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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Farah Strappy Back Rhinestone Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Enter your glam babe era in the Farah strappy back mini dress designed with a curve-hugging bodycon silhouette. The lined mesh fabric is embellished with countless rhinestones for a glitzy effect.
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
- Lined mesh fabric, moderate stretch
- All-over rhinestone embellishments
- Sleeveless square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lower back cutouts, bar strap accents
- Side zipper with hook-eye closure
- Mini-length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2242
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Teagan Sleeveless Cowl Neck Slim Formal Dress
Special Occasion
This sleeveless formal dress features a sultry cowl neckline, a curve-hugging slim silhouette, and a floor-length hem for a dramatic flair. Perfect for styling with a clutch for the school dance or a gala.
Fit & Features
- Smooth knit fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Cowl neckline
- Shoulder straps
- Slim floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8633
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $54.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Margo Velvet Strapless High Slit Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
The Margo velvet long dress embodies sophistication from the strapless neckline, lace-up back, and showstopping high front slit. Style with a necklace and earrings set.
Fit & Features
- Velvet fabric with knit bust lining, plenty of stretch
- Strapless angled V-neckline
- Flexible boning at bodice, high waist seam
- Open lace-up back design, lower back ruching
- High-cut front slit
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8644
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Ariyah Lace-Up Mermaid Glitter Mesh Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Enchantress will be your middle name as you step out in the Ariyah floor-length formal dress at black-tie galas or weddings! Crafted from a glitter mesh fabrication that sparkles under any light, you'll be dazzling all night in this formal gown. She features a sultry V-neckline and spaghetti straps that lead to her open lace-up back for a head-turning style. The form-hugging mermaid silhouette flatters your curves while the floor-length hem adds a touch of sophistication. Complete the look with a sleek ring set and heels.
Fit & Features
- Glitter mesh fabrication
- V-neckline, padded bust
- Spaghetti straps
- Open lace-up back
- Mermaid silhouette
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8630
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Ophelia V-Neck High Low Ruffle Tulle Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Ophelia tulle formal dress you'll look like an absolute fairytale at prom or balls! She's designed with a flattering V-neckline and pleated bust, adjustable spaghetti straps for a perfect fit, and a unique crisscross back design. The high low ruffled hem adds a touch of drama to the elegant tulle fabric. Complete the look in strappy stiletto heels and earrings for an enchanting evening.
Fit & Features
- Tulle fabric lined with short stretchy knit lining
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Pleated bust
- High low tiered ruffled hem
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-7881
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $104.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Jessica Corset Ruffled Sequin Tulle Party Dress
Special Occasion
This party dress makes an entrance featuring a flattering cowl neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, and a corset bodice with padded bra cups and flexible boning. Twirl all night in the tiered ruffled short silhouette embellished with glitter sequins tulle material that sparkles.
Fit & Features
- Tulle fabric, multiple stretchy knit linings with tulle trim
- Cowl neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Corset bodice, flexible boning
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Sequin glitter embellishments
- Tiered ruffled short silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2228
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $39.97 $86.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Melanie Rhinestone Lace-Up Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The Melanie bodycon mini dress dazzles with rhinestone embellishments and a sassy lace-up back that lets you flaunt your style. Pair with rhinestone 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
- Lurex rhinestone embellished knit fabric with a stretchy knit lining
- All-over rhinestone embellishments
- Square neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Open lace-up back design
- Mini-length bodycon fit
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000102
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: RED, BLACK
Available Size: S, M, L, XL
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Lindsey Sleeveless Bodycon Glitter Mirror Party Dress
Special Occasion
Shine like a mirror in the Lindsey party dress for Vegas weekends to bachelorettes, or a birthday party! Its square neckline and shoulder straps frame the bodycon silhouette perfectly. Shimmer and shine all night with the mini-length hem and glitter fabric adorned with mirror tiles. Complete the look in high heels and earrings!
Fit & Features
- Glitter fabric with mirror tiles, stretchy knit lining
- Square neckline
- Shoulder straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2236
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Aida Strapless Taffeta Bubble Hem Party Dress
Special Occasion
Fun and cute, the Aida bubble party dress is ready to make you the talk of the school dance or event! She features a strapless neckline, padded bra cups, and a knit bodice with side ruched seams for a flattering fit. The taffeta bubble hem adds a touch of playfulness to this exclusive dress. Complete the look in statement high heels and jewelry!
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
- Strapless neckline
- Padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Knit bodice, side ruched seams
- Taffeta bubble short hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2230
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Lizza Cowl Neck Slit Mermaid Velvet Formal Dress
Special Occasion
When you have a romantic look like the Lizza velvet formal dress, you'll sweep everyone off of their feet at black-tie galas or soirees! She boasts a sultry cowl neckline adorned with adjustable spaghetti straps to find the perfect fit and padded cups to help support. Reveal your gorgeous figure in her form-hugging mermaid silhouette that offers a show of leg with a high front slit along the dramatic floor-length hem. Complete the look with a stunning necklace and earrings set.
Fit & Features
- Soft velvet fabric lined, moderate stretch
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Cowl neckline, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front slit
- Mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8629
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Rayne Mesh Long Sleeve A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Chic with a sultry silhouette, the Rayne formal dress is designed with airy sheer mesh fabric with a partial knit lining for coverage. It features a plunging V-neck and back design, sheer long balloon-style sleeves for added drama, ruching at the waist accented with an asymmetric front seam, and a floor-sweeping A-line silhouette with a high-cut front slit to showcase some leg.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with partial knit lining, plenty of stretch
- Plunging V-neck and back
- Sheer long balloon sleeves with elastic cinched hems
- Back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Ruched waist, asymmetric front seam
- Floor-length A-line silhouette with high front slit
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8624
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Josette Sleeveless Corset Lace Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
The Josette sleeveless corset mermaid dress is a statement-making look that will have all eyes on you at your formal event! This form-hugging long crepe mermaid dress features a sleeveless sweetheart cowl neckline with adjustable spaghetti straps for a secure fit, a sheer floral lace corset-styled bodice with contrast piping accents, and a high side slit. Complete styling with a rhinestone clutch.
Fit & Features
- Fitted crepe fabrication, moderate stretch
- Sleeveless cowl sweetheart neckline, padded bust with underwire
- Sheer floral lace corset bodice, contrast piping with flexible boning
- Matching sheer lace back, zipper with hook-eye closure
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Mermaid silhouette, high side slit
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8627
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Aurinda Sequin High Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Serve major glam girl energy in the Aurinda formal dress crafted with all-over large sequin embroidery for a gorgeous head-turning look for your fancy soiree! It features a sleeveless V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customized fit, a high-cut front slit to show some leg, and a floor-sweeping fitted silhouette with a long cascading train for that bold vibe.
Fit & Features
- Knit fabric with all-over large sequin embroidery
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper closure
- High front slit
- Floor-sweeping fitted silhouette, long train
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8625
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Hadlee Sweetheart Halter Mermaid Mesh Formal Dress
Special Occasion
This sleeveless formal dress features a halter sweetheart neckline with lace sequin padded bra cups, a high front wrap slit, and a stunning mermaid floor-length silhouette. Perfect for the school dance or any formal event.
This dazzling dress was made for the spotlight! Love the shimmer? Discover more sequin prom dresses or find a sophisticated look in our wedding guest dresses.
Fit & Features
- Mesh lined fabric with stretchy knit
- Sweetheart halter neckline, button closure
- Lace sequin padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front wrap slit
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8623
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Allison One-Shoulder Velvet Bow Sequin Mini Dress
Special Occasion
A sleeveless sequin mini dress features a statement one-shoulder neckline with a velvet bow and a flattering bodycon silhouette. Perfect for the school dance or a banquet.
Fit & Features
- Sequin pattern, mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
- One-shoulder neckline
- Velvet bow on adjustable strap
- Padded bra cups
- Bodycon mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2226
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Julianna Floral Mesh Strapless Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
The Julianna mermaid dress is designed with a gorgeous blooming floral print on airy mesh fabric with a knit lining, an iconic look for your next formal affair. It features a strapless sweetheart neckline with built-in bust padding, a draped cowl neck overlay, and a floor-length mermaid silhouette to showcase your curves. Style with stiletto heels.
Fiery, bold, and unforgettable—this dress is made to stand out. Want more? Browse our gorgeous red prom dresses or discover the perfect wedding guest dresses for your next RSVP.
Fit & Features
- Floral printed sheer mesh fabric with knit lining, plenty of stretch
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, padded bust, no-slip strip
- Draped cowl neck overlay
- High waist seam
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8620
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Alayna Velvet Off-The-Shoulder Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Luxe with a shimmery allure, the Alayna formal mermaid dress is designed with a glitzy glitter velvet fabric perfect for your next black-tie affair. It features an off-the-shoulder neckline with a V-cut center accent, short sleeve cuffs, ruching at the waist to accentuate your curves, and a floor-sweeping mermaid silhouette with a high-cut side slit to showcase some leg.
Fit & Features
- Glitter velvet fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Off-the-shoulder neckline with V-wired center, short sleeve cuffs
- Padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- High waist seam
- High side slit
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8622
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Trixie Strapless Faux Pearl Rhinestone Mini Dress
Special Occasion
A luxe strapless dress features countless faux pearls and rhinestone embellishments on a flattering bodycon mini-length silhouette. Perfect for homecoming or dressy parties.
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
- Knit fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Faux pearl and rhinestone embellishments
- Bodycon mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2224
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Bria Lace And Velvet Long Sleeve Midi Dress
Special Occasion
Serve sultry-chic energy at your next cocktail party in the Bria formal midi dress designed with smooth velvet fabric and a sheer lace bodice. The bust includes a nude-tone lined bust with a sweetheart neckline and a velvet bow, followed by a sheer lace inset below. The dress features long fitted sleeves, a secure back zipper closure, and a midi-length bodycon silhouette accented with a stylish back slit.
Fit & Features
- Velvet lined fabric
- Sheer lace bodice, nude-tone lined bust, sweetheart neckline, front velvet bow detail
- Sheer lace inset below the bust, padded bra cups
- Long fitted sleeves
- High waist seam, back zipper closure
- Midi-length bodycon silhouette, back slit
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2221
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Matilda One-Shoulder Slit Midi Satin Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Chic and cute, the Matilda satin formal dress is ready to make you the talk of any banquet or wedding! Made from a luxurious silky satin fabric this formal dress will feel so exclusive and sleek. She features a flattering one-shoulder neckline, a form-hugging silhouette accentuated with a side pleated seam, a front wrap slit, and a midi-length hem. Complete the look with rhinestone earrings and stiletto heels.
Fit & Features
- Satin fabric, bust knit lining, minimal stretch
- One-shoulder neckline
- Front wrap slit
- Form-hugging fit
- Sticky bra or pasties recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2219
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Gracie Velvet and Bow High Slit Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
Dare to attract attention in the Gracie velvet formal dress with a chic satin bow, high front slit for movement, and a flattering mermaid silhouette. Complete the look with heels.
Fit & Features
- Velvet fabric with knit-lined bust, moderate stretch
- Sleeveless square neckline
- Spaghetti straps
- Satin bow accent trim at the bust
- High front slit
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-8618
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Madeleine Sleeveless Rhinestone Bodycon Dress
Special Occasion
A sleeveless mini dress is adorned with countless rhinestone embellishments along a stunning bodycon silhouette with side ruched seams that show off your curves. Perfect for the school dance or a party.
Fit & Features
- Mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Square neckline, bungee spaghetti straps
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Rhinestone embellishments
- Side ruched seams
- Bodycon mini-length fit
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2218
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $19.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Rosalie Rhinestone Faux Pearl Ruffle Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Always charm and bring the party in the Rosalie mini dress to prom or birthdays! Made from a mesh fabric, this dress is embellished with glam details like rhinestones and faux pearls to make you standout. The sweetheart neckline and adjustable spaghetti straps enhance your natural curves, while the built-in padded underwire bust offers support and a flattering silhouette. The bodycon fit and asymmetrical ruffled mini-length hem add a touch of sophistication to this luxurious dress. Complete the look with a clutch and heels.
Fit & Features
- Rhinestone and faux pearl mesh embellished fabric
- Stretchy knit lining
- Sweetheart neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Built-in padded underwire bust
- Bodycon fit, asymmetrical ruffled mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2213
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $9.97 $139.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Sabrina Rhinestone Flame Sheer Velvet Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Sultry and stunning, the Sabrina velvet mini dress features a sweetheart neckline with a built-in padded bust, an alluring asymmetric sheer mesh insert at the waist, a flame design embellished with shimmering rhinestones, and a bodycon silhouette to flaunt your curves. Style with red stiletto heels for a party!
Fit & Features
- Velvet fabric with knit lining at the bust, moderate stretch
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bust
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Asymmetric sheer mesh insert at the waist
- Flame design, rhinestone embellishments
- Mini-length bodycon silhouette, short front slit
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2211
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $62.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free