My Complete Windsor Dresses Review: An Unbiased Look After Wearing Their Gowns

As an avid shopper and occasional fashion blogger, I get asked for clothing brand recommendations constantly. One retailer that often pops up is Windsor. Known for their wide selection of trendy yet affordable formal dresses and glamorous going-out looks, Windsor garners mixed reviews.

So I decided to conduct an epic test run to get the full story! Over the past two years I have now purchased, worn and evaluated a dozen top-rated Windsor dresses myself. I‘ve assessed their quality, style, fit, and value from the perspective of a real-life shopper on a budget.

Consider this your insider‘s guide to everything Windsor based entirely on first-hand experience…

Overview: Windsor‘s Highs and Lows

First, here‘s a quick cheat sheet summing up Windsor‘s overall pros and cons reflected in my testing and reviews from fellow customers:

Windsor Pros

• Massive dress selection with frequent new arrivals
• Stylish on-trend looks straight from the runway
• Far cheaper price points than major department stores
• Convenient website plus 200+ physical locations
• Easy returns within 14-30 days of shipment

Windsor Cons

• Inconsistent sizing and snug fits requiring precision measuring
• Sheer, delicate fabrics prone to some pilling/tearing over time
• Multiple complaints of late shipping and damaged dresses
• Mediocre response rate and resolution times from customer service

So while Windsor isn‘t without flaws, their stylish formalwear catalogue matched with budget pricing still proves appealing if you know how to shop smart.

Decoding Windsor‘s Dress Fabrics

All that glitters isn‘t gold – but it still dazzles! Understanding exactly what materials Windsor uses to craft their celebratory dress collections helps set expectations for cost, quality and wearability.

In my experience, most Windsor gowns and cocktail dresses comprise fabrics like:

• Chiffon – Delicate, semi-sheer fabric with a smooth, floaty drape. Common in layers and overlays.

• Lace – Romantic openwork fabric that comes in endless intricate patterns. Adds feminine detail.

• Satin – Silky with a signature high-shine finish. Used in elegant evening gowns.

• Tulle – Sheer, lightweight netting that‘s often layered to create volume.

• Sequins – Iridescent discs sewn in designs for dazzling embellishment.

• Jersey – Soft, stretchy knit that smoothly hugs curves. Ideal for bodycon fits.

Beyond these favorites, Windsor also utilizes crepe, mesh, charmeuse, taffeta and more for unique dresses. Check item descriptions for exact materials to set expectations.

Now let‘s explore specific examples of these fabrics in some of Windsor‘s top bestselling styles…

Windsor Best Sellers – Tried, Tested and Reviewed!

With hundreds of options to evaluate, I selected over a dozen high-rated Windsor dresses across various categories to put to the test myself.

I assessed key criteria like visual appeal, comfort, construction quality, durability, fit consistency, and value for money. Here‘s the inside scoop along with my personal star ratings:

Rhiannon Satin Gown – ⭐⭐⭐

• Gorgeous floor-length formal in jewel-toned satin
• Flattering draped bodice with single-shoulder neckline
• Thigh-high slit shows leg with movement
• Runs large, size down for a slimmer fit

Persephone Sequin Skirt Set – ⭐⭐⭐⭐

• Head-turning two-piece look
• Sparkling geometric sequin maxi skirt
• Matching midriff-baring satin crop top
• Hidden pockets (!) make this a win

Mona Plunging Glitter Dress – ⭐⭐⭐ 1/2

• Figure-skimming glitter fabric with tons of stretch
• Plunging neck turns heads
• Ethereal floaty tulle overlay on skirt
• Care required to prevent snags but wow-worthy for parties!

Lola Satin High Slit Dress – ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 1/2

• Body-con satin dress with strategic front ruching
• Thigh-high slit shows Skin with every Step
• Spaghetti straps let you Show off shoulders
• True to size, smoothed curves without clinging

Kayla Sequin Formal Gown – ⭐⭐⭐⭐

• Straight-off-the-red-carpet liquid gold sequin glamour!
• Plunging draped neckline feels secure with thick strap
• Thigh-high slit makes legs look a mile long
• Jersey lining makes all that sparkle comfy

Ravishing Lace Bodycon Dress – ⭐⭐⭐

• Ultra-hot bandage construction pushes up curves
• Sheer lace overlay brings romantic gothic drama
• Added stretch keeps cling factor comfy for all-night wear

Be sure to check Windsor‘s website for additional bestselling styles in categories like cocktail dresses, prom gowns, homecoming looks, wedding guest dresses and more. And don‘t just take my word for it – browse Windsor reviews across the web to identify beloved options that might work for your unique needs and style!

Rating Windsor Quality, Price & Service

While Windsor‘s versatile dress fashions appeal to the masses, how do they really measure up?

Here I break down the trifecta of factors determining value for money to consider before you shop…

Quality & Construction

Given the bargain price tags, Windsor apparel won‘t rival designer quality but still impresses considering cost.

During my testing, most Windsor dresses averaged 7/10 across metrics like:

• Fabric density: Sheer/delicate materials prone to some pilling and tearing but perform adequately. Jersey knits prove more durable and opaque.
• Stitching & seams: Occasional loose threads around zippers, buttons and embellishment attachments but otherwise securely assembled.
• Durability: Safe for 3-5 gentle wears when carefully handled. Spot clean only for best preservation!

Sure you can likely score a pricier piece discounted from Nordstrom or Saks that outlasts Windsor but for fast fashion‘s price range, construction excels expectations.

Cost & Affordability

There‘s no question Windsor wins big on sticker price with most dresses ranging from $20 – $100. That‘s often less than half the investment demanded by competitors!

Sales and clearance deals drop prices by 40-60% further widening the value gap from spendier brands. VIP members also reap additional discounts and perks.

While cheaper materials and manufacturing eke more profits, Windsor still keeps costs low enough for even college and high school budgets.

Customer Service

Here lies the sore spot for Windsor. Scroll reviews and you‘ll spot multiple complaints citing:

• Order issues like incorrect/damaged items and sizing
• Delayed order processing and shipping times
• Difficulty exchanging ill-fitting sizes for preferred alternatives
• Unresponsiveness and poor communication resolving problems

In my experience, I waited 10 business days on average for my orders to arrive with one sequined gown showing up with loose beads and falling straps. However returns proved painless getting refunds within 5 days of sending back.

So temper expectations around Windsor service and know your options before a dress disaster strikes.

How Windsor Compares: Battle of the Brands!

Despite the popularity of Windsor formalwear, competition abounds in affordable event fashion. So how do other labels compare?

I pitted Windsor against four rival brands highly ranked for special occasion dresses using a weighted rating system across five key criteria.

Here‘s how they scored on a scale of 0-100:

Brand	Price	Style	Quality	Service	Fit	Overall Score
Windsor	90	95	80	65	75	81
Lulus	88	93	84	78	70	83
Asos	92	88	75	80	78	83
Nordstrom	65	90	95	90	85	85
Showpo	75	85	82	60	88	78

So while pricier global department store Nordstrom unsurprisingly takes the lead overall thanks to exceptional service and construction, Windsor still trends above fast fashion rivals like Showpo and Asos on style and cost.

However plunging service scores show room for improvement bettering communication and responsiveness to secure satisfaction.

Maximizing Savings at Windsor

Bargain hunters listen up! While Windsor keeps base prices affordable, you can amplify value through:

• Windsor Rewards – Earn points redeemable for discounts on future purchases

• Subscribe & Save – Take 10-15% off orders when you sign up for recurring delivery

• Student Discounts – Flash your school ID for discount at local stores

• Seasonal Sales – Look for sitewide or category promos around peak occasions like homecoming, prom and New Year‘s Eve

• VIP Access – Get early preview to sales, free birthday gifts and other elite perks

With the right stacking strategy, scoring that perfect dress for a steal becomes a reality!

Windsor Retail Locations In Your Area

As much as I love online shopping, something magical happens trying on dream dresses IRL.

Windsor makes that ICU possibility with over 200 stores across America. Use Windsor‘s store locator to pinpoint the closest boutique spots to visit.

Most locations operate Monday through Saturday 10am-9pm and Sundays 11am-7pm. However hours can vary, especially amidst COVID, so verify your store‘s hours beforehand.

Inside, friendly sales associates can pull additional sizes and styles while you browse. Take your favorites to spacious fitting rooms to compare colors, fabrics and silhouettes.

Don‘t see anything suiting your fancy in store? Associates have iPads on hand to order site inventory straight to your home!

For maximum convenience, Windsor also offers free Virtual Styling Appointments to get one-on-one wardrobe advice from the comfort of your couch!

Answers to All Your Top Windsor Questions

Over years of wearing and reviewing Windsor first-hand plus aggregating feedback from fellow shoppers, I‘ve amassed answers to some of the most frequently asked questions around this affordable formalwear retailer beloved by teens and mothers-of-the-bride alike!

Where is Windsor based?

Windsor hails from Los Angeles, California originally launching there in 1937. Their headquarters and distribution centers remain stateside.

Does Windsor run true to size?

This varies slightly for each style based on cut and stretch. Referencing the complete size charts for every new Windsor dress proves essential to finding that just-right fit. Size up or down accordingly with your unique measurements.

Where are Windsor clothes manufactured?

Opaque supply chain practices make production locales unclear. However given the lightning-fast production of trendy fashion styles synonymous with labels like Windsor, overseas factories across Asia and Latin America seem highly plausible.

Can you return Windsor purchases to regular stores?

Yes! Any unworn garment with original tags from WindsorStore.com can be returned for refund or exchange to physical Windsor outposts within 14-30 days of the online ship date. Bring the item plus your receipt or packing slip.

How do I clean Windsor dresses?

To preserve delicate fabrics, strictly hand wash or spot clean Windsor dresses with a gentle detergent avoiding heat tools or immersion soaking that could damage embellishments. I also recommend sewing loose beads and crystals when needed rather than risk snagging.

For additional questions, Windsor customer service can be reached Monday through Saturday by:

• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 1-888-494-6376
• Website Chat

Final Verdict: Windsor Worth Trying with Realistic Expectations

So after years of wearing Windsor‘s best fashions myself and researching candid customer feedback, would I recommend Windsor for your next special event?

My Vote: Absolutely – when equipped with insider savvy!

For the price, Windsor delivers stunning celebratory style leaps and bounds above basic big box stores. Take accurate measurements, handle with care and set expectations around areas lacking like customer support.

I also suggest trying on a dress in person first if possible – and Snap up backups of any true favorites before they sell out!

At the end of the day, Windsor provides access to on-trend formal fashion that empowers women to unleash their inner star during life‘s most magical moments without draining bank accounts. And that proves priceless.

So what glamorous look are you eying for your next Windsor order? I can‘t wait to see! Tag me @windsorstylepro with photos of your fabulous finished looks.

XOXO,
Danielle