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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Gwenyth Iridescent Lace Up Dress
Special OccasionAren't you a rare sight? This magical lavender Gwenyth lace up dress is a true fantasy! She features a deep V neckline, a plunging back with lace up straps, an exposed back zipper closure, and all over iridescent purple sequins. A body-hugging silhouette is complemented with her floor length trumpet skirt that flares at the hem. Gwenyth includes a short knit lining and has minimal stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6247
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $33.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- 50% Off
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Jaymie Tie-Back Floral Velvet Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Make any entrance unforgettable in the Jaymie mermaid formal dress perfect for school dances, weddings, and fancy soirees. With a chiffon tie-back design and a lovely flocked velvet floral pattern, this floor-length dress will keep compliments coming all night. Pair with heels.
Fit & Features
- Flocked floral velvet pattern, mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Square neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Chiffon tie-back design, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Ruched side seams, mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9026
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $25.00 $76.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS, S
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Julieann Formal High Slit Satin Dress
Special OccasionMake double the appeal in our sophisticated Julieann dress! She features an all over emerald green hue, a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V neckline with padded cups, princess seams and adjustable narrow straps. Her empire waist accent leads to a flowing floor length silhouette that is accented with two high side slits to show off your glowing gams! She includes a built in contrast lining with a full bottom and snap button closure. She is composed of a textured satin-like fabric that offers a form hugging fit with minimal stretch. Includes a back zipper closure with fish hook clasp.
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: 05002-6175
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Julianne V-Neck Mermaid Tulle Sequin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Show off your sparkle in the Julianna sequin formal dress at weddings, galas, or fancy events! Adorned with a delicate sequin scroll pattern on mesh fabric, this gown is both elegant and alluring. Her plunging V-neckline highlights your curves, adjustable spaghetti straps are customizable for the perfect fit, while the low-cut strappy back adds a touch of sultriness. The mermaid silhouette and floor-length hem with tulle inserts create a stunning cascading effect for a memorable exit from the party or event! Complete the look with rhinestone earrings and 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
- Sequin scroll pattern, mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Low-cut strappy back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Flared floor-length hem, tulle inserts
- Pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7945
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $109.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Helen Crepe Lace-Up Skater Party Dress
Special Occasion
Twirl all night in the flirty Helen crepe party dress at school dances, birthdays, or banquets! She features a sleeveless square neckline, tank shoulder straps, an eye-catching lace-up back with tie closure, hidden side pockets for keeping your hands warm, and a flattering skater silhouette with a short-length bonded hem. The party dress is composed of a crepe knit fabric with a bust lining and plenty of stretch. Complete the look in this short skater dress with strappy block heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline, tank shoulder straps
- Lace-up back, tie closure, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Hidden side pockets, skater silhouette
- Short-length bonded hem
- Crepe knit fabric, bust lining, moderate stretch
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1693
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $56.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Natalia Metallic Ruched Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Natalia brings the shine from all your best angles! She features a plunging V neckline, long fitted sleeves and a curve enhancing midi length silhouette with ruched detailing along the sides. Dress is composed of a lined metallic knit fabric that offers a moderate stretch. Dress includes a back zipper closure with hook and eye closure for secure fit.
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: 05001-0229
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $24.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Keily Formal Ruched Crepe Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Wrap yourself in our Keily dress to make a sophisticated entrance!
Fit & Features- Plunging Wrap V-Neckline
- Long Sleeves
- Ruched Side Seam
- Wrap Midi Length Silhouette
- Lined Crepe Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit | Moderate Stretch
- Back Zipper Closure
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0328
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Annie Formal Knot Satin Dress
Special OccasionTie your look together with a charming knot! Annie features an all over navy hue, an off the shoulder neckline, a wrap bodice, fitted long sleeves and narrow straps. Her elastic waist features a lovely knot detail and leads to a floor length silhouette accented with double high slits. Annie is composed of a lined satin fabric that offers a form hugging fit with slight stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6337
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Yamileth Formal Lace Up Velvet Dress
Special Occasion
Lace up in a luxe formal dress that stuns from the moment you enter the room! Yamileth features a sleeveless V-neckline with padded cups, spaghetti straps, lace-up straps that cross at the back, and a curve-hugging an A-line silhouette. The dress is composed of a lined velvet fabric that offers a moderate stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels and a rhinestone tennis bracelet.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, padded cups
- Spaghetti straps
- Lace-up straps, cross at back
- A-line silhouette
- Lined velvet fabric
- Form hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1429
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Mollie Formal Satin Side Slit Long Dress
Special Occasion
Crafted of silky satin, the romantic Mollie formal dress is perfect for making a memorable entrance as a bridesmaid or a black tie gala! She features a sleeveless square neck, spaghetti straps, and a side pleated seam that shapes the form-hugging slim silhouette with a sultry high-cut side slit and long hem. The formal dress is composed of lined satin fabric with minimal stretch. Complete the look with a glam bracelet and platform heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neck, spaghetti straps
- Side pleated seam
- Form-hugging, slim silhouette
- High-cut side slit, long-length hem
- Lined silky satin, minimal stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6854
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Aubrey Lace-Up Slit Satin Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Cause a scene when you're seen in the Aubrey satin midi formal dress at celebrations and banquets! The formal dress is designed with a sleek square halter neckline with spaghetti straps that shapes the lace-up open back while the bodycon silhouette boasts a flirty side slit. Pair with earrings.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric with full-length knit lining
- Sleeveless square halter neckline, padded bra cups, under bust seam
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, open lace-up back
- Ruched lower back, zipper with hook-eye closure
- High waist seam, front ruched seam, high slit
- Midi-length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2611
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $49.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: ROYAL
Available Size: L
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Amy Formal Strapless Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Elegantly chic, the Amy formal strapless mermaid dress will be sure to turn heads. She features a straight-across neckline with pleating at the bust and flexible boning, a high waist seam, vertical seams that start at the bust and continue down the dress, a hip-hugging fit, and a floor-sweeping bonded hem with a figure-flattering mermaid silhouette. The formal dress is composed of a sleek scuba-kit fabric with lining and minimal stretch. Complete the look with a dazzling rhinestone jewelry set and a sleek clutch.
Fit & Features
- Strapless straight-across neckline, flexible boning
- Pleating at the bust, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High waist seam, vertical seams down the dress
- Form-hugging fit at the hips
- Floor-sweeping bonded hem, mermaid silhouette
- Sleek scuba knit fabric, lining, minimal stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7067
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Kaylani Formal Satin Cowl Neck Long Dress
Special Occasion
Crafted from silky satin, the Kaylani formal dress is all about bringing romance to weddings or red-carpet events! She stuns in a sleeveless cowl neckline, tank straps, and a flattering A-line silhouette with a sultry high-cut front slit along her floor-length hem. The formal dress is composed of non-stretch satin fabric with a subtle sheen effect. Style with rhinestone hoop earrings and a clutch to complete the dressy look!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl neckline, tank straps
- Back zipper closure
- A-line silhouette
- High-cut front slit, foor-length hem
- Non-stretch satin fabric, subtle sheen
- Bra friendly design
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7205
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Elina Formal Velvet Strapless Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Capture chic style with the elevated details and luxe velvet fabric of the Elina formal midi dress! She features a strapless subtle angled square neckline, a fitted bodice with a pleated wrap-front design and flexible boning inserts, a high waist seam, a midi-length hem with a thigh-high front slit to showcase some leg, and a slim-fit silhouette. The smooth velvet fabric offers a moderate stretch. Complete your wedding guest look in this midi dress with silver heels.
Fit & Features
- Strapless angled square neckline
- Fitted bodice, pleated wrap-front design, flexible boning inserts
- High waist seam, midi-length hem, thigh-high front slit
- Slim-fit silhouette
- Velvet fabric, knit lining at the bust, moderate stretch
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1871
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Candence Corset Mermaid Lace Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Dainty lace and delicate details create the Candence lace formal dress that will leave everyone breathless! Designed with a chic corset bodice that flatters your figure, along with the mermaid silhouette with a high front slit for effortless movement.
Fit & Features
- Lace fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Off-the-shoulder neckline, padded bra cups
- Corset bodice, flexible boning inserts, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, bridesmaids, garden parties, elegant soirees, formal celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9716
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Rachael Velvet Faux Pearl Party Dress
Special Occasion
Radiate party-girl energy in the luxe Rachael velvet faux pearl mini dress at bachelorettes or formal dances! She features an off-the-shoulder sweetheart neckline adorned with puff short-sleeve cuffs, a ruched and padded bust, and a bodycon silhouette that flaunts your curves down to the hem. The short party dress is designed with colored faux pearl embellishments all over on soft velvet fabric with a stretchy knit lining. Complete the look with a clutch and stiletto pumps.
Fit & Features
- Off-the-shoulder sweetheart neckline
- Puff short-sleeve cuffs
- Ruched and padded bust, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette, mini-length hem
- Faux pearl all-over embellishments
- Velvet fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2000
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Moira Off-The-Shoulder Velvet Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the radiance with a formal dress that creates a twirl-worthy moment. Moira features an off-the-shoulder neckline, off-the-shoulder straps, a sweetheart bust, front vertical seams, and a mermaid silhouette. The dress is composed of a lined velvet fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with a rhinestone collar necklace.
Fit & Features
- Off-the-shoulder neckline, sweetheart bust, front vertical seams
- Back zipper and hook and eye closure
- Off-the-shoulder straps
- Mermaid silhouette
- Lined velvet fabric
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1560
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Holly Long Sleeve Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Showcase chic elegance with a touch of sultry style in the Holly formal dress. She features a multi-wear convertible design, a cowl neckline, a fitted high waist seam, and a curve-hugging floor-length silhouette with a thigh-high side slit. Complete the look with a pair of stiletto heels and a sleek clutch.
Fit & Features
- Cowl neckline
- Multi-wear convertible design
- Bra-friendly
- Fitted high waist seam
- Floor-length silhouette, high side slit
- Smooth knit fabric
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-2308
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $56.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Angelina Formal Lace-Up Sequin Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Create an enchanting entrance in the gorgeous Angelina formal sequin mermaid dress that will take everyone's breath away. She features a sleeveless V-neckline, spaghetti straps that lead to an open back with a cross-back lace-up strappy design, a floor-length hem, and a form-hugging mermaid silhouette. The lined mesh fabric features stunning sequin embroidery in an intricate geometric pattern. Complete your look in this long dress for a black-tie gala with stiletto heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, spaghetti straps
- Open back, cross-back lace-up strappy design, tie closure
- High waist seam, lower back zipper, hook and eye closure
- Floor-length hem, mermaid silhouette
- Sequin embroidery, geometric pattern
- Sheer mesh fabric, full knit lining, minimal stretch
- Sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7488
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Stacy Off-Shoulder Slit Bodycon Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Capture simply chic allure in the Stacy long formal dress perfect for bridesmaids, wedding guests, or attending a banquet! The formal dress is crafted from a smooth-lined knit fabric that hugs your curves with side ruching and a flattering bodycon silhouette with a sultry high side slit. Pair with a hair accessory and heels.
Fit & Features
- Smooth-lined knit fabric, moderate stretch
- Off-shoulder neckline
- Side ruched seams
- Bodycon silhouette
- High side slit
- Long-length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9067
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $25.00 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: HUNTER
Available Size: XS, S, M
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Jen Heat Stone Mesh Short Dress
Special Occasion
Jen brings the drama in a glamorous display of heat and rhinestone embellishments! She features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customizable fit, a bodycon silhouette, and a short-length hem. She features all-over iridescent heat stone and rhinestone embellishments for a gorgeous sparkle and layered cascading rhinestone accents that move with you as you strut in style. The formal dress is composed of a sheer mesh fabric with a knit lining and moderate stretch. Complete your dressy look in statement heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended, structured underwire
- Iridescent heat and rhinestone embellishments
- Layered cascading rhinestone accents
- Hidden side zipper, hook and eye closure
- Short-length hem, fitted bodycon silhouette
- Sheer mesh fabric, full knit lining, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1196
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Maeve Sequined V Mesh Gown
Special Occasion
Go for the glow in our simply sizzling mesh sequined Maeve gown! She features all-over patterned embellishment, adjustable spaghetti straps leading to a V back with hook-and-eye zip closure, a V-neck seamed bodice with padded bust, a high-seam waist, and a long, curve-hugging skirt. Maeve is fully lined and made from mesh and woven materials with minimal 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: 05002-0265
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $45.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Viva Formal Sequin Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Liven the night with a sea of sequins in our diva-worthy Viva mermaid dress!
Fit & Features
- Plunging Wired V-Neckline
- Padded Cups
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps | Cross at Back
- Sequins
- Lined Mesh
- Mermaid Silhouette
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal 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: 05002-0727
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $36.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Harper Formal Velvet Mermaid Slit Long Dress
Special Occasion
Luxe velvet brings high sophistication to the Harper formal long dress! She's designed with a cowl V-neckline adorned with adjustable spaghetti straps, a mermaid silhouette that hugs your gorgeous curves, and a sexy high front slit that leads to her floor-length hem. The formal maxi dress is crafted from a soft velvet fabric that brings glamour to your evening and has a sewn-in stretchy knit lining. Complete the look in rhinestone earrings and heels to add sparkle at charity dinners, holiday soirees, or weddings!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless cowl V-neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette, high front slit, floor-length hem
- Velvet fabric, sewn-in stretchy knit lining
- Sticky or strapless bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7269
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale