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.

  • Grace Strapless A-Line Glitter Party Dress

    Special Occasion

    A glitter party dress featuring a strapless surplice V-neckline and an A-line short silhouette adorned with hidden side pockets for keeping your hands warm. Perfect for homecoming or dressy celebrations.

    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

    • Glitter fabric, multiple tulle and stretchy knit linings
    • Strapless surplice V-neckline
    • Padded bra cups
    • Flexible boning, back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Hidden side pockets
    • A-Line short silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2365

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Marilyn Bow Strap Velvet Skater Dress

    Special Occasion

    Create an adorably chic party look with the gorgeous Marilyn skater dress designed with smooth velvet fabric. It features a sleeveless woven satin square fold-over neckline with thin shoulder straps and bow front accents, a fitted high waist seam, and a short-length pleated skater skirt with that iconic fit-and-flare silhouette.

    Fit & Features

    • Velvet fabric with knit bust lining, minimal stretch
    • Woven satin square fold-over neckline, thin shoulder straps with bow front accents
    • Back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • High waist seam
    • Short-length pleated skater skirt
    • Fit-and-flare silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2369

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Analeah High-Slit Glitter Mermaid Dress

    Special Occasion

    Bring the sparkle in the Analeah glitter formal dress with a high front slit that shows off your heels and a flattering mermaid silhouette.

    Rich, radiant, and effortlessly glamorous—this dress was made to stand out. Keep the regal energy going with our stunning purple prom dresses or embrace glam and elegance with formal dresses.

    Fit & Features

    • Lined glitter knit fabrication
    • Sleeveless cowl neckline, padded bra cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Ruching, back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Mermaid silhouette, high front slit
    • Long length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, galas, black tie events, formal parties

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8711

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $79.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Lily Strapless Corset Rhinestone Satin Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    The fun and fabulous vibes of the Lily rhinestone satin mini dress will make you excited to dance all night at homecoming or birthdays! Made from silky satin fabric this dress is embellished with glittering rhinestones that bring the glam. The strapless neckline and flexible boning create a sophisticated silhouette while the bodycon fit hugs your curves down to the mini-length hem. Complete the look with earrings and a hair accessory for a luxe allure!

    Fit & Features

    • Rhinestone embellished, satin fabric, bust lining, minimal stretch
    • Strapless neckline
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Flexible boning
    • Bodycon fit
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2354

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Kippa Open Back Rhinestone Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Bring the glam in a mini dress that features a round neckline, sheer long sleeves, a bold open-back design, and rhinestones throughout. Complete look with a rhinestone clutch. 

    Fit & Features

    • Lined mesh fabrication
    • Round neckline
    • Sheer unlined long-sleeves
    • Open back design
    • Rhinestones 
    • Mini length hem
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2353

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Freida Velvet Ruffled One-Shoulder Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Exude bold elegance in the Freida formal dress designed with luxe smooth velvet fabric for your next black-tie affair. It features a one-shoulder neckline with a dramatic ruffled design, chic pleating at the bodice and waist, a faux wrap-front creating a high slit, and a floor-length form-fitting silhouette to hug your curves.

    Fit & Features

    • Velvet fabric with top knit lining, moderate stretch
    • One-shoulder neckline with ruffled design, no-slip strip, padded bust
    • Pleating at the bodice and waist
    • Back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • Faux wrap-front design, high slit
    • Floor-length form-fitting silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8709

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $89.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Julane Cowl Neck Ruched Column Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Julane mesh long formal dress offers femme detail with lace trim and ruching to enhance your curves along the column silhouette. Style with earrings.

    Fit & Features

    • Sheer mesh fabric with knit lining, plenty of stretch
    • Sleeveless cowl neckline, unlined floral lace inset
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • Ruched side and back seams
    • Floor-length column silhouette
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Weddings, bridesmaids, formal dinner parties, and romantic date nights.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8706

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Odette Sequin Beaded Floral Lace Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Odetta sequin beaded floral lace mini dress will be the center of attention at every party or event! The formal dress is designed with a sleeveless square neckline that leads to the flattering A-line silhouette and mini-length hem. Pair 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

    • Sheer lace fabric with satin woven lining, minimal stretch
    • Floral embroidered design, sequin and beaded embellishments
    • Sleeveless square neckline, curved underbust seam
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • Mini-length A-line silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2363

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $74.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Jaimie Strapless Corset Bow A-Line Party Dress

    Special Occasion

    A perfect night requires a perfect party dress like the Jaimie A-line dress to make your memorable entrance at the school dance, birthday, or dressy event! The party dress is crafted from a satin-lined bodice that leads to her organza woven skirt with tulle and a stretchy knit lining giving a voluminous effect. She boasts a strapless neckline and flexible boning inserts to provide a flattering fit, while the satin bows along the waist add a charming touch. The A-line silhouette and pleated short-length hem create a unique and playful look. Compliment your look with earrings, a bracelet, and heels!

    Fit & Features

    • Satin-lined bodice, organza woven skirt, tulle and stretchy knit lining
    • Strapless neckline
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Flexible boning inserts
    • Satin bows along the waist
    • A-Line pleated silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2339

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $49.97 $99.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Rosemary Open Back Sequin Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Set the vibe for the night in the Rosemary sequin mini dress perfect for dressy girl's nights or parties! The mini-length dress boasts a revealing strappy back meant to turn heads and a bodycon silhouette. Complete the look with heels.

    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 knit lining, moderate stretch
    • Sequin embroidered scroll pattern
    • Sleeveless V-neckline, padded bust
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Open back, strappy accents with hook-eye closure, hidden lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • Mini-length bodycon silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2334

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Tiana Open Back Floral Sequin Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Tiana floral sequin mini dress features adjustable spaghetti straps for a customized fit, an alluring open back with a tie closure, and a flattering bodycon silhouette. Perfect for a school dance or dressy celebration.

    Fit & Features

    • Mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • Sequin embroidered floral pattern
    • Square neckline, padded bra cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Open back with tie closure
    • Mini-length bodycon fit
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2337

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Guinevere Beaded Cowl Halter Mini Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Make your mark in the Guinevere sleeveless mini dress featuring faux pearl and beaded embellishments, a halter cowl neckline, a mini bar strap accent at the padded bust, tie-back halter straps for a secure fit, and a bodycon short-length hem. Complete the outfit with platform 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

    • Sheer mesh fabric with knit lining, plenty of stretch
    • Faux pearl and beaded embellishments 
    • Halter cowl neck, padded bust
    • Tie-back halter straps
    • Open back, lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • Mini-length bodycon fit
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2343

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $89.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Tegan Cutout Bodycon Sequin Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    The sequin dress features a flattering square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, a cutout back that attracts attention, and a bodycon mini-length silhouette. This dress is perfect for a school dance or party.

    Fit & Features

    • Sequin pattern, mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • Square neckline
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Padded bra cups
    • Cutout back, dual hook closures, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Bodycon mini-length silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2342

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Aitana Lace-Up Bodycon Sequin Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    A sleeveless sequin dress boasts a square neckline and spaghetti straps that shape the lace-up back design. The bodycon mini-length fit perfectly flaunts your curves. Style with dressy heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • Square neckline
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Lace-up back
    • Sequin scroll pattern
    • Bodycon mini-length fit
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2338

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $54.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Karla V-Neck Beaded Sequin A-Line Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    This glam sleeveless mini dress features a flattering V-neckline with bar trim, adjustable spaghetti straps, and padded bra cups for support. The A-line silhouette and mini-length hem highlight your curves. 

    Fit & Features

    • Sequin beaded embellished mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • V-neckline with bar trim
    • Padded bra cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • A-Line silhouette, mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2344

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Meg Sweetheart Mermaid Lace Mesh Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    Fall in love with the Meg lace mesh formal dress on your big day or attending a black tie party. Featuring a flattering sweetheart neckline and adjustable spaghetti straps, this dress offers a sensual and elegant appeal. The mesh-lined padded bra cups and sides add support and enhance your figure, while the breathtaking mermaid silhouette and floor-length hem exude sophistication. Complete the look with earrings.

    Fit & Features

    • Lace fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • Sweetheart neckline
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Mesh-lined padded bra cups and sides
    • Mermaid silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8700

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Adriana Lace-Up Corset Sequin Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    A sleeveless sequin mini dress features a flattering scoop neckline and lace-up back meant to turn heads. The sheer corset bodice offers a peek of skin while the bodycon silhouette flaunts your curves. Perfect for the school dance or going out.

    Fit & Features

    • Sequin pattern, mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • Scoop neckline, padded bra cups
    • Spaghetti straps
    • Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Sheer corset bodice, flexible boning
    • Bodycon mini-length silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2331

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Jungle Cutie Rhinestone Beaded Mini Dress

    Set your heart on an adventure this Halloween as a jungle cutie! This sleeveless mini dress features a flattering V-neckline embellished with a unique beaded, rhinestone, and mirror pattern. It also has a trendy uneven mini-length hem to complete the look. 

    Fit & Features

    • Mesh fabric, stretchy knit bodysuit lining, snap-button closures
    • V-neckline
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Beaded, rhinestone, and mirror embellishments
    • Form-hugging uneven mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2321

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $49.97 $109.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Leyla Sequin Strappy Back Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Leyla sequin mini dress is crafted with gorgeous iridescent sequin embroidery on the partially lined mesh fabric. It features spaghetti straps leading to an open back with a lace-up strappy design for a customized fit, a sheer waist insert with flexible boning to provide structure, and a mini-length bodycon silhouette. Style with metallic heels for prom or a formal party!

    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 knit lining, moderate stretch
    • Iridescent sequin embroidered scroll pattern
    • V-neckline with padded bust, spaghetti straps
    • Open back, lace-up strappy design, hidden back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • Sheer waist insert, flexible boning
    • Mini-length bodycon fit
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2326

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Piper Halter Bodycon Rhinestone Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Make it an event to remember in the sparkling Piper rhinestone mini dress at the school dance or party! The dress is composed of a lightweight mesh fabric adorned with countless rhinestone embellishments for the perfect glam. Featuring a halter cowl neckline and bodycon fit, this dress highlights your curves while exuding sophistication. The mini-length hem adds a touch of glamour to any occasion. Complete the look in platform heels and a clutch.

    Fit & Features

    • Mesh fabric, rhinestone embellished, stretchy knit lining
    • Halter cowl neckline with button closures
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Bodycon fit
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2322

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Serena Off-The-Shoulder Bow Velvet Dress With Gloves

    Special Occasion

    This velvet mini dress features a flirty off-the-shoulder neckline with a cutout and satin bow accents along with matching detached gloves for a fancy allure. Perfect for styling with heels for the school dance.

    Fit & Features

    • Velvet fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • Off-the-shoulder neckline, cutouts with satin bow accents
    • Padded bra cups, flexible boning
    • Detached gloves with satin bows
    • Bodycon wrap mini-length silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2323

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Danica Pearl And Sequin Floral Embroidered Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Danica pearl and sequin floral mini dress is a stunning style for brides or birthday babes! She shines in an adorable sweetheart neckline and a flattering form-hugging fit. Pair with a necklace.

    Fit & Features

    • Sheer mesh fabric with dual knit linings, minimal stretch
    • Floral embroidery, faux pearl beading and sequin embellishments
    • Sweetheart neckline with padded bust, underbust seam
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • High waist seam
    • Mini-length form-hugging fit
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2320

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $89.90

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Gracie One-Shoulder Glitter Column Dress

    Special Occasion

    Make it a glitzy affair in a long glitter slim dress that features a one-shoulder neckline, a double-row rhinestone strap, ruching, and a daring high-side slit accented on the floor-length column silhouette. Complete your formal outfit with a luxe rhinestone bracelet.

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter knit fabrication with knit lining, plenty of stretch
    • One shoulder neckline, padded bust
    • Double-row rhinestone shoulder strap
    • Back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • Ruching, high side slit
    • Long-length hem, column silhouette
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Formal weddings, black-tie events, and fancy dinners.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8692

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $89.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Liza Ruched Velvet Bodycon Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Fall head over heels for the Liza velvet mini dress to make your showstopping entrance and exit! The luxe dress captivates in a ruched bodycon silhouette that flaunts your curves while the wrapped design gives the illusion of an hourglass figure. Pair with heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Velvet fabric with knit lining, moderate stretch
    • Wired V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Hidden back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • All-over ruching
    • Faux wrap-front design
    • Mini-length bodycon fit
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2319

    Category Name: Formal Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $54.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free