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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Calla Two Piece Sequin Lace Satin A Line Dress
Special Occasion
Bold and romantic, our two-piece Calla features hints of sparkly sequins at her cropped lace bodice. With beautiful botanical prints flowing through her smooth satin skirt, these features are what makes Calla a charming dress.
Fits & Features
- Lace & Sequin Lined Bodice With Slightly Padded Bust
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps I V Neckline
- Crop Hemline I Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Floor Length, Satin Lined Skirt With Floral Prints
- A Line Silhouette I Front Slit
- Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
- Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'6" with a 31" bust, 26" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size 3.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05006-0050
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $139.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Lisa Marie Formal Pleated Crepe Dress
Special Occasion
Captivate and wow from the moment you walk in the room in our breathtaking Lisa Marie dress! Her neckline lets you show off your shoulders and her high slit reveals just a hint of leg!
Fit & Features
- Off The Shoulder Neckline | Spaghetti Straps
- Pleated Bodice
- Overlapping Strap Accents
- High Slit
- Mermaid Silhouette
- Lined Crepe
- Form Hugging | 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: 05002-0387
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $31.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Belinda Formal Satin Lace Up A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Enter the room in a dress that brings the splendor and glam to your evening. Belinda features a plunging v-neckline, a sexy lace-up back, a sweeping A-line silhouette, and a charming ruffled high slit. Complete your formal evening outfit with clear pumps and dazzling rhinestone earrings.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless v-neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Lattice back
- A-line silhouette
- Ruffled high slit
- Satin fabric, form-hugging fit
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0390
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $45.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Cecile Sequin Formal Gown
Special Occasion
You shine like a beauty queen when you wear sequins doll! Introducing our Cecile, she is designed with a v neckline, long sleeves, and a form fitting bodice that flares at the floor sweeping hem. She is fully lined and has a zipper at the back. She is composed of a mesh material that offers slight stretch. Her best feature is a beautiful scroll sequin design all over that reflects a beautiful red.
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: 05002-0310
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $37.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Rosalind Mini Party Dress
Special Occasion
Represent in our Rosalind! She features an off shoulder neckline, long sleeves and a short hem that hits mid thigh. She showcases a dazzling heat stone pattern that is here to shine! Rosalind offers slight stretch with a form fitting silhouette.
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: 05001-0205
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $31.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Hayden Fancy Floral Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Show some romantic flair in our lovely Hayden! Her voluminous ball gown and beautiful floral prints will make you the center of attention!
Fits & Features
- Adjustable Shoulder Straps
- Wire V Neckline I Lightly Padded Bust
- Square Back With Zipper & Hook And Eye Closure
- Hidden Hand Pockets
- Floor Length Hem I Ball Gown Silhouette I Petticoat
- Woven Lined Fabric I Floral Prints Throughout
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0012
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $139.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Brielle Formal Floral Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the charm in radiating florals as you create a twirl-worthy moment in our Brielle satin dress!
Fit & Features
- Plunging Wrap V-Neckline
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- Tie-Waist Belt
- Floral Print
- Hidden Side Pockets | High Side Slit
- Lined Satin Fabric
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 26" waist and 38" hips. She is wearing a size 3.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0432
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $45.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Raegan Formal Sequin Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the glitz and shine in our dazzling Raegan dress! She features a plunging V neckline, vertical princess seams along the bust, a double row of spaghetti straps, padded cups and a partially open back. Her slim fit bodice leads to a curve hugging midi length silhouette. She is composed of a lined mesh fabric adorned with sparkling sequins throughout. Dress offers a curve hugging fit with a minimal 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: 05001-0216
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Lilith Off-Shoulder Sequin Evening Gown
Special Occasion
Shine above the rest in our Lilith sequin gown! She features an off shoulder bardot neckline, padded cups, a built in no slip strip, short sleeves, and a form fit. Her bodice leads to a horizontal hem line high waist and leads into a fitted skirt that flares to a floor sweeping hem. She is composed of a knit material with a beautiful sequin overlay with a geometric shaped pattern all over.
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: 05002-0313
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Almira Satin Wrap Evening Gown
Special Occasion
Command the room when you walk in wearing the stunning Almira satin evening gown! She is an eye-catching piece that will have all heads turning your way babe!
Fit & Features
- Fold over V-neckline | Padded cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Cinched wrap waistline
- Floor sweeping hemline
- Dramatic slit detail | Unlined
- Satin material | Moderate stretch
- Hidden zipper center back + Hook and eye
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0391
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $27.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Rosanna Crepe A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Make it a night to remember in our classically elegant Rosanna!
Fits & Features
- Dual Spaghetti Straps Lead To Lace-Up Back
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Surplice, Padded V Neckline
- Slant Hand Pockets I Floor Length, A-Line Skirt With Front Slit
- Crepe Fabric I Fully Lined
- 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: 05002-0386
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Winona Heat Stone Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Take yourself out in our Winona mini dress! She is designed with a mock neckline, long sleeves, and beautifully designed heat stone embellishments. Her bodice is sheer where the stones show a scalloped deep v design and leads into a lined mini skirt. Her arms and upper back are sheer as well, and she has a zipper closure that leads from lower back to neck. She is composed of a mesh material that offers moderate stretch and from fitting silhouette.
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: 05001-0206
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Alexa Velvet Wrap Dress
Get wrapped up in the heat of the moment! Our short and classy Alexa dress is perfect for your homecoming night with a wrap-like body, a daring V-neckline, and long sleeves. She has a wide waistband that accentuates your curves and a mini-length skirt. Alexa is composed of a soft velvet knit that offers a moderate stretch and has a vertical stripe pattern created by dazzling heat stones. She includes a back zipper closure. Complete look with rhinestone heels.
Fit & Features
- Wrap V-neckline
- Long sleeves
- Empire waist
- Mini-length, wrap hem
- Heat stones
- Lined velvet fabric, form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0213
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Cami Formal Heat Stone Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Create a magical evening in our shimmering Cami dress! Her heat stones twinkle from all your best angles!
Fits & Features
- Round Neckline
- Fitted Unlined Long Sleeves
- Heat Stones | Diamond Pattern
- Mesh
- Fully Lining
- Back Zipper | Hook and Eye Closure
- Form Fit | Moderate 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: 05001-0207
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $27.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Yesenia Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Look like a straight boss in a midi with all the right features! Our Yesenia features a crew neckline, long sleeves, and a midi length that hits over the knee. She as a cut out detail at the back and is composed of a crepe material that offers a form fit with slight stretch.
Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0220
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Jocelyn Damask Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
Capture all of the attention and lights in our stunning sequined Jocelyn!
Fits & Features
- Dual Spaghetti Straps | Lace Up At The Back
- Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
- Plunging V Neckline With Padded Bust
- Mini Length Silhouette
- Mesh Lined Damask Pattern Sequin Fabric
- 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: 05001-0176
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $38.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Uma Heat-Stone Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Slay today and everyday after! Our Uma midi dress features a form fitting silhouette, a v neckline, and spaghetti straps that lead to a square back. She is composed of a knit material with a mesh overlay adorned in heat stones, and has a side slit detail. Mesh material offers 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: 05001-0196
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Allesia Velvet Evening Gown
Special Occasion
Ring in your special day with a sleek and sexy look. Pair with your favorite statement earrings for a stunning look.
Fits & Features
- V Neckline
- Tank Straps Lead To Low Back With Bar Detail
- Floor Length Hemline With Slight Fare
- Velvet Fabric I Fully Lined
- 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: 05002-0306
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Arya Formal Embroidered Tulle Dress
Special Occasion
Make a captivating impression in our glowing Arya dress! She features a sleeveless metallic embroidered bodice, a plunging V- neckline and adjustable cross-straps. Her slim fit bodice leads to a sweeping floor length A-line silhouette. Dress is composed of a lined tulle fabric that offers a relaxed fit with a minimal stretch. Includes a lower back zipper closure.
Model is 5'6.5" with a 32" bust, 23.5" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0296
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $46.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Monique Formal Satin A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the luxe as you draw all eyes on you in our daring Monique satin dress! She captivates with a bold lace up back and glam satin!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline | Padded Cups
- Double Row Spaghetti Straps
- Lace Up Back
- High Slit
- Mini Skirt Lining
- Lined Satin
- Form Hugging Fit | Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0388
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $31.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Trisha Formal Sequin Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the charm in our captivating Trisha dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V neckline, an unlined waistband and a curve hugging midi length silhouette. The all over filigree design is composed of twinkling sequins. Dress is composed of a semi-sheer mesh fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a minimal stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.
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: 05001-0218
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $56.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Gal Lace Up Back Chiffon Floral A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Glide along effortlessly in our beautiful Gal! Perfect for the springtime wedding guest, she's crafted from airy chiffon with beautiful rose print throughout. Features like her thigh-high slit let you show off your heels and dance throughout the night without any constrictions. Pair her with a crossbody clutch for a chic (and practical) touch!
Fits & Features
- Buttoned Halter Straps
- Cross & Laces Up At The Back I Elastic Back Waistband
- Plunging V Neckline I Padded Bust
- Floor Length Hemline I A-Line Silhouette
- Front Slit
- Fully Lined Chiffon Fabric I Floral Print
- Form 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: 05002-0430
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $31.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Raegan Formal Sequin Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the glitz and shine in our dazzling Raegan dress!
Fits & Features
- Plunging V Neckline
- Vertical Princess Seams Along The Bust I Padded Cups
- Double Row Spaghetti Straps
- Partially Open Back
- Curve-Hugging Fit I Minimal Stretch
- Midi Length Silhouette
- Lined Mesh Fabric Adorned With Sparkling Sequins Throughout
Burgundy: Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24.5" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Gold: 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: 05001-0212
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $21.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Perrie Sequin Open Back Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Sparkle like the diva you are in our glam Perrie dress! She features a mock neck with a double row button closure at the nape of the neck, long fitted sleeves and a sexy open back. Her slim fit bodice leads to a midi length silhouette with a center high slit at the back. Dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric adorned with sequins throughout. Perrie 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: 05001-0197
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $21.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance