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.
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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.
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Rona Cowl Neck Lace Up Back Dress
Special Occasion
Look sleek and polished from head to toe with our Rona. With chic features like her lace-up back and cowl neckline, her streamlined silhouette can be highlighted with a pair of sparkling rhinestone earrings and an eye-catching clutch.
Fits & Features
- Spaghetti Straps That Lace Up At The Back
- Cowl Neckline
- Ruching At The Sides & Center Back
- Floor Length Hemline
- Smooth Jersey Knit Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit I Plenty Of Stretch
- Zipper Not Featured
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0888
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Esme Formal High Slit Glitter Dress
Special Occasion
Bring on the shine to your evening with our head-turning Esme dress! Pair Esme with rhinestone accents and glitzy pumps to elevate your evening!
Fit & Features
- Plunging Wired V-Neckline
- Padded Cups | Tank-Like Straps
- Mesh Back with Contrast Straps
- High Side Slit | Wide-Banded Hem
- Lined Glitter Woven Fabric
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0897
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $139.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Petra Crepe Off Shoulder Midi Dress
Special Occasion
With a fold-over, off-shoulder neckline and fitted long sleeves, our Petra exudes class and elegance. Her midi-length hem features a back center slit for you to glide around with ease. Accessorize her with a gorge envelope clutch and a fab pair of heels!
Fits & Features
- Off Shoulder Fold-Over Neckline
- Back Zipper Closure
- Fitted Long Sleeves
- Midi Length Hemline | Fitted Skirt
- Center Back Slit
- Crepe Fabric | Fully Lined
- Form Hugging Fit | Plenty Of Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0398
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $31.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Tanna Formal Lattice Glitter Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the sparkle in our stunning Tanna gown! She sparkles from all your best angles and showcases curves with her mermaid silhouette!
Fit & Features
- Plunging Scoop Neckline
- Padded Cups | Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Lattice Straps
- Lined Woven Glitter Fabric
- Mermaid Silhouette
- Form Hugging Fit | Minimal Stretch
- Lower Back Zipper Closure | Hook and Eye Fasten
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0899
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Gisella Brocade High Neck Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Step out looking regal and elegant in our stunning Gisella! Crafted from a textured brocade fabric, she features metallic threading that sparkles at every viewpoint. Her full ball gown will make you want to dance the night away. Dress to impress by pairing her with cascading rhinestones earrings for extra shine!
Fits & Features
- High Neckline
- Sleeveless Bodice I Banded At The Waist
- Back Zipper WIth Hook & Eye Closure
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Hemline I Petticoat I Ball Gown Silhouette
- Brocade Fabric With Metallic Threading Detail Throughout
- Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0101
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $169.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Tyler Crepe Lattice Back Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Saunter in looking polished and chic in our gorgeous Tyler! Her plunging V neckline falls into a slim-fitting bodice, finishing off with an elegant floor-length hem. At the back, a chic crossed design trickles into a lace-up lattice adding some edge and sultriness to her overall vibe. Take your ensemble to the max by adding on a shimmering envelope clutch and some earrings to match!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Cross Back I Lace Up Lattice Design
- Back Zipper Closure
- Plunging V Neckline With Princess Seams
- Sweeping, Floor-Length Hem
- Crepe Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit
Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size 3.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0894
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $31.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Evangeline Crepe One Shoulder Dress
Go for drama in our fab Evangeline. Her one-shoulder long sleeve and thigh-high slit add a modern and sophisticated touch. Slip right into her sleek and form-hugging silhouette that'll contour and celebrate your every curve. Complete look with a rhinestone clutch.
Fits & Features
- One-shoulder neckline, fitted long sleeve
- Wired V-neckline
- Back zipper closure
- Floor-length hemline, high side slit
- Lined crepe fabric
- Form hugging fit, moderate stretch, runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0892
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
- One-shoulder neckline, fitted long sleeve
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Susana Asymmetric Off-Shoulder Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
The stunning Susana formal dress will have you radiating elegance! Susana's trendy asymmetric neckline adds a chic touch to her streamlined silhouette. Her wrap skirt reveals a flattering slit that lets you showcase your stylish heels. Make sure you bring a fab clutch to elevate your look.
Fit & Features
- Asymmetric off-shoulder slanted neckline, single shoulder strap
- High waist, floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Wrap skirt reveals front slit
- Crepe fabric, knit lining, moderate stretch
- Form-hugging fit
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-1726
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Jessica Brocade Floral Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Enchant them all in an evening made for glamour in our dreamy Jessica ball gown! Pair Jessica with sparkling heels and a rhinestone clutch to create an unforgettable look!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline | Padded Cups
- Adjustable Cross-Back Spaghetti Straps
- Brocade Floral Print
- Side Pockets | Pleats
- Ball Gown Silhouette | Petticoat
- Lined Rich Woven Fabric
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0102
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $139.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Parker Formal Metallic Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the shine to your special evening in our shimmering Parker dress! She features a sleeveless faux wrap V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, and a floor-length wrap silhouette with a high slit. Parker is composed of a metallic knit fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with glitter heels and a dainty rhinestone bracelet.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless faux wrap V-neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Floor-length silhouette
- High slit
- Metallic knit fabric, fully lined
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0884
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Elle Glitter Off The Shoulder Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the glow in our Elle dress that shimmers under the spotlight for your next evening out. She features an off the shoulder neckline with a fold-over accent at the bodice, a shimmering glitter fabric throughout and a wrap silhouette with a high side slit. Complete your formal outfit with a dainty bracelet and strappy block heels.
Fit & Features
- Off the shoulder neckline
- Fold over accent at the bodice
- Glitter knit fabric
- Floor-length wrap silhouette
- High side slit
- Form hugging fit
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0885
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Mila High Slit Ruched Dress
Special Occasion
Show off a hint of leg in our sultry Mila dress! She features a sleeveless trendy square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, ruched side seams, and a floor-length, curve-hugging silhouette with a thigh-high side slit. Style this dress with a pair of sleek stilettos and lots of shine for an A-list look!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Ruched side seams
- Floor-length, form-fitting silhouette
- High side slit
- Lined smooth knit fabric, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0880
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $46.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Willa Low Ruched Back Dress
Special Occasion
Our Willa is all about making a sleek and chic impression. Her smooth fabric embraces your curves, while her low, open back brings the flattering center ruche to attention. Walk into any room looking streamlined and elegant in our gorgeous Willa!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- V Neckline I Padded Bust
- Low, Open Back I Ruching At Center
- Floor Length Hemline I Mini Length Lining
- Smooth Tricot Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit I Plenty Of Stretch
- Zipper Not Featured
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0881
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $34.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Nadia Formal Crepe Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
Elevate your evening in our breathtaking Nadia crepe dress! Wrap yourself in her rich vibrant shade and pair her with sleek stilettos for a look that wows!
Fit & Features
- Wrap V-Neckline
- Ruched Bodice
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Lined Crepe Fabric
- Asymmetrical High Slit
- Form Hugging Fit
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0879
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Vanessa Formal Crepe Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Keep it classically chic in our elegant Vanessa midi dress! Her off the shoulder neckline is perfect for pairing with a statement necklace and midi length showcases glowing gams!
Fit & Features
- Off The Shoulder Neckline
- Wrap Sweetheart Bust
- Princess Seams
- Midi Length Silhouette | Wrap Style
- Lined Crepe Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0397
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $39.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kenia Ombre Sequin Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
Glam up your evening look with our gorge Kenia! Her front slit will let you show off your fab heels!
Fits & Features
- Plunging Surplice V Neckline
- Long Fitted Sleeves
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Maxi Length I Wrap Style Skirt I Front Slit
- Mesh Lined Sequin Fabric
- Bodysuit Lining Included With Snap Button Closure & Full Coverage
- 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: 05002-0877
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $46.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Vivica Scroll Glitter Dress
Special Occasion
Spiraling patterns with sparkling glitter embellishments wrap around our form-hugging Vivica. A plunging V neckline showcases a barely-there mesh inset for subtle coverage. Go for a glamorous vibe by accessorizing her with a rhinestone clutch and earrings!
Fits & Features
- Spaghetti Straps
- Plunging V Neckline With Mesh Inset
- V Back With Zip Closure
- Floor Length Hem
- Mesh Lined Fabric With Glitter Scroll Pattern
- Form Hugging Fit I Plenty Of Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0876
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Luna Satin Floral A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
A stunning arrangement of florals are pictured throughout our beautiful Luna! The sweeping floor-length skirt opens up to a flirty front slit, letting you show off your favorite heels. We suggest pairing her with some rhinestone earrings for an added sparkle!
Fits & Features
- Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
- Scoop Neckline I Padded Bust
- Back Zipper WIth Hook & Eye Closure I Partial Boning At Back
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Hemline I Wrap Skirt Design Reveals Slit
- Lightweight Satin-Like Fabric I Fully Lined
- Relax Fit I Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0043
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $239.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Carissa Formal Metallic Wrap Dress
Special Occasion
Shine under the spotlight in our glowing Carissa metallic dress! She brings the glamour with her dramatic wrap silhouette for making a twirl-worthy entrance! Pair her with chrome heels for the ultimate shine!
Fit & Features
- Wrap V-Neckline
- Padded Cups | Spaghetti Straps
- Ruched Overlapping Accent
- High Asymmetrical Slit | Wrap Silhouette
- Lined Metallic Knit Fabric
- Wide Banded Hem
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0044
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $259.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Mishka Pleated Ombre Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the charm with our enchanting Miska ombre dress! She dazzles under the spotlight as you make a head-turning entrance! Pair with minimal heels to let her shine!
Fit & Features
- V-Neckline
- Spaghetti Straps | Padded Cups
- Ombre Pleated Silhouette
- Mini Glitter Accents
- Lined Mesh and Smooth Knit Fabric
- Relaxed Fit
- Slight Stretch
Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size two
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0042
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $229.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Ramona Rhinestone Cross Back Crepe Dress
Special Occasion
At first glance, our Ramona showcases a streamline and lovely silhouette. Her floor-length hem features a sultry front slit, letting you show off those heels. But on the back, sparkling and glowing rhinestones add a glamorous factor to the look. We picture you wearing our Ramona with soft curls and twinkling jewelry to match!
Fits & Features
- Rhinestone Encrusted Shoulder Straps | Cross Back | Dual Bar Accents
- Cowl Back
- Scoop Neckline
- Floor Length Hem | Front Slit
- Crepe Lined Fabric
- Form Hugging Fit | Moderate Stretch
- Side Zipper
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0875
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $199.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Imogen Metallic A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the glamour in our A-List worthy Imogen dress! Her intricate metallic floral embroidery is adorned with sparkling heat stones! Pair her with statement stilettos for a luxe look!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline | Mesh Inset
- Padded Cups
- Spaghetti Straps | Fish Hook Closure At Back
- Lattice Back
- Embroidered Floral | Heat Stones
- Lined Chiffon A-Line Silhouette | High Slit
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0040
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $239.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Calle Formal Ombre Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
Impress from the moment you step into the room in our one of a kind Calle ombre dress! Her ombre sequins bring a unique glow with each step! Pair her with jewel tone accents for a vibrant pop!
Fit & Features
- High Round Neckline | Racer Bust
- Padded Cups
- Ombre Sequins
- Mermaid Silhouette
- Lined Mesh Fabric
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
- Hidden Back Zipper Closure
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0041
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $279.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Janella Cross Back Pleated Ombre Dress
Special Occasion
Go for drama and stop traffic in our gorgeous Janella! Her unique ombre skirt is perfectly paired with accordion pleats to let you move around with ease! Style her up with some rhinestone duster earrings and a sparkly cuff!
Fits & Features
- Shoulder Straps That Cross At The Back
- Plunging V Neckline I Padded Bust I Boning At The Sides
- Contrast Piping At The Textured Mesh Lined Bodice
- Floor Length Hemline I Ombre-Hued Design I Accordion Pleating
- Smooth Woven Fabric Skirt I Pretty Metallic Sheen
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size 2.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05005-0039
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $239.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale