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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Denise Formal Square Neck Slit Dress
Special Occasion
Paint the town vibrant hues showing up to the party in the Denise formal long dress! She features a sleeveless square neck, spaghetti straps, and a side pleated seam that accentuates your curves along her form-hugging, asymmetrical slit wrap-long hem. The formal dress is composed of a slinky knit fabric with moderate stretch. Complete your eye-catching look in PVC strap block heels for a celebration!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neck, spaghetti straps
- Side pleated seam
- Form-hugging fit
- Asymmetrical long hem with slit
- Slinky knit fabric, moderate stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7466
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $39.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Franny Taffeta Bow Mini Party Dress
Special Occasion
Franny is sleek and simple from the front and stunning from the back. Turn heads at a formal dance or wedding reception in this short party dress featuring a strapless, square neckline with non-slip grip lining, a hidden side zipper closure, and front and back pleat/ruching that creates the illusion of an hourglass figure. She stuns from the back with her flirty big pink bow tie with a dramatic train that glides against the floor. The formal dress is composed of a taffeta woven fabric with lining and minimal stretch. Complete your dressy look in platform heels and an evening bag.
Fit & Features
- Strapless, square neckline, non-slip grip
- Hidden side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Front and back pleat and ruching
- Form-hugging, mini-length hem
- Detachable back pink bow with train
- Taffeta woven fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1528
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Lauren Ruffled Slit Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Showcase a flirtatious allure in the sleek and stunning Lauren satin formal dress! She features a sleeveless square neckline, spaghetti straps that lead to a cross-back design, a fitted bodice, a floor-length hem with a curve-hugging silhouette, and a thigh-high side slit with a stylish ruffled hem. The smooth lined satin-knit fabric has a stunning sheen for a luxe look. Complete your outfit in this formal long dress with rhinestone hoops and strappy heels for a wedding or a fancy party.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline
- Spaghetti straps, cross-back design
- Fitted bodice, floor-length hem, curve-hugging fit
- High side slit, ruffled hem
- Lined satin fabric, moderate stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7212
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Hattie Glitter Corset Lace-Up Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Reign in luxe glamour in the Hattie glitter ball gown at your next black-tie affair. The chic corset bodice and lace-up back will snatch your waist, leading to the floor-length A-line silhouette with a tulle underskirt for that voluminous effect.
Fit & Features
- Glitter woven fabric, full-length sleek stretchy knit lining
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, pleated cowl neck overlay
- Corset bodice, padded bust, flexible boning, high waist seam
- Spaghetti straps, open cross-back lace-up design, lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Hidden side pockets
- Floor-length A-line silhouette, tulle underskirt
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, galas, and black-tie events.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9620
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $25.00 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS, S
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Hannah Ruched Stretch Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sultry and sleek, our Hannah formal dress will have everyone in awe of your beauty. She features a trendy cowl neckline, a sexy front slit with ruched detailing, and a floor-sweeping length. Pair the dress with dazzling rhinestone earrings for a gorgeous night out look.
Fit & Features
- Spaghetti straps
- Cowl neckline
- Front slit with ruched detailing and tie
- Stretch satin fabric
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1017
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Hayley Formal Sequin V-Neck Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
The Hayley formal sequin dress shines in the light and is ready for every photo opt! Strike a radiant pose at black-tie weddings or galas in this stunning dress. She features a sleeveless V-neck, a lightly padded bust, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customizable fit, and a form-hugging mermaid silhouette that leads to her floor-length hem. The formal dress is composed of a sequin-embroidered mesh fabric with a stretchy knit lining. Style with earrings and a clutch to complete the look.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neck, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lightly padded bust, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Form-hugging, mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Sequin-embroidered mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Bra optional
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6884
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.97 $159.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Mckenna Lace-Up Slit Sequin Beaded Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Take the spotlight in the Mckenna sequin beaded formal dress that makes an entrance! Designed in a form-hugging silhouette, this formal dress impresses with a lace-up strappy back and a high front slit for an effortless allure.
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 beaded mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Spaghetti straps
- Strappy lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit
- Form-hugging silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, big birthday events, black tie soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9288
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Daring To Be Bold Crepe Bodycon Wrap Dress
Dare to flaunt your curves in this crepe cowl mini dress! Sleekly designed with a sleeveless cowl V-neck, adjustable spaghetti straps, and a sexy sheer mesh bodice with flexible boning to show your femme figure along the short bodycon wrap silhouette. Complete the look in a pair of sassy platform heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl V-neck, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Sheer mesh bodice, flexible boning
- Bodycon silhouette
- Wrap mini-length hem
- Crepe fabric, minimal stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05103-5012
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $5.97 $42.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Ash High Slit Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the glam in our sparkling Ash dress! She features a scoop neckline, padded cups and a double row of corded straps that leads to a daring lattice back design. Her slim fit bodice leads to a sweeping floor length silhouette that is accented with a statement side slit. Dress is composed of a lined sequin fabric that offers a curve hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Includes a lower back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0240
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $72.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Evelina Plunging Formal Satin Dress
Special OccasionTake a plunge into the evening with sultry elegance. Our emerald green Evelina dress features a wrap bodice with a plunging neckline, narrow shoulder straps that cross at the back, a low scoop back, and a fitted silhouette that slightly flares at the hem. Evelina is composed of a satin fabric that offers a form hugging fit with slight stretch.
Model is 5'6.5 with a 32" bust, 23.5" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size small.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6797
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kacey Formal Satin Corset Long Dress
Special Occasion
Put your curves on display in the stunning Kacey formal satin dress that makes a gorgeous option for bridesmaids, wedding guests, or school dances! She features a sleeveless square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, a corset bodice with flexible boning for a structured look, a padded bust, and a hip pleated side seam that creates the asymmetrical wrap mermaid skirt with a sultry slit along her floor-length hem. The formal dress is composed of silky satin-lined fabric with moderate stretch. Complete the look with earrings and a clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Corset bodice, padded bust, flexible boning
- Hip pleated side seam, asymmetrical wrap front with slit
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Lined silky satin, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6941
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Keisha Formal Scalloped Lace Dress
Special OccasionGrace them with lace as you stun in our Keisha red dress! She features an elastic off the shoulder neckline with a V neck bust, unlined short sleeves and princess seams. Her relaxed fit bodice leads to a form hugging mermaid silhouette that brings plenty of flare! She is composed of a lined floral scalloped lace fabric that offers a 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: 05002-6191
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $20.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Jaqueline Strapless Slit Glitter Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Glisten like never before in the Jaqueline glitter formal dress that'll sparkle all night! Designed with a form-hugging fit, this floor-length dress boasts a sophisticated strapless neckline and a high wrap slit for a sultry flair.
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
- Glitter fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High wrap slit
- Form-hugging fit
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black-tie galas and weddings, formal events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9520
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S
Product Badge:- Sale
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Ariana Glitter Knit Party Dress
Special Occasion
Sparkle and shine like the gorgeous stunner you are in the flirty Ariana party dress! She features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline with a padded bust, spaghetti straps that lead to a cross-back lace-up design, and a high waist seam with a flowy party skirt silhouette. Style this dress with rhinestone earrings and strappy heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, padded bust
- Spaghetti straps
- Open back, cross-back lace-up design
- Lower back zipper and hook and eye closure
- High waist seam, party skirt silhouette, hidden side pockets
- Glitter knit fabric, knit lining, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0705
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Jessy Swiss Dot Cowl A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Strike a pose in the sophisticated Jessy swiss dot cowl a-line formal dress sure to captivate every party. She features a strapless, sweetheart cowl neck with a built-in padded bust for a supportive fit and a fitted empire waist. Her figure-flattering a-line silhouette effortlessly sweeps into a floor-length hem perfect for twirling the night away! Composed of a swiss dot mesh overlay fabric with an interior lining with no stretch. Style with rhinestone earrings and a sleek clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sweetheart cowl neck | Strapless
- Adhesive bra recommended
- Back zipper closure
- Empire waist
- A-line silhouette | Floor-length hem
- Swiss dot mesh fabric | Interior lining
- Fits true to size | No stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1865
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Jill Formal Cowl Back A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Style and grace come hand-in-hand in the Jill formal dress sure to be the hit of the night! She features a sleeveless surplice v-neck bodice with a cowl back accent, spaghetti straps, side ruched seams, a form-fitting a-line silhouette, and a high-cut side slit along her floor-length hem. Jill is composed of a slinky and sleek knit fabric that contours to your figure. Complete the look in rhinestone earrings and statement heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless, surplice v-neck bodice, spaghetti straps
- Adhesive bra recommended
- Side ruched seams, cowl back accent, form-fitting
- A-line silhouette
- High-cut side slit, floor-length hem
- Slinky and sleek knit fabric
- Fits true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2304
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Loretta Formal Satin Strappy Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Showcase a chic allure in the stunning Loretta formal satin dress! She features a sleeveless deep V-neckline with an alluring sheer mesh insert, a built-in padded bust, dual spaghetti straps, a bold open back with a strappy caged design, a floor-length hem with a thigh-high side slit, and a form-hugging mermaid silhouette. The satin-knit fabric gives off a luxe sheen that will have all eyes on you. Complete the look with clear heels for your next fancy party.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless deep V-neckline, sheer mesh insert, padded bust
- Dual spaghetti straps
- Open back, strappy caged design, two zipper closures
- Floor-length hem, high side slit
- Form-hugging mermaid silhouette
- Satin-knit fabric, mini-length knit lining, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-3040
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Lessie Formal Off The Shoulder Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Radiate elegance with a formal dress that dazzles from the moment you enter the room! Lessie features an asymmetrical off-the-shoulder neckline, a spaghetti strap, a high side slit, and a mermaid silhouette. The dress is composed of a lined crepe fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels and an anklet.
Fit & Features
- Off the shoulder neckline, spaghetti strap
- High side slit
- Mermaid silhouette
- Lined crepe fabric
- Form hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1575
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Jayce Sequin Lace-Up Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Catch the light at prom in the Jayce Sequin Lace-Up Mermaid Formal dress sure to dazzle any crowd. She features a sleeveless square neckline and sleek spaghetti straps that shape the head-turning lace-up back detail. Her fitted, empire waist accentuates your curves on the floor-length mermaid silhouette with an embroidered sequin scroll pattern. Composed of a mesh-lined fabric with no stretch. Finish your prom-ready look with a satin clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline, spaghetti straps
- Adhesive bra recommended
- Open back, strappy lace-up design, back zipper closure
- Empire waist, floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Embroidered sequin scroll pattern
- Mesh-lined fabric
- Form-hugging fit, no stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1896
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Mindy Formal Velvet Knot Dress
Special Occasion
Mindy showcases eye-catching detail making her one too covet, crafted with luxuriously soft velvet fabric that brings elegant demure to every event. She features long sleeves, shoulder pads for a structured fit, a square neckline, a mermaid silhouette, and a front side knot accent across the waist and leads to her high-cut side slit perfect for flaunting some leg! The formal long dress is composed of velvet fabric with lining and a moderate stretch. Complete the look with a sparkly clutch and earrings for a black tie occasion!
Fit & Features
- Square neckline
- Long sleeves with shoulder pads
- Bra-friendly design
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Front side knot accent across the waist
- Mermaid silhouette, high-cut side slit, long hem
- Lined velvet fabric, moderate stretch, fits true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2472
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $49.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Lynette Embroidered Corset Slit Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
A luminous and luxe look like the Lynette mermaid formal dress is ready for the night of your dreams! From the gorgeous embroidered rhinestone sequin corset bodice to the lace-up open back, you'll enchant everyone.
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
- Sheen knit fabric lined with stretchy knit
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Sheer embroidered corset bodice, sequins, rhinestones, beading
- Flexible boning, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High slit, mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie galas, balls, fancy birthday parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9158
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $164.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Camille Glitter And Mesh Cross Back Dress
Special Occasion
Sparkle, sequins, and glitter are just the combo you need to have a glitzy-glam night! Flaunt your shine in our beautiful Camille!
Fits & Features
- Spaghetti Straps
- Plunging V Neckline I Square Back I Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I Front Slit
- Mesh Lined Fabric With Glitter & Sequin Details All Over
- Form Hugging Fit
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0818
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Vivian Long Sleeve Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the elegance to the room in the chic Vivian mermaid dress. She features a sweetheart neckline with ruched detailing at the bust, long fitted sheer lace sleeves, a sheer lace back panel, a high waist seam, and a fitted, floor-length, mermaid silhouette with a front slit to showcase some leg. Style this dress with a rhinestone collar necklace and sparkling stud earrings.
Fit & Features
- Sweetheart neckline, ruched detailing
- Adhesive bra recommended
- Long fitted sheer lace sleeves
- Sheer lace back panel
- High waist seam, floor-length mermaid silhouette, front slit
- Knit and crepe fabric
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2305
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Raya Formal Chiffon A-Line Long Dress
Special Occasion
Envoke a sweet and effortless allure in the Raya formal chiffon dress perfect for bridesmaids and dressy cocktail parties! She features a sleeveless square neck, adjustable spaghetti straps, a ruched bust with a flirty tie, and a flattering A-line silhouette with a sultry high front slit along her floor-length hem. The formal dress is composed of airy chiffon fabric with a sewn-in knit lining. Complete the look in chic heeled sandals.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neck, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Ruched bust, tie front, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- A-line silhouette, high front slit
- Floor-length hem
- Airy chiffon fabric, sewn-in knit lining
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6806
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale