Formal Dresses

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Formal Dresses for Fall & Winter’s Biggest Moments

Windsor’s formal dresses bring elevated style to weddings, galas, military balls, homecoming, black-tie events, and other moments worth dressing up for. Discover elegant dresses in timeless black, romantic wine, rich jewel tones, metallic hues, and soft neutrals, with silhouettes ranging from classic A-lines and columns to fitted bodycons and mermaid gowns. New styles arrive every week with appliqués, draping, hardware, ties, and adjustable details that help you find a look that feels polished, current, and confidently yours.

Find a Formal Look That Fits the Occasion

The right dress starts with the event. Long formal dresses bring classic elegance to black-tie weddings, galas, military balls, and upscale evening celebrations, while polished midis and select short formal dresses can suit events with a less traditional dress code. For dressy occasions that call for something elevated without a full-length gown, explore formal cocktail dresses for another way to match your look to the invitation.

How Should I Dress for a Black-Tie or Formal Wedding?

Start by checking the invitation for the exact dress code. Black-tie events traditionally call for an elevated evening look, making floor-length gowns and refined silhouettes strong choices. Consider a column, A-line, or mermaid gown, then use color and details to make it your own. Black and navy offer timeless sophistication, while shades of red, green, purple, or gold can bring more personality to the occasion. Draping, appliqués, and polished necklines add another layer of interest without losing the formal feel.

What’s the Difference Between a Cocktail Dress and a Formal Dress?

The biggest differences are usually the dress code, overall level of polish, and length. Cocktail dresses commonly fall around the knee or midi length and work well for semi-formal parties, receptions, and dressy dinners. Formal dresses tend to feature longer hemlines, more structured silhouettes, or elevated details suited to galas, formal weddings, and black-tie occasions. If the invitation has you second-guessing your choice, The Windsor Edit’s guide to cocktail dresses vs. formal dresses breaks down the differences with styling examples.

Can Formal Dresses Be Short?

Sometimes—the invitation and venue should guide your choice. Short formal dresses with structured silhouettes, elevated fabrics, appliqués, or polished details can work for certain dressy events, but traditional black-tie occasions generally call for an ankle-length or floor-length gown. When the dress code feels somewhere between cocktail and formal, consider the event time, setting, and host guidance before choosing your hemline.

Which Formal Dress Fabrics Work Best for Fall and Winter?

Fabric can change both the look and feel of your dress. Richer, more substantial materials create a seasonally polished effect for cooler-weather occasions, while fluid fabrics add movement to long gowns and draped silhouettes. Your event setting, desired structure, and comfort preferences can all help narrow the choice. For a deeper look at how materials affect your outfit, explore Windsor’s guide to formal dress fabrics.

How Do I Find a Formal Dress That Feels Secure and Comfortable?

Look for design details that let you personalize the fit instead of spending the evening adjusting your dress. Lace-up backs can help fine-tune the bodice, corset construction adds structure, wrap designs offer flexibility, and adjustable or removable straps can change how a neckline fits and feels. Halter, cowl, off-the-shoulder, plunge, scoop, and square necklines also give you options depending on the coverage and support you prefer.

What Should I Wear to a Winter Formal?

Winter is your moment to lean into deeper color, shine, and elevated details. Explore Windsor's 2026 winter formal dresses in shades like plum, hunter green, chocolate, ruby, and copper, or make the night feel extra special with rose gold and other metallic finishes. Prefer a lighter palette? White and ivory can create a striking winter look, especially with appliqués, draping, or dimensional details. Finish with a silhouette you feel confident in, from fitted columns and mermaid gowns to flowing A-lines.

Make Your Formal Moment Your Own

Whether you’re shopping for special occasion dresses, an affordable bridal look, bridesmaid style, party gown, or military ball dress, Windsor gives you options that balance current trends with timeless silhouettes. New styles arrive every week online, in the Windsor app, and at more than 350 stores across North America, making it easier to find the dress that fits both your event and your personal style.

  • Abigail Scalloped Lace Formal Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Dance the night away in graceful lace in our Abigail black dress! She features an off the shoulder neckline with a scalloped lace trim, unlined short sleeves and a cinching tie waist ribbon belt. Her slim fit bodice leads to a party length skirt accented with a voluminous petticoat. Dress is composed of a black hued lined floral lace fabric that offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-3963

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $17.97 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

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  • Torrie Heat Stone Formal Mini Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Dazzle and wow in our photo op ready Torrie dress that brings plenty of flashy glam! She features a mini mock neck, fitted unlined long sleeves and an all over heat stone detail with a scroll print pattern. She is composed of a mesh fabric that offers a curve loving fit offering a moderate stretch. Dress includes a smooth thin knit lining and back zipper closure. 

    Model is 5'7 with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-3955

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.31 $56.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

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  • Cora Formal Beaded Mini Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Dazzle yourself with plenty of glamour as you shimmy the night away in our wowing Cora dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a high round neckline and a partially unlined bodice with a sweetheart inset lining. The all over beaded baroque pattern adds plenty of detail to make an unforgettable impression! She is composed of slightly sheer mesh fabric that offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. Dress includes a smooth knit lining and back zipper closure. 

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-3821

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $38.41 $74.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
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  • Cassandra Sequin Lace Party Dress
    Special Occasion

    What better way to party this season than with our Cassandra lace sequin dress! She's ready for wedding festivities or graduation with tank style bodice, a sweetheart lining, an exposed back zipper closure, and a ribbon belt around the waist. Dress is composed of a sheer lace dress with sequin accents and offers minimal stretch. 

    Model is 5'9 with a 32" 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: 05001-3846

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $42.87 $54.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

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  • Eliza Formal Heat Stone Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Shine like one in a million as you dazzle in our Eliza dress! She features  a round neckline, long fitted sleeves and and contrasting color blocking stripes that run along the sides. Dress is composed of a mesh fabric that is adorned with sparkling heat stone accents for plenty of shine! 

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-4049

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

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  • Makayla Formal Sequin Scroll Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Make a splash in sequins as you make a breathtaking entrance in our Makalya dress! She features an all over bronze hue, a mock neck with a two button closure at the nape of the neck, fitted quarter length sleeves and a keyhole at the back. Her slim fit bodice leads to a playful mini length silhouette. She is composed of a lined natural hued fabric adorned with bronze hued sequins set in a scroll print pattern. Dress offers a relaxed fit with minimal stretch. 

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-3978

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $20.94 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

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  • Danielle Formal Heat Stone And Pearl Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Radiate your rare, one of a kind beauty in our dazzling Danielle dress! She features an all over black hue, a sleeveless bodice, a round neckline and a mini length silhouette. The all over assortment of luxe pearls and heat stone embellishments are set in a stunning baroque design. Dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a slight stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-3989

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $34.00 $79.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

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  • Amira Formal Heat Stone Mini Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Light up the night in gleaming heat stones as you impress them all in our Amira black dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a mock neck with a double button closure at the nape of the neck, a racer bust and an open back with a mini bar strap accent. She is composed of a semi-sheer mesh fabric adorned with dazzling heat stones throughout. Amira offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Dress is fully lined and includes a lower back zipper closure.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-4022

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

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  • Kaylee Draped Back Cocktail Dress
    Special Occasion

    Our Kaylee cocktail dress is a combination of sophistication, luxury, and a dash of sexy! This unique LBD begins with a classic sleeveless bodice with shoulder pads for structure, a high round neckline, and a short skirt with a slim fit. Turn around to reveal a sexy open back paired with luxurious draped details with pearls, gemstones, and gold chain links of various sizes! Kaylee is composed of a smooth knit fabric that offers a moderate stretch. Includes an exposed back zipper closure. 

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-3996

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $74.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Frances Dapper In Fringes Dress
    Special Occasion

    Frances loves to break the rules and has all the sass that makes her the life of the party! She gets all the attention with a plunging neckline, adjustable double shoulder straps a hidden back zipper closure, a high waist piping seam, and long fringes to create a fun movement to her body-hugging silhouette. Frances is composed of bandaged 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: 05001-3994

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $59.87 $79.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Amara Fringe Watch Bandage Dress
    Special Occasion

    Amara is on everyone's style watch, so get ready for all the incoming compliments! Amara is a black mini dress that demonstrates sexy sophistication. She has a plunging neckline with draped fringed details that are cinched at an empire waist, adjustable double shoulder straps that lead to a low square back and a hidden zipper closure, and a body-hugging fit from the waist down. Fringes fall below the hem for a 1920's flapper effect. Amara is composed of a bandage knit fabric with a moderate stretch. 

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-4029

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $79.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Jaelyn Formal Open Back Glitter Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Enchant as you create a magical impression in our breathtaking Jaelynn dress! She features a plunging V neckline, ruffled cap sleeves and an open back with a single button closure at the nape of the neck. Her slim fit bodice leads to twirl worthy mini length silhouette! She is composed of a lined mesh fabric adorned with a vintage inspired baroque design and glitter accents throughout! Dress offer a relaxed fit with minimal stretch and includes a back zipper closure.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-4024

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Ginger Show Stopper Heat Stone Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Make a stunning impression as you shine under the spotlight in our Ginger black dress! She features an all over black hue, a scoop neckline, adjustable narrow straps and a flattering midi length silhouette. Her all over partially lined mesh fabric features gleaming heat stones! Ginger includes a built in bodysuit lining that features a cheeky bottom with a snap button closure. Dress offers a form hugging fit that offers a moderate stretch. Be sure to pick up the matching duster to complete your show stopping look! 

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-3997

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $20.97 $54.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Braelynn Formal Heat Stone Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Dazzle and shine in the spotlight as you radiate confidence in our Braelynn dress! She features an all over natural hue, a mock neck, unlined fitted sleeves and a partially lined bodice with a matching unlined back. Her all over glitzy heat stones spark up the night and leads to a mini length silhouette. Braelynn is composed of semi sheer mesh fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Includes a back zipper closure. 

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-3988

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Alexia Fab Fringed Dress
    Special Occasion

    Have fun and look extra fab in our rose gold Alexia dress! Get Gatsby ready with a deep V neckline, adjustable narrow shoulder straps, a subtle high waist seam, a straight across square back with an exposed back zipper closure, and a slim fit. Alexia is decorated in beaded diamond patterns with sequin accents for that added sparkle you love!

    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: 05001-3974

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $54.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Francine Sequin Glam Dress
    Special Occasion

    Francine is trendy, glamorous, and the life of the party. You'll look and feel like a celebrity with a mock neckline with two button closures behind the neck, semi-sheer fitted long sleeves, a large back cut out for a backless effect, a sweetheart lining, a padded bust, and a body-hugging fit. Francine is composed of a semi-sheer mesh fabric with a silver swirled sequin pattern all over, and offers minimal 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: 05001-3853

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $20.91 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Deandra Precious Heat Stone Bodycon Dress
    Special Occasion

    Deandra shows off the precious little diamond that you are in dazzling heat stones! Her flattering V neckline complements your bust while her long, narrow sleeves give your arms a slender look. Her fitted appearance is composed of a sheer, black mesh fabric that features a geometric embellishment and includes a black, short dress lining.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-3985

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $74.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Terra Sleeveless Sequin Dress
    Special Occasion

    Short and sweet is just your style, just like our adorable Terra dress! She is a short homecoming dress that has a mock neck with a hook closure and a sleeveless racer cut. Her narrow keyhole back closes with a basic zipper and her natural waist band leads to a slim fit skirt. Terra is composed of a thin knit paired with a bonded tulle overlay adorned with bronze sequins and clear beads. 

    Model is 5'9 with a 32" 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: 05001-3591

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.87 $74.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Amira Formal Sequin Scroll Print Dress
    Special Occasion

    Have all eyes on you as you dazzle and shine in our glitzy Amira dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a wired V neckline with narrow adjustable straps, padded cups and princess seams. Her slim fit bodice leads to a festive party length skirt to twirl the night away in! Her all over rose gold hued sequins feature an elegant scroll print design and are complemented with a nude hue for a flattering two tone effect. Dress is composed of mesh fabric that offers a form hugging fit with minimal stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.  

    Model is 5'7" with a 32" bust, 25" waist and 36 hips. She is wearing a size small.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-3908

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $22.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Lilyana Lace Party Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Make it a tea party type of day with your girls in our whimsical Lilyana dress! She features a wide round neckline, unlined lace cap sleeves, flattering princess seams and an adorable satin tie waist belt. Her bodice leads to twirl worthy party length skirt! Her all over crochet lace features a delicate floral pattern  complemented with a thin knit lining and a voluminous petticoat. She offers a relaxed fit with a moderate stretch. Includes a back zipper closure 

    Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust,  24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-3848

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $45.87 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Jayne It's Showtime Sequin Dress
    Special Occasion

    When it's time to show off, slip on our black Jayne dress and it's showtime! She features a turtle neck, an exposed back zipper closure, feather accents on the shoulders, fitted long sleeves and sequins throughout for added sparkle and glam. Jayne includes a bandeau and brief knit lining and is composed of a sheer mesh fabric 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: 05001-3915

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $52.41 $99.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Cher Sassy Sequin Mini Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Slay in sequin as you make a glamorous impression in our diva worthy Cher black dress! She features a round neckline, unlined long sleeves and an all over baroque sequined pattern to add a gleaming touch! Dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a minimal stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-3954

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $10.00 $84.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Gemma Iridescent Sequin Dress
    Special Occasion

    Illuminate from all angles when you walk in wearing our gorgeous Gemma dress! She is composed of lined mesh fabric that is embellished with an geometric array of stunning iridescent sequins. She features a boat neckline, long sleeves, a large keyhole back with a single button closure and a mini fit. Includes a small back zipper.

    Model is 5'9 with a 32" 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: 05001-3715

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.87 $79.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Briana Off The Shoulder Taffeta Dress
    Special Occasion 

    Adorn yourself with rose petals to create a charming look in our Briana dress! She features, a sleeveless bodice, an off the shoulder neckline with cold shoulder straps and a sweetheart front. Her bodice features flattering princess seams along the bodice and lead to a lightly pleated party length skirt with hidden side pockets. Cinch off your look with her tie waist belt to create the perfect bow as you twirl the night away! Her all over red rose print is all you need for a naturally beautiful look! She is composed of smooth taffeta fabric that offers a form hugging fit with moderate stretch. Includes stretchy short skirt lining and back zipper closure. 

    Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust,  24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small. 

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-3809

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $34.87 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance