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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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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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
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Brittney Lace-Up Slit Bodycon Glitter Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Dazzle the room with a look as captivating as the Brittney glitter formal dress with a sensational lace-up cutout back and high front slit along the sultry bodycon fit.
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Square neckline, padded bra cups
- Wide shoulder straps
- Lace-up cutout back
- High front slit
- Bodycon fit, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, and red-carpet events.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9468
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
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Kristana Corset Slit Mesh Lace Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Elegantly constructed to enhance your figure, the Kristana mesh lace formal dress is designed with a corset bodice that snatches your waist and a flattering bodycon silhouette.
Fit & Features
- Lace mesh fabric, sewn-in knit lining
- Sweetheart neckline, built-in padded underwire bust
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Corset bodice, flexible boning
- High front slit, bodycon silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, brides, honeymoons, black-tie functions, graduations, upscale milestone celebrations, fancy parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9465
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kylie Lace-Up Mermaid Glitter Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Make it a night to remember in the Kylie glitter formal dress with a head-turning lace-up back and mermaid silhouette that perfectly accentuates your natural curves!
Fit & Features
- Glitter knit fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Square neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, flexible boning
- Side ruched seams, mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
- Extra glitter for maximum sparkle - may have some natural fallout
Where to Wear:
Prom, red-carpet events, sweet sixteens
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9473
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Sheryll Strapless Wrap Satin Midi Dress
Special Occasion
The Sheryll satin formal dress is sleek and chic for every event or party. The midi-length dress showcases a strapless neckline leading to the form-hugging wrap silhouette that creates a flirty slit. Complete the look with strappy heels.
Fit & Features
- Satin fabric, slight stretch
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Side ruched seams
- Form-hugging wrap silhouette
- Side slit, midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2710
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
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Heidi Corset Slit Satin Midi Dress
Special Occasion
The Heidi satin midi dress flaunts your figure with an alluring corset bodice, form-hugging fit, and a flirty slit detail. Complete the look with block heels and earrings.
Dripping in satin and pure sophistication, this dress turns heads effortlessly. Love that silky shine? Browse our luxe satin prom dresses or opt for a sleek silhouette with our formal dresses.>
Fit & Features
- Silky satin fabric, sewn-in knit lining
- Pleated V-neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Corset bodice, flexible boning
- Form-hugging fit, front slit
- Midi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2713
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Morgan Flocked Velvet A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Bring immaculate sultriness in the Morgan floor-length formal dress as a striking bridesmaid, wedding, or event guest! This A-line dress stuns in a plunge V-neckline with spaghetti straps that shape the open cross-back design and dual slits for movement.
Fit & Features
- Floral flocked velvet pattern, semi-sheer mesh with knit lining
- Plunge V-neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, cross-back design, zipper with hook-eye closure
- Dual high front slits, pleat details
- Empire waist
- Floor-length A-line silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, bridesmaid, formal events and parties, big birthday events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9458
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
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Selina Cutout Back Lace Glitter Skater Dress
Special Occasion
The Selina lace glitter dress doesn't enter a room - it owns it. Make your entrance in this skater dress designed with a cutout back and a voluminous silhouette made for twirling!
Fit & Features
- Lace glitter fabric, tulle and stretchy knit lining
- Cowl neckline, padded bra cups
- Wide shoulder straps
- Cutout back, hook bar strap
- Drop waist seam
- Skater silhouette, short-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, big milestone parties, birthdays, dressed-up dates, semi-formal weddings
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2704
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Mika Floral Mesh Bell Sleeve Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Oh-so-chic, the Mika bell sleeve mini dress is perf for a garden party or formal brunch with the girls. The floral embroidery on airy mesh fabric gives the dress an effortlessly pretty look.
This dress proves that short and stylish is always a vibe. Want more? Discover our bold short prom dresses or find a celebration-ready fit in our party dresses.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with partial lining
- Floral embroidered pattern
- Square neck and back
- Long bell sleeves
- Tie-back straps, lower back zipper closure
- Mini-length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Engagement parties, bridal showers, garden parties, and weekend brunches.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2709
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Alana Halter Beaded Sequin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Delicate beading and sequins embellish the Alana halter formal dress giving chic polished vibes with an alluring high front slit and form-hugging silhouette!
Fit & Features
- Beaded, sequin embellishments, mesh-lined fabric
- Halter cowl neckline, padded bra cups, bar accent
- Spaghetti strap tie-back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit
- Form-hugging silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, brides, bridesmaids, weddings, upscale celebrations, galas, black-tie events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9452
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $49.97 $169.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Cordella Sweetheart Mermaid Sit Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
From the chiffon flutter sleeves to the high front slit, the Cordella satin formal dress showcases your beauty and curves in a mermaid silhouette!
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, sewn-in stretchy knit lining
- Chiffon flutter sleeves
- Chiffon sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, bridesmaids, black tie galas and events, engagement parties, nights at the opera and theatre, cocktail soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9450
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Kailey Lace-Up Mermaid Sequin Beaded Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Step into sophistication in the Kailey sequin beaded formal dress with a sexy lace-up back and mermaid silhouette that gives the illusion of a chic hourglass figure!
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
- Sequin beaded mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Cowl V-neckline with bar accent
- Spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, romantic date nights, glam functions and events, birthdays
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9439
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Korey Lace-Up Mermaid Abstract Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Bold, daring, and ultra flattering. The Korey formal dress makes a statement with a sultry lace-up back, a mermaid silhouette that hugs your curves, and a floor-length hem for a bit of drama!
Fit & Features
- Abstract print, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Cowl neckline, spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, big milestone parties, sunset dinner dates, birthdays, cocktail soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9449
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Brookelle Halter Applique Slit Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Glamorous, elegant, and timeless perfectly describe the Brookelle satin formal dress with a unique pleated keyhole halter neckline and a striking applique sequin bodice.
Fit & Features
- Satin lined fabric
- Pleated keyhole halter neckline, button closures
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Applique sequin bodice
- Form-hugging silhouette
- High front slit, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, black-tie galas and functions, fancy celebration parties, nights at the theatre and opera
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9448
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Sereia Halter Floral Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Pretty florals and an elegant silhouette make the Sereia mermaid formal dress a gorgeous style this season! Pair with kitten stiletto heels for a chic look.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, mesh-lined fabric
- Halter V-neckline, tie closure, partially open back
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, garden parties, glamorous events, fancy date nights, graduations, milestone celebration events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9441
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Emilla Strapless Mermaid Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Feminine and chic, the Emilla satin formal dress epitomizes elegant dressing! The dress is designed with a flattering pleated bodice that leads to mermaid silhouette boasting a high slit for effortless allure.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin fabric, sewn-in knit lining
- Strapless cowl neckline, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Pleated bodice
- High front slit, mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, bridesmaids, galas, black-tie parties, upscale celebrations, cocktail soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9445
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Lova Off-The-Shoulder Corset Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
When it comes to elegance, the Lova satin formal dress is the perfect fit. Designed with an alluring off-the-shoulder neckline and a sculpted corset bodice, this dress accentuates your curves in all the right places.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin fabric, sewn-in knit lining
- Off-the-shoulder neckline
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Corset bodice, flexible boning inserts
- High front wrap slit
- Form-hugging fit, flared floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, bridesmaids, black tie soirees, galas, garden parties, formal celebrations, dressed up date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9447
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $49.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Greta Short Sleeve Lace-Up Slit Beaded Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Serve an effortless allure whereever you go in the Greta formal dress designed with the prettiest lace-up back, elegant short sleeves, and a high front slit to show off your heels!
Make your entrance unforgettable in this dress. For more glam styles, explore intricate embellishments on beaded prom dresses or be ready to celebrate in wedding guest dresses.
Fit & Features
- Beaded embellishments, mesh-lined fabric
- Short sleeves
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit
- Form-hugging silhouette, flowy floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, bridesmaids, garden parties, big birthday events, engagement parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9444
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $159.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Amabella Ruffled Glitter Tulle Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Live out your fairytale dream in the Amabella glitter tulle ball gown that exudes ethereal glamour. The tiered ruffled A-line silhouette creates a gorgeous voluminous look you'll adore.
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
- Sheer glitter tulle fabric, full-length stretchy knit lining
- Sleeveless pleated V-neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper with hook-eye closure
- High waist seams
- Floor-length tiered ruffled design, high front slit
- A-line silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, galas, birthday celebrations, and fancy parties.
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-0273
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $139.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Lynnea Lace-Up Slit A-Line Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
So striking and effortlessly elegant, the Lynnea satin formal dress is designed with pretty details from the lace-up back to the high side slit.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, bust knit lining
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- High side slit
- A-line silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, formal weddings, bridesmaids, black-tie parties, galas, and fancy milestone celebrations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9431
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Contessa One-Shoulder Slit Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Contessa satin formal dress is the luxe style you've been dreaming about! With a sleek form-hugging fit and high front wrap slit designed to catch all the attention.
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-lined fabric
- One-shoulder neckline
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front wrap slit
- Form-hugging fit
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, bridesmaids, black tie parties, engagement parties, nights at the theatre
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9430
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Taylor Lace-Up Slit Sequin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Step into a world of sparkle in the glam Taylor sequin formal dress capturing sultry design details like a lace-up back that turns heads and a high front slit for effortless movement.
Fit & Features
- Sequin embellished pattern
- Mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Square neckline
- Wide shoulder 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:
Prom, red-carpet events, big milestone celebrations, galas, and fancy cocktail soirees.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9428
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $89.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Rosalee Lace-Up Floral Mesh Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Blooming with romantic beauty, the Rosalee floral mesh formal dress blossoms with a lace-up back that turns heads and a floor-length hem with a train for dramatic flair.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, embroidery detail, mesh fabric, stretch knit linings
- Cowl neckline, padded bra cups
- Spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back
- Form-hugging silhouette
- Floor-length hem with train
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, garden parties, formal celebrations, spring cocktail parties, graduations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9423
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Delilah V-Neck Slit Bodycon Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sultry and sophisticated, the Delilah long formal dress is everything you need to make a statement! Designed to capture attention, this V-neck dress boasts a high slit for a show of leg and a bodycon silhouette that puts your curves on display.
Fit & Features
- Slinky smooth knit-lined fabric, moderate stretch
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- High slit
- Bodycon silhouette
- Long-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Formal weddings and dinner parties, fancy date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9424
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free