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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Ashleigh Formal Crepe A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Celebrate a special moment in the Ashleigh formal dress for red-carpet events or bridesmaids! She radiates a sultry style featuring a sleeveless sweetheart neckline, wide adjustable shoulder straps, a lightly padded bust, a princess seam bodice, an A-line silhouette with a pleated side seam, and faux wrap floor-length hem with a slit accent. The formal dress is composed of a lined crepe fabric with minimal stretch. Style with a sparkly clutch and heels to complete the look!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, wide adjustable shoulder straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Lightly padded bust, princess seam bodice, bra optional
- Pleated side seam, A-line silhouette
- Faux wrap floor-length hem, slit accent
- Lined crepe fabric, minimal stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-3735
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Adriana Lace-Up Corset Sequin Mini Dress
Special Occasion
A sleeveless sequin mini dress features a flattering scoop neckline and lace-up back meant to turn heads. The sheer corset bodice offers a peek of skin while the bodycon silhouette flaunts your curves. Perfect for the school dance or going out.
Fit & Features
- Sequin pattern, mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Scoop neckline, padded bra cups
- Spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Sheer corset bodice, flexible boning
- Bodycon mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2331
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Melissa Sequin Mesh Cross-Back Dress
Special Occasion
The Melissa sequin mesh dress is a must-have for brides-to-be or anyone who wants to refresh their formal look! She features a sleeveless scoop neckline, thin shoulder straps that lead to a lower cross-back design, and a floor-length skirt with a fitted silhouette. The mesh fabric showcases a stunning all-over sequin pattern. Complete the outfit with rhinestone duster earrings and an embellished cuff.
Fit & Features
- Scoop neckline
- Thin shoulder straps
- Lower cross-back design
- Back zipper closure
- Floor-length skirt
- Fitted silhouette
- Sequin adorned mesh fabric
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1197
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Adisson Formal Satin Heat Stone Midi Dress
Special Occasion
You'll be the best-dressed girl at the Prom! Adisson radiates the room in a sultry display of satin. She features adjustable spaghetti straps, a sleeveless V-neck with heat stone insets, and a cowl draping that leads to her fitted bodice. Create a lasting impression in her form-fitting, midi silhouette with a front slit perfect for flaunting some skin! Complete the look in stiletto heels and a sleek clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neck, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Built-in padded bust, heat stone insets, cowl draping
- Fitted bodice, back zipper closure
- Form-fitting, midi-length hem
- Front slit accent
- Luxe satin-lined fabric
- Minimal stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0982
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Julieanne Formal Sequin Scroll Dress
Special OccasionRadiate and glow from the inside out in our charming Julieanne dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V neckline with built in no slip strip and a double row of spaghetti straps that leads to a cross back design. Her slim fit bodice leads to a floor length silhouette with a flared hemline. The all over lined mesh fabric is adorned with glitzy sequins set in a scroll print pattern. Dress offers a form hugging fit with minimal stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.
Model is 5'9.5" with a 34" bust, 23.5" waist and 35.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6126
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Tayla Formal High Slit Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the elegance in a formal dress that brings that timeless grace to your evening. Tayla features a square neckline, long fitted sleeves with puff shoulder accents, a high side slit, and a mermaid silhouette. The dress is composed of a crepe fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels and a rhinestone anklet.
Fit & Features
- Square neckline, puff shoulders, long fitted sleeves
- Bra-friendly
- High side slit
- Mermaid silhouette
- Crepe fabric
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1766
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Paisley Formal Sequin Leaf Dress
Special Occasion
Shine like the rare gem you are in our captivating Paisley dress! She features a plunging V neckline, padded cups, vertical princess seams at the bust and tank-like straps. Her relaxed fit empire waist leads to a curve hugging mermaid silhouette. She is adorned with sparkling sequins throughout that are set in a leaf pattern. Dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a slight stretch. Includes a back zipper closure with fish and hook closure.
Model is 5'7" with a 34" 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: 05002-0303
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Sawyer Lace-Up Slit Mermaid Sequin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
You'll look elegant all night in the gorgeous Sawyer sequin formal dress perfect for sparkling on the dancefloor! Leave guests breathless in this floor-length gown boasting a lace-up back and high front slit giving alluring vibes.
This captivating dress is just the beginning. From deep navy to icy pastels, discover more flattering blue prom dresses or elevate your look with sophisticated formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Sequin embellished pattern
- Mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Sweetheart neckline, built-in padded underwire bra
- Spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit, mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, big birthday parties, milestone celebrations, red-carpet events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9381
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $25.00 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PERIWINKLE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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Martha Formal Satin Mermaid Long Dress
Special Occasion
Martha is ready for her close-up on bridesmaids or for a fancy cocktail event! She features a sleeveless scoop neckline, a ruched and padded bust, spaghetti straps that lace up along the open back, a lower ruched seam to accentuate your curves, and a form-hugging mermaid silhouette that effortlessly flares into the floor-length hem. The formal dress is composed of a smooth satin-knit fabric with a subtle sheen perfect for bringing the chic allure! Style with earrings and a beaded clutch to complete the look.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless scoop neckline, ruched and padded bust
- Spaghetti straps, back hook and eye closure
- Strappy lace-up open-back design
- Back lower ruched seam and zipper closure
- Form-hugging, mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Smooth satin-knit fabric, mini-length knit lining, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-3023
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Melody Formal One Shoulder Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Make a mesmerizing impression with a formal dress that creates a head-turning moment! Melody features a one-shoulder neckline, a double-row of asymmetrical spaghetti straps, and an A-line silhouette with an ultra-high side slit. The dress is composed of a lined satin fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with high heels and a rhinestone clutch.
Fit & Features
- One-shoulder neckline
- Double-row asymmetrical spaghetti straps
- Adhesive bra recommended
- High waist
- High side slit
- A-line
- Lined satin fabric
- Form hugging fit, moderate stretch, runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2269
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Pleats Forgive Me Satin Midi Dress
No need to apologize for stealing the spotlight in this satin midi dress perfect for your next dressy night out! Designed with a lined satin fabric, this dress features a sleeveless square neckline, spaghetti straps, a side pleated seam leading to the asymmetric side cutout slit hem, and a bodycon silhouette to flaunt your gorgeous figure. Complete the look in lucite heels.
Fit & Features
- Lined satin fabric, minimal stretch
- Sleeveless square neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Side pleated seam, side cutout slit
- Asymmetric midi hem
- Bodycon fit
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-1898
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $6.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Cindra Sequin Strappy Party Dress
Special Occasion
You'll always be the shining star in the Cindra sequin party dress here for every showstopping moment! She features a sleeveless V-neckline,a padded bust, bungee spaghetti straps, a revealing strappy open back, and a flattering bodycon silhouette and mini-length hem. The party dress is designed with a sequin-embellished pattern on mesh fabric with a stretchy knit lining. Complete the look with a charming necklace and earrings set for a birthday party or dressy occasion!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, padded bust
- Bungee spaghetti straps
- Open strappy back
- Bodycon silhouette, mini-length hem
- Sequin-embellished pattern, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Bra optional
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1808
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Daniella Formal A-Line Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Daniella is absolute sparkly perfection! Create a princess moment in this stunning formal ball gown designed in a flirty, sleeveless square neckline with sleek bungee spaghetti straps that lead to her head-turning strappy open-back design. The sequin-knit bodice catches the light as you go from room to room while her A-line mesh skirt effortlessly sweeps the floor. Complete the look with an elegant hairpiece for a stunning updo.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless, square neck, bungee spaghetti straps
- Lightly padded bust, adhesive bra recommended
- Sequin-knit bodice
- Strappy open-back, zipper closure
- Tulle A-line mesh skirt
- Multi-layers, inner lining, minimal stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0148
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $124.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Plus Cassie Velvet Wrap Dress
Special OccasionGet wrapped up in the heat of the moment! Our short and classy Cassie dress is perfect for your homecoming night with a wrap-like body, a daring V neckline and long sleeves. She has a wide waistband that accentuates your curves and a mini length skirt. Cassie is composed of a soft velvet knit that offers a moderate stretch and has a vertical stripe pattern created by dazzling heat stones. She includes a hidden back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 15001-0000
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Corrine Sheer Lace High Slit Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Showcase alluring glamour in the chic Corrine formal dress! She features a sleeveless sheer lace bustier-style bodice with structured and lined cups, an eyelash lace trim, adjustable spaghetti straps, a sexy sheer mesh insert at the waist, a floor-length crepe skirt with a thigh-high side slit to show off some leg, and a form-hugging mermaid silhouette. Style with rhinestone fringe earrings to complete your fancy look.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless sheer lace bustier-style bodice, eyelash lace trim
- Structured, padded, and lined cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper, hook and eye closure
- Sheer mesh insert at the waist, high waist seam
- Floor-length crepe skirt, moderate stretch, high side slit
- Fitted mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2651
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Kim Corset Slit A-Line Tulle Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Bring an era of romance in the Kim A-line tulle formal dress with a corset bodice that flatters your gorgeous figure and a high front slit for effortless movement!
Fit & Features
- Airy tulle fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Ruffled adjustable spaghetti straps
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Corset bodice, flexible boning
- High front slit
- A-line silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, balls, big celebration events, weddings
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9417
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Allesia Velvet Evening Gown
Special Occasion
Ring in your special day with a sleek and sexy look. Pair with your favorite statement earrings for a stunning look.
Fits & Features
- V Neckline
- Tank Straps Lead To Low Back With Bar Detail
- Floor Length Hemline With Slight Fare
- Velvet Fabric I Fully Lined
- Curve Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'7" with a 34" 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: 05002-0306
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Constance Formal Ruffled Glitter Dress
Special Occasion
Radiate elegance with a formal dress that channels endless shine! Constance features a sleeveless square neckline and spaghetti straps. Her high waist features a gorgeous high side slit with a ruffled trim and an A-line silhouette. The dress is composed of a lined glitter knit fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels and a clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- High waist
- High side slit, ruffled trim
- A-Line, mini skirt length knit lining
- Lined glitter knit fabric
- Form hugging fit, moderate stretch, runs true to size
The saturation of glitter varies. Glitter may transfer.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1920
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Felicity Sequin Wrap Party Dress
Special Occasion
Shake things up in the Felicity sequin party dress to make your sparkling entrance at a birthday celebration or girl's night! She features a sleeveless v-neckline, sleek bungee spaghetti straps, and a wrap bodice with side pleating to give the illusion of an hourglass figure along her bodycon mini-length silhouette. The formal party dress is composed of a sequin fabric with a knit lining and minimal stretch. Complete your striking look in silver heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless v-neckline, bungee spaghetti straps
- Bra-friendly design
- Wrap bodice, side pleating, back zipper closure
- Bodycon silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Sequin fabric, knit lining, minimal stretch
- Fits true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1267
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Leni V-Neck Mermaid Rhinestone Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Memorable moments call for the spectacular Leni rhinestone formal dress as your evening wear for galas or black tie celebrations! The rhinestone embellished pattern enhances your curves on airy mesh fabric and adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to your formal attire. Her V-neckline and spaghetti straps accentuate your neck and shoulders, while the mermaid silhouette and floor-length hem create a stunning hourglass figure. Compliment your look with earrings and heels!
Fit & Features
- Rhinestone embellished pattern, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8184
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Cadence Formal Crepe Ruched Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
So dreamy and demure! The Cadence formal crepe long dress embodies sophistication at its finest. She features a sweetheart neckline, spaghetti straps, a ruched bodice detail, a high front slit to show some leg, and a flattering mermaid silhouette and graceful floor-length hem. Crafted from a lightweight crepe fabric offering plenty of stretch for comfort. Finish the look with chandelier earrings for a banquet or black tie wedding.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, spaghetti straps
- Ruched bodice, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- High front slit, floor-length hem
- Lightweight crepe fabric, moderate stretch
- Bra friendly design
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8199
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Sophia Lace-Up Ruffle Mermaid Mesh Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The sweetness of ruffles combined with the statement look of the Sophia mesh formal dress is the perfect style for bridesmaids or party guests! This stunning dress is designed with a flattering square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customizable fit, and a mermaid silhouette that accentuates your curves. The ruffled trim and high side slit add a touch of drama, while the mesh fabric exudes sophistication. Complete your formal look in dainty earrings and a bracelet for a chic touch!
Fit & Features
- Mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lace-up, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette, ruffles
- High side slit
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8383
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Daphne Formal Lace Slit Long Dress
Special Occasion
The prettiest lace shapes the Daphne formal maxi dress for an effortlessly boho-chic bridal or gala look! She features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline, a lightly padded bust, adjustable spaghetti straps, a lace-up back, and a curve-hugging slim silhouette with a sultry high front slit along her floor-length hem. The formal dress is composed of a delicate lace fabric with a stretchy knit lining. Complete the look with dainty earrings and a ring set.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, padded bust
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back lace-up, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Curve-hugging, slim silhouette, high front slit, floor-length hem
- Lace fabric, stretchy knit lining
- No bra required
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7321
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Karen Satin Wrap Formal Gown
Special Occasion
Wrap yourself in elegance tonight when you slip into our Karen gown! She is designed with a v neckline, spaghetti straps that are adjustable, padded cups, and a surplice bodice with fold over trim. Her bodice leads to a high waist line that has a gathering at one side and the start of a long skirt that wraps over. Her skirt leads to a floor sweeping length and she features a high slit at the center which gives access to move around freely and comfortably. She is lined at the bust and has a zipper closure at the back with a hook and eye closure that keeps her in place all night!
Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0364
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance