Short Cocktail Dresses

Short Cocktail Dresses for Parties & Special Events

Short Cocktail Dresses bring a playful edge to dressed-up occasions, with mini and shorter silhouettes made for cocktail parties, celebrations, and nights out. Go sleek in a fitted bodycon, add movement with an A-line or skater shape, or make more of a statement with corset details, open backs, ruffles, and lace-up designs. From satin and velvet to sequins and dark florals, these shorter styles can shift from polished to party-ready.

Mini Cocktail Dresses for Fall & Winter Plans

For Friendsgiving dinners and fall celebrations, knit, satin, mesh, and dark floral styles bring seasonal texture to the shorter hem. Cowl, halter, square, and sweetheart necklines offer different ways to frame the look, while off-shoulder, one-shoulder, and strapless designs dial up the drama for evening plans.

Holiday parties and New Year’s Eve call for extra shine. Mini cocktail dresses with beading, rhinestones, mesh, or unique sequin patterns catch the light, while velvet adds a richer finish for winter events. When you want more coverage without giving up cocktail style, explore Long Sleeve Cocktail Dresses.

Dress Up a Short Cocktail Look for Cooler Nights

A few layers and accessories can take a shorter dress further through the season. Pair satin, velvet, or embellished styles with heels and sparkling jewelry for a polished party look, then add boleros for extra coverage on cooler nights.

For a broader range of lengths and silhouettes, explore Windsor’s cocktail dresses, from short party styles to more elevated options for dressier events.

Is a Short Dress Appropriate for a Cocktail Party?

Yes. Short cocktail dresses are appropriate for many cocktail parties, but consider the event’s dress code and formality along with the hemline. A mini can feel cocktail-ready when elevated through a structured silhouette, luxe fabric, sophisticated neckline, or details like beading and rhinestones. For more conservative or formal events, a slightly longer hem or more refined styling may better fit the setting.

If you’re deciding between cocktail and formal attire, the distinction goes beyond dress length. The venue, time of day, invitation, fabrication, and overall finish can all help determine how dressed-up your look should be. Explore the cocktail dress vs. formal dress guide for more guidance.

Find Windsor’s Short Cocktail Dresses for fall celebrations, holiday parties, New Year’s Eve, and nights out, with mini and shorter styles designed to make dressing up feel fun.

  • Effortless Beauty Skater Dress
    Showcase your effortless beauty in this absolutely adorable skater dress! It features a sleeveless bodice, spaghetti straps, a V neckline, flattering vertical seam detailing at the bust, a square back, a high waist seam, hidden side pockets, and a flowy skater skirt. Dress is composed of a nylon ponte knit fabric with moderate stretch.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0160

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $12.97 $31.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Kimia Sequin Floral Strapless Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Soft shimmer, floral detail—the Kimia formal dress feels like a love letter in dress form. Designed in lined floral mesh with glimmering sequin embroidery, this strapless mini dress defines your shape with soft structure, finished with a draped cowl detail at the neck and pleating at the waist for that effortlessly luxe effect.

    Fit & Features

    • Sheer mesh fabric with floral print, full-length knit lining, moderate stretch
    • All-over clear sequin embroidery
    • Strapless sweetheart neckline, no-slip strip, padded bust
    • Draped cowl neck overlay
    • Back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • Pleating, mini-length bodycon silhouette
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, birthday parties, bridal showers, dressed-up dinners, and formal date nights.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000074

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Make A Statement Tulle Bow A-Line Sequin Mini Dress

    Make a statement tonight in this sequin mini dress! Perfect for any occasion, this sequin dress will surely turn heads. Featuring a sleeveless crew neckline with button closures, an A-line silhouette, and an open back adorned with a statement tulle bow. Complete the look in stiletto heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sequin embellished mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Crew neckline, button closures
    • Statement tulle bow, open back, zipper and hook-eye closure
    • A-line silhouette
    • Sicky bra or pasties recommended
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05103-5584

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $10.97 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Burnout Mesh Leopard Print Mini Dress

    Amp up your little black dress with this fierce burnout mesh leopard print mini! It features an off the shoulder square neckline with long fitted sheer ruched sleeves and a short, curve-hugging silhouette. Pair this dress with a rhinestone choker necklace for a gorgeous 'fit.

    Fit & Features

    • Off the shoulder square neckline
    • Long fitted sheer ruched sleeves
    • Short, form-hugging fit
    • Ruched side detailing
    • Sheer burnout mesh fabric with a flocked leopard print
    • Knit lining
    • Plenty of stretch

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0903

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $34.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Glitter Babe Mini Dress

    This glitter knit mini dress is so perf for you babe! It features a sleeveless bodice, spaghetti straps that lead to triple bar back detailing, a V neckline, a high waist seam, and a short, curve hugging fit. The glitter knit fabric offers plenty of stretch. Glitter may transfer.

    Model is 5'8.5" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size small.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0316

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $37.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Chloe Sequin Embroidered Mesh Skater Dress

    Special Occasion

    The short skater dress showcases a corset bodice with a padded bust and flexible boning while the short skater silhouette flatters every figure. Style with sleek stiletto heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sheer mesh fabric with lining
    • Sequin floral embroidered pattern
    • Sweetheart neckline, padded bust
    • Corset bodice with flexible boning
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper closure
    • Short-length skater silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2187

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $49.97 $109.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Luxe Shine Sequin Velvet Bodycon Mini Dress

    This glamorous sequin velvet mini dress has a luxe factor that will take your HOCO look to a fab new level. It features a sleeveless asymmetric one-shoulder neckline, dual bungee spaghetti straps that lead to the back, a mini-length hem, and a bodycon silhouette for a form-hugging fit. The soft velvet fabric features all-over sequin embroidery for a chic shine. Style with gemstone earrings and clear heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless asymmetric one-shoulder neckline
    • Dual bungee spaghetti straps, lead to the back
    • Back zipper, hook and eye closure
    • Mini-length hem, bodycon silhouette
    • All-over sequin embroidery
    • Velvet fabric, full-length knit lining, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05103-5068

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • All The Right Reasons Satin Bodycon Mini Dress

    Turn heads for all the right reasons when you're seen in this sultry satin mini dress! Featuring a sleeveless square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, flexible boning along the waist, and a bodycon silhouette that shows off your fab figure. Complete the look in this mini-length dress with a pair of rhinestone heels for a touch of glam!

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless square neckline
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Flexible boning waist inserts
    • Bodycon silhouette, mini-length hem
    • Smooth satin fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05103-5080

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $5.97 $39.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Claire Sequin Tulle Party Dress

    Special Occasion

    Flirty and bold, the Claire sequin tulle party dress will bring total princess vibes. She features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline with a cowl draped accent, a padded bust, and adjustable spaghetti straps for a customized fit. Her high waist seam flows out to a short party skirt with a fit and flare silhouette. The lined tulle fabric features iridescent sequin detailing. Complete the look with rhinestone heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, cowl draped accent
    • Padded bust, no bra required
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper, hook and eye closure
    • Short party skirt, fit and flare silhouette
    • Sheer tulle fabric, iridescent sequin detailing
    • Full knit lining, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1148

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $79.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Bella Satin Rhinestone Bow Party Dress

    Special Occasion

    You'll be a gift that keeps on giving in the Bella satin mini party dress! Perfect for formal cocktail parties and soirees. She features a strapless neckline with non-slip grip lining, a front statement bow with rhinestone trim, and a flattering bodycon silhouette and mini-length hem. The party mini dress is composed of a silky satin-lined fabric that offers a sheen effect. Complete the look in rhinestone heels for an added pop of glam!

    Fit & Features

    • Strapless neckline, non-slip grip lining
    • Statement bow, rhinestone trim
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Bodycon silhouette, mini-length hem
    • Lined silky satin, sheen effect, moderate stretch
    • Sticky bra or pasties recommended
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1640

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Romance For One Crepe Skater Dress

    Looking for a little romance in your life? This crepe skater dress is sure to bring love to your closet! It features a sleeveless V-neck, spaghetti straps, a lace racerback design with zipper closure, and a lower cutout atop the short-length hem. Complete the look with earrings and heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless V-neck, spaghetti straps
    • Lace racerback design, zipper closure, lower cutout
    • Skater silhouette
    • Short-length hem
    • Crepe fabric, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-1824

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $35.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Kayla Tulle Short Party Dress

    Special Occasion

    Capture the attention of the room in the Kayla ruffled tulle party dress that brings the voluminous fashion! She features a strapless square neckline with non-slip grip lining, an elasticized cinched waist, and a ruffled tiered short-length silhouette. The formal dress is composed of a tulle mesh fabric with a sewn-in knit lining and minimal stretch. Style with sparkly glitter heels and a chic clutch to complete the look! 

    Fit & Features

    • Strapless square neckline, non-slip grip lining
    • Hidden side zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Elasticized cinched waist
    • Ruffled tiered short-length silhouette
    • Tulle mesh fabric, sewn-in knit lining, minimal stretch
    • Strapless or sticky bra recommended
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1630

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $39.97 $89.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Kim Rhinestone And Pearl Formal Bodycon Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Kim rhinestone and pearl formal bodycon mini dress takes glamour to a whole new level. She features a square neckline, sheer long fitted sleeves with flared hems and slit accents, a mini-length hem, a bodycon silhouette for a curve-hugging fit, and all-over sparkling iridescent rhinestones and faux pearl embellishments for the ultimate glitzy vibe. The sheer mesh fabric features a metallic thread woven throughout and includes a partial knit lining. Complete your gorgeous look for homecoming or any fancy affair with clear heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Square neckline, sheer long fitted sleeves, flared hems, slit accents
    • High waist seam, back zipper, hook and eye closure
    • Mini-length hem, bodycon silhouette
    • Iridescent rhinestones and faux pearl embellishments
    • Sheer mesh fabric, metallic thread woven throughout, partial knit lining, moderate stretch
    • Bra-friendly design
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1623

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $119.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Glimmer Rush Sequin Halter A-Line Mini Dress

    Shimmering sequins bring the fun whether the plans are HOCO, birthday drinks, brunch, a bridal shower, or date night. The halter neckline and flared A-line silhouette keep the dress playful without losing its polish. Add strappy heels and a purse.

    Fit & Features

    • Sheer lace bodice with knit lining, sequin and faux pearl embellishments
    • Sleeveless scoop neckline
    • Tie-back halter spaghetti straps
    • Partially open back, lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • Draped mