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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Simone Satin Halter Slit Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sculpted for the spotlight, the Simone formal dress is your RSVP-ready answer to sleek allure. Designed in luxe satin with a halter high neckline and form-hugging fit, this midi silhouette is finished with a sultry side slit built for dramatic entrances.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric
- High halter neckline
- Side slit
- Form-hugging fit
- Midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, cocktail soirees, date nights, anniversaries, formal celebration parties, black tie galas
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000355
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kayley Off-The-Shoulder Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Effortless allure meets sculptural elegance on the Kayley formal midi dress, designed with a striking one-shoulder neckline and a twist-front bust that draws the eye. The sleek front slit adds just enough edge for your next RSVP-worthy moment.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, smooth knit lining
- Off-the-shoulder neckline, padded bra cups
- Twist bust accent
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Form-hugging fit, front slit
- Midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, bridal showers, bachelorettes, engagement photoshoots, baby showers, birthdays, date nights, black tie events, galas
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000356
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Mayven Lace-Up Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made to turn heads with every step, the Mayven is your RSVP-ready answer to sleek sultriness. Designed in a bodycon silhouette with a halter square neck and lace-up back, this midi dress serves drama with a front slit made for grand entrances.
Fit & Features
- Sleek knit stretchy fabric
- Square halter neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back
- Front slit
- Bodycon silhouette, midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, weddings, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, birthdays, date nights, cocktail parties, milestone celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000361
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Savannah Glitter Cutout Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made for the spotlight, the Savannah formal dress stuns in a glitter knit that hugs every curve with effortless allure. Its sleek bodycon fit, sultry front slit, and open cutout back deliver the kind of detail that turns an entrance into a moment.
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit fabric, smooth knit lining, moderate stretch
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Wide shoulder straps
- Cutout back, hook closure, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Front slit
- Bodycon silhouette, midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, cocktail soirees, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, date nights, birthdays, dinner parties, milestone celebrations, red-carpet events
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000363
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Denise Satin Bodycon Slit Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sculpted for your most glamorous nights, the Denise satin midi dress pairs a softly draped cowl neckline with a curve-hugging silhouette. A thigh-high slit and open back detail make it the ultimate entrance-making piece.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, knit lining
- Cowl sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Wide shoulder straps
- Back zipper closure
- Bodycon silhouette
- Front wrap slit, midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, bridal celebrations, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties and photoshoots, black tie galas, birthdays, fancy brunches, date nights, milestone celebrations, holidays
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000714
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $64.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: ROSE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Kiana One-Shoulder Open Back Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sleek, striking, and made to command a room—the Kiana one-shoulder dress flows into a floor-length skirt with a daring side slit, while the open back tie adds an unexpected twist of allure. It’s an effortlessly chic gown for your most glamorous occasions.
Fit & Features
- Slinky knit stretch fabric
- One-shoulder neckline
- Open tie-back design
- High side slit
- Curve-hugging silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, black tie galas, red-carpet occasions, cocktail parties, formal milestone celebrations, fancy date nights, anniversaries, holidays
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000249
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Sherrie Mesh Slit Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed to turn every step into a moment, the Sherrie mesh gown features a ruched bodice, delicate straps, and a cascading ruffle slit that adds movement and allure. The fitted silhouette flows effortlessly, giving just the right balance of romance and drama.
Fit & Features
- Airy mesh-lined fabric
- Sweetheart neckline with padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front ruffled slit
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, black tie galas, military balls, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, fancy birthday events, anniversaries, red-carpet occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001129
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK, WINE
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Best Seller
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Preston Lace Heart Cutout Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Romance meets edge in the Preston lace corset mini, featuring a daring heart-shaped cutout framed in sparkling studs. With its body-skimming fit and statement detail, it’s a look made for unforgettable nights out.
Fit & Features
- Lace fabric with corset construction
- Strapless neckline with heart-shaped cutout
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Rhinestone stud embellishments
- Curve-hugging mini silhouette
- Side slit with draped lace detail
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, bridal celebrations, birthdays, date nights, milestone celebrations, GNO
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000349
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Sydnee Velvet Corset Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Sleek, sculpted, and made to steal the night—the Sydnee velvet bodycon dress pairs a structured sweetheart neckline with figure-hugging ruching. A luxe take on the classic mini, it’s built for every spotlight entrance.
Fit & Features
- Velvet fabric lined with stretch knit
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Wide shoulder straps
- Corset-structured bodice, flexible boning
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Side ruched seams, bodycon fit, mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, weddings, cocktail soirees, birthday dinners, date nights, bachelorettes, semi-formal galas or parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000350
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Nicole Rhinestone Lace-Up Strapless Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Designed to dazzle with every step, the Nicole strapless bodycon mini is your RSVP-ready showstopper. Covered in shimmering rhinestones and finished with a lace-up back, it sculpts and sparkles for a look that feels both luxe and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Rhinestone-embellished fabric
- Strapless scoop neckline
- Lace-up open back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, bachelorettes, date nights, GNO, Vegas, birthdays, parties and glam events
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000347
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK, PURPLE
Available Size: XXS, M, XS, S, L
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Ailany Sequin Cutout Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Sleek, sparkly, and made to command attention, the Ailany dress turns up the glamour with allover sequins, a sculpted strapless neckline, and a daring cutout that plays up its bodycon fit.
Fit & Features
- Sequin-embellished, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
- Side hidden zipper and hook-eye closure
- Cutout bodice
- Bodycon fit, mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthdays, date nights, bachelorettes, Vegas, cocktail bar, parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000340
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Melody Satin Slit Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Slip into the spotlight with the sleek Melody satin formal dress, where a draped cowl neckline meets curve-hugging ruching and a leg-baring front slit built for your chic entrance into any event or party!
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric
- Cowl neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Ruched curve-hugging silhouette
- Front slit accent
- Midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, galas, black tie parties, formal celebrations, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, date night, cocktail soirees, bachelorettes, birthdays
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000339
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Kayleigh Satin Mini Dress With Sash
Special Occasion
The Kayleigh satin bodycon mini dress stuns with sculptural pleating and a dramatic side sash that flirts with every step. Its strapless silhouette delivers sleek, scene-stealing polish—perfect for a night that calls for turning heads.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Pleated bodice, side sash
- Bodycon mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, weddings, black tie parties, date nights, birthdays, dinner parties, cocktail soirees, rooftop hotel bars, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000332
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Alessia Sequin Lace-Up Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Shimmer meets allure in the Alessia sequin mini dress, designed with a sleek bodycon fit and a lace-up back that captivates from every angle. Bold, glamorous, and unforgettable, it’s the dress made for nights when you want all eyes on you.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with knit lining
- Sequin embroidered scroll pattern
- Sleeveless V-neckline, padded bust
- Spaghetti straps, open cross-back lace-up design
- Lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Mini-length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthday festivities, bachelorette parties, or glam nights out.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000336
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: ROYAL, MAGENTA
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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Ruby Floral Sequin Halter Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Flirt with the spotlight in the Ruby dress—a mini that shimmers with floral sequin detail and soft draping at the halter cowl neckline. The bodycon fit sculpts and shines, made for the kind of night that lingers.
