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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Shandra Strapless Lace-Up Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Cut from smooth satin fabric, the Shandra formal dress accentuates your curves with a form-hugging silhouette while adding a head-turning appeal with its lace-up back and high side slit.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, bust knit lining
- Strapless pleated neckline
- Lace-up back
- Flexible boning inserts
- High side slit
- Form-hugging silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, bridesmaids, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, galas, black tie parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000037
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Marva Lace-Up Rhinestone Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Step into your version this party season in the Marva rhinestone formal dress! With a flirty lace-up open back that turns heads and a mermaid silhouette that shows off your curves, you'll own the scene in this dress.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit stretchy-lined fabric
- Rhinestone embellished cowl neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Lace-up open back
- Mermaid silhouette
- Bonded floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie galas, birthdays, engagement parties, formal occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000031
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $49.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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AJ Sequin Lace-Up Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The AJ sequin mesh mini dress catches every light while its strappy lace-up open back turns heads from every angle. The sleek bodycon silhouette is made to sculpt and stun, whether you’re stepping into a birthday dinner or owning the dance floor.
Fit & Features
- Sequin embellished, mesh fabric, stretch knit lining
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Spaghetti straps
- Strappy lace-up open back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthdays, bachelorettes, date nights, red carpet occasions, cocktail soirees, rooftop hotel bars, GNO, Vegas, glam events
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000017
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: RED
Available Size: XS, S, L, XXS
Product Badge:- Best Seller
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Lea Sequin Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
A true showstopper in motion, the Lea sequin dress was made for nights that sparkle. With its shimmering sequin finish, curve-hugging bodycon silhouette, and romantic sweetheart neckline, this dress was built for bold entrances and unforgettable exits.
Fit & Features
- Sequin embellished, mesh lined fabric
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthdays, bachelorettes, date nights, cocktail parties, after parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000022
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Emilliana Lace-Up Floral Embroidered Skater Dress
Special Occasion
With the most darling detail, the Emilliana skater dress will be the most adorable in the room! The short dress boasts a flirty lace-up back that turns heads and a beautiful floral embroidery pattern.
Fit & Features
- Floral embroidery, mesh fabric, mesh and stretchy knit linings
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
- Back lace-up, cutout, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Flexible boning
- Skater silhouette
- Short-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, dressy celebrations, date nights, garden parties, graduations
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000021
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Holly Floral Cold Shoulder Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Like a love letter in dress form—soft, floaty, unforgettable. The Holly Floral mermaid dress hugs in all the right places and flows with every step you take, whether you're bridesmaid-ing or main event-ing.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, mesh-lined fabric
- Cold shoulder neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Padded bra cups
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, garden parties, summer galas, dinner parties, fancy celebrations, formal events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000029
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Anika Glitter Bow Skater Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Made for the RSVP that calls for turning heads, the Anika glitter dress is equal parts flirty and refined. Cut from shimmer-kissed knit with a twirl-worthy skater silhouette, its dramatic back bow makes every exit feel like a moment.
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit fabric
- Halter square neckline
- Open back with bow
- Hidden side pockets
- Skater silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, weddings, birthdays, date nights, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, cocktail soirees, milestone celebrations, rooftop hotel bars
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000020
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, XXS
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Taryn Glitter Corset Lace-Up Skater Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for your grand entrance, the Taryn glitter dress brings sparkle and structure with a strapless corset bodice, skater mini silhouette, and a lace-up back that stuns from every angle. Glitter woven fabric layered over tulle and knit linings adds soft volume and shimmer that moves with you.
Fit & Features
- Glitter woven fabric, tulle and knit linings
- Strapless corset bodice, flexible boning inserts, padded bra cups
- Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Hidden side pockets
- Skater mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, weddings, rehearsal dinners, birthdays, engagement parties, date nights, cocktail parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000013
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Camila Sequin Lace-Up Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The Camila bodycon mini dress dazzles with a sequin finish and a sultry lace-up open back that stuns from every angle. Designed to contour and command attention, it’s your go-to for a statement-making RSVP.
Fit & Features
- Sequin-embellished mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Scoop neckline, padded bra cups
- Spaghetti straps
- Lace-up open back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Flexible boning inserts in the bodice
- Bodycon mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthdays, date nights, bachelorettes, Vegas, GNO, rooftop bars, glam events
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000016
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Ailani Lace-Up Beaded Skater Dress
Special Occasion
Playful yet polished, the Ailani beaded mesh skater dress lights up the room with every step, while a lace-up back adds an unexpected twist to its flirty silhouette and mini-length hem!
Fit & Features
- Beaded mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Square neckline, padded bra cups
- Wide shoulder straps
- Lace-up back detail for an adjustable fit, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Skater silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, dances, birthdays, shower celebrations, date nights, parties, dressy brunches, afternoon tea
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000014
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Kayla Sequin Beaded Open Back Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Designed to dazzle with every turn, the Kayla dress is your go-to for a glamorous night out. This sequin bodycon mini dress features an open back with cascading beaded drape detail—made to catch the light and all the attention.
Fit & Features
- Sequin-embellished pattern, mesh-lined fabric
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Open back, beaded draping, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthdays, bachelorettes, date nights, glam events, cocktail parties, rooftop hotel bars, GNO, Vegas
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000010
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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April Glitter Corset Bow Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The April mini dress is your RSVP-ready spotlight stealer, crafted in glitter knit fabric with a sculpted bodycon fit. Its corset bodice creates a striking silhouette, while the oversized statement back bow leaves a lasting impression on every exit.
Fit & Features
- Glitter fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Cowl neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Corset bodice, flexible boning
- Statement back bow, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon fit, mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, weddings, birthdays, milestone celebrations, date night
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000011
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Maria Glitter Bow Off-The-Shoulder Skater Dress
Special Occasion
Made for your spotlight entrance, the Maria glitter dress captures movement and elegance in every step. With a structured corset bodice, flirty skater silhouette, and a shimmering glitter woven fabric, her off-the-shoulder bow neckline is the perfect RSVP-ready detail.
Fit & Features:
- Glitter woven fabric, tulle and knit linings
- Sweetheart bow off-the-shoulder neckline, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Corset bodice with flexible boning
- Hidden side pockets
- Skater silhouette, short-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, weddings, red carpet events, birthdays, date nights, milestone celebrations, rehearsal dinners, formal occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000012
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Rowyn Floral Lace-Up Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Romance called, and Rowyn floral formal dress showed up flawless. This gown brings drama with every step thanks to its strappy lace-up back, sleek mermaid fit, and sky-high slit perfect for showing off your heels.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, smooth woven fabric, woven lining
- Square neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Strappy lace-up back
- High front slit
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black-tie galas, garden parties, glam events, formal celebrations, romantic date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000024
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Madeline Floral Strappy Back A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Madeline floral formal dress is a dream option for your next dressy affair! The elegant strappy tie-back design adds alluring detail while the high front slit creates dramatic movement along the A-line silhouette ensuring you'll capture every eye in the room.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, premium satin fabric, satin lining
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Spaghetti straps
- Strappy tie back, lower zipper closure
- High front slit
- A-line silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black tie events and parties, galas, milestone celebrations, fancy date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000022
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Alena Floral Satin Ruffle Sleeve Column Dress
Special Occasion
Bloom with beauty in the Alena floral satin column dress designed with sleek premium satin with a gorgeous floral print pattern. You'll adore the short ruffled sleeves, open lace-up back, and high-cut front slit for effortless movement.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin fabric with full-length stretchy knit lining
- Floral print
- Square neckline, pleated draped overlay, padded bust
- Short ruffled sleeves
- Open lace-up back, lower zipper with hook-eye closure
- Thigh-high front slit, floor-length column silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, bridal showers, graduations, garden parties, and chic brunches.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000023
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Pascha Strappy Open Back Mermaid Floral Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Feminine florals and airy mesh will make you swoon for the Pascha formal dress! Designed with a sexy open strappy back and a mermaid silhouette that flaunts your figure.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Strappy open back
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, garden parties, engagement parties, bridal showers, wedding showers, baby showers, dinner parties, galas, birthdays
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000025
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLUE
Available Size: XS, XXS
Product Badge:- Sale
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Claudia Lace-Up Slit Floral Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Everyone will swoon over you in the Claudia floral formal dress! Elegantly constructed in a form-hugging silhouette, this dress is designed with a striking lace-up back and high front slit.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Spaghetti straps
- Open lace-up back
- Side ruched seams, high front slit
- Form-hugging silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, garden parties, dressed up date nights, dressy occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000021
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLUE
Available Size: XS, S, M
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Sloane Floral Mesh High Slit Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Where sophistication meets statement style. The Sloane floral mesh mermaid dress features a sleek silhouette and high-cut front slit that brings just the right amount of drama to any formal moment.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with full-length knit lining, high stretch
- Floral print
- Sleeveless V-neckline, padded bust
- Spaghetti straps, cross-back lace-up strappy design
- Open lower back, zipper with hook-eye closure
- High-cut front slit, floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, garden parties, vacations, and dressy date nights.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000019
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Melita Ruffle Mermaid Floral Mesh Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Embrace the beauty of the Melita floral mesh formal dress showcasing flirty ruffled straps, a flattering mermaid silhouette that accentuates your curves, and a chic floor-length hem.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Ruffled adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Fitted bodice
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, bridesmaids, garden parties, spring cocktail parties, dressy birthdays
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000018
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: SAGE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Diana V-Neck Mermaid Floral Ruffle Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Make your graceful entrance in the Diana floral formal dress designed with captivating ruffles along a curve-hugging mermaid silhouette that brings the drama!
Fit & Features
- Floral print, mesh-lined fabric
- V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- All-over ruffles
- High side slit
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, bridesmaids, garden parties, cocktail soirees, dressy celebrations, parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000017
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $74.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: SAGE, BROWN
Available Size: XS, S, M, XL, L
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Corinne Glitter Knit Strappy Back Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Show up and show out with glamorous allure in the Corinne glitter knit mermaid dress at your fancy affair. The plunging halter V-neck, open strappy back, and lower back ruching are all sultry details to turn heads.
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit fabric with full-length knit lining, high stretch
- Sleeveless plunging halter V-neckline, padded bust
- Open back, strappy back design, hook-eye closures
- Lower back ruching
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
- Extra glitter for maximum sparkle - may have some natural fallout
Where to Wear:
Black-tie parties, galas, red-carpet events, and fancy soirees.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000014
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Sarah Strapless Slit Midi Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Slip into the unforgettable Sara midi formal dress! This strapless midi stuns with a sweetheart neckline, flattering ruching, and a high side slit for effortless allure.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit fabric with subtle sheen
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Ruching detail
- Form-hugging fit
- Side slit, midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, cocktail soirees, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, date nights, formal events
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000008
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Jayleen Lace-Up Mermaid Floral Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Everyone will be in awe at how the Jayleen floral formal dress moves with you! This formal dress doesn't play by the rules but effortlessly captures attention with a strappy lace-up back and mermaid silhouette that fits your curves like a glove.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, mesh fabric, lined
- Halter cowl sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Spagehtti straps
- Strappy lace-up back design
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, sunset soirees, gala, fancy date night, anniversary dinner, milestone celebration, rooftop dinner party
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000016
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale