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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Nina Strappy A-Line Floral Tulle Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Celebrate how dreamy you'll look in the Nina floral tulle formal dress! A gorgeous floral embroidery adds a cute whimsical flair to this floor-length dress showcasing a sultry strappy back and flattering A-line silhouette with a high slit for movement.
Fit & Features
- Floral embroidery, airy tulle fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Plunge V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjsutable spaghetti straps
- Strappy open back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit
- A-line silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black-tie galas and weddings, fancy birthday parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9371
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Tarna Lace-Up Bead Sequin Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
For unforgettable moments slip on the Tarna bead sequin formal dress to make every jaw drop. From the darling lace-up back to the high front slit, this mermaid dress is everything!
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 scroll pattern with bead trim
- Mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- 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, glam events, big birthday parties, awards ceremony dinners
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9375
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $169.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Paula Satin Strapless High Slit Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Sleek with an elegant allure, the Paula strapless high slit mermaid dress is made with smooth stretch satin fabric for a gorgeous sheen. The back is detailed with a sheer mesh design with stunning floral appliques that add a soft romantic feel to turn heads.
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
- Stretch satin fabric, sewn-in knit stretchy lining
- Strapless straight neckline, pleated cowl draped overlay
- Padded bra cups, flexible boning inserts
- Sheer mesh back with floral applique, zipper closure, lower back ruching
- High-cut front slit
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, engagement parties, and black-tie events.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9363
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Mischka Strapless Mermaid Glitter Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Flaunt a gorgeous shine in the Mischka glitter formal dress at dressy events! Designed to amaze, this strapless dress highlights your figure in a ruched mermaid silhouette while the floor-length hem adds a dramatic flair.
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
- Glitter knit fabrication lined with stretchy knit
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
- Side ruched seams
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, big birthday events, fancy date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9391
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: RED, YELLOW, LIGHT, BLUE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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Ramona Off-The-Shoulder Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed to be a real showstopper, the Ramona mesh formal dress hugs your curves in a ruched mermaid silhouette while the high front slit gives effortless movement!
Fit & Features
- Mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Off-the-shoulder sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Short-sleeve cuffs
- High front slit
- Ruched mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, bridesmaids, garden parties, formal soirees, upscale birthday parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9376
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $14.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Vienna Long Sleeve Open Back Bodycon Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Make a jaw-dropping impression in the Vienna floor-length formal dress at black tie events and galas. The formal gown is designed with a head-turning open back, a bodycon silhouette, and a high front slit that flaunts your figure. Pair with heels.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Fitted long sleeves
- Mock neck with button closures
- Open back
- High front slit
- Bodycon silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9361
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Capriana V-Neck Mermaid Bead Sequin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Sweep with the floor in the graceful Capriana floor-length formal dress destined for an unforgettable evening! Crafted with sequins and beading, this dress boasts a flattering V-neckline and a mermaid silhouette that hugs your curves.
Fit & Features
- Beaded, sequin embellishments
- Mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- V-neckline, bar accent, padded bra cups
- Dual adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, bridesmaids, black tie celebrations, glam functions, garden parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9355
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $149.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Vivienne Strapless Slit Glitter Formal Column Dress
Special Occasion
Shine in the sparkling Vivienne glitter formal column dress at galas and black-tie parties all night! The formal dress boasts a sleek strapless neckline leading to a dramatic side ruffle and slit perfect for showing off your heels.
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 fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
- Side ruffle and high slit
- Column silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
- Extra glitter for maximum sparkle - may have some natural fall out
Where to Wear:
Prom, galas, and black-tie affairs.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9352
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Amanza Corset Slit Mermaid Tulle Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Ethereal and sparkling charm! The Amanza floor-length formal dress dazzles every party with a display of sequins and glitter on a stunning corset mermaid silhouette with a slit design giving effortless allure.
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
- Sequins glitter pattern, tulle fabric, short knit stretchy lining
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Sheer corset bodice, flexible boning, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Front slit
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length bonded hem
- Extra glitter for maximum sparkle - may have some natural fallout
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black-tie galas, balls, glam functions, and red-carpet events.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9357
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.97 $159.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Clara Rhinestone Pearl Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Looking like a glam diva is easy in the Clara mermaid formal dress crafted with dazzling rhinestones and faux pearl embellishments everyone will admire when you walk in!
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with full-length knit lining, high stretch
- Iridescent rhinestone and faux pearl embellishments, draped design
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline with built-in bra, padding and underwire
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper with hook-eye closure
- High waist seam
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, galas, and black-tie parties.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9347
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Juliana Ruche Mermaid Mesh Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Juliana mesh formal dress is a showstopper with a mermaid silhouette and ruching designed to accentuate your figure!
Fit & Features
- Mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Square neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Ruched seams
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, bridesmaids, formal functions, fancy date nights, dinner parties, celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9335
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Little Bit Of Drama Low Back Maxi Dress
Step into the spotlight in this stunning maxi dress designed with a low back and tie that turns heads and a form-hugging silhouette that flaunts your figure! Pair with heels for any dressy occasion.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit stretchy fabric
- Cowl neckline, wide shoulder straps
- Low back with spaghetti strap tie
- Form-hugging silhouette
- Maxi-length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-4030
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $38.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Alba Cowl Neck Mermaid Floral Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Alba floral formal dress will stand out wherever you wear it! Designed to turn heads, this dress boasts a sultry cowl neckline and ruched mermaid silhouette that puts your curves on display.
Fit & Features
- Burnout floral pattern, knit fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Cowl neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Ruched mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, bridesmaids, fancy milestone parties, garden parties, and cocktail soirees.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9456
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: YELLOW, LIGHT, BLUE-2, BLUE
Available Size: L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Gisele Sequin Velvet Lace-Up Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Radiate luxe glamour in the Gisele sequin velvet formal dress at your next black-tie affair. The open lace-up back offers a customized fit, while the mermaid silhouette will hug your gorgeous curves.
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
- Velvet fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Sequin embroidered geometric pattern
- Sleeveless V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Open back with cross-back lace-up straps
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black-tie weddings, and red-carpet events.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9332
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Amy Mermaid Slit Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Occasions are made easy in the Amy satin formal dress designed with a mermaid silhouette that flaunts your curves while the high front slit offers effortless movement.
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, bust knit lining
- V-neck, padded bra cups, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length bonded hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black-tie events, and weddings.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9322
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Amber Puff Sleeve Lace-Up Slit Sequin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Enchant the night with your sparkle in the Amber sequin formal dress destined to be your shimmering plus one! Designed with adorable puff sleeves and a lace-up back while the high sit adds allure.
This dreamy dress is pure elegance and sure to leave a lasting impression. Looking for more? Elevate your look with a stunning pink prom dresses or a captivating formal dress.
Fit & Features
- Sequin embellished pattern mesh fabric,s stretchy knit lining
- Puff sleeves
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Lace-up open back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Hight front slit
- Form-hugging silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, red-carpet events, fancy milestone celebrations, award ceremonies
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9319
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $139.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Catiana Cowl Neck Lace Slit Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
So gorgeous and alluring! The Catiana satin formal dress is designed with eyelash lace trim for a romantic look and a flattering mermaid silhouette that accentuates your curves.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, sewn-in knit lining
- Cowl neckline, lace trim bust, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front lace trim slit
- Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, black tie galas and parties, bridesmaids, fancy date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9323
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Alison Strapless Slit A-Line Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Step out looking breathtaking in the Alison satin formal dress designed with a sultry high slit for effortless movement and an A-line silhouette that flatters your curves.
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 lined fabric
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
- Back zipper closure
- Pleated bodice
- High side slit
- A-line silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, galas, black-tie parties, and formal weddings.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9326
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Steffanie Tie-Back Slit A-Line Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Dressed to impress. The Steffanie A-line satin formal dress will leave any room speechless! The formal dress showcases a chic tie-back design and a high front slit for effortless movement.
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, bust knit lining
- Cowl neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Tie-back design
- High front slit
- A-line silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, bridesmaids, black tie galas, formal events and parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9324
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Louisa Ruffle Glitter Skater Short Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the sparkle to any party or event in the Louisa glitter skater dress with mesmerizing ruffles and the perfect short-length hem for twirling on the dance floor!
Fit & Features
- Glitter tulle fabric, premium satin lining
- Scoop neckline, ruched bust, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Ruffled skater silhouette
- Short-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, birthdays, graduations, red-carpet events, dressy festivities
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2672
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Evelyn Lace-Up Ruffle Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed to bring a chic drama to your evening, the Evelyn mesh formal dress impresses with a flirty lace-up along the plunge neckline, side ruched seams that accentuate your curves along the mermaid silhouette, and a ruffled high-low hem.
Fit & Features
- Mesh fabric, sewn-in knit lining, moderate stretch
- Plunge V-neckline, padded bra cups, lace-up accent
- Adjustable shoulder straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Side ruched seams, mermaid silhouette
- Ruffled high-low hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, cocktail soirees, engagement parties, anniversaries, fancy date nights, parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9330
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Vanessa One-Shoulder Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Exude grace and elegance in the Vanessa formal dress boasting a sleek one-shoulder neckline, fitted long sleeves, and an accentuating mermaid silhouette completed with a high slit. Pair with earrings.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit fabric, stretchy knit lining
- One-shoulder neckline
- Fitted long sleeves
- High slit
- Mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9316
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Kennedy Long Sleeve Corset Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Indulge in effortless elegance in the Kennedy mesh formal dress to be a true beauty at black-tie parties and events. The floor-length dress is designed with a hidden corset bodice, side ruched seams that accentuate your figure, and a mermaid silhouette. Pair with earrings.
Fit & Features
- Mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Sheer fitted long sleeves
- Sweetheart neckline, back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Hidden corset bodice, lace built-in padded bra, flexible boning
- Side ruched seams, mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9315
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Olga Corset Lace Satin Wrap Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the sultry heat to the night in the Olga satin mermaid formal dress for a gorgeous evening out look! From the lace corset bodice to the high front slit, you'll receive all the compliments.
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
- Satin lined fabric
- Sweetheart neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Sheer lace corset bodice, padded bra cups, flexible boning
- Back zipper closure
- High front slit with sequin lace insert
- Wrap mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie weddings and events, fancy date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9305
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: HUNTER
Available Size: S
Product Badge:- Ships Free