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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Mabel Velvet Gown
Special Occasion
Introducing our stunning Mabel gown! She features a v neckline, spaghetti straps that are adjustable and lead to a low back as well as a zipper closure. Her bodice is fitted and features inset mesh details. Her hem is long and almost floor length and she is composed of a velvet like material that offers moderate stretch and a form fit.
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 35.5" hips. She is wearing a size three.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0088
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $25.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Madonna Satin Evening Gown
Special Occasion
Introducing our Madonna Gown! She is designed with a pleated straight neckline with a drape overlay, off the shoulder sleeves, and a fitted bodice. Her cups are padded, and she features a vertical princess seam that creates a flattering fit. Slanted vertical seams at the waist line create a form fitting silhouette, and her hem is floor length, and features a side slit design that hits high thigh. She is composed of a satin like material that offers moderate stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0141
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $26.97 $72.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Celeste Deep V Sequined Dress
Special Occasion
Make a sultry statement when you say it with sequins in our Celeste dress! She features all-over sequin embellishment, long sleeves, a bodice with deep Vs at front and rear, a back zip, hook-and-eye closure, and a midi-length, wrap-style skirt. Celeste is fully lined and made from a poly material 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: 05001-4062
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $22.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Marisa Metallic Shimmer Party Dress
Special Occasion
Lend your going-out look a little sparkle when you don our dazzling Marisa dress! She features all-over glitter embellishment, a deep V front and back linked by short skinny straps, a seamed bodice with lightly padded bust, a back zip atop an A-line, inverted-pleat skirt with pockets at either hip. Skirt has a tulle-trimmed petticoat-style underlay for added volume. Marisa is made from a woven Lurex blend that changes color in the light and offers minimal stretch.
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: 05001-0102
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $49.97 $149.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Satin Floral Print Cocktail Dress
Special OccasionSpring into satin this season, with this beautiful dress. Featuring a v neckline, spaghetti straps that are adjustable and lead back to a lace racer back that zips closed. Bodice of dress has built in cups, and a vertical stitching that compliments upper body. Bodice meets skirt at a mid banded mwaist line, and flares out into a skater style. She has pockets and I think we can all agree that pockets in dresses are the best! The back of the dress has a keyhole cut out at the lower back as well as a second zipper at the skirt. Dress is composed of a satin like material that offers no stretch, and is lined with a smooth inner material and includes a tulle skirt underneath for a little extra fluff!
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: 05001-0149
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Gemma Strapless Bow Party Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the elegance and charm in our classically lovely Gemma dress! She features a strapless sweetheart neckline, padded cups, vertical princess seams, built in boning for support and unlined mesh panels on the side with a triple-row bow accent. Her slim fit bodice leads to a flared party length silhouette with a double tiered hem and hidden side pockets. Dress is composed of a combination smooth knit fabric and satin-like fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a slight stretch. Includes a hidden back zipper closure with fish and hook clasp closure and voluminous petticoat.
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: 05001-0111
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $139.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Florence Heat Stone Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Show some class in our Florence! She has a v neckline, tank straps, and a form fit. Her hem hits below the knee and has a small slit at the side. She is composed of a knit material with a mesh overlay that is adorned with reflective heat stones. She offers moderate stretch, and a full lining. Pair with your favoirte black heels to complete the look!
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: 05001-4121
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $24.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Isn't She Lovely Lace Dress
You're too lovely! This lace dress is ready for your next special occasion. This dress features an off-the-shoulder neckline of scalloped lace. Leading down to a ribbon bow waist, this allover lace dress is fully lined and topped with a exposed back zipper closure. Lining and lace both offer moderate amounts of stretch. Bow ribbon waist is detachable with belt loops.
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: 05001-0194
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Karine Satin Party Dress
Special Occasion
Karine is the life of the party! She features a straight neckline and spaghetti straps. Her bodice is a racer design and she has an open lower back cut out with a zipper closure located upper back. Her skirt has a flow to it and is fully lined and includes pockets! She is composed of a satin like material that offers moderate stretch!
Model is 5'8.5" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size 3.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0120
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Sophie Formal Floral Party Dress
Special OccasionBring the charm in the gorgeous Sophie dress to make an impression! She features a sleeveless bodice, a V neckline, padded cups, vertical princess seams to complement curves, adjustable spaghetti straps and a lace up back to easily adjust. Her slim fit bodice leads to a flared party length skirt with hidden side pockets. Her all all over floral print is all you need to radiate an enchanting look. Dress includes a petticoat and back zipper closure with a hook and eye closure. Dress is composed of a lined textured satin fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a minimal 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: 05001-0085
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Maria Satin Lace Up Dress
Special Occasion
Twirl the night away in our stunningly beautiful Maria dress! She features a sleeveless bodice, adjustable spaghetti straps that lead to a cross back, a square neckline with padded cups and flattering vertical seams running down the bust, and a high waist seam. Her open back has an intricate lace up design with a tie closure and a lower back zipper and hook and eye closure. Her skater skirt has hidden side pockets and a flowy fit that gives off all the flirty vibes. The dress is composed of a satin-like fabric with a full lining and showcases a pretty all over foiled floral print.
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: 05001-0160
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $25.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Winona Heat Stone Off Shoulder Dress
Special Occasion
Show up to your holiday soirees capturing all the attention in our beautiful Winona! She features an off-the-shoulder neckline, fitted long sleeves, heat stones throughout, and a mini-length silhouette. The dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels and a tennis bracelet.
Fits & Features
- Off-shoulder neckline
- Unlined, fitted long sleeves
- Mini length silhouette
- Heat stones
- Lined mesh fabric
- Form hugging fit, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1146
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
- Off-shoulder neckline
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Emme Satin Party Dress
Twirl the night away in the flirty Emme satin party dress! She features a sleeveless V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customized fit, a high waist, cute side pockets, and a short skater skirt with a fit and flare silhouette. Complete your look with rhinestone statement earrings and strappy heels.Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0334
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Gladys Sequin Scroll Party Dress
Special Occasion
Glam and undeniably eye catching, our Gladys dress is perfect for your next party! She features sequin embellishment atop a mesh overlay, adjustable spaghetti straps, a plunging V bodice with back zip, and a swing-y A-line mini skirt. Gladys is fully lined and made from a woven material with minimal stretch.
Model is 5’8” with a 32” bust, 25 waist, and 35” hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0118
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Tarryn Bring the Sparkle Heat Stone Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the sparkle to light up the night in this dazzling midi dress! It features a sleeveless bodice, a plunging sweetheart neckline with a built in no slip strip, molded padded cups with underwire for support and a double row of spaghetti straps. The slim fit bodice leads to a curve hugging midi length silhouette. Dress is composed of a sheer mesh fabric embellished with heat stones throughout. Includes a bodysuit-like contrast bottom lining and a back zipper closure. Garment offers a curve hugging fit with a 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: 05001-0154
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Linda One Shoulder Two Piece Dress
Special Occasion
Make major bold moves in our alluring Linda one shoulder two piece dress! She features a top with a one shoulder neckline with a dramatic floor length sleeve with a high slit, vertical seam detailing down the bust, and a fitted skirt with an elastic banded waist that flows beautifully down. The two piece dress is composed of a knit fabric that offers plenty of stretch.
Ribbon strands attach top to bottom. Please cut and remove these before wearing set.
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: 05006-0004
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $56.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Raven Cap Sleeve Evening Gown
Special Occasion
Create a magical evening in our Raven gown! She has a deep v neckline, short cap sleeves, and flattering seams throughout. She has a floor sweeping hemline and a high slit detail at one side. She is composed of a thick scuba material that offers significant stretch, and a form fit. Zipper closure located center back.
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: 05002-6734
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Zoya Sequin Formal Dress
Special Ocassion
Turn heads in our special Zoya formal dress. She is composed of a knit fabric with moderate stretch and is adorned in sequins! She is a wrap dress that features a v neckline, a sleeveless bodice and a high slit at the leg. Her hem almost hits floor length, and her back line is a low U shape with a zipper closure. Catch the light in this dazzling piece and dance the night away!
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 35.5" hips. She is wearing a size 5.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-6644
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $32.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Anita Beaded Tulle A-Line Dress
You might wear blue like Cinderella, but you don't need to be rescued! Introducing the Anita dress - a strapless, elegant piece with a beaded bodice with gorgeous embroidery and a padded chest. Including a layered skirt that's fully lined, this beautiful gown is topped with a back zipper closure. She's composed of a chiffon and tulle fabric with no stretch.
Model is 5'8" 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: 05002-6739
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $30.97 $84.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Verena Formal Gown
Special Occasion
Showcase sheer elegance in our Verena! She has a deep V neckline, back zipper closure, long lace sleeves with sequin detailing, and a form fitting silhouette. Her skirt meets high waist with a horizontal seam and leads down to mermaid style hem.The back of her hem sweeps the floor with a lace detailing. She is composed of a crepe material that offers a moderate stretch.
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 35.5" hips. She is wearing a size 5.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0024
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $31.97 $74.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Karina Rhinestone Trim Formal Dress
Special Occasion
You'll know how to make an entrance in our gorgeous Karina formal dress. She features a sleeveless bodice, tank-like shoulder straps that lead to a detailed strappy back, a V neckline with a dual rhinestone trim accent, padded cups, a high waist seam, and a fitted mermaid length silhouette with a ruffle detail back. Dress is composed of a crepe fabric, offering a curve hugging fit with 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: 05002-0072
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $32.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Aella Formal Sequin Long Dress
Special Occasion
Create a moment that makes you feel like the angel that you are! Our Aella dress features a high round neckline, fitted long sleeves and a hidden back zipper closure. Her slim fit bodice leads to an elongating floor length silhouette. She is composed a lined mesh fabric that features gleaming sequins set in a gorgeous pattern. Dress offers a form fitting silhouette with slight 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: 05002-6647
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $46.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Hallie Formal Satin Lattice Dress
Special Occasion
From the moment you enter the room, Hallie captivates with elegance and grace! She features a sleeveless bodice, a scoop neckline, padded cups, vertical princess seams and adjustable spaghetti straps that lead to a lattice back. Her slim high fit waist leads to an A-line silhouette accented with a high side slit. She is composed of a lined satin fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a minimal stretch. Includes a back zipper closure.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-0077
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Yajaira Formal Sequin Gown
Special Occasion
Set the scene with a sultry look in our Yajaira. She has a form fitting silhouette, a deep v neckline that has a mesh detail at the center, and bungee spaghetti straps. The straps cross over in the back and lead to a zipper closure at the low back. Her hem is floor length and includes a partial lining, and she is a composed of a mesh material with a sequin pattern detail that offers 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: 05002-6646
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $40.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance