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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Vanessa Formal Satin Cowl Neck Dress
Special Occasion
The Vanessa formal satin dress gives an aurora of dreamy romance with subtle hints of sophistication! Perfect for bridesmaids, black tie galas, and award banquets. She features a sleeveless cowl neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps that crisscross along the back, and a hip-hugging slim silhouette with a floor-length hem. The formal dress is composed of a silky satin fabric with a sheen effect. Complete the look with statement earrings.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, criss-cross back
- Back zipper, hook and eye closure
- Hip-hugging, slim silhouette, floor-length hem
- Silky satin fabric, sheen effect, full-length woven lining, no stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7165
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Venus Mesh Heat Stone Gown
Special OccasionRadiate the shine of a thousand diamonds in our dazzling mesh Venus gown. She features a twisted single-strap shoulder, and all-over round, square, and oval-shaped heat stones in a diagonal pattern at bust and though waist and in a vertical pattern from approximately below the knee to the bottom of the asymmetric hem. Venus is fully lined and made from a soft, mesh-blend material with plenty of stretch.
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: 05001-4147
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $31.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Hannah Glitter Knit Ruched Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Amp up your formal night out look in the sultry Hannah glitter knit midi dress! She features a sleeveless one-shoulder neckline with a single spaghetti strap, an open back with a strappy design, front and back ruched detailing, and a midi-length, curve-hugging silhouette with a thigh-high front slit. Style this dress with clear lucite heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless one-shoulder neckline, single spaghetti strap
- Adhesive bra recommended
- Open back, asymmetrical strap, bar straps
- Front and back ruched detailing
- Midi-length, form-fitting silhouette, front slit
- Glitter knit fabric, short knit lining, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1003
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $46.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Mia Formal Satin Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Va-va-voom! Our Mia dress is a winning combo of smooth, seamless, and sultry.
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
- Zipper At Back
- Plunging V Neckline With Decorative Knot I Padded Cups
- Midi Length With Slit At The Side
- Lined, Smooth Stretch Satin Composition
- Moderate Stretch
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: 05001-0291
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $39.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Aurora Formal High Slit Mermaid Dress
Special OccasionElevate your evening look in a dress fit for a Queen like you! Aurora features a gorgeous plum hue, an off the shoulder neckline, a sweetheart bust with overlapping pleated details and narrow shoulder straps. Her slim fit bodice leads to an elongating floor length silhouette accented with horizontal seams and a side high slit. Dress is composed of a crepe fabric that offers a form hugging fit.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0124
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Ciara Glitter Tulle Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Highlight the evening in our glowing Ciara tulle dress! She shines with her gorgeous glitter accents throughout and brings the drama with her tulle godets for a sweeping entrance! Pair her with a chrome clutch and rhinestone pumps for a complete look!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline | Padded Cups
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Princess Seams
- Lined Glitter Knit Fabric
- Mermaid Silhouette
- Tulle Godet Accents
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
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: 05002-0785
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Violet Formal Glitter Sequin Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
For trendsetting partygoers, the Violet formal dress is the one to bring the radiant shine to prom, banquets, and ceremonies! She features a sleeveless square neck, a lightly padded bust, adjustable spaghetti straps that shape the lace-up back, and a curve-hugging mermaid silhouette with a floor-length hem. The formal dress is designed with an intricate sequin glitter scroll pattern on mesh fabric with a stretchy knit lining. Complete the look with a collar necklace and heels!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neck, lightly padded bust
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, lace-up back
- Lower back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Sequin glitter pattern, mesh fabric, stretch knit lining
- No bra required
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2948
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Layla Sequin One-Shoulder Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Create a showstopping entrance at Prom, galas, or any fancy soiree in the stunning Layla sequin formal dress! She features a sleeveless one-shoulder asymmetric neckline with built-in padded cups, dual adjustable spaghetti straps that lead to the back, a flattering high waist seam, a floor-sweeping hem with an A-line silhouette, and a chic high front slit. The lined mesh fabric features all-over sequin embroidery with a gorgeous iridescent shine. Style with rhinestone heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless one-shoulder asymmetric neckline, padded cups
- Dual adjustable spaghetti straps
- High waist seam, back zipper, hook and eye closure
- Floor-length hem, A-line silhouette, high front slit
- Iridescent sequin embroidery
- Sheer mesh fabric, full knit lining, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-3394
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Kendall Formal High Slit Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
Sparkle in sequins as you radiate in our Kendall dress! She features a plunging wrap V neckline with subtle pleated accents, fitted long sleeves and a slim fit bodice that leads to a curve hugging floor length silhouette that is accented with a high side slit. The all over twinkling sequins are set in a timelessly glam scroll print pattern. Dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a slight stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.
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: 05002-0284
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $45.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Lyla Formal Crepe Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Keep it sophisticated and stunning in our Lyla dress! She takes it to the next level with her must have pockets!
Fit & Features
- Sweetheart Neckline
- No-Slip Strip
- Padded Cups
- Empire Waist
- Pockets
- Lined Crepe
- Form Hugging Fit | Moderate Stretch
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: 05001-0324
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Roxanna Formal Lattice Two Piece Dress
Special OccasionLace up in our one of a kind Roxanna two piece red dress! She features a crop top with a plunging V neckline, padded cups, princess seams, tank-like straps and a mini lattice back to adjust top as needed. Her matching skirt features a high rise fit, vertical seams that create an hourglass-like illusion and a flaring mermaid silhouette. Roxanna is composed of a lined crepe fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05006-0493
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $22.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Meghan High Neck Crepe Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Get a stunning look for your upcoming engagement party, bachelorette outing, or bridal shower in our Meghan crepe mini dress! She features a high neck with dual back button closures, a sheer mesh bodice with a swiss dot design and a keyhole back, a padded sweetheart neckline, and a mini length, curve-hugging silhouette. Style this dress with dazzling rhinestone earrings and a rhinestone cuff bracelet for a gorgeous vibe.
Fit & Features
- High neck with dual back button closures
- Sheer mesh bodice with a swiss dot design
- Padded sweetheart neckline
- Back zipper and hook and eye closure
- Short, form-hugging fit
- Crepe fabric with a knit lining
- Moderate stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0497
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $39.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Janelle Sequin Mesh Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The Janelle bodycon mini dress is crafted with intricate sequin embroidery in a stunning scroll pattern on lined mesh fabric, a glam design that will turn heads as you strut by. The short dress features an open back with a lace-up strappy design for a customized fit and a bodycon silhouette to hug your curves. Style with metallic heels for homecoming or a formal party!
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with knit lining, moderate stretch
- Sequin embroidered scroll pattern
- V-neckline with padded bust
- Spaghetti straps
- Open back, lace-up strappy design
- Mini-length bodycon fit
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2370
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Amy Mermaid Slit Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Occasions are made easy in the Amy satin formal dress designed with a mermaid silhouette that flaunts your curves while the high front slit offers effortless movement.
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, bust knit lining
- V-neck, padded bra cups, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length bonded hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black-tie events, and weddings.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9359
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $25.00 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY-2, HUNTER-2
Available Size: XS, S, M
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Alese Scroll Sequin Cross Back Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Make them look twice when you walk into any room with our stunning Alese! Her scroll sequins will glimmer and shimmer in the light, while her figure-hugging mermaid silhouette will show your curves off in a flattering way! Go for the extra glow by pairing her with some rhinestone earrings and cuff!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
- Plunging Wire Trim V Neckline I Padded Bust
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Sweeping Floor-Length Hemline I Mermaid Silhouette I Front Slit
- Mesh Lined Fabric I Scroll Sequins Pattern
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'4" with a 33" bust, 24.5" waist and 39" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0704
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Quinn Perfectly Fitted Formal Dress
Special OccasionQuinn shows the beauty is simplicity. She's still stunning and sexy with a cowl neckline, adjustable shoulder straps that cross at the back, a low scoop back with an exposed zipper closure, a high waist seam, and a floor length skirt with a flared hem that creates a gorgeous body-hugging silhouette. Quinn is composed of a stretchy, smooth knit fabric.
Model is 5'8.5" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6625
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Andie Formal Square Neck Slit Long Dress
Special Occasion
Put your curves on display in the stunning Andie formal dress to make an entrance at rehearsal dinners and cocktail soirees! She features a sleeveless square neck, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customizable fit, and a small side ruched seam atop her sexy high slit that leads to the long hem. The formal dress is composed of a smooth and slinky knit fabric with lining and plenty of stretch. Complete the look with earrings and rhinestone heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neck, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper closure
- Small ruched side seam, high slit
- Curve-hugging slim silhouette, long hem
- Lined smooth knit fabric, moderate stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7380
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Emma One-Shoulder Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Have all eyes on you as you enter the room in the chic and sleek Emma mermaid dress. She features an asymmetrical one-shoulder neckline with a single long fitted sleeve, a sultry lower back cutout followed by ruching, and a floor-length curve-hugging mermaid silhouette. Style this dress with sparkling rhinestone statement earrings.
Fit & Features
- Asymmetrical one-shoulder neckline, single long fitted sleeve
- Bra-friendly
- Lower back cutout, lower back ruched detailing
- High waist seam, floor-length fitted mermaid silhouette
- Stretch satin fabric
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1961
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Inez Beaded Applique Velvet Formal Column Dress With Gloves
Special Occasion
Exude gorgeous glamour and chic elegance in the Inez formal dress designed with luxe velvet fabric perfect for a black-tie affair. It features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline accented with a beaded floral applique and a cowl-draped overlay, a floor-length side sash for a dramatic touch, and a high front slit on the long column silhouette.
Every detail shines in this intricately designed dress. Love embellishments? Explore our embellished beaded prom dresses or find a refined silhouette in our formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Velvet fabric with knit lining, moderate stretch
- Sweetheart neckline with beaded floral applique, padded bust, cowl-draped overlay
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Underbust seam, high waist seam, floor-length side sash
- Pleating, high front slit, floor-length column silhouette
- Long ruched velvet gloves
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, galas, black-tie parties, and red-carpet events.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8606
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Alisa Formal Crepe Ball Gown
Special OccasionMake a bold impression in our breath taking Alisa ball gown to channel a classically glam vibe! She features an all over black hue, a V neckline with cap sleeves, princess seams and a narrow waistband accent. Her slim fit bodice leads to a voluminous ball gown silhouette that is accented with side pockets. Dress is composed of black hued fabric that offers a relaxed fit with a moderate stretch. Includes a back zipper closure and smooth knit lining.
Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size xsmall.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6006
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Birdie Formal Glitter Lace Empire Dress
Special Occasion
Make an entrance fit for royalty with a formal dress that enchants! Birdie features a square neckline, short puff sleeves, an empire waist with a rhinestone embellished trim, a floral glitter lace body throughout, and a side slit. The dress is composed of a lined glitter lace fabric that offers a form hugging fit with minimal stretch. Complete look with nude heels and a rhinestone headband.
Fit & Features
- Square neckline, short puff sleeves
- Padded cups
- Empire waist, rhinestone embellished trim
- High side slit
- Floral glitter lace fabric
- Form hugging fit, minimal stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1439
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Joanne Halter Slit Mermaid Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sultry meets chic on the Joanne satin formal dress with a striking mermaid silhouette and high front wrap slit that adds drama to your look!
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, bust knit lining
- Halter V-neck, tie straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front wrap slit
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, galas, black-tie weddings
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9413
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $25.00 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: RED, SAGE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Sale
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Amy Formal Sequin V-Neck Long Dress
Special Occasion
Made to sparkle and stun, be seen in a new light in the Amy formal sequin dress for your next dressy event! She's ready for the spotlight in her effortless form-fitting sleeveless silhouette with unique, inverted sequin embroidery on delicate mesh-lined fabric. Complete the look with a chic box clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless, V-neck, bungee spaghetti straps
- High-waist seam, back zipper closure
- Form-fitting silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Inverted sequin-embroidery, mesh-lined fabric
- Minimal stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2258
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $149.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance