Formal Dresses
Windsor’s formal dresses are redefining what it means to dress up. Unexpected details take center stage, from sleek cutouts with hardware and sheer illusion panels to dramatic side and front draping. Plunging V-necklines, sculptural cowl necks, off-the-shoulder silhouettes, and corset bodices bring a confident edge, while intentionally ruched mesh adds texture and a distinctly modern touch. For classic black-tie plans, silky satin high-neck gowns deliver polished drama without feeling predictable. Made for weddings, galas, and every dressed-up moment on your calendar, these on-trend formal dresses are elevated, camera-ready, and impossible to overlook.
Now Trending
STYLE SPOTLIGHT
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.
-
Brie Double Slit A-Line Formal Dress
Bring the romance in the gorgeous sweeping Brie Double Slit A-line Formal Dress! She features a sleeveless bodice with spaghetti straps with a cross-back design, a plunging V-neckline, and sultry thigh-high dual front slits. Pair with a cascading lariat necklace and sparkly heels for a glamorous look for your next elegant evening out.
Fit & Features
- Spaghetti straps that lead to a cross-back design
- Deep V-neckline
- Adhesive bra recommended
- High waist
- Floor-length A-line skirt, dual thigh-high front slits
- Smooth knit fabric
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0945
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Jodie Heat Stone Mesh Slit Dress
Special Occasion
Shine like the night sky in our glamorous Jodie! Her sultry silhouette features glimmering heat stones and a sexy thigh-high slit. Wave your hair out and slip into a pair of rhinestone heels for that extra twinkle!
Fits & Features
- Spaghetti Straps That Lace Up At The Back
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Plunging V Neckline
- Mesh Fabric With Heat Stone Embellishments I Lined At The Bodice
- Built-In Bodysuit With Snap Button Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I Thigh-High Slit
- Form Hugging Fit I Plenty Of Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0956
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $32.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Seraphina Formal Pearl Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the luxe and shine like the rare pearl you are in our dazzling Seraphina dress! Pair her unmatched beauty with slingback stilettos and a glitzy clutch to complete your evening look!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline | Mesh Inset
- Tank-Like Straps
- Pearl and Heat Stone Embellishments
- Mini Skirt Length Silhouette
- Lined Smooth Knit Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit | Slight Stretch
- Hidden Back Zipper Closure
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0408
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Felicity Scallop Neck Taffeta High Low Dress
Special Occasion
From top to bottom, our Felicity brings flair and drama with her scalloped neckline and full high-low hem. Crafted from taffeta fabric, a glowing pretty sheen gives her a luxe vibe. Compliment her with some gorgeous drop earrings and a sparkling clutch!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Scalloped V Neckline I Princess Seams
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- High-Low Hem I Partial, Mini Length Lining I Petticoat
- Tafetta Fabric I Pretty Sheen Finish
- Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 36.5" hips. She is wearing a size 3.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0938
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Jewel Scalloped Taffeta High Low Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the radiance to the evening in our luxe Jewel high low dress! Her rich taffeta makes a head-turning impression! Pair her with sleek stiletto heels that complement her high-low silhouette!
Fit & Features
- V-Neckline | Scalloped Trim
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- High Low Silhouette
- Lined Taffeta Fabric
- Petticoat
- Relaxed Fit
- Slight Stretch
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 36.5" hips. She is wearing a size 3.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0937
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $34.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Nevaeh Formal Lattice Mesh Dress
Special Occasion
Lace-up in our head-turning Nevaeh dress! She draws attention with her lace up detailing and curve-hugging mermaid silhouette! Pair her with chrome heels and a gorgeous necklace set for a final look!
Fit & Features
- V-Neckline | Mesh Inset
- Padded Cups | Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Lattice Back
- Mermaid Silhouette
- Lined Crepe Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0940
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Alexandra Satin Lace Back A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
A dainty lace-up back and pretty luster are a few details that make Alexandra stand out from the rest! Her gorgeous A-line skirt adds a twirl-worthy charm and her satin composition showcases a smooth-to-the-touch appearance. Add a glitzy little clutch and some rhinestone earrings for the perfect finishing touches!
Fits & Features
- Spaghetti straps, zipper lace back detail
- Plunging V neckline, lightly padded bust
- Lower back zipper with hook and eye closure
- Hidden hand pockets
- Floor-length hem, A-line silhouette
- Satin-like fabric, fully lined
- Minimal stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0935
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
- Spaghetti straps, zipper lace back detail
-
Adley Formal Floral Foiled Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Keep it flared in our foiled Adley dress that brings the glamour to your special evening. Adley features a v-neckline, a foiled floral pattern that brings the shine and a flared mini-length silhouette that is accented with hidden side pockets to keep essentials close to you. Complete your fabulous look with rhinestone heels and a sleek metallic clutch.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless v-neckline, padded cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Partially open back
- Foiled floral print
- Flared mini length silhouette
- Hidden side pockets
- Fully lined scuba knit fabric, relaxed fit
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0403
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Daria Formal Ruched Midi Dress
Special Occasion
From the moment you enter the room, command attention with our head-turning Daria midi dress! Her ruched accents showcase curves to create a flattering hourglass illusion! Pair with sleek heels and clutch for a complete look!
Fit & Features
- High Round Neckline
- Plunging V-Shaped Back with Bar Strap Ties
- Ruched Side Seams
- Lined Smooth Knit Fabric
- 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: 05001-0404
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Catalyn Glitter Shine Ball Gown
Special Occasion
You'll look breathtaking in our stunning Catalyn. Twirl around in her voluminous ball gown and feel like an absolute princess! Glow from every angle as she subtly changes hues in the light. And the best part? Her hidden hand pockets are perfect for storing away your phone and lipstick!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Plunging V Neckline I Mesh Inset
- Cross Back I Sheer Mesh Inset Creates Cage Design I Back Zipper
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Hem I Ball Gown Silhouette I Petticoat
- Woven Glitter Fabric I Fully Lined I Dual-Tone Shine
- Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size 3.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0061
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Amaya Mesh Embroidered A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Woven with glittery metallic threading, our Amaya showcases a subtle sparkle among the dainty embroidery details. Take everyone's breath away as you twirl around and show off her full A-line skirt! For finishing touches, add an evening clutch and lengthy rhinestone earrings!
Fits & Features
-
Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- V Neckline & Back I Lightly Padded Bust
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I A-Line Silhouette
- Mesh Lined Fabric With Metallic Threaded Embroidery Detail
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0045
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
-
Leanna Floral High Low Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the charm in florals as you make a head-turning entrance in our romantic Leanna dress! Pair her with statement earrings and a pair of pretty platforms for a look that impresses them all!
Fit & Features
- Scoop Neckline | Padded Cups
- Spaghetti Straps | Cross Back Straps
- Open Back | Lower Back Keyhole
- High Low Silhouette | Ruffled Trim
- Hidden Side Pockets | Petticoat
- Lined Satin Woven Fabric Floral Print
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0032
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $92.97 $219.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Katie Formal Off The Shoulder Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Stride with beauty in each and every step in our gorgeous Katie formal mermaid dress! Her flattering thigh high slit gives you a chance to showcase your stunning heels.
Fit & Features
- Off the shoulder sweetheart neckline | Wired front | Overlay
- Lightly padded bust | Princess seam detailing
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper closure
- High waist seam
- Floor length mermaid skirt | Thigh high slit
- Glitter woven fabric | Short knit lining
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0636
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Kiki Formal Off The Shoulder Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
Glow in our shimmering Kiki dress that elevates your formal evening with her enchanting sequins. Kiki features a flattering off the shoulder neckline with off shoulder straps, glitzy sequins throughout and a mini length silhouette with a mini side slit detail. Complete your A-list worthy evening outfit with a rhinestone hairpin to style hair with and metallic platform heels.
Fit & Features
- Off the shoulder neckline with off shoulder straps
- Sweetheart neckline
- Relaxed fit waist
- Sequins
- Mini length silhouette
- Mini side slit
- Form hugging fit
Model is 5'8" with 32" bust, 24" waist and 36.5" hips. She is wearing a size three
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0402
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $30.97 $56.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Milana Glitter Shine High Neck Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Crafted from sparkling glitter fabric, you'll look and feel enchanting once you slip into our Milana! The lace-up detail at back reveals a low open back and flares into a stunning ball gown silhouette. Milana will look gorgeous paired with rhinestone earrings and stilettos!
Fits & Features
-
High Neckline I Padded Bust
- Spaghetti Straps That Cross & Lace Up At The Back I Low Open Back
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Hem I Petticoat I Pleating Details I Ball Gown Silhouette
- Woven Glitter Fabric I Fully Lined
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0055
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $219.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
High Neckline I Padded Bust
-
Bayley Cross Back Satin Ball Gown
Special Occasion
A contrasting bodice and skirt make our beautiful Bayley noticeably unique. Her satin skirt flares into a voluminous princess ball gown, making her a twirl-worthy choice! Put your hair into a wispy, romantic up-do and don some rhinestone earrings for an elegant look!
Fits & Features
- Dual Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back I Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Scoop Neckline I Padded Bust
- Contrasting, Smooth Knit Lined Bodice
- Slant Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Hemline I Ball Gown Silhouette I Pleated
- Satin-Like Skirt I Fully Lined I Petticoat
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0113
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Billie Pleated Floral Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Stun in florals as you make an enchanting entrance in our captivating Billie ball gown! Her florals charm while her dramatic ball gown silhouette brings the drama! Pair hair with a rhinestone headband and glitzy heels to complete her look!
Fit & Features
- V-Neckline | Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Mesh Waist Insets
- Hidden Side Pockets
- Pleated Ball Gown Silhouette
- Floral Print
- Petticoat | Wide Banded Hem
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0112
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Alma Lace Two Piece Dress
Special Occasion
Impress in lace as you make a head-turning entrance in our Alma dress! Her floral lace brings the charm and pairs well with glam heels and rhinestones for the perfect evening look!
Fit & Features
- V-Neckline Bodice | Padded Cups
- Halter Strap Accents | Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Floral
- Cropped
- High Waist Skirt | Hidden Side Pockets
- Lined Lightweight Woven Fabric
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05006-0535
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Isabelle Satin A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Made from smooth and sleek satin, Isabelle's pretty sheen will glisten at every angle. Her plunging V neckline falls into a glamorous A-line silhouette. The best part is her inconspicuous hand pockets for stowing away your lipstick and phone!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps Create V Design At Back
- V Neckline I High Waist Seam
- Back Zipper WIth Hook & Eye Closure
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Hemline I A-Line Silhouette I Front Slit
- Satin-Like Fabric I Fully Lined
- 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: 05002-0929
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
-
Adela Rhinestone Trim Satin Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Drama and elegance come to mind as you step out in our stunning Adela. Her voluminous ball gown will put you into focus. But the true magnets of attention are the glistening rhinestone trim at her slant hand pockets. Look and feel like absolute royalty by pairing Adela up with cascading rhinestone earrings and a sparkling cuff.
Fits & Features
- Dual Spaghetti Straps Crosses At Back
- Scoop Neckline I Padded Bust
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Slant Hand Pockets With Rhinestone Trim
- Satin Lined Fabric
- Floor Length Hem I Petticoat I Ball Gown Silhouette I Pleated
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0111
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $105.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Vada Pleated Chiffon Halter Dress
Special Occasion
Please them all in pretty pleats! Vada brings the elegance with sweeping airy chiffon and a dramatic halter neckline! Pair her with silver accents for a look that will make them all take notice!
Fit & Features
- Halter Neckline | Mesh Inset
- Halter Neck Strap | Padded Cups
- Pleated Silhouette
- Lined Chiffon Fabric
- Relaxed Fit
- Minimal Stretch
- Back Zipper Closure
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0928
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Rae Strapless Glitter Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Bring the sparkle to your evening in our glowing Rae ball gown! Her glitter brings a glow that radiates confidence! Rae perfectly pairs with rhinestones and a metallic heel for an all-over shine!
Fit & Features
- Strapless Sweetheart Neckline | No-Slip Strip
- Bustier-Styled Bodice
- Flexible Boning | Padded Cups
- Sequins | Metallic Glitter Leaf Design
- Hidden Side Pockets | Ball Gown Silhouette
- Lined Mesh Fabric
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0109
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
- Strapless Sweetheart Neckline | No-Slip Strip
-
Giannina Off Shoulder Glitter Shine Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Turn heads in our sparkling Giannina! Her off-shoulder neckline trails into a cascading ruffle trim hem leading to a front slit. Made from a glitter woven fabric, a dual-tone sheen finishes the look. Match her shine with a matching pair of rhinestone earrings and a sparkly cuff.
Fits & Features
-
Off Shoulder Straps
- V Neckline I Padded Bust I No Slip Interior Strip
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline I Petticoat I Cascading Ruffle Leads To Front Slit
- Glitter Woven Fabric I Fully Lined I Changes Color In The Light
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 26" waist and 38" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0108
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
-
Off Shoulder Straps
-
Audriana Sequin Mesh Cross Back Dress
Special Occasion
With an all-over sequin sparkle and a body-hugging silhouette, Audriana brings the glam to any event. Her sultry front slit lets you glide around effortlessly and lets you flaunt those sparkling rhinestone heels!
Fits & Features
-
Dual Spaghetti Straps Crosses At Back
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- V Neckline I Padded Bust
- Floor Length Hem I Front Slit
- Mesh Lined Sequin Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0927
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $105.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
-
Dual Spaghetti Straps Crosses At Back