Formal Dresses

STYLE SPOTLIGHT

Shop Black Formal Dresses

Discover Blue Formal Dresses

Explore White Formal Dresses

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.

  • Alexis Corset Applique Satin Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Look simply alluring in the Alexis satin mini dress showcasing a corset bodice with an applique design and a bodycon silhouette that'll put your curves on display! 

    This dress is a showstopper! Make a statement in our fierce red prom dresses or create your look with our stunning party dresses.

    Fit & Features

    • Stretch satin fabric, bust knit lining
    • V-neckline, padded bra cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Corset bodice, flexible boning, applique
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Bodycon wrap silhouette
    • Mini-lenght hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, bachelorettes, date night

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2639

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Regina Sweetheart Beaded A-Line Party Dress

    Special Occasion

    You'll be ready to light up the night in the Regina party dress at the school dance or a dressy celebration! Covered in delicate beading, this mini-length dress is designed with a sweetheart neckline with padded bra cups for support while the flattering A-line silhouette gives you a twirl-worthy look. Pair with earrings.

    This dress brings confidence and charm with every step. Looking for more must-have styles? Shop our stunning pink prom dress or dance the night away in one of our party dresses.

    Fit & Features

    • Beaded mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • A-line mini-length silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2640

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $89.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

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

    Special Occasion

    Silky satin crafts the elegant Sheila midi formal dress perfect for bridesmaids, wedding guests, or a dressy banquet! The sleeveless dress boasts a flattering V-neckline with wide shoulder straps that shape the head-turning lace-up open back while the faux wrap bodycon silhouette shows off your figure. Pair with earrings and heels.

    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

    • Silky satin fabric, sewn-in knit lining
    • V-neckline, padded bra cups
    • Wide shoulder straps
    • Lace-up open back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Faux wrap bodycon silhouette, front slit
    • Midi-length hem
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2633

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Bennet Lace Trim Satin Midi Dress

    Special Occasion

    Create a gorgeous look in the Bennet midi dress designed with sleek stretch satin fabric and a dainty lace trim at the bust. The front keyhole cutout and high-cut slit add a chic allure to the fitted silhouette.

    Fit & Features

    • Stretch satin fabric, full-length knit lining
    • Sleeveless V-neckline, sheer lace trim, padded bust
    • Keyhole cutout below the bust, high waist seam
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • Pleating at the waist, high front slit
    • Midi-length fitted silhouette
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Weddings, cocktail parties, fancy date nights, and dinner parties.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2638

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Giselle Sleeveless Slit Mermaid Velvet Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Make jaws drop in the Giselle velvet formal dress designed to stun with a flattering mermaid silhouette, high side slit, and a floor-length hem. Pair with heels

    Fit & Features

    • Velvet fabric
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Sweetheart neckline, padded bust
    • Back zipper closure
    • High side slit
    • Mermaid silhouette, floor-length
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9118

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $69.90

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Azella Bodycon Slit Glitter Velvet Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Sparkle from every angle in the Azella glitter velvet formal dress designed to capture attention with an alluring bodycon silhouette and wrap slit. 

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter velvet fabric, bust knit lining
    • Pleated V-neck, spaghetti straps, padded bra cups
    • High front wrap slit
    • Bodycon silhouette
    • Floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear: 

    Prom, formal events, and black-tie weddings.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9105

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Brianna Satin Strapless High Slit Column Dress

    Special Occasion

    Look and feel like a dream in the Brianna satin formal dress as a stunning bridesmaid, wedding, or party guest! Silky satin shapes this floor-length gown boasting a chic pleated strapless neckline, a flattering column silhouette, and a high side slit that lets you show some leg.

    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

    • Silky satin fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Strapless pleated neckline, padded bra cups
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • High side slit
    • Column silhouette
    • Floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Weddings, bridesmaids, galas, and black-tie parties.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-000159

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $69.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: NAVY

    Available Size: XS, S, M

  • Katarina Halter Slit Mermaid Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Set the tone for a glamorous night in the Katarina mesh formal dress! Designed to make a statement with a halter neckline, high front slit for effortless movement, and a mermaid fit that puts your curves on display.

    Fit & Features

    • Mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • Halter neckline, padded bra cups, tie-back straps
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Side ruched seams, high front slit
    • Mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, bridal celebrations, weddings, fancy brunches and baby showers, galas, and black-tie parties

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9119

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Jennifer Cowl Neck Bodycon Floral Velvet Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    You'll flourish with beauty in the Jennifer floral velvet formal dress with a bodycon ruched silhouette that puts your curves on display and a high side slit for a sultry allure.

    This dress sets the tone for an unforgettable night. Keep the magic going with our stunning white prom dresses and sparkling party dresses.

    Fit & Features

    • Floral print, velvet fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • Cowl neckline, padded bra cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Bodycon ruched silhouette
    • High side slit, long-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, weddings, formal celebrations, fancy dinner parties

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9099

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $74.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: IVORY

    Available Size: XS, S

  • Harlow Cutout Slit Glitter Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Outshine every guest in the Harlow glitter formal dress designed in a sparkling form-hugging silhouette with a sexy cutout and high slit to flaunt your best self!

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • Cowl neckline, padded bra cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Cutout bodice
    • High front slit
    • Form-hugging silhouette
    • Floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, big birthday events, dressed-up girl's night, parties

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9108

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $79.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: BLACK

    Available Size: XS, S, M

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Saisha Strapless Bodycon Mesh Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    The sultry Saisha mesh formal dress is destined to be your go-to for unforgettable evenings! This dress boasts a stunning ruched bodycon silhouette that flaunts your figure and a center back slit for effortless movement all night.

    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

    • Mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • Strapless neckline
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Padded bodice for structure and shaping
    • Ruched bodycon silhouette
    • Center back slit, fitted long-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, big birthday events, weddings, graduations, dinner parties

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9111

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $59.90

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Sancia V-Neck Ruffle Slit Floral Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Bloom beautifully in the Sancia floral formal dress at any soiree or event! Arrive in this stylish dress designed with flattering ruffles, a form-hugging fit and a high slit for effortless movement.

    Fit & Features

    • Floral print, mesh fabric lined with stretch knit
    • V-neckline
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Ruffles, high front slit
    • Form-hugging fit, floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, weddings, bridesmaids, garden parties, spring cocktail events, graduations, birthdays

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9120

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $74.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Elliana Cutout Slit Glitter Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Dare to sparkle in the Elliana glitter formal dress that makes a statement with a cutout design and high front slit for effortless movement.

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter knit fabric
    • Cowl neckline
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Cutout design
    • High front wrap slit
    • Form-hugging, flared floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, red-carpet events, formal celebrations, glam functions and events

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9110

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $69.90

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Kristina Floral Velvet Slit Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Step into chic in the Kristina floral velvet formal dress to make an enchanting debut! Designed to flatter, this dress boasts a ruched bodycon fit that effortlessly flares out into a floor-length hem showcasing a dramatic slit. 

    Fit & Features

    • Floral velvet pattern, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Cowl sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Ruched bodycon fit
    • Front slit
    • Floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, weddings, garden parties, bridesmaids, milestone celebrations, fancy parties

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9121

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Renee Glitter Velvet Midi Dress

    Special Occasion

    Sparkle and impress in this glitter velvet midi dress flaunting a sultry V-neckline with a padded bust and a pleated wrap-style bodice that accentuates your curves along the form-hugging silhouette. Style with strappy heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter velvet fabric with knit lining at the bust, moderate stretch
    • V-neckline, padded bust with pleating
    • Spaghetti straps
    • Pleated wrap-style bodice
    • Side slit
    • Form-hugging midi-length silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2632

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $54.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Hallie Satin Sleeveless Halter Mermaid Dress

    Special Occasion

    Serve sleek and chic style at your formal affair in the Hallie mermaid dress designed with smooth satin knit fabric that will hug your stunning curves. It features a sleeveless high halter neckline with a knot design, a partially open back, and a head-turning floor-length mermaid silhouette.

    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

    • Satin knit fabric with top knit lining, plenty of stretch
    • High halter neckline with knot design, back hook-eye closures
    • Partially open back
    • Lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • High waist seam
    • Floor-length mermaid silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9098

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $39.97 $79.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

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

    Special Occasion

    Sparkle and glow in the Victoria glitter formal dress perfect for dressy events and parties! The formal dress features a striking off-the-shoulder neckline adorned with sheer fitted long sleeves and a mermaid silhouette that hugs your curves. Pair with earrings.

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter mesh lined fabric
    • Off-the-shoulder neckline
    • Back zipper closure
    • Sheer fitted long sleeves
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • Floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9106

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $79.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Belinda Off-The-Shoulder Slit Satin Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    A spellbinding choice for dreamy occasions, the Belinda off-the-shoulder satin formal dress casts a spell of beauty with a form-hugging fit and front wrap slit that brings allure to your night!

    Fit & Features

    • Stretch satin fabric, bust knit lining
    • Off-the-shoulder pleated neckline, padded bra cups
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Form-hugging silhouette
    • Front wrap slit, floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, weddings, bridesmaids, romantic date nights, glam dinner parties, and formal events.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9109

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Carina Lace-Up Mermaid Glitter Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Capture the sparkly allure of the Carina glitter formal dress at your next glamorous function! Make jaws drop with the plunge neckline, lace-up back, and mermaid silhouette that effortlessly flaunts your figure.

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter knit-lined fabric
    • Plunge V-neckline, padded bra cups
    • Spagehtti straps
    • Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • Floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, red-carpet events, upscale birthday parties, award ceremonies, nights at the opera

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9094

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $79.90

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Marine Cutout Slit Mermaid Beaded Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Marine beaded pearl formal dress exudes glam in a stunning mermaid silhouette with a high slit for effortless allure and a sultry cutout bodice so you can flaunt your figure!

    Fit & Features

    • Beaded pearl embellished, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Cowl neckline, padded bra cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Cutout bodice
    • High front slit, mermaid silhouette, floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, upscale birthday parties, milestone celebrations, fancy date nights

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9095

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $159.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Melanie Floral Velvet Lace-Up Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Meet the dress that owns the room—the Melanie stuns in plush velvet with a flocked floral pattern, a curve-hugging silhouette, and a lace-up back made for your next big entrance. 

    Fit & Features

    • Flocked floral pattern, velvet mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Cowl neckline
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
    • High front slit
    • Curve-hugging silhouette, floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Weddings, garden parties, engagement parties, black tie galas, formal celebrations, date nights, cocktail soirees

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9096

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Daphne Corset Slit A-Line Satin Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Look and feel breathtaking in the Daphne satin formal dress! The A-line gown showcases a corset bodice that snatches your waist perfectly and hidden side pockets perfect for stashing your phone during photos.

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

    Fit & Features

    • Premium satin-lined fabric
    • Cowl neckline, wide shoulder straps
    • Back zipper closure
    • Corset bodice
    • Hidden side pockets, high front slit
    • A-line silhouette, floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

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

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9092

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $109.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Brooke Lace-Up Mermaid Sequin Mesh Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    The most glamorous events warrant the Brooke sequin mesh formal dress to make a sultry appearance! Designed with a lace-up back that turns heads and a mermaid silhouette that flaunts your 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

    • Sequin embellished pattern, mesh-lined fabric
    • V-neckline, padded bra cups, spaghetti straps
    • Lace-up back, lower zipper with hook-eye closure
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • Floor-length hem with mesh panels
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, black-tie parties, galas, weddings, nights at the opera, and red-carpet events.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9084

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $119.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: BLACK

    Available Size: XS, S, XL

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Cindy Beaded Strapless Column Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Waltz into the party in the Cindy beaded formal dress for a stunning look! The formal floor-length dress is designed with a strapless cowl neckline that shapes the fitted column silhouette showcasing a high front slit.

    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

    • Beaded embellished mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Strapless cowl neckline, padded bra cups
    • Back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • Column silhouette
    • High front slit
    • Floor-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, weddings, galas, and formal parties.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-9077

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $159.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free