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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Zoey Halter Bodycon Glitter Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Zoey glitter formal dress is destined to be your go-to for unforgettable evenings! Crafted in a bodycon silhouette, this dress makes a statement with a plunge halter neckline and high side slit for a show of leg.
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Plunge halter V-neckline
- Wide shoulder straps, criss cross back
- High side slit
- Bodycon silhouette, floor-length hem
- Extra glitter for maximum sparkle - may have some natural fallout
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, brides, galas, graduations, dressy shower celebrations, black-tie events and functions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9561
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $64.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Vittoria Flutter Sleeve A-Line Chiffon Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Romantic and flowing, the Vittoria chiffon formal dress beautifully graces your curves in a flattering A-line silhouette with a high front slit perfect for showing off your heels of the night!
Fit & Features
- Burnout pattern, chiffon fabric, woven lining
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Flutter short sleeves
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- A-Line silhouette, high front slit
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, bridesmaids, garden parties, glam functions, milestone celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000296
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS
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Leoni Lace-Up Corset Floral Skater Dress
Special Occasion
The Leoni floral skater dress captures romantic allure with a modern flair that'll have all eyes on you! Designed with a gorgeous lace-up back that turns heads, a corset bodice to snatch your waist, and a voluminous silhouette made for twirling.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, organza fabric, tulle and stretch knit linings
- Square neckline, tie shoulder straps
- Side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Lace-up back, corset bodice, flexible boning
- Drop waist seam
- Skater silhouette, short-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, big milestone parties, birthdays, garden parties, afternoon tea, semi-formal weddings
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2716
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Jackie Floral Sequin Trim Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Structured sleek with femme flair. The Jackie satin formal dress has a flirty sequin floral trim along the bust for a unique touch and a flattering mermaid silhouette that catches every eye.
This dazzling dress was made for the spotlight! Love the shimmer? Discover more sequin prom dresses or find a sophisticated look in our wedding guest dresses.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, bust knit lining
- Sweetheart cowl neckline with sequin floral trim
- Padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, bridesmaids, formal soirees, big birthday events, and fancy evenings out.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9523
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Madison Cowl Neck Slit Glitter Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sparkly and fabulous! Make a shimmering impression in the Madison glitter formal dress showcasing a high slit for effortless movement and a flattering curve-hugging fit.
Elegant choice! Picture yourself in more stunning styles with our collection of blue prom dresses or slip into something sophisticated from our wedding guest dresses.
Fit & Features
- Glitter fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Cowl neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- High front slit
- Curve-hugging fit, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
- Extra glitter for maximum sparkle - may have some natural fallout
Where to Wear:
Prom, formal celebrations, big birthday events, and dressed-up parties.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9519
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Cassandra Lace-Up Wrap Mermaid Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
A special evening begins in the Cassandra satin formal dress with a lace-up back and mermaid silhouette to make you fall in love!
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
- Cowl sweetheart neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back
- Mermaid wrap silhouette
- High slit, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black-tie parties, weddings, and galas.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9522
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Corrina Cowl Neck Mermaid Glitter Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Corrina glitter formal dress is a sparkling beauty that'll dazzle every party guest! Designed with a flattering cowl neckline and a mermaid silhouette that gives the illusion of the perfect hourglass figure.
Fit & Features
- Glitter fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Cowl neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie weddings and soirees, glamorous dinner parties, formals
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9516
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $84.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Gabi Lace-Up Floral Trim Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Enchant every party guest in the Gabi mermaid formal dress designed with a gorgeous floral soutache trim and a stunning lace-up back that turns heads.
Fit & Features
- Floral soutache trim, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Cowl neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, event galas, dressed-up date nights, and fancy celebrations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9526
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $109.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Mindy Strappy Back Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
You'll be stealing the spotlight in the Mindy floor-length formal dress with a stunning strappy open back and a mermaid silhouette that accentuates your curves!
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit fabric lined with stretchy knit
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Spaghetti straps
- Strappy open back with tie closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black-tie galas and weddings, fancy engagement parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9510
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Meghan Lace-Up Corset Sequin Bead Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Meghan mermaid formal dress is the most glamorous this season with delicate beaded and sequin embellishments that highlight your natural shine! The dress flaunts a lace-up back that turns heads and a sheer corset bodice for a sultry allure.
Fit & Features
- Sequin, beaded embellishments
- Mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Scoop neckline, padded bra cups
- Spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Sheer corset bodice, flexible boning
- High front slit, mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, glam functions, red-carpet events, big milestone events, parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9508
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Tatianna Lace-Up Applique Slit Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Tatianna satin formal dress embodies easy glam elegance with a strappy lace-up back, an applique bodice, and a mermaid silhouette that effortlessly hugs your curves.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric lined with knit
- Sweetheart neckline, spaghetti straps, padded bra cups
- Strappy lace-up back, zipper hook-eye closure
- Applique embellished bodice, flexible boning
- Mermaid silhouette, high front slit
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Formal dances, galas, black-tie celebrations, nights at the theatre and opera, red-carpet events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9502
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Alexandra Cold-Shoulder Mermaid Glitter Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Alexandra glitter formal dress is the perfect blend of sparkly elegance! With a chic cold shoulder, an alluring front slit, and a flattering mermaid silhouette that puts your curves on display.
Fit & Features
- Glitter fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Cold-shoulder neckline, short-sleeve cuffs, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front wrap slit, mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
- Extra glitter for maximum sparkle - may have some natural fallout
Where to Wear:
Prom, big birthday events, weddings, black-tie parties, and nights at the theatre.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9487
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Katrina Ruffled Slit A-Line Glitter Mesh Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Katrina glitter mesh formal dress is a head-turning silhouette with romantic cascading ruffles, a high front slit for effortless movement, and a flattering A-line fit that'll give princess vibes!
Make a statement in this stunning dress. Love bold details? Explore our playful ruffle prom dresses or find a sleek look in our formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Glitter mesh fabric, lined with woven satin
- Scoop neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Padded bra cups for support and shaping
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- A-line silhouette
- Cascading ruffles, high front slit, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Winter formals, balls, black-tie galas, fashion-forward events, big birthday parties, red-carpet occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9481
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $154.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Alandra Sweetheart Mermaid Sequin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the sparkle to any event in the Alandra sequin formal dress, designed with a waist-snatching corset bodice and a striking mermaid silhouette that hugs your curves.
Fit & Features
- Sequin embellished pattern
- Mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit lining
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Corset bodice, flexible boning
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, red-carpet events, big birthday parties, glam functions
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9493
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Jaide Lace-Up Corset Slit Sequin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Drenched in light-catching sequins in a gorgeous pattern, the Jaide mermaid formal dress showcases a daring lace-up back and corset bodice for a figure-flattering look.
Fit & Features
- Sequin embellished pattern, mesh-lined fabric
- Sweetheart neckline, wide shoulder straps, padded bra cups
- Lace-up back design, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Corset bodice with flexible boning for structure
- High front slit
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length bonded hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, big birthday events, charity balls, red-carpet functions, fancy parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9490
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $149.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Lucia Lace Corset Slit Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Define feminine glamour in the Lucia satin formal dress boasting an alluring lace corset bodice that snatches at the waist and high front wrap slit for perfect for showing off your heels.
All eyes are on you in this radiant dress. If sparkle is your signature, discover stunning sequin prom dresses or opt for effortless sophistication with our eye-catching formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Square neckline, padded bra cups
- Sheer lace sequin applique corset bodice, flexible boning
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Form-hugging silhouette
- High front wrap slit, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black-tie weddings, galas, lavish soirees, fancy birthday parties, evenings a the opera
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9488
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Trista Cold Shoulder Slit Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Stunning from every angle, the Trista satin formal dress makes a statement in a chic cold shoulder and high front wrap slit giving endless allure!
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
- Premium satin fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Cold shoulder neckline, short-sleeve cuffs, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Padded bra cups
- Back zipper closure
- Form-hugging bodice
- High front wrap slit, flared floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, bridesmaids, black tie parties, galas, formal engagement parties, cocktail soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9486
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Lani Lace-Up Slit Mermaid Sequin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Elegantly constructed from a sequin embellished mesh fabric, the Lani formal dress exudes sparkle and pretty details that'll be the talk of the party! Show off some skin with the lace-up back design and high front slit while the mermaid silhouette flaunts your figure.
Fit & Features
- Sequin embellished mesh-lined fabric
- Scoop neckline, padded bra cups
- Spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Formal dances, red-carpet events, glam functions, big birthday events, fancy award dinners
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9484
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $129.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Indiana V-Neck Corset Ruffle A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Indiana A-line formal dress is a jaw-dropping number for showstopping moments! Strike the crowd with your shine in this glitter floor-length dress with a flirty corset bodice and ruffled silhouette that gives princess energy.
Make a statement in this stunning dress. Love bold details? Explore our playful ruffle prom dresses or find a sleek look in our formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Glitter mesh-lined fabric
- V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper closure
- Sheer corset bodice, flexible boning
- Ruffled A-line silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, balls, galas, weddings, black-tie parties, big birthday events, and red-carpet events.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9482
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $154.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Carena Corset Lace-Up Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
For endless elegant dressing, the Carene mermaid formal dress reigns in glamour! Designed with a gorgeous corset bodice with applique and flexible boning that snatches your waist and a high front slit for effortless movement.
Fit & Features
- Lined knit fabric
- V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, padded bra cups
- Corset bodice, applique trim, 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 parties, galas, weddings, glam functions and events, big milestone celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9499
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $164.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Liz Lace-Up Mermaid Glitter Formal Dress
Special Occasion
All eyes on you in the head-turning Liz glitter formal dress with a striking lace-up back and mermaid silhouette that accentuates your natural curves!
Rich, radiant, and effortlessly glamorous—this dress was made to stand out. Keep the regal energy going with our stunning purple prom dresses or embrace glam and elegance with formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Glitter fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, upscale parties, elegant soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9497
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Shelia Lace-Up Mermaid Glitter Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Cheers to a glam and gorgeous night in the Shelia glitter formal dress! Designed with a head-turning lace-up back and mermaid silhouette, you'll be the hit of the event or party.
This dress is all about confidence. Want more ways to stand out? Shop our sleek black prom dresses or find a celebration-ready look in our wedding guest dresses.
Fit & Features
- Glitter fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Cowl neckline, padded bra cups
- Wide shoulder straps
- Lace-up back
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, formal parties, milestone celebrations, galas
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9504
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Klaire Lace-Up A-Line Glitter Sequin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Elegance that sparkles. The Klaire A-line formal dress is designed to stand out from the crowd with a striking lace-up back and voluminous silhouette that'll have you feeling like royalty!
A sleek and undeniably stunning pick! If you love a striking look, discover chic black prom dresses or embrace elegance with our stylish formal dresses.
Fit & Features
- Sequin, glitter mesh fabric, multiple tulle and woven linings
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- A-line silhouette
- Bonded floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, balls, galas, glam functions and events, black tie celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9477
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $119.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Lucille Lace-Up Corset Sequin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for your most glamorous events, the Lucille sequin formal dress dazzles from the corset bodice that snatches to the lace-up back that turns heads!
Fit & Features
- Sequin embellished pattern, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Scoop neckline, padded bra cups
- Spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Sheer corset bodice, flexible boning
- High front slit
- Form-hugging silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, red-carpet events, big birthday events, glam functions, and fancy parties.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9483
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $149.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free