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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Lillian High Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Show up and stun in the Lillian sleek sleeveless formal dress. She features a trendy cowl neckline, spaghetti straps, a high waist seam, ruched side detailing leading to a sultry thigh-high slit, and a fitted floor-length silhouette. Style this dress with a chic embellished clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl neckline, spaghetti straps
- Strapless or adhesive bra recommended
- High waist seam
- Side ruching, high side slit
- Floor-length fitted silhouette
- Knit fabric, knit lining
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1909
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $52.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Jessica Embroidered Illusion Party Dress
Special Occasion
Trust us, you'll be getting compliments all night long in this sweet little party dress! Jessica is designed with all-over floral embroidery, an illusion sweetheart neckline, and thin spaghetti straps! Wear it with strappy heels and get ready to tear up the dance floor.
Fit & Features- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Illusion sweetheart neckline
- Padded cups, flexible boning
- All-over floral embroidery
- Flared skater skirt
- Partially lined mesh fabric
- Fits true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0750
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Dana Formal Heat Stone Long Dress
Special Occasion
Lights, camera, action! Steal the spotlight in the Dana formal dress showcasing all the elegant glamour for your next black tie gala or dressy banquet! She features long sleeves, a mock neckline, and a bodycon silhouette with a sexy high-cut side slit along her long-length hem. The formal dress is composed of a heat stone embellished mesh fabric with a knit lining and moderate stretch. Complete the look with a clutch purse and heels.
Fit & Features
- Long sleeves, mock neckline
- Back zipper closure
- Bra-friendly design
- High-cut side slit
- Bodycon fit, long-length hem
- Heat stone embellished, mesh fabric, knit lining, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2640
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $159.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Jayleen Lace-Up Mermaid Floral Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Everyone will be in awe at how the Jayleen floral formal dress moves with you! This formal dress doesn't play by the rules but effortlessly captures attention with a strappy lace-up back and mermaid silhouette that fits your curves like a glove.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, mesh fabric, lined
- Halter cowl sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Spagehtti straps
- Strappy lace-up back design
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, sunset soirees, gala, fancy date night, anniversary dinner, milestone celebration, rooftop dinner party
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000016
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLUE
Available Size: XS
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Julian Formal Velvet Rhinestone Trim Dress
Special Occasion
When the occasion calls for velvet, the Julian formal long dress delivers a sophisticated style for your next banquet, gala, or holiday soiree! She features long sleeves, a plunge sweetheart neckline with a wire insert, and a breathtaking open-back design with rhinestone fringe, dual button closures, and a lower ruched seam to flaunt your curves! Her form-hugging mermaid silhouette offers a sexy show of leg in her high-cut slit along the floor-length hem. The formal maxi dress is composed of luxuriously soft velvet with sewn-in lining and moderate stretch. Complete your dressy look with a glamorous hair accessory!
Fit & Features
- Long sleeves, plunge sweetheart neck, wire insert
- Adhesive bra or pasties recommended
- Open-back, rhinestone fringe, dual button closures
- Form-hugging, mermaid silhouette
- High-cut front slit, floor-length hem
- Velvet fabric, sewn-in lining, moderate stretch
- Fits true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2611
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Antonia Lace-Up Corset Slit Sequin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Gorgeous sequins cover the Antonia formal dress for an ethereal effect! Designed to turn heads, this floor-length gown boasts a stunning lace-up on the back of the sheer corset bodice while the high side slit offers a show of skin.
All eyes are on you in this radiant dress. If sparkle is your signature, discover stunning sequin prom dresses or opt for effortless sophistication with our eye-catching formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Sequin, bead embellished lined fabric
- V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, padded bra cups
- Sheer corset bodice, lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure, flexible boning
- Form-hugging silhouette
- High side slit
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, big birthday events, glam functions and parties, red carpet events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9131
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $176.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Ruth Formal Lace Tulle Ruffled Dress
Special Occasion
If you have to be fancy soon, the Ruth formal dress exudes romance and drama for every event you're invited to! She makes a grand entrance in her sleeveless sheer lace bustier bodice with a sweetheart neck, adjustable spaghetti straps, non-slip grip lining, built-in padded bust with underwire, and flexible boning inserts. Her a-line silhouette features voluminous tiered ruffles that lead to the floor-length hem. The formal dress is composed of lace and tulle fabric with a stretchy knit lining. Style with fringe earrings and a clutch to complete your dressy look!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless sweetheart neck, non-slip grip, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Built-in padded bust, underwire support
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Sheer lace bustier bodice, flexible boning
- A-line silhouette, tiered ruffles, floor-length hem
- Lace and tulle fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2711
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Arlene Open Back Mermaid Glitter Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Capture true shine in the Arlene glitter formal dress!This open back strappy gown is designed to shimmer and highlight your curves along the mermaid silhouette with a front slit that adds a touch of drama.
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit fabric
- Cowl neckline
- Spagehtti straps
- Strappy open back
- Front slit
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, formal weddings, fancy date nights, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, anniversaries
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7518
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Lizbeth Classic Twist Formal Dress
Special OccasionOur Lizbeth Classic Twist Formal dress will transform you as you walk into the room. She is a high-low prom dress that features a plunging V neckline with thin adjustable straps to show off your favorite gems. Lizbeth also has a wide waistband that hugs the curves and moves the eye to her flattering modernized skirt. The long back is like an evening gown while the front is short and flirty to show off your dazzling heels! Her woven fabric is figure-fitting and drapes like a slip that shows off your favorite features.
Model is 5'9 with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-4017
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Lilith Satin Cutout Wrap-Front Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Chic and curve-hugging, the Lilith satin formal dress brings sleek confidence with its bodycon silhouette and sculptural details. A softly draped cowl neckline pairs with a striking cutout waist and wrap-front slit—because blending in was never the plan.
With a smooth, luminous finish, this dress was made to shine. Keep the luxe look going with breathtaking satin prom dresses or go for a sophisticated statement with our wedding guest dresses.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, sewn-in knit lining
- Pleated cowl neckline, padded bra cups
- Spaghetti straps, back zipper closure
- Underbust cutout
- Pleated faux wrap-front design, high side slit
- Midi-length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
School dances, weddings, bridal showers, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, date nights, birthdays, dinner parties, galas, black tie events, milestone celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2753
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $64.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: IVORY, WHITE
Available Size: XL, XS, S, M, L
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Alani Formal High Slit A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Dazzle for your special evening with a formal dress that stuns like a true one of a kind! The dress features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline with padded cups, adjustable spaghetti straps, a corset-like bodice, ruching, and a wrap A-line skirt. The dress is composed of a lined crepe fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with faux suede heels and dainty rings.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline
- Padded cups, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Corset-like bodice
- Ruching
- Wrap A-line skirt
- Lined crepe fabric
- Form hugging fit, moderate stretch, runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1440
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Emery Formal Wrap Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
Catch the light with every step you take in the gorgeous Emery formal wrap sequin dress! She features a sleeveless V-neckline with a surplice design, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customized fit, a floor-sweeping hem with a ruched wrap-front silhouette creating a high side slit, and a form-hugging fit. The lined mesh fabric features glimmering sequin embroidery in a stunning scroll pattern. Style with strappy stilettos for your next fancy gala.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, surplice design, adjustable spaghetti straps
- High waist seam, back zipper, hook and eye closure
- Floor-length hem, ruched wrap-front silhouette, side slit, form-hugging fit
- Sequin embroidery, scroll pattern
- Sheer mesh fabric, full knit lining, minimal stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2835
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Tasha Strapless Crepe Dress
Special Occasion
Our beautiful Tasha is the definition of class. Strut your stuff in her captivating silhouette!
Fits & Features
- Square Neckline
- Padded Busts With Vertical Seams
- Gathering Detail At The Waist
- Slim Fit Bodice
- Floor Length, Wrap Skirt I Thigh-High Slit
- Lined, Crepe Composition
- Body-Hugging Fit I Moderate Fit
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0429
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $39.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Tiffany Strapless Corset Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for those RSVP moments that demand a little extra wow, the Tiffany mini dress is your ticket to turning heads. With a strapless sheer mesh corset embroidered with rhinestones, a bodycon fit, and a mini-length hem with a side slit, this dress is built for spotlight entrances and all-night compliments.
Fit & Features
- Sheen knit fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
- Sheer mesh corset bodice, flexible boning, embroidery, rhinestones
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Side pleated seam
- Bodycon fit, slit mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthdays, bachelorettes, GNO, date nights, cocktail soirees, milestone celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000055
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: ROYAL, MAUVE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Malinda One-Shoulder Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
RSVP yes to luxe elegance with the Malinda satin formal dress - a stunning option for bridesmaids, wedding guests, and banquets! Crafted from a silky satin fabric, this dress exudes elegance and sophistication for any special event. The one-shoulder neckline and padded bra cups enhance your silhouette, while the high front wrap slit and floor-length hem add a touch of drama to her curve-hugging slim fit that flatters any figure. Complete the look with gorgeous earrings and a clutch!
Fit & Features
- Satin stretch fabric, bust lining
- Padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front wrap slit
- Slim silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8211
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Greta Formal High Slit Chiffon Dress
Special Occasion
Grace them all with a gorgeous dress that mesmerizes with each twirl! Greta features V-neck and back, vertical princess seams, sheer short flutter chiffon sleeves, and a flowy A-line silhouette with a high slit. Greta is composed of a lined chiffon fabric that offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. Complete look with heels and a shoulder bag.
Fit & Features
- V-neck and back
- Vertical princess seams
- Back zipper and hook and eye closure
- Sheer short flutter sleeves
- A-line silhouette
- Lined chiffon fabric, relaxed fit, minimal stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1463
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Dana Tie Back Slit Sequin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Effortlessly sparkle everywhere in the Dana sequin formal dress perfect for shining on the dancefloor! Capture attention with the tie-back design and an alluring front slit that shows off your heels of the night.
All eyes are on you in this radiant dress. If sparkle is your signature, discover stunning sequin prom dresses or opt for effortless sophistication with our eye-catching formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Sequin embellished pattern
- Mesh lined fabric with stretchy knit
- Square neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Chiffon tie-back design, zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit, form-hugging silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, formal events, and fancy dinner parties.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9420
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $119.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Gemma One-Shoulder Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the chic energy to your formal night out in the Gemma mermaid dress. She features an asymmetrical one-shoulder neckline, a single long puff sleeve, a fitted high waist seam, front ruching leading to a thigh-high slit, and a floor-length, curve-hugging, mermaid silhouette. Style with rhinestone statement earrings.
Fit & Features
- Asymmetrical one-shoulder neckline
- Strapless or adhesive bra recommended
- Single long puff sleeve, tapered hem
- Fitted high waist seam
- Front ruching, high slit
- Floor-length, fitted, mermaid silhouette
- Smooth knit fabric, short lining, plenty of stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2448
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Audrina Glitter Knit Long Sleeve Column Dress
Special Occasion
The Audrina formal column dress is designed with glitzy glitter knit fabric, a glamorous choice for your next black-tie affair. It features a sweetheart neckline with a chic cowl draped overlay, long fitted sleeves, a ruched front seam leading to a high-cut slit to showcase some leg, and a floor-length fitted silhouette to hug your curves.
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit fabric with knit lining, plenty of stretch
- Sweetheart neckline with cowl draped overlay
- Long fitted sleeves
- High waist seam
- Ruched front seam, high slit
- Floor-length column silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, rooftop parties, dressed-up dinners, and romantic date nights.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8857
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kaleigh Satin Strapless Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for your entrance and your exit, the Kaleigh formal dress skims your curves with a form-hugging silhouette and an effortlessly sultry high side slit for effortless movement.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, bust knit lining
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
- Back zipper hook-eye closure
- High side slit
- Form-hugging silhouette
- Long-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, galas, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, milestone celebrations, black tie soirees, anniversaries
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000173
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $25.00 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: DENIM
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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Sandra Formal Satin Corset Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
You'll be a stunning sight in the Sandra formal dress at banquets or as a bridesmaid! She features a sleeveless cowl neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customizable fit, a corset-style bodice, flexible boning, a mermaid silhouette, and a front ruched seam atop a skin-flaunting high slit along her floor-length hem. The formal dress is composed of a lined silky satin fabric with a sheen effect and moderate stretch. Style with a fab shawl and a tiara to complete the look!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Corset bodice, flexible boning, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Front ruched seam, high slit
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Lined silky satin fabric, moderate stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7548
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Samara Lace-Up High Slit Sequin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Exude glamour in the strikingly stunning Samara sequin formal dress! She features a sleeveless square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, an open back with a strappy lace-up design for a customized fit, a high waist seam, a floor-length hem with a chic high side slit, and a slim-fit silhouette. The lined mesh fabric features sequin embroidery in an intricate scroll pattern that will catch the light beautifully. Complete the look with a layered rhinestone necklace.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Open back, strappy lace-up design, tie closure, lower back zipper closure
- High waist seam
- Floor-length hem, high side slit, slim-fit silhouette
- Sequin embroidery, scroll pattern
- Sheer mesh fabric, full knit lining, moderate stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6842
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Nat Formal Backless Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Make a sophisticated impression with a satin dress that wows! Nat features a sleeveless scoop neckline, sleek bungee straps, a backless design accented with two sleek bar straps, and a high side slit. The dress is composed of a curve-hugging satin fabric that offers a slight stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless scoop neckline, bungee spaghetti straps
- Adhesive bra recommended
- Backless design, two bar straps
- High side slit
- Satin fabric
- Form-hugging fit, slight stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1328
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Selena Satin Cold Shoulder Corset Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Selena formal dress serves up sultry elegance in lustrous satin. The bodycon midi silhouette stuns with a corset-style bodice, cold shoulder draping, and a dramatic front slit built to turn heads.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric
- Cold shoulder neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Corset bodice
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Front slit
- Bodycon silhouette
- Midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, formal dances, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, birthdays, date nights, cocktail parties, red carpet occasions, black tie galas, anniversaries, fancy celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000148
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: RED
Available Size: XS