Formal Dresses

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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.

  • Carla Corset Tulle A-Line Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Made for twirling under chandeliers, the Carla dress blends fairytale charm with modern edge. Its strapless sweetheart neckline and sheer mesh corset bodice are adorned with sequins, beads, and embroidery, flowing into a flirty tulle A-line silhouette with a mini hem.

    Fit & Features

    • Mesh, tulle fabric with multiple linings
    • Strapless sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
    • Sheer mesh corset bodice, flexible boning, sequins, beading, embroidery
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • A-line silhouette
    • Voluminous mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, birthdays, date night, milestone celebrations, fancy parties, glam events

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000048

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $49.97 $99.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Kinsley Satin Beaded Mini Dress With Sash

    Special Occasion

    Designed to captivate from first glance, the Kinsley dress pairs a shimmering beaded bodice with sleek satin and a sculpted bodycon silhouette. The dramatic side ruffle sash adds movement and modern romance to every step.

    Fit & Features

    • Satin fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • V-neckline, padded bra cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Beaded bodice, back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Side ruffle sash
    • Bodycon silhouette, mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, weddings, bridal showers, engagement parties, wedding showers, rehearsal dinners, date nights, milestone celebrations, bachelorettes, Vegas

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000227

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $89.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Tiffany Strapless Corset Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Designed for those RSVP moments that demand a little extra wow, the Tiffany mini dress is your ticket to turning heads. With a strapless sheer mesh corset embroidered with rhinestones, a bodycon fit, and a mini-length hem with a side slit, this dress is built for spotlight entrances and all-night compliments.

    Fit & Features

    • Sheen knit fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
    • Sheer mesh corset bodice, flexible boning, embroidery, rhinestones
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Side pleated seam
    • Bodycon fit, slit mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, birthdays, bachelorettes, GNO, date nights, cocktail soirees, milestone celebrations

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000055

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $79.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Rachel Satin Halter A-Line Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    A scene-stealing dress built for your grand entrance, the Rachel A-line dress turns heads with its satin shine, flirty pleated neckline, and chic chiffon insert hem. Designed for dancing, mingling, and making an unforgettable impression.

    Fit & Features

    • Premium satin fabric lined with stretch knit
    • Halter pleated neckline, tie-back closure, padded bra cups
    • Open back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
    • A-line silhouette
    • Mini-length hem with chiffon inserts
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, weddings, bridal celebrations, engagement parties and photoshoots, birthdays, rehearsal dinners, date nights, anniversaries, dinner parties, formal soirees

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000044

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $49.90

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Mollie Beaded Mesh Bow Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Made to sparkle under city lights or chandeliers, the Mollie mini dress turns every entrance into a moment. This bodycon dress stuns in beaded mesh with delicate bow trim and a curve-hugging silhouette that flatters from every angle.

    Fit & Features

    • Beaded embellished mesh-lined fabric
    • Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps with bow rhinestone trims
    • Bodycon silhouette
    • Mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, birthdays, bachelorettes, GNO, Vegas, date nights, cocktail soirees, rooftop hotel bars, dressy celebrations

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000053

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $39.97 $79.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Julietta Bustier Lace-Up Satin Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Wrap yourself in the romantic Julietta satin mini dress. Serving bridal beauty with a side of sultry allure. With a beaded bustier and lace-up back, this bodycon mini dress was made for your most unforgettable RSVP. 

    Fit & Features

    • Stretch satin fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Pleated cowl sweetheart neckline, spaghetti straps
    • Padded bra cups
    • Beaded mesh bustier bodice, flexible boning
    • Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Bodycon silhouette, wrap mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Bachelorettes, engagement photo shoots, bridal showers, fancy date nights, birthdays, Vegas weekends

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000052

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $39.97 $86.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Karla Corset Satin Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    An unforgettable mix of polish and allure, the Karla satin mini dress is elevated by a beaded lace bodice that catches the light with every move. With its sleek silhouette and delicate straps, it’s a statement piece built for the spotlight.

    Fit & Features

    • Satin-lined fabric
    • Sweetheart neckline with padded bra cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Corset bodice, flexible boning, sequin embroidered applique
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Bodycon fit, mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Formal dances, bachelorettes, milestone celebrations, birthdays, date nights, cocktail soiree, rooftop hotel bars, Vegas

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000040

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $89.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: BLACK, RED-2

    Available Size: XS, L, S

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Portia Satin Corset Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Polished, poised, and made to turn heads. The Portia satin corset mini dress blends sleek sophistication with a chic sculpting fit, perfect for formal parties or elevated evenings out.

    Fit & Features

    • Stretch satin fabric, knit lining
    • Sleeveless cowl neckline
    • Thin tank shoulder straps
    • Corset-style bodice, flexible boning
    • Back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • Mini-length bodycon silhouette
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, dressed-up dinners, bachelorette parties, bridal showers, and birthday celebrations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000042

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Emily Floral Cutout Mermaid Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Looks like a fairytale, fits like a dream. The Emily floral formal dress brings soft romance with a mermaid silhouette and alluring cutout back that turns heads and makes your exit from the party one to remember!

    Fit & Features

    • Floral print, smooth knit fabric, bust knit lining
    • Cowl sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
    • Cutout back with strap and hook closure
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • Floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Weddings, garden parties, engagement parties, milestone celebrations, black tie events, galas

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000091

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $79.90

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Karen Bustier Lace-Up Satin Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Lace yourself in the luxe Karen satin mini dress! This dress is giving bridal-core meets bombshell—and we’re obsessed. This mini dress is made to make entrances from the beaded bustier with a lace-up back to the sleek bodycon fit.

    Fit & Features

    • Satin fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups, spaghetti straps
    • Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Beaded sheer lace mesh bustier bodice, flexible boning
    • Side ruched seams, bodycon fit
    • Mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Weddings, bachelorettes, bridal shower, wedding shower, Vegas weekends, birthday parties

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000038

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $79.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Clarissa Rhinestone And Pearl Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    All eyes on you—exactly where they should be. With iridescent rhinestones and chic pearl embellishments that catch every light, this curve-hugging mini dress is your RSVP to being unforgettable.

    Fit & Features

    • Sheer mesh fabric with knit lining, high stretch
    • All-over faux pearl and iridescent rhinestone embellishments
    • Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, structured and padded bust, flexible boning
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • Mini-length bodycon silhouette
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, birthday celebrations, bachelorette parties, and formal nights out.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000036

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Cornelia Off-The-Shoulder Slit Floral Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Prepare to be captivated by the Cornelia floral formal dress! Exuding irresistible charm, this floor-length dress boasts a sultry off-the-shoulder neckline and a high front wrap slit for dramatic allure.

    Fit & Features

    • Floral print, mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • Off-the-shoulder neckline
    • High front wrap slit
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • Floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Weddings, garden parties, engagement parties, celebrations, dressy dates, vacations

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000087

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Ava Cowl Neck Bodycon Mesh Lace Midi Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Romantic lace mesh and a bodycon fit come together to create the gorgeous Ava midi formal dress! 

    Fit & Features

    • Lace mesh lined fabric
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Cowl neckline
    • Bodycon fit
    • Midi-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Weddings, bridal showers, bachelorettes, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, cocktail soirees

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000033

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Aylani Cowl Neck Slit Mermaid Glitter Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Make your stunning entrance in the Aylani glitter formal dress. This gown is designed to hug your curves with a ruched mermaid silhouette while the high front slit adds a daring touch to your evening look!

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter knit fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Cowl neckline, padded bra cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper hook-eye closure
    • Ruched mermaid silhouette
    • High front slit, floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Weddings, black tie galas, formal celebrations and events, engagement parties, big birthday events

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000084

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Aria Lace Rosette Trim Corset Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    The most perfect mini dress has arrived, and her name is the Aria lace dress! Showcasing pretty details that'll capture every eye in the room from the rosette trim neckline to the waist-snatching corset bodice and sleek bodycon fit.

    Fit & Features

    • Lace fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Strapless sweetheart neckline, rosette trim
    • Padded bra cups
    • Corset bodice, flexible boning, back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Bodycon silhouette
    • Mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Weddings, bridal shower, wedding shower, engagement parties, birthdays, cocktail soirees, date nights 

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000034

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Krissy Satin Bodycon Formal Midi Dress

    Special Occasion

    A sophisticated design that stands that's timeless, the Krissy satin formal dress will leave everyone speechless!  The strapless tube design with alluring V-cut neckline accentuates the style, while the sleek bodycon midi silhouette hugs your curves in all the right places. 

    Fit & Features

    • Satin fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Strapless tube V-cut wired neckline
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Bodycon silhouette
    • Center back slit
    • Midi-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Weddings, bridal showers, engagement parties and photoshoots, rehearsal dinners, bachelorette parties, date night, anniversaries

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000030

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Idella One-Shoulder Cutout Mesh Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Idella mesh formal dress is a gorgeous statement piece with a sultry one-shoulder neckline, cutout bodice, and a mermaid silhouette that hugs your curves!

    Fit & Features

    • Mesh fabric, sewn-in stretchy knit lining
    • One-shoulder neckline
    • Cutout bodice
    • Side ruched seams
    • Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, romantic dinner dates, birthday events, cocktail parties, engagement parties

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000081

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Ciara Lace Corset Satin Mermaid Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Ciara formal dress is sculpted, chic, and ready for a spotlight moment! This lace corset gown hugs every curve and glides with goddess energy—perfect for making your grand entrance down the aisle or into the soiree.

    Fit & Features

    • Stretch satin fabric, smooth knit stretchy lining
    • Strapless sweetheart neckline
    • Built-in padded underwire bust
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Lace-lined corset bodice, flexible boning
    • Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Weddings, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, receptions, bridal and wedding showers, photoshoots, black tie galas

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000082

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $79.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Evalina Lace-Up Mermaid Dress

    Special Occasion

    Serve sleek and chic allure in the Evalina mermaid dress featuring a scoop neckline, a sultry open lace-up back, and a floor-length curve-hugging silhouette. Style with a rhinestone collar necklace.

    Fit & Features

    • Smooth knit fabric, high stretch
    • Sleeveless scoop neckline
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Side seam panel accents
    • Open lace-up back design, lower zipper closure
    • Floor-length mermaid silhouette, pleating
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Weddings, dressed-up dinners, black-tie events, and formal parties.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000080

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Mackenzie High Slit Mermaid Dress

    Special Occasion

    Effortlessly captivating, the Mackenzie satin mermaid dress was made for those moments that demand all eyes on you. With its softly draped neckline and daring high slit, it delivers a flawless mix of sophistication and allure.

    Fit & Features

    • Smooth knit fabric, high stretch
    • Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, pleated cowl neck overlay
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper closure
    • Pleating
    • High-cut front slit
    • Floor-length mermaid silhouette
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Weddings, bridesmaids, black-tie parties, red-carpet events, formal dinner parties, galas, and luxe soirees.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000076

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $69.90

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Camren Lace-Up Mermaid Mesh Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Feel confident and look beautiful in the Camren mesh formal dress! With cute cap sleeves and a mermaid silhouette, this dress exudes sophistication. The lace-up back adds a touch of playful charm while also providing the perfect fit.

    Fit & Features

    • Mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Cap sleeves
    • Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
    • Back lace-up, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Side ruched seams
    • Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Weddings, black tie soirees, fancy date nights, parties, award dinners

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000069

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $59.90

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Aden Cutout Back Mermaid Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    For the kind of night that calls for a jaw-dropping entrance, The Aden formal dress brings sleek drama in sculpting stretch knit. The sweetheart mermaid silhouette flatters from every angle, designed to move with you from first toast to final dance.

    Fit & Features

    • Smooth knit fabric
    • Sweetheart neckline, wide shoulder straps
    • Cutout back design
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • Floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Weddings, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, date night, black tie galas, upscale birthday events, red carpet occasions, formal dances, charity dinners, award shows

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000074

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Kenzie Corset Mermaid Mesh Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    The corset bodice and mermaid silhouette on the Kenzie formal dress make it a chic option and ensure that all eyes are on you!

    Fit & Features

    • Mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Corset bodice, flexible boning
    • Side ruched seams
    • Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, weddings, bridesmaids, galas, black tie soirees, engagement parties, cocktail events

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000072

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Renee Bow Satin Midi Dress

    Special Occasion

    The gorgeous silhouette and detail on the Renee satin midi dress are a real showstopper. This stunning dress features a beautifully crafted back bow and a flattering bodycon silhouette, perfect for showing off your curves.

    Fit & Features

    • Satin fabric, knit lining, moderate stretch
    • Strapless neckline
    • Back bow, hidden side zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Bodycon silhouette
    • Midi-length hem, center back slit
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Brides, rehearsal dinner, engagement parties, photo shoots, cocktail soirees, date nights, graduation parties, milestone celebrations

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000029

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free