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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Kara Satin Off Shoulder Formal Gown
Dance the night away in our stunning Kara dress!
Fits & Features
- Off Shoulder Straps I Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- V Trim Lattice Detail At Center Back
- Slim Bodice With Sweeping Floor Length Hem
- Thigh High Slit
- Satin Composition I Fully Lined
- Moderate Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0277
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Marian Metallic Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Be your own arm candy in our glimmering Marian! She features a v neckline, spaghetti straps that are adjustable and cross over at the back. Lower back has a keyhole cutout and a hidden zipper. Her A-line skirt meets high waist with a banded accent, and flows out to a floor length hem. She has a full lining with slits on both sides of the leg. She is composed of a pleated metallic mesh material that offers slight stretch and a lightweight flow.
Model is 5'8" with a 34" bust, 25" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0287
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $22.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Lyndsay Satin Formal Gown
Special Occasion
Have a night to remember in our Lyndsay! She is composed of a beautiful satin like material that offers so much flow that you can dance the night away while looking amazing, and without compromising your comfort. She has a v neckline, spaghetti straps that are adjustable and cross over at the back, and a wrap design bodice. She has a belt detail that is detachable, pockets, and a hidden zipper at low back. She is fully lined with a smooth fabric and offers minimal stretch.
Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24.5" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0254
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Mischa Velvet Mermaid Gown
Special Occasion
Nothing says glam like our Mischa Mermaid Gown! She of composed of a velvet like material that is sleek and sexy and offers moderate stretch. She has a fitted bodice with a v neckline, padded cups and adjustable spaghetti straps that lead to a low back line. Her floor length skirt flares towards the bottom for a mermaid design, and hugs at the waist. We love Mischa because she pairs well with a variety of heels and accessories!
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: 05002-0249
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Addie Satin Lattice Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Lace up in luxe satin as you captivate in our head turning Addie mermaid dress!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline
- Spaghetti Straps
- Lace Up Straps
- Satin
- Mermaid Silhouette
- Form Hugging Fit
- Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'9.5" with a 34" bust, 23.5" waist and 35.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0286
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Melissa Formal Metallic Party Dress
Special OccasionMake it a picture perfect moment in our Melissa dress! She features a beautiful metallic lace detailed bodice, a v-neckline, and adjustable spaghetti straps that tie in the back, her spaghetti straps meet in the back to a square back with a zipper. She has an inner lining, as well as padded cups and her chiffon skirt meets at the waist with a party length silhouette.
Model is 5'3" with a 32" bust, 22.5" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size small.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0042
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Riley Lace Floral Two Piece Dress
Make it a night to remember in our beyond gorgeous Riley two piece dress! She features a lace top with a square neck and back, long fitted sheer sleeves, and a cropped hem. Her foiled floral printed satin party skirt has a high rise waist and a woven lining with a tulle hem for added flare.
Model is 5'3" with a 32" bust, 22.5" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size three.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05006-0023
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Laylah Sequin Mermaid Gown
Special Occasion
Have the time of your life and dance the night away in our Layla! She features a v neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps that lead to a square back with a zipper closure. She features a cup stitching at the bodice and a subtle banded waist line. She has a mini skirt lining that is sewn in place which makes her easy to move around in, and a floor length mermaid hemline. She is composed of a mesh material that offers a form fitting silhouette with slight stretch, that showcases a beautifully detailed geometric and floral sequin pattern!
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: 05002-0272
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Evanna Formal Crepe Ruched Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the look that will garner a second look with our Evanna formal dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V-neckline, padded cups, vertical princess seams at the bust, and adjustable spaghetti straps. Her slim-fit bodice leads to a curve-hugging floor-length silhouette with a ruched accent and high side slit. The long dress is composed of a lined crepe fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete the look with a sphere clutch and a faux fur wrap.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline
- Padded cups, vertical princess seams
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- A-line silhouette
- Ruching, high side slit
- Lined crepe fabric
- Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0252
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $46.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Ella Formal Plunging Velvet Dress
Special Occasion
Take the plunge with our captivating Ella dress! She features a plunging sweetheart neckline with underwire, padded cups, fitted long sleeves and a slim fit bodice that leads to a sweeping mermaid silhouette. Dress is composed of velvet fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate 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: 05002-0290
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $25.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Rosaleen Glitter Gown
Special Occasion
Have a magical night in our gleaming Rosaleen gown! She has a v neckline, and tank straps that lead to a low v back with a hidden zipper closure. She has a banded waist line, and her A-line skirt flows to a floor length hem. She is fully lined with a soft knit fabric and she has a mesh overlay decorated with a chunky textured glitter throughout.
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: 05002-0278
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $32.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Elsie Formal Open Back Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
Wow them all from the moment you enter the room in our dazzling Elise dress!
Fits & Features
- Plunging Wired V Neckline
- Double Button Closure At Nape Of Neck I Open Back
- Padded Cups
- Cap Sleeves
- Floor Length Silhouette
- Lined Mesh Fabric I Scroll Pattern Sequins
- Curve Hugging Fit I Minimal Stretch
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0255
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $52.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Madeline Sequin Mesh Formal Dress
Show off your gorgeous curves in this our Madeline stunning sequin dress! She features a mock neck, a back zipper closure, a large cut out in the back followed by a zipper closure, long fitted sheer sleeves, a high waist seam, and a floor length, curve hugging fit. Dress is composed of a sheer mesh fabric, includes a short stretchy knit lining, and is adorned with sequins in an intricate striped pattern.
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: 05002-0248
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Kendall Formal High Slit Sequin Dress
Special Occasion
Sparkle in sequins as you radiate in our Kendall dress! She features a plunging wrap V neckline with subtle pleated accents, fitted long sleeves and a slim fit bodice that leads to a curve hugging floor length silhouette that is accented with a high side slit. The all over twinkling sequins are set in a timelessly glam scroll print pattern. Dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a slight 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: 05002-0284
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $45.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Jenna Metallic Goddess Maxi Dress
Show up to the function dressed like the goddess you are!
Fits & Features
- Draped Neckline
- Stretchy Shoulder Straps That Cross At The Back
- Gorgeous, Smooth Metallic Fabric
- Partially Lined
- Ample Stretch
Model is 5'7" with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0261
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $22.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Julie Heat Stone High Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Dazzle and be the center spotlight of the dance floor in our stunningly chic Julie dress! She features a high round neckline, a back zipper and hook and eye closure, long fitted sleeves, and a floor sweeping fitted length with a sultry thigh high front slit. Dress is composed of a crepe fabric, offering moderate stretch, and showcases an intricate design of iridescent multi-faceted heat stones.
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: 05002-0267
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $30.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Tulip Lace Up Evening Gown
Special Occasion
Introducing our Tulip Gown! She is designed with long sleeves, a deep v neckline, and an overlapping bodice. Skirt has a wrap design that cinches at one side of the waist, and her hemline flows to a floor length. She is composed of a crepe material that offers moderate stretch. Her back detail is the star of the show with a lace up strappy detailing.
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: 05002-0259
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $24.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Maeve Sequined V Mesh Gown
Special Occasion
Go for the glow in our simply sizzling mesh sequined Maeve gown! She features all-over patterned embellishment, adjustable spaghetti straps leading to a V back with hook-and-eye zip closure, a V-neck seamed bodice with padded bust, a high-seam waist, and a long, curve-hugging skirt. Maeve is fully lined and made from mesh and woven materials with minimal stretch.
Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0265
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $45.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Ryder Satin A-Line Gown
Special Occasion
Have a fun and adventurous night in our Ryder! She features a modest V neckline and double spaghetti straps that lead to a square back and a zipper closure. Her bodice is fitted and meets horizontal hemline mid waist. Her skirt flows out into an A-line design and features a side slit detailing that meets mid thigh. Her hem hits ankle length which makes her easy to dance and move around in! She is composed of a satin like material that offers slight stretch.
Rose: Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24.5" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Red: 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: 05002-0179
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $34.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Odessa Sequin Mesh Evening Gown
Special Occasion
Introducing our Odessa! She is elegantly designed with a v neckline, spaghetti straps that are adjustable and lead to a square back, and padded cups. She has a form fitting silhouette and is fully lined. She is composed of a mesh overlay that showcases a silver diamond sequin pattern and 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: 05002-0292
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Nori Formal Plunging Satin Dress
Special Occasion
Take the plunge in luxe satin as you wow them all in our fiery Nori dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, a plunging wired V neckline with padded cups, adjustable spaghetti straps and vertical princess seams. Her slim fit bodice features a pleated detailing and leads to a sweeping floor length silhouette. Dress offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch.
Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24.5" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size three.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0237
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Jayden Satin Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Make heads turn in our stunningly chic Jayden dress! She features an off the shoulder slight sweetheart neckline with padded cups, short sleeves, a back zipper closure and hook and eye closure, a high waist seam, and a fitted, curve hugging skirt with a floor length mermaid silhouette. Dress is composed of a stretchy satin fabric with a gorgeous sheen.
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: 05002-0175
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Avery Satin Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Introducing our Satin Avery Gown! She features a sleeveless bodice, a V neckline paired with spaghetti straps leading to a V back, and an eye catching sheer mesh inset. Her bodice features flattering princess seams throughout to provide structure. Her waist leads to a playfully pleated ball gown skirt with hidden side pockets and a wide banded hemline. She is composed of a satin fabric that offers a flowy fit with moderate stretch. Includes mini skirt knit lining and back zipper closure.
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: 05002-0195
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Alena Satin Gown
Special Occasion
Our Alena is luxury and more! She is composed of a satin like material that offers moderate stretch. She has a v neckline and cap sleeves. Her bodice meets skirt at a banded high waist. Skirt is an A-line design that catches eyes when you're walking through a room with its flow! She features a high thigh slit, and she has a large keyhole cutout at the back and a zipper closure at lower back. Pair with your go to heels for a fabulous night out.
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: 05002-0153
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance