Formal Dresses

STYLE SPOTLIGHT

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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.

  • Hailey Lace-Up Slit Slim Crepe Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Chic and stunning, the Hailey crepe formal dress knows how to make an entrance at black-tie weddings and parties. Crafted from a lightweight crepe fabric, this floor-length gown is designed with a lace-up back to turn heads, a flattering slim silhouette, and a high front slit that brings a sultry allure. Pair with a hair accessory and clutch.

    Fit & Features

    • Lightweight crepe fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Scoop neckline, padded bra cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
    • High front slit
    • Slim silhouette, floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9686

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Lilyana Sweetheart Slit Satin Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Lilyana satin formal dress redefines elegant dressing in a flattering sweetheart neckline and form-hugging bodice that flares out into an alluring wrap front slit.

    Unapologetically bold, this dress is all about confidence. Keep the luxe look going with our stunning strapless prom dresses or discover the perfect fit among our stylish wedding guest dresses.

    Fit & Features

    • Stretch satin fabric, bust knit lining
    • Sweetheart strapless neckline, padded bra cups
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Form-hugging bodice
    • High front wrap slit
    • Floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, black tie weddings, bridesmaids, galas, nights at the theatre, formal events

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9689

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Mabel Lace-Up Satin Midi Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Step out in the chic Mabel satin midi dress designed with a lace-up back that turns heads and a front wrap slit for effortless movement. 

    Fit & Features

    • Stretch satin fabric, sewn-in knit lining
    • Scoop neckline, padded bra cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Front wrap slit
    • Bodycon silhouette, midi-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, weddings, cocktail parties, date nights, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, birthdays, dinner parties

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2760

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $54.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Jen V-Neck Halter Mermaid Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Slinky, sexy, and sumptuous in smooth knit, the Jen formal dress perfectly flaunts your figure in an elegant floor-length mermaid silhouette. 

    Fit & Features

    • Silky smooth knit fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Halter V-neckline, tie closure, padded bra cups
    • Open back with tie strap, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Mermaid silhouette, princess seam detailing
    • Floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size 

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, weddings, bridesmaids, black tie galas, dinner parties, engagement parties, rehearsal dinner, upscale celebrations, fancy date nights, cocktail soirees

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9685

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Kimberly Strapless Tie-Back Mermaid Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Sleek, chic, and oh-so-flattering, the Kimberly strapless formal dress boasts a trendy tie-back design and mermaid silhouette that accentuates your gorgeous curves! 

    Fit & Features

    • Slinky knit-lined fabric with plenty of stretch
    • Strapless sweetheart neckline with twist accent, padded bra cups
    • Tie-back design
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • Floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Formal dances, weddings, bridesmaids, nights at the opera, black tie events, cocktail parties, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, big birthday events, elegant date nights, red-carpet occasions

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000612

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $59.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: SAGE

    Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL

  • Santana Strapless Scarf Mermaid Satin Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Santana satin formal dress is your ticket to black-tie glamour! With a chic scarf for versatile styling and a stunning mermaid silhouette, this dress makes an entrance.

    This dress is made for the spotlight. Want more ways to stand out? Shop our vibrant pink prom dresses or find a chic, event-ready look in our wedding guest dresses.

    Fit & Features

    • Stretch satin fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Scarf included
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • Floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, black-tie weddings, bridesmaids, garden parties, formal cocktail soirees, opera nights

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9684

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $39.97 $89.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Elenora Lace-Up Mermaid Satin Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Elenora satin formal dress is destined to be your luxurious go-to for unforgettable evenings! Turn heads with the lace-up back design and a high front slit that offers effortless movement.

    Fit & Features

    • Stretch satin fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • Strapless neckline, padded bra cups, flexible boning
    • Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
    • High front slit
    • Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, black tie weddings, galas, glamorous events, fancy parties

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9678

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Mariam Lace-Up Slit Mermaid Glitter Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Subtly shine in the Mariam glitter formal dress but catch every eye with the lace-up back and high front slit that gives endless sultriness!

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter knit fabric
    • Cowl neckline
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Lace-up back
    • High front slit
    • Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, black-tie galas, fancy dinner parties, engagement parties, big birthday events, nights at the theatre and opera

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9665

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Perry Glitter Knit Wrap Slit Mermaid Dress

    Special Occasion

    Bring luxe glamour to your formal affair in the Perry glitter knit mermaid dress that radiates an elegant shine. The floor-sweeping silhouette features a ruched wrap-front with a high slit for added allure.

    Flawlessly chic and bold, this dress is a statement. If strapless styles are your go-to, explore our strapless prom dresses or embrace effortless fashion with our formal dresses.

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter knit fabric with full-length knit lining, moderate stretch
    • Strapless cowl neckline, no-slip strip
    • Front flexible boning, back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • High waist seam, ruched wrap-front design, high slit
    • Floor-length mermaid silhouette
    • Runs true to size
    • Extra glitter for maximum sparkle - may have some natural fallout

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, galas, and black-tie events.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9659

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $79.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Colette Strapless Mermaid Satin Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Colette satin formal dress is the epitome of sophisticated dressing with a chic strapless neckline and pleated mermaid silhouette that highlights your curves!

    Fit & Features

    • Premium satin fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • Strapless sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure with ruching
    • Pleated mermaid silhouette
    • Floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear: 

    Prom, weddings, bridesmaids, black-tie galas, charity dinners, nights at the theatre, and glam events.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9672

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $39.97 $89.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

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

    Special Occasion

    The Marcie formal dress is the showstopping style that demands attention! Designed in a flattering mermaid silhouette, this dress fits like a glove with a faux wrap design and high slit for allure.

    Fit & Features

    • Smooth knit fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Cowl neckline, padded bra cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Faux wrap design, high front slit
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • Floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, weddings, bridesmaids, formal parties and celebrations, glam functions

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9651

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Jelene Cold-Shoulder Mermaid Satin Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    A chic cold shoulder shapes the Jelene satin formal dress made to impress! Designed to accentuate your curves in a ruched mermaid silhouette with a floor-length hem for some drama.

    Love this bold look? Discover more show-stopping red prom dresses or chic formal dresses for any occasion.

    Fit & Features

    • Stretch satin fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • Cold-shoulder neckline, V-wired insert
    • Short-sleeve cuffs, adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Side ruched seams
    • Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    School dances, black-tie weddings, galas, award ceremonies, and formal parties, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, upscale milestone celebrations, birthdays, date night

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9670

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $74.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Georgina Strapless Lace-Up Mermaid Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Timeless style with a chic modern vibe, the Georgina strapless formal dress dares to radiant every room! With an alluring lace-up back and a curve-hugging mermaid silhouette, you'll look and feel like a dream.

    Flawlessly chic and bold, this dress is a statement. If strapless styles are your go-to, explore our strapless prom dresses or embrace effortless fashion with our formal dresses.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleek knit fabric with stretchy knit lining
    • Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
    • Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Side ruched seams
    • Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, weddings, formal functions, big parties, black tie events

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9675

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Ariadna Strappy Open Back Slit Glitter Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    For a night to remember slip into the Ariadna glitter formal dress designed to please every crowd with a strappy open back and a high front slit for a sultry allure!

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • V-neckline, padded bra cups
    • Spaghetti straps, open strappy back
    • High front slit
    • Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
    • Extra glitter for maximum sparkle - may have some natural fallout
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, weddings, fancy cocktail parties, romantic date nights

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9653

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $79.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: BLACK, RED, BROWN

    Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Catherine Open Back Mermaid Glitter Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Radiate confidence and elegance in the Catherine glitter formal dress. The stunning open back and high front slit add a touch of allure to the classic mermaid silhouette. 

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Cowl neckline, padded bra cups
    • Wide shoulder straps
    • Open back with hook closure
    • High front slit
    • Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Weddings, milestone celebrations, engagement parties, fancy date nights

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9664

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $39.97 $79.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Olive Strapless Slit Mermaid Satin Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Exude elegance and allure with every detail of the Olive strapless satin formal dress! Designed with a flattering mermaid silhouette and a high wrap slit that offers effortless grace with every step.

    This dress brings effortless confidence with every step. Love this look? Browse our stunning strapless prom dresses or find a statement style in our party dresses.

    Fit & Features

    • Stretch satin fabric, sewn-in knit lining, moderate stretch
    • Strapless sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups, flexible boning
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • High front wrap slit
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • Floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, formal weddings, engagement parties, black tie galas, fancy date nights

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9662

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $69.90

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Judy Open Back Slit Mermaid Satin Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Get ready for gram-worthy pics in the Judy satin formal dress all night! Boasting an open cross-back strappy design that turns heads and a mermaid silhouette with a high slit that perfectly flaunts your figure.

    With a smooth, luminous finish, this dress was made to shine. Keep the luxe look going with breathtaking satin prom dresses or go for a sophisticated statement with our wedding guest dresses.

    Fit & Features 

    • Stretch satin fabric with full-length knit lining
    • Sleeveless halter plunge V-neckline, padded bust
    • Open back with cross-back strappy design, lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • Pleated waist
    • High front slit
    • Floor-length mermaid silhouette
    • Runs true to size 

     

    Where to Wear:

    Bridal celebrations, black-tie parties, weddings, and red-carpet events, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, formal celebrations

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9690

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $79.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: BLACK, ROYAL, PINK

    Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Maribelle Corset Floral Mermaid Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Elegance is effortless with the Maribelle floral formal dress, designed with a waist-cinching corset bodice and a flattering mermaid silhouette.

    Fit & Features

    • Floral print, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Corset bodice, flexible boning, pleated
    • Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, weddings, bridesmaids, garden parties, shower celebrations, graduations, afternoon tea parties

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9668

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $79.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Fabienne Open Back Slit Mermaid Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Effortlessly command attention in the Fabienne mermaid formal dress designed with a sultry open back and a high front slit that flaunts your heels of the night!

    Fit & Features

    • Smooth knit fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • Cowl neckline
    • Dual twisted spaghetti strap detailing
    • Open back
    • High front slit
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • Floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear: 

    Prom, formal events, black tie occasions, fancy date nights, weddings

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9674

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Grace Off-The-Shoulder Wrap Mermaid Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    A perfect blend of sophistication and allure! The Grace off-the-shoulder formal dress will make you look and feel your best with a curve-hugging mermaid silhouette flaunting a sultry wrap slit.

    Fit & Features 

    • Smooth knit-lined fabric
    • Off-the-shoulder neckline, padded bra cups
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Wrap slit front design
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • Floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, black tie weddings, fancy functions and soirees

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9644

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $79.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Nicollet Lace-Up Mermaid Floral Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Nicollet formal dress exudes feminine glamour with a floral design on a curve-hugging mermaid silhouette finished with a lace-up back to turn heads!

    Fit & Features

    • Floral design accents, mesh fabric lined with stretch knit
    • Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • Floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, garden parties, dressed up birthdays, fancy date nights

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9645

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $99.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Isabella One-Shoulder Ruffle Slit Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Capture all the attention in the Isabella long formal dress showcasing a ruffled high side slit for effortless movement and a bodycon silhouette that flaunts your curves!

    This dress is all about movement and flair. Want more standout designs? Discover our eye-catching ruffle prom dresses or embrace an elevated style with our guest dresses.

    Fit & Features

    • Smooth knit fabric, moderate stretch
    • One-shoulder neckline
    • Partial open back
    • Ruffled high-side slit
    • Bodycon silhouette
    • Long-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, formal parties and events

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000269

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • At Midnight Bodycon Glitter Mid Dress

    They can meet you at midnight in this sparkling glitter bodycon midi dress out on the dancefloor! 

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter fabric, bust knit lining, moderate stretch
    • Square neck
    • Spaghetti straps
    • Bodycon silhouette
    • Wrap midi-length hem
    • Runs true to size
    • Extra glitter for maximum sparkle - may have some natural fallout

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-4111

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $42.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Nastassia Off-The-Shoulder Mermaid Glitter Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Luxuriously crafted from a glitter knit fabric, the Nastassia formal dress exudes elegance with an off-the-shoulder neckline and mermaid silhouette!

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter knit fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • Folded off-the-shoulder neckline
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • Floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size 
    • Extra glitter for maximum sparkle - may have some natural fallout

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, black tie weddings, galas, red-carpet events, fancy dinner parties, award ceremonies

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9638

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $119.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free