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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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.
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Cyra Metallic Deep V High Slit Dress
Special Occasion
Slipping right into our lovely Cyra will make you a magnet for attention! Sleek and chic, her pretty sheen and fitted silhouette lovingly wrap around your curves. Do the most and pair her up with some rhinestone stilettos!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Plunging V Neckline With Wire Trim I Padded Bust I Scoop Back
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Sweeping Floor-Length Hemline I Thigh-High Slit
- Metallic Knit Fabric I Fully Lined I Pretty Sheen Finish
- Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0869
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Clarissa Glitter Crepe Ruffle Off The Shoulder Dress
Special Occasion
Showcase major glamour in our stunning Clarissa dress! She features a flattering ruffled off the shoulder neckline, a curve-hugging fit, and a sultry thigh-high slit. The glitter crepe fabric makes for an overall gorgeous look. Pair this formal dress with shimmering rhinestone duster earrings for the next time you want to get all dressed up!
Fit & Features
- Ruffled off the shoulder neckline
- Floor-length, form-hugging fit
- Thigh-high slit
- Glitter crepe fabric
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0873
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Plus Alani Sequin Scroll Dress
Special OccasionGlow from within as you dazzle in our charming Alani silver dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a V neckline and adjustable narrow straps. Her relaxed fit bodice leads to a curve flattering mermaid silhouette. She is composed of a lined mesh fabric that is adorned with sparkling sequins. Dress offers a moderate stretch and includes a back zipper closure.
Model is 5'8" with a 42" bust, 35" waist and 45" hips. She is wearing a 1XSpecial Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 15002-0134
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Eloise Cowl Neck Cross Back A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Make your night one to remember in our sleek and chic Eloise! A trendy cowl neck drapes along the front, trailing right into a floor-length skirt and revealing a flirty slit. You'll be happy to find out that she features hidden hand pockets, perfect for storing your essentials.
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps That Cross At The Back
- Cowl Neckline
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Hemline I Front Slit
- Satin-Like Fabric I Fully Lined
- Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0870
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Zara Scallop V High Low Dress
Special Occasion
Steal the show in our lovely Zara! Her high low hem adds a flirty little touch!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Scallop Trim V Neckline I Padded Bust
- Elastic Square Back With Zipper & Hook And Eye Closure
- High Low Hemline
- Crepe Fabric
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0868
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $72.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Corinne Glitter Tulle A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Give your formal look a whimsical, flirty vibe in our beautiful Corrine dress! She features adjustable spaghetti straps that lead to a cross-back design, a plunging V neckline with a high waist, and a floor-length A-line skirt. Her sheer ivory tulle fabric has allover glitter detailing and includes a nude stretchy knit lining. Pair this dress with a glimmering rhinestone cuff for a gorgeous look for your special occasion.
Fit & Features
- Adjustable spaghetti straps that lead to a cross-back design
- Deep V neckline with a high waist
- Back zipper and hook and eye closure
- Flowy floor-length A-line skirt
- Sheer ivory tulle fabric with allover glitter
- Nude stretchy knit lining
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0866
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $52.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Olivia Eyelash Lace Tulle Party Dress
Special Occasion
The Olivia party dress would be the perfect option for your upcoming bridal shower, rehearsal, or engagement party! She features a sleeveless bodice, spaghetti straps that lead to a sheer eyelash lace back with a lower cut out, and an eyelash lace front with a V neckline and a nude lining. Her high waist flows out to a sheer tulle tea-length skirt with a knit lining for an effortlessly pretty look. Pair this dress with rhinestone duster earrings and a dainty rhinestone bracelet.
Fit & Features
- Spaghetti straps
- Sheer eyelash lace back
- Lower back cut out
- Eyelash lace front with a nude lining
- V neckline
- Side zipper and hook and eye closure
- High waist leading to a sheer tulle tea-length skirt
- Knit lining
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0393
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $72.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Amara Formal High Slit Ruched Dress
Special Occasion
Make a mesmerizing impression in a dress that commands attention. Amara features a plunging off the shoulder neckline with a sweetheart bust, off the shoulder strap accents, a ruched silhouette, and a high center slit. Complete your formal evening outfit with dazzling rhinestone earrings.
Fit & Features
- Off the shoulder neckline with a sweetheart bust
- Off the shoulder strap accents
- Ruched silhouette
- High center slit
- Crepe fabric
- Form hugging fit
- Moderate stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0864
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Aime Glitter A-Line Gown
Special Occasion
Have a princess moment when you glide out in our gorgeous floor-sweeping Aime gown! She was designed with eye-catching features that are not only flattering on all body types a tone that is flattering on all skin tones as well!
Fit & Features
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Modest v-neckline | Padded cups
- Flattering princess seams | Fitted bodice
- High waist A-line skirt | Pockets| Mini skirt lining
- Floor sweeping weighted hemline
- Lined, nontransferable glitter woven fabric
- Criss-cross back | Lower back zipper | Minimal stretch
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 35.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0323
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $63.97 $149.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Clara Sequin Off Shoulder Dress
Special Occasion
Be the belle of the ball in our dazzling Clara!
Fits & Features
- Off Shoulder Design
- Plunging V Neckline With Interior No-Slip Strip & Padded Bust
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Slim Fit Bodice Trails To Floor-Length Silhouette
- Mesh Lined Fabric With Scroll Pattern Sequins
- Curve Hugging Fit I 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: 05002-0476
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Velvet Vibe Mini Dress
Issa vibe
Up your look with a pair of eye-catching rhinestone heels! Fits & Features
- Spaghetti Straps
- Deep V Neckline With Wire Trim I Vertical Darts At The Bust
- Sweetheart Back
- Mini Length Silhouette
- Smooth Velvet Fabric
- Curve Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
- Zipper Not Included
Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0736
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $36.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Juliette Velvet Heat Stone Dress
Special Occasion
Dress to impress with our glamorous Juliette!
Fits & Features
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Surplice V Neckline
- Fitted Long Sleeves
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Slim Fit Bodice I Wrap, Floor-Length Skirt
- Smooth Velvet Fabric I Heat Stones Embellishments
- Curve Hugging Fit I 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: 05002-0337
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Surplice V Neckline
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It Girl Cowl Neck Midi Dress
This dress is made for an "it" girl like yourself!
Fits & Features
- Narrow Shoulder Straps That Cross At The Back
- Cowl Neckline
- Midi Length Silhouette
- Smooth Jersey Knit I Lined
- Curve Hugging Fit I Bodycon Fit
- Zipper Not Included
Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0411
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $34.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Hot Glam Sequin Mini Dress
Hot damn girl! Look party-perfect in this sexy mini dress!
Fits & Features
- Off Shoulder Neckline I Mesh Knit Sequin Overlay
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Mini Length Silhouette
- Mesh Lined Sequin Fabric
- Form-Hugging Fit
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 25" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0283
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $27.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Alex Pleated Satin Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Bring the elegance in stunning satin as you make a breath-taking entrance in our Alex ball gown!
Fit & Features
- V-Neckline | Spaghetti Straps
- Princess Seams
- Pleated Detailing |Side Pockets
- Satin Fabric | Petticoat
- Ball Gown Silhouette
- Relaxed Fit
- Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0100
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $179.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Zinnia Iridescent Sequin Deep V Dress
Special Occasion
Sparkling iridescent sequins and a figure-hugging fit make our Zinnia a glamorous choice for your special soiree! The plunging V neckline and U scoop back add an elongated touch to the whole look. Emphasize all that shine with some gorge duster earrings!
Fits & Features
- Wide Shoulder Straps
- Plunging Deep V I U-Back
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Hemline
- Mesh Lined Fabric With Scroll Pattern Iridescent Sequins
- Curve Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 36.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0854
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $134.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Nora Lattice Back Crepe Dress
Special Occasion
Make them glance again and again in our beautiful Nora!
Fits & Features
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Adjustable Spaghetti Straps With Lattice Detailing At Back
- Plunging V Neckline I Padded Bust I Princess Seaming Details
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Thigh High Slit I Floor-Length Hemline
- Lined, Crepe Fabric
- Form-Flattering Fit I Moderate Stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0847
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Adjustable Spaghetti Straps With Lattice Detailing At Back
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Klarissa Front Slit Velvet Halter Dress
Special Occasion
Everyone will take notice. Elevate your look with our daring and sultry Carrie!
Fits & Features
- Draped Halter With Dual Button Closure
- V Neckline
- Drawstring Ruching At Center Front With High Slit
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure At Back
- Floor Length Skirt With Sweeping Train At Back
- Smooth Velvet Composition I Fully Lined I Metallic Sheen
- Curve Hugging Fit I Ample Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0853
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $25.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Beverly Sleeveless Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
All eyes will be on you in our gorge Beverly dress! No matter the angle, you'll sparkle and shine.
Fits & Features
- Tank-Inspired, Sleeveless Bodice
- Plunging V Neckline With Mesh Inset At Center I V Back
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length Silhouette With Mini Length Lining
- Mesh Lined Fabric With Geometric Sequins Patterns
- Curve Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0851
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Party Animal Leopard Midi Dress
Party's here. Stand out and get spotted in this purrrrr-fect dress!
Fits & Features
- Narrow Spaghetti Straps
- Plunging V Neckline I Empire Waist
- Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Midi Length Silhouette I Small Slit At Center Back
- Faux Suede-Like Knit Fabric I Fully Lined
- Form Flattering Fit I Moderate Stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0705
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $16.97 $42.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Kylynda Formal Asymmetrical Rhinestone Dress
Special Occasion
Rhine and shine in our glam Kylynda dress! She brings the wow factor with bold cut outs and sparkling rhinestones to adorn her high slit.
Fit & Features
- V-Neckline
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Waist Cut Outs
- Asymmetrical High Slit
- Fringe Rhinestones
- Lined Crepe
- Form Hugging Fit | Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 35.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0845
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $33.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Aria Formal Satin Ruched Dress
Special OccasionMake your night one to remember in our mesmerizing Aria dress! She features an all over a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V neckline, padded cups and princess seams. Her narrow straps lead to a trendy open back that leads to a ruched lower back detail. Her slim fit bodice leads to an elongating floor length silhouette. Aria is composed of a stretchy satin fabric that offers a form hugging fit with 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: 05002-6133
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $22.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Elaine Fine Dine Midi Dress
Special OccasionIt's an elegant night out! This perfect midi dress features a racer front with double halter and shoulder straps, a form hugging bodycon fit and a midi length. Dress includes a hidden back zipper closure. Elaine is composed of a lined crepe fabric that offers a from hugging fit with slight stretch. Includes an additional mini skirt length knit lining.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-4028
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $36.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Deleah Formal Sleeveless Pearl Dress
Special Occasion
Sparkle like the queen you are in out dazzling Deleah dress! Her pearls and heat stones give her a glowing touch!
Fit & Features
- High Round Neckline | Racer Bust
- Pearls
- Heat Stones
- Lined Mesh
- Floor Length Silhouette
- Form Hugging Fit | Moderate 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: 05002-0376
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance