! She stuns in a classy, sleeveless, V-neckline, princess seams on the bodice, adjustable spaghetti straps so you can customize her fit, and side pockets perfect for keeping your hands warm. Make heads turn everywhere you go thanks to the caged-back detail that radiates a femme allure atop the A-line silhouette that effortlessly kisses the floor and features a sexy high-cut front slit. Complete your prom look in elegant earrings and a dainty bracelet.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Adhesive bra recommended
- Caged back detail, zipper, hook and eye closure
- Side pockets, high-cut front slit
- A-line silhouette, floor-length hem
- Glitter fabrication, knit lining
- Flowy fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1831
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Cassandra Formal Slit Long Dress
Special Occasion
Cassandra brings an aurora of sultry demure to your next formal dance, banquet, or celebration! She stuns in a one-shoulder neckline, a sheer fitted long sleeve with ruching, a side pleated overlay along the bodice, and a side ruched seam leading to the high-cut side slit to show some skin. The formal dress is composed of a slinky knit fabric with a mesh sleeve and moderate stretch. Style with glam earrings, a bracelet, and clutch to complete the look!
Fit & Features
- One-shoulder neckline
- Sheer fitted long sleeve, ruching
- Side pleated overlay along bodice
- Side ruched seam, high-cut slit, form-hugging silhouette
- Slinky knit fabric, mesh sleeve, moderate stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6807
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $56.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Moira Lace-Up Sequin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Shimmer like never before in the Moira sequin formal dress that brings glamorous sparkle to charity auctions, black-tie galas, and dances! Turn heads in the flattering sleeveless cowl neckline and a lace-up open back that lets you customize the style. The form-fitting silhouette accentuates your curves and features a high front slit that adds a sophisticated detail along the floor-length hem.
This dazzling dress was made for the spotlight! Love the shimmer? Discover more sequin prom dresses or find a sophisticated look in our wedding guest dresses.
Fit & Features
- Sequin scroll pattern, mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Lace-up open back design
- Back zipper with hook-eye closure
- High front slit
- Floor-length form-fitting silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8240
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Gabriella Lace-Up Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Glamorous, elegant, and timeless describe the Gabriella formal dress perfectly! This stunning dress makes heads turn with a lace-up back design and the mermaid silhouette that accentuates your gorgeous curves.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Square neckline, padded bra cups
- Spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, lower ruched seam
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear: Weddings, black tie galas, garden parties, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, fancy date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000166
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY, BROWN, WINE
Available Size: L, XS, S, M, XL
Product Badge:- Best Seller
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Maura Lace-Up Mermaid Sequin Mesh Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Watch how you sparkle in the Maura sequin formal dress under dancefloor lights at prom, weddings, or fancy birthdays! This luxurious gown boasts a V-neckline paired with delicate spaghetti straps and a lace-up back for a customizable fit. The mermaid silhouette hugs your curves while the high front slit makes dancing a breeze along the floor-length hem. Elevate your formal attire and turn heads in this exquisite formal dress by pairing it with rhinestone jewelry and heels!
Fit & Features
- Sequin scroll pattern, mesh fabric lined with knit
- Padded bra cups
- Spaghetti straps, lace-up
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit
- Mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7930
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Ellie Cowl Neck A-Line Long Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sleek and figure-flattering, the Ellie satin formal dress is stunning for bridesmaids, weddings, or formal soirees! The cowl neckline and A-line silhouette provide a chic, sophisticated look on every body type, while the spaghetti straps and front slit offer a touch of sultry. Made of luxurious satin fabric, this floor-length dress will make you feel so chic and confident. Complete the look with dainty earrings and block heels.
Fit & Features
- Satin fabric with minimal stretch
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Front slit
- A-Line silhouette, floor-length
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8107
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $24.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Taylor Satin Floral High-Slit Dress
Special Occasion
Dress to impress this season in the stunningly chic Taylor satin floral dress! She features a sleeveless V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, and a slim-fit bodice with cinched details that flows out to a floor-length skirt with a thigh-high front slit. The satin fabric showcases an all-over floral print for a romantic vibe. Complete your look with gold hoop earrings and new heels.
Fit & Features
- V-neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook and eye closure
- Slim-fit bodice
- Cinched details at the waist
- Floor-length skirt, high front slit
- Stretch satin fabric, short knit lining, floral print
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1177
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Marine Cutout Slit Mermaid Beaded Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Marine beaded pearl formal dress exudes glam in a stunning mermaid silhouette with a high slit for effortless allure and a sultry cutout bodice so you can flaunt your figure!
Fit & Features
- Beaded pearl embellished, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Cowl neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Cutout bodice
- High front slit, mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, upscale birthday parties, milestone celebrations, fancy date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9095
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $159.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Gloria Cap Sleeve Tie Back Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Gloria formal dress is your effortlessly elegant plus-one, designed in a mermaid silhouette with a bold open tie back that makes every head turn!
Fit & Features:
- Smooth knit fabric with stretch, stretchy knit lining
- Square neckline, padded bra cups
- Cap sleeves
- Open tie back design, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black tie galas, formal parties and events, engagement parties, rehearsal dinner, fancy date nights, nights at the theatre, school dances
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000046
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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Belle Strapless Cutout Slit Beaded Formal Dress
Special Occasion
When it comes to formal events, the Belle strapless beaded dress delivers sultry details like cutouts and a high side slit along the bodycon silhouette for allure!
Flawlessly chic and bold, this dress is a statement. If strapless styles are your go-to, explore our strapless prom dresses or embrace effortless fashion with our formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Beaded embellished, mesh-lined fabric
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
- Side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Dual side cutouts
- High side slit
- Bodycon silhouette
- Long-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, glam functions and events, milestone celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9297
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Haley Formal Shimmering Metallic Dress
Special Occasion
Glow from within as your radiate your natural beauty in our shimmering Haley dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V neckline and narrow adjustable straps that lead to a cross back design. Her slim fit bodice leads to a narrow waist band accent and flows into a sweeping floor length skirt with pleated detailing throughout. She is composed of a metallic mesh fabric that offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. Dress is lined with a smooth knit fabric and includes a back zipper closure.
Model is 5'8.5" with a 32 bust, 24 waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-5816
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Kenzie Formal Sequin X-Back Dress
Special Occasion
Radiate the light in the Kenzie formal sequin dress to create an enchanting entrance at prom! She glows with every step on her dazzling sequin embroidery on a sleeveless square neck bodice with sleek bungee spaghetti straps and a built-in padded bust. Showcase some skin with her alluring open-back with X-cross straps and zipper closure. Her mermaid silhouette gently flows into a floor-length hem to elongate your figure. The formal dress is composed of mesh-lined fabric with minimal stretch. Complete the look with a sleek clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neck, bungee spaghetti straps
- Built-in padded bust, adhesive bra recommended
- Open-back, X-cross straps, zipper closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Sequin mesh-lined fabric, minimal stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2090
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $124.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Margot Formal Ruffled Velvet Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the elegance in a formal prom dress that showcases your timeless style. Margot features a sleeveless V-neckline, spaghetti straps that lead to a cross-back design, and a bow accent at the lower back that leads to a ruffled trim. She is composed of a lined velvet fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete your prom-ready look with rhinestone heels and a faux fur wrap.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, spaghetti straps, cross-back design
- Adhesive bra recommended
- Bow accent at the lower back
- Ruffled trim
- Sheath silhouette
- Lined velvet fabric
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1825
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Brooke Lace V Neck Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Get an effortlessly beautiful look in our stunning Brooke lace formal dress! She features a V neckline, long fitted sheer lace sleeves, a sheer lace back with a keyhole and lower back cut out, and a floor-length, curve-hugging mermaid silhouette. Complete your gorgeous look with rhinestone statement earrings and a sleek ring pack.
Fit & Features
- V neckline
- Long fitted sheer lace sleeves
- Sheer lace back with a keyhole and lower back cut out
- Floor-length, mermaid silhouette
- Form-hugging fit
- Lined lace fabric
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1009
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $8.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Liyah Formal Velvet Ruffle Dress
Special Occasion
Leave every room making people's jaws drop in the sophisticated and sultry Liyah formal dress perfect for holiday balls or winter weddings! She features a classic sleeveless square neckline, bust lining, spaghetti straps, and a high-waist seam that leads to her form-hugging, mermaid silhouette, and ruffled high-low hem. The formal dress is composed of a woven fabric with a flocked velvet pattern and minimal stretch. Style with a rhinestone bracelet and heels to complete your dressy look!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline, bust lining, spaghetti straps
- High-waist seam
- Form-hugging, mermaid silhouette
- Ruffled high-low hem
- Woven fabric, flocked velvet pattern, minimal stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-3175
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Hazel-Anne Formal Ruched Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Enter the room with timeless elegance in a formal dress that captivates from the moment you enter the room! The dress features a sleeveless cowl neckline, spaghetti straps, ruching, a high side, and a mermaid silhouette. The dress is composed of a lined satin fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete the look with rhinestone heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl neckline, spaghetti straps
- Ruching
- High side slit
- Mermaid silhouette
- Lined satin fabric
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1486
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $66.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Mae Corset Lace-Up A-Line Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Pure whimsical magic with a touch of romance, the Mae A-line ball gown makes you feel like a princess! Amaze everyone in this gown with a stunning corset bodice with a lace-up back plus, stash your phone or lip gloss in the hidden side pockets during photos.
This dreamy dress is pure elegance and sure to leave a lasting impression. Looking for more? Elevate your look with a stunning pink prom dresses or a captivating formal dress.
Fit & Features
- Mesh lined fabric
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Sheer corset bodice, applique, lace-up back
- Hidden side pockets
- A-line silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, balls, galas, big birthday and milestone events, glam functions
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0153
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $239.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Rosie Lace-Up Slit Mermaid Sequin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Radiate sparkling glamour in the Rosie mermaid sequin formal dress destined to shine with a lace-up back that turns heads and a flirtascious front slit for effortless movement.
This dreamy dress is pure elegance and sure to leave a lasting impression. Looking for more? Elevate your look with a stunning pink prom dresses or a captivating formal dress.
Fit & Features
- Sequin embellished pattern, mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Front slit
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, glam functions and events, milestone celebrations, black tie soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9627
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $15.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free