Fit & Features
- Floral sequin pattern, mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Cowl halter neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon fit, mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthdays, milestone events, Vegas, bachelorettes, glam parties, date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000333
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Alayah Floral Sequin Lace-Up Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Shimmering florals and a sculpted fit make the Alayah sequin mini dress a gorgeous stunner. Oh-so-glam and alluring, it’s the perfect style for nights that call for shimmer and confidence.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with knit lining, moderate stretch
- Iridescent sequin embroidery, floral pattern
- Sleeveless scoop neckline, padded bust
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Open lace-up strappy back, lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Mini-length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthday festivities, bachelorette parties, formal date nights, and glam nights out.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000316
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Amina Sequin Lace-Up Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Turn every entrance into the moment with the Amina sequin mini dress, designed to shimmer with every move. The curve-sculpting fit and lace-up back bring the perfect mix of flirty and glam for a night that’s all about you.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with knit lining
- Sequin embroidered scroll pattern
- Strapless straight-across neckline
- Open lace-up back, lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Mini-length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthday celebrations, bachelorette parties, and glam nights out.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000318
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Bella Sequin Mesh Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Sparkle with confidence in the Bella sequin mesh mini dress, designed with a curve-loving fit and strappy tie-back detail. Flirty yet polished, it’s the perfect piece to own the night at parties, birthdays, and every celebration in between.
Fit & Features
- Sequin-embellished mesh-lined fabric
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Spaghetti straps
- Open strappy back design, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon fit, mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, bachelorettes, date nights, cocktail soirees, birthdays, Vegas, parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000322
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK, YELLOW
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
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Caroline Sequin Lace-Up Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Made for the moments that call for shimmer and confidence, the Kennedy dress stuns with all-over sequins, a sculpted bodycon silhouette, and an open lace-up back that brings just the right touch of drama.
Fit & Features
- Sequin embellished, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Square neckline, padded bra cups
- Spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette, mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthdays, date nights, milestone celebrations, bachelorettes, Vegas
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000315
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Aurelia Sequin Lace-Up Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Made for the spotlight, the Aurelia sequin bodycon dress is equal parts sultry and polished. The bodycon silhouette and lace-up back detail strike the perfect balance of glam and sophistication for your next standout moment.
Fit & Features
- Sequin-embellished, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon fit, mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthdays, bachelorettes, date nights, Vegas, rooftop hotel bars, dinner parties, fancy brunches
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000325
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Laura Sequin Lace-Up Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Made to sparkle under the spotlight, the Laura sequin mini dress brings high-shine sophistication in a sculpting bodycon silhouette. With its intricate sequin pattern and daring lace-up cutout back, this dress was built for unforgettable entrances.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with knit lining, high stretch
- Sequin embroidered floral pattern
- Sleeveless V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Open lace-up back design, lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Mini-length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthdays, bachelorettes, date nights, GNO, and parties.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000330
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK, IVORY
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M
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Nadene Floral Sequin Lace-Up Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Reveal a look meant to take everyone's breath away in the Nadene floral sequin dress! With a sculpted bodycon fit and lace-up open back, it’s the kind of dress that turns every event into a moment.
Fit & Features
- Floral pattern, sequin-embellished fabric
- Sweetheart neckline, structured bust, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Corset bodice, flexible boning inserts
- Lace-up open back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, bachelorettes, date nights, birthdays, GNO, Vegas, fancy brunches, glam events
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000087
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Elara Floral Sequin Lace-Up Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Built for your slow-motion entrance—the moment the room stops. With a lace-up back and sequin fabric, the Elara floral sequin mini dress brings the flirty vibes to weddings, rooftop drinks, or that next big birthday bash.
Fit & Features- Floral pattern
- Lined sequin fabric
- Square neckline with thick straps, padded bra cups
- Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Side slit
- Mini length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:Weddings, garden parties, black tie galas, dinner parties, date night, vacation, birthdays, formal milestone celebrations, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000084
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Lileah Sequin Corset Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Made for the spotlight, The Lileah turns every entrance into an event. This sequin scroll–adorned bodycon mini dress stuns with its sculpted sweetheart corset bodice, marrying modern allure with timeless glamour.
Fit & Features
- Sequin scroll pattern, mesh-lined fabric
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Corset bodice, flexible boning inserts
- Bodycon mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, bridal and wedding showers, rehearsal dinner, engagement photoshoots, bachelorettes, date night, birthday events, milestone celebrations, Vegas, GNO
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000320
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free