Formal Dresses

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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.

  • Jayleen Ruched Mesh Corset Midi Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Jayleen ruched mesh midi dress is designed with a sleeveless sweetheart neckline with a built-in padded bust accented with a draped cowl neck overlay for a chic look. The corset-style bodice features flexible boning to provide structure and a high waist seam for a snatched fit, while the bodycon silhouette is detailed with a ruched high-front slit for an alluring vibe.

    Fit & Features

    • Sheer mesh fabric with knit lining, plenty of stretch
    • Sweetheart neckline with padded bust, draped cowl neck overlay
    • Corset-style bodice with flexible boning, high waist seam
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • Ruched front seam, high-cut front slit
    • Midi-length bodycon silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2418

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Jackie Sweetheart Lace Sequin Satin Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    A sleeveless satin mini dress boasts a romantic lace sequin sweetheart neckline and a bodycon fit with corset-inspired trim that accentuates your curves. Perfect for styling with heels for the school dance. 

    Fit & Features

    • Satin lined fabric, no stretch
    • Lace sequin sweetheart neckline
    • Built-in padded underwire bust
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Corset-trim
    • Bodycon mini-length fit, sequin lace side trim
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2417

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $99.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Lilian Sequin Strapless Lace-Up Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Lilian mini dress is accented with a luxe sequin embroidered scroll pattern on lined mesh fabric for gorgeous glamour. The short dress features a V-neckline, a lace-up back that turns heads, and a figure-hugging bodycon silhouette. Perfect for a school dance or birthday!

    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

    • Sequin scroll patterned mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • Strapless V-neckline
    • Flexible boning at the bodice
    • Lace-up back, lower zipper with hook-eye closure
    • Mini-length bodycon silhouette
    • Runs true to size 

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, birthdays, bachelorettes, date nights, Vegas, GNO, cocktail parties, rooftop hotel bars, glam events

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001128

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $59.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: MINT-2

    Available Size: S, M, L

  • Aurora Sequin Velvet Lace-Up Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Aurora sequin velvet mini dress brings luxe vibes to every celebration. The sleeveless dress boasts a head-turning lace-up back design and a bodycon silhouette. Complete the look with heels.

    Show off your style in this standout dress. Feeling the short and chic vibe? Discover more fashion-forward short prom dresses or elevate your style with our formal dresses.

    Fit & Features

    • Velvet fabric with knit lining, minimal stretch
    • Sequin embroidered scroll pattern
    • Square neckline with padded bust, thin tank shoulder straps
    • Open lace-up back design, lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • Dual high waist seams
    • Mini-length bodycon silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2424

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Ayzel Lace-Up A-Line Glitter Lace Dress

    Special Occasion

    A sleeveless glitter lace dress boasts a sweetheart neckline, a lace-up back meant to turn heads, and a flattering A-line silhouette. Perfect for the school dance or a party.

    Show off your style in this standout dress. Feeling the short and chic vibe? Discover more fashion-forward short prom dresses or elevate your style with our formal dresses.

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter lace fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
    • Sheer wide shoulder straps
    • Lace-up back
    • Skater short-length fit
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2420

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Lizzy Ruffled Glitter Mesh Skater Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Lizzy glitter mesh party dress deserves to shine at your next event or birthday! The short-length dress offers plenty of chic details like a snatched corset-style bodice and a twirl-worthy tiered ruffled skater silhouette. Pair with a hair accessory and heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sheer glitter mesh fabric with mesh and knit linings, minimal stretch
    • Sweetheart neckline with padded bust
    • Sheer ruched corset-style bodice, flexible boning inserts
    • Tie-shoulder straps, back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • High waist seam, tiered ruffled design
    • Short skater silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2416

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Steff Off-The-Shoulder Mermaid Slit Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    An off-the-shoulder formal dress features a twisted sweetheart neckline and a flattering mermaid silhouette boasting a high front slit. Perfect for homecoming or a banquet.

    Fit & Features

    • Smooth knit fabric, moderate stretch
    • Off-the-shoulder sweetheart twisted neckline
    •  High front slit
    • Mermaid floor-length silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8768

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Emmaline Lace Trim Cutout Crepe Mermaid Dress

    Special Occasion

    Showcase your stunning curves in the Emmaline mermaid dress at your next formal affair. The crepe dress is designed with a sleeveless sweetheart neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customized fit, a sheer lace back leading to a lower back cutout with a dainty lace trim, and a floor-length mermaid silhouette to flaunt your gorgeous figure.

    Fit & Features

    • Crepe fabric, moderate stretch
    • Sweetheart neckline, structured bust
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Sheer lace back design, hook-eye closures
    • Lower back cutout, lace trim, zipper closure
    • Floor-length mermaid silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8767

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Aubriella Rhinestone And Pearl Mesh Mermaid Dress

    Special Occasion

    Create an enchanting formal look in the Aubriella mermaid dress crafted with a lined mesh fabric embellished with mini iridescent rhinestones and faux pearls for a gorgeous shimmer. The dress features a feminine off-the-shoulder neckline with short sleeves, a wrap front and back design at the bodice, ruched side seams to accentuate your curves, and a floor-sweeping mermaid silhouette.

    Fit & Features

    • Sheer mesh fabric with knit lining, plenty of stretch
    • Iridescent rhinestone and faux pearl embellishments
    • Off-the-shoulder neckline, short sleeves
    • Wrap front and back design
    • Ruched side seams
    • Floor-length mermaid silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8769

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $89.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Sandra Sequin One-Shoulder Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Shimmer and shine like a star in the Sandra sequin mini dress designed with a sultry one-shoulder neckline and a ruched wrap bodycon silhouette that gives the appearance of an hourglass figure. Complete the look with earrings and heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sheer mesh fabric with knit lining, moderate stretch
    • All-over sequin embroidery
    • Asymmetric one-shoulder neckline, long fitted sleeve
    • Back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • Ruched waist, faux wrap-front design
    • Mini-length bodycon fit
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2415

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Kiana Rhinestone Sheer Mesh Mermaid Dress

    Special Occasion

    Dare to step into your sultry era in the Kiana formal dress crafted with sheer mesh fabric and a glamorous chic asymmetric rhinestone-embellished design. It features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline with a built-in bra with lining, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customized fit, and a floor-length mermaid silhouette to highlight your stunning curves.

    Fit & Features

    • Sheer mesh fabric with lined bust, sheer lining
    • Asymmetric rhinestone-embellished design
    • Sweetheart neckline, built-in bra with lining
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper closure
    • Floor-length mermaid silhouette
    • Panty lining not included
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8771

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $149.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Bailey Open Back Rhinestone Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Make an entrance in the Bailey party rhinestone dress designed with an open back and sassy bodycon fit to flaunt your figure! Complete the with earrings.

    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

    • Rhinestone embellished mesh fabric, partial lining
    • Crew neck with back button closure
    • Fitted long sleeves, split cuffs
    • Open back
    • Bodycon fit
    • Mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2411

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Adina Velvet Long Sleeve Open Back Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    The velvet mini dress features a crew neckline with a twist accent, a cutout above the bust, an open lower back design, long fitted sleeves, and a chic side slit at the mini-length hem. Complete your formal outfit with rhinestone heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Velvet fabric with knit lining, moderate stretch
    • Crew neckline with twist accent, cutout at the bust
    • Open lower back
    • Long fitted sleeves
    • Mini-length hem with side slit
    • Bodycon silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2410

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Veda Cutout Long Sleeve Column Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Serve chic style at your next formal affair in the Veda dress designed with lined knit fabric offering a smooth look with plenty of stretch. It features a crew neckline with a chic twist-front accent, a sultry cutout above the bust, long fitted sleeves, a bold open back that will turn heads, and a high-cut front slit along the floor-length fitted column silhouette.

    Fit & Features

    • Lined smooth knit fabric with plenty of stretch
    • Crew neckline with twist-front design, cutout above the bust, underbust seam
    • Long fitted sleeves
    • Open back
    • High front slit
    • Floor-length fitted column silhouette
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Weddings, black-tie events, rooftop parties, formal dinners, and fancy date nights.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8760

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Sylvia Strapless Glitter Satin Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    A strapless glitter satin formal dress that sparkles in a form-hugging silhouette and front slit for a flirty flair along the midi-length hem. Style with heels for any occasion.

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter satin fabric, bust lining, minimal stretch
    • Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
    • Flexible boning
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Front slit
    • Form-hugging midi-length silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2408

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Ariana Rhinestone Satin Bubble Hem Skater Dress

    Special Occasion

    Serve major flirtatious vibes at your formal party in the Ariana skater dress crafted with a woven satin skirt and a sheer mesh bodice with tonal rhinestone embellishments for a glitzy shine. It features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline with a lined bust, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customized fit, and a short ruffled skater silhouette with an adorable bubble hem to twirl all night long.

    Show off your style in this standout dress. Feeling the short and chic vibe? Discover more fashion-forward short prom dresses or elevate your style with our formal dresses.

    Fit & Features

    • Woven satin fabric
    • Tonal rhinestone embellishments at the bodice
    • Sweetheart neckline, sheer mesh bustier bodice, lined bust
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • High waist seam
    • Short ruffled skater silhouette with bubble hem
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2409

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Jemma Embellished Studded Sleeveless Mermaid Dress

    Special Occasion

    Bring the glitz in a long mermaid dress that features a sleeveless wired sweetheart neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps for customized fit, and dazzling tonal rhinestone embellishments. Complete your formal outfit with a rhinestone clutch. 

    Fit & Features

    • Lined mesh fabrication, tonal rhinestone embellishments
    • Sleeveless wired sweetheart neckline
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Long length hem
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8756

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $129.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Kamila Lace Long Sleeve Velvet Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Gorgeously chic will be your night-out vibe in the Kamila formal velvet mini dress designed with sheer lace long fitted sleeves for a touch of allure. It features a scoop neckline, a corset-style bodice, and a pleated faux wrap-front design with a bodycon silhouette.

    Show off your style in this standout dress. Feeling the short and chic vibe? Discover more fashion-forward short prom dresses or elevate your style with our formal dresses.

    Fit & Features

    • Velvet fabric, stretchy knit lining, moderate stretch
    • Sheer lace long fitted sleeves, partial open back with top tie-back straps
    • Scoop neckline, corset bodice, high waist seam
    • Back zipper closure
    • Pleated faux wrap-front
    • Mini-length bodycon silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2407

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $54.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Marley Lace-Up Mermaid Crepe Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    This strapless crepe formal dress features a stunning lace-up back and mermaid silhouette that shapes the high-low hem. Perfect for the school dance or a banquet.

    Fit & Features

    • Crepe fabric, bust lining, moderate stretch
    • Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
    • Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Cutout bust
    • Mermaid high-low silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8755

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Alena Glitter Satin Off-The-Shoulder Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Create an enchanting aura at prom in the gorgeous Alena glitter satin mini dress featuring an off-the-shoulder subtle V-neckline with a feminine draped overlay and short-sleeved cuffs. The ruched side and back seams will accentuate your curves along the bodycon silhouette, while the faux wrap-front design creates a chic asymmetric mini-length hem.

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter satin fabric
    • Off-the-shoulder V-neckline with draped overlay, short-sleeved cuffs
    • Princess seams, high waist seam
    • Ruched side and back seams, back zipper closure
    • Faux wrap-front design
    • Mini-length bodycon silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2402

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Alice Corset Velvet Midi Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    A velvet midi formal dress features a sultry cowl neckline and corset bodice that leads to the flattering bodycon silhouette with a front wrap slit. Perfect for homecoming or banquets.

    Fit & Features

    • Velvet fabric, bust lining, moderate stretch
    • Cowl neckline, padded bra cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Corset bodice, flexible boning
    • Front wrap slit
    • Bodycon midi-length silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2403

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Beyond Precious V-Neck Ruffle Babydoll Dress

    Special Occasion

    This floral chiffon formal dress features a flirty sweetheart neckline with padded bra cups for support, scrunched shoulder straps, a high front slit, and a flowy A-line ruffled floor-length silhouette. Perfect for homecoming or a wedding.

    Fit & Features

    • Floral print, chiffon fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
    • Scrunched shoulder straps
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • High front slit
    • A-line floor-length silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8753

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $79.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Anisa Sleeveless Floral Velvet Mermaid Dress

    Special Occasion

    Make a striking impression in a long velvet dress that features a sleeveless cowl neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customized fit, an embossed floral pattern, a high-side slit, and a mermaid silhouette. Complete your wedding guest outfit with chandelier earrings. 

    Fit & Features

    • Embossed floral pattern, velvet fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Sleeveless cowl neckline
    • Padded bra cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • High side slit
    • Long hem length, mermaid silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8740

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Tova Off The Shoulder Glitter Mermaid Dress

    Special Occasion

    Grace your event in a shimmering glitter knit mermaid dress that features an elegant off-the-shoulder neckline with a foldover accent, sheer ruched long sleeves, and a sweeping long-length hem. Complete your formal event outfit with glitter block heels. 

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter knit fabrication, stretchy knit lining
    • Off-the-shoulder neckline, foldover accent
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Sheer ruched long sleeves
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • Long length hem
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8741

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free