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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Deana Formal Mesh Corset Mermaid Long Dress
Special Occasion
Serve elevated elegance in the sleek Deana formal long dress to make a stunning entrance at black-tie parties or weddings! She features a sweetheart neckline with a cowl draping and adjustable spaghetti straps while the corset bodice with a built-in padded underwire bust and flexible boning accentuate your figure. The mermaid silhouette and floor-length hem add a touch of sophistication to lightweight mesh fabric with a full knit stretchy lining. Complete the look with gorgeous rhinestone jewelry and heels!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, cowl draping
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Corset bodice, built-in padded underwire bust
- Flexible boning
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Mesh fabric, full knit stretchy lining
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8221
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Miley Sequin One Shoulder Dress
Special Occasion
Make a dramatic entrance in the Miley sequin party dress with all eyes all you! She features a one-shoulder sweetheart plunge neckline with a wire insert and long sleeve, a high-waist seam, and a bodycon asymmetrical wrap short hem. The formal dress is composed of a sequin-knit mesh fabric with a sewn-in knit lining and minimal stretch. Complete your dressy look in glitzy earrings for a Christmas or New Year's Eve party!
Fit & Features
- One-shoulder sweetheart plunge neckline with a wire insert
- Long sleeve, strapless bra recommended
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette
- Asymmetrical wrap short hem
- Sequin mesh fabric, sewn-in knit lining, minimal stretch
- Fits true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1117
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Hope Glitter Velvet Bustier Skater Dress
Special Occasion
The Hope party dress comes to shine in bold and sparkly glitter velvet picture-perfect for school dances or dressy celebrations! She features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline, a padded bust, adjustable spaghetti straps, a bustier bodice with flexible boning, hidden side pockets for keeping your hands warm, and a flattering short skater silhouette. The formal dress is composed of a shimmering glitter velvet knit fabric that sparkles under the light. Complete the look in platform block heels and earrings!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, padded bust
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Bustier bodice, flexible boning
- Hidden side pockets, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Skater silhouette, short-length hem
- Glitter velvet knit fabric, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1907
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $56.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Isabella Chain Straps Cowl Neck Dress
Special Occasion
Party it up in our seductive Isabella! You'll be feeling bougie and fab in her lavish luxe look.
Fits & Features
- Adjustable & Detachable Chain Straps Cross At The Back And Meet At O-Ring Detail
- Draped Cowl Neck I Low Back
- Slim Fit Bodice I Floor-Length Silhouette
- Smooth Jersey Knit Fabric
- Curve Hugging Fit I Plenty Of 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: 05002-0717
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $46.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Azel Formal Glitter Tulle A-Line Long Dress
Special Occasion
All eyes will be on you in the glamorous Azel formal glitter tulle long dress that brings extravagant shine! She features a sexy plunge V-neckline with a hidden hook-eye closure, adjustable spaghetti straps, and a crisscross open back that exudes elegance. The A-line silhouette and floor-length hem create a mystical aura, perfect for any formal occasion. The long dress is designed with a sparkling glitter striped pattern on tulle fabric and has a stretchy full-knit lining with dual slit accents for movement. Complete the look with a necklace and earrings set for a black tie gala or birthday party!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless plunge V-neckline, hidden hook-eye closure
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, crisscross open back
- A-line silhouette, floor-length hem
- Glitter striped pattern, tulle fabric, stretchy full knit lining with dual slits
- Pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
The saturation of glitter varies. Glitter may transfer.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8003
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $49.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Mayva V-Neck Mermaid Sequin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Prepare to sparkle in the Mayva sequin formal dress for a night you'll never forget! With a sultry plunge V-neckline and a mermaid silhouette, this floor-length dress exudes sophistication.
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 pattern, mesh-lined fabric
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Plunge V-neckline, wire insert, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, red-carpet events, fancy galas, big birthday events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9229
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $25.00 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: ROYAL
Available Size: XS, S, M
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Brit Formal Off The Shoulder Dress
Special Occasion
Wrap yourself in elegance as you captivate the room with our Brit dress!
Fits & Features
- Off Shoulder Neckline
- Wrap V Neck Bust I Built-In, No-Slip Strap
- Ruching Detail At Left Side Of Bust
- Sweeping Floor Length Wrap Silhouette With High Slit
- Lined Satin Composition
- Form Hugging Fit, Moderate Stretch
- Zipper & Hook And Eye Closure At Back
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0356
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Florence Off Shoulder Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Tis' the season for dressing up! Show up to your soirees in our fabulous Florence.
Fits & Features
- Off Shoulder Design
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Sweetheart Wrap Neckline
- Midi Length Silhouette I Front Side Slit
- Satin-Like Fabric I Fully Lined
- Curve Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 35.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0337
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Audrey Pleated Sweetheart Dress
Special OccasionEnchant as you make a memorable entrance in our Audrey dress! She features a rich burgundy hue, a sweetheart neckline with a built in no slip strip, padded cups and pleated bodice. Her slim fit waist leads to a floor length silhouette that is accented with a high side slit to show off glowing gams! She is composed of a lined chiffon fabric that offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.
Model is 5'8" with a 32.5" bust, 25" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size three.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6383
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Julissa Formal Sleeveless Chiffon Dress
Special OccasionSweep them off their feet in the breathtaking Julissa pink dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a wired V neckline, narrow adjustable straps and a pleated fan design. Her slim fit bodice leads to an elongating floor length silhouette. Dress is composed of a slightly sheer lined chiffon fabric that offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch.
Model is 5'9" with a 32" 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: 05002-6493
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kai Chiffon Lace Up Back A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
They'll sense your glowing presence as soon as you step foot! Strut right in like you own the place in our gorgeous Kai!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Shoulder Straps | Cross & Lace-Up At The Back
- Slim Fit Bodice | Cowl Neckline I| Hidden Back Zip
- Floor Length Hemline | Front Slit | A-Line Silhouette
- Lined Chiffon Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit
- Minimal Stretch
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size 3.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0581
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Plus Kira Formal Velvet Sweetheart Dress
Special OccasionOwn the night in luxe velvet as you wow and captivate in our Kira dress! She features an off the shoulder neckline, a wired sweetheart bust, short sleeves and built in boning for support. Her relaxed fit bodice leads to a curve flattering floor length silhouette that is accented with a high side slit. Dress is composed of a lined stretchy velvet fabric that offers plenty of stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 15002-0110
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Deborah Formal Chiffon A-Line Ruffled Dress
Special Occasion
With a flirty slit and flattering silhouette, the Deborah formal chiffon dress is a lovely effortless option for outdoor weddings or banquets! She features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline adorned with ruched straps, a padded bust, and a breezy tiered ruffled A-line silhouette, front slit, and floor-length hem. The formal dress is composed of an airy chiffon fabric for a lightweight feel and has a smooth woven lining. Complete the look with sleek stiletto sandals and jewelry!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline
- Ruched straps, padded bust
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Tiered ruffled A-line silhouette, front slit, floor-length hem
- Airy chiffon fabric, smooth woven lining, no stretch
- Bra optional
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7725
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Maryanne Bodycon Beaded Formal Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Step out in perfect brilliance in the Maryann formal midi dress showcasing endless beaded and sequin embellishments along the flattering bodycon silhouette that'll have you feeling yourself!
Every bead, every detail—this dress was made to shine. Searching for more statement styles? Discover our exquisite beaded prom dresses or find a look that dazzles from our party dresses.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with full-length knit lining, moderate stretch
- Beaded and clear sequin embellishments
- Sleeveless square neckline, no-slip strip, cowl neck draped overlay
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper with hook-eye closure
- High-cut side slit
- Midi-length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, birthday celebrations, and dressy dinner parties.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2646
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Diana Formal Satin Halter Dress
Special OccasionRadiate elegance and grace in our timelessly breath taking Diana dress! She features an ivory hue, a sleeveless bodice, a halter neck and a plunging wrap V bust. Her relaxed fit bodice leads to a sweeping floor length wrap skirt to make a lovely entrance. Dress is composed of a double lined stretchy satin fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a slight 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: 05002-6641
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Evania Formal Lace-Up Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Slinky and smooth knit fabric offer a form-hugging fit on the Evania formal dress - an instant crowd-pleaser at weddings or banquets! She features a sleeveless square neck, tank shoulder straps, an eye-catching lace-up back with tie closure, and side, and back ruched seams to accentuate your figure along her mermaid silhouette with a floor-length hem. The formal dress is composed of a smooth knit-lined fabric with a moderate stretch. Complete the look with a box clutch and earrings.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neck, tank shoulder straps
- Lace-up back, tie closure
- Side, back ruched seams
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Lined smooth slinky-knit fabric, moderate stretch
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7293
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Laylah Formal Lace-Up Back Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Make a chic arrival in the Laylah formal lace-up back mermaid dress, a perfect choice for weddings! She features a sleeveless V-neckline with a ruched surplice design, spaghetti straps, an alluring open back with a cross-back lace-up strappy design for a customized fit, a high waist seam, a floor-length hem with a high-cut side slit to showcase some leg, and a mermaid silhouette to highlight your figure. The crepe fabric offers a moderate stretch. Complete your formal look with rhinestone statement earrings to add a touch of glitz and glamour!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, ruched surplice design
- Spaghetti straps, padded bust
- Open back, cross-back lace-up strappy design, tie closure
- High waist seam, floor-length hem, high-cut side slit, mermaid silhouette
- Crepe fabric, moderate stretch
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7882
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Phoebe Velvet Mock Neck Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Phoebe exudes elegance in a modern silhouette! She brings flirty-sultriness in a long sleeve, mock neckline with dual button closures, shoulder pads, bodycon silhouette, and an asymmetrical mini-length hem. The formal dress is composed of velvet knit fabric with moderate stretch. Complete your dressy look in a glam hair accessory for a stunning updo!
Fit & Features
- Long sleeves, shoulder pads
- Mock neckline, dual button closures
- Bra-friendly design
- Bodycon silhouette
- Asymmetrical mini-length hem
- Velvet knit fabric, moderate stretch
- Fits true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1414
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Krissy Formal Sequin Scroll Corset Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Captivating sequins lend endless sparkle while the scroll pattern elevates the Krissy formal midi dress sure to make a lasting impression! She features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline, a padded bust, adjustable spaghetti straps, a corset-style bodice with flexible boning to give you a snatched appearance, a flattering bodycon silhouette, a front slit, and a midi-length hem. The formal dress is designed with a shimmering sequin scroll pattern with a chic lace effect. Complete your look for a rehearsal dinner or banquet in strappy rhinestone heels.
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
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, padded bust
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Corset-style bodice, flexible boning
- Bodycon silhouette, front slit, midi-length hem
- Sequin-scroll pattern, lace effect
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1668
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Mildred Formal Velvet Halter Slit Long Dress
Special Occasion
The Mildred formal velvet dress is party-perfect with a timeless silhouette and classy style! She features a sleeveless halter neckline with tie-neck closure, a flattering hip-hugging slim silhouette, a high-side slit, and a long hem. The formal dress is crafted from a soft velvet fabric that feels luxurious when wearing and has a bust lining. Complete the look in sparkle block heels for a banquet or holiday soiree!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless halter neckline, tie-neck closure
- Hip-hugging, slim silhouette
- High side slit
- Long hem
- Luxe velvet fabric, bust lining, moderate stretch
- Sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7639
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Erica Cowl Neck Mermaid Glitter Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Make a glittering entrance in the Erica formal long dress at weddings, galas, or proms! Made from luxurious lined glitter knit fabric with plenty of stretch, this gown cascades to a floor-length hem, making a dramatic statement at any formal event. She features a sleeveless cowl neckline and delicate spaghetti straps. The dress hugs your curves in a flattering mermaid silhouette. Complete the look with gemstone earrings and a bracelet for extra bling!
Fit & Features
- Stretchy glitter knit fabric, full-length knit lining
- Cowl neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- High waist seam
- Mermaid silhouette
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8431
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $24.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Maude Strapless High Slit Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Classic with a chic allure will be your vibe in the Maude strapless mermaid dress. The pleated wrap-front design creates a high-cut slit that will turn heads.
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
- Crepe fabric with moderate stretch
- Strapless sweetheart neckline with surplice design
- Pleated bodice
- Back zipper closure
- Pleated wrap-front design, high-cut slit
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black-tie weddings, galas, and formal dinner parties.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9223
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $25.00 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: S
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Jullian Formal Crepe Off-The-Shoulder Midi Dress
Special Occasion
A timeless addition to your wardrobe, the Jullian formal midi dress is beautiful and perfect for banquets or formal parties! With its foldover off-the-shoulder neckline, bodycon fit, and midi-length hem with a front slit - you'll exude classic sophistication. The formal midi dress is composed of a sleek crepe fabric with a bust knit lining and plenty of stretch for comfort! Complete the look with strappy block heels.
Fit & Features
- Foldover off-the-shoulder neckline
- Bodycon fit
- Front slit, midi-length hem
- Crepe fabric, bust knit lining
- Strapless bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2035
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $24.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Serena Formal High Slit Lurex Dress
Special Occasion
Wrap yourself in luxury with a formal dress that stuns with one-of-a-kind details for your special event! Serena features a plunging V-neckline with tank shoulder straps, ruching at the waist, a high side slit with a draped overlay accent. The dress is composed of a lurex-like fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels.
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-neckline, tank shoulder straps
- Ruching
- High side slit, draped overlay
- Lurex-like fabric
- Form hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1689
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $56.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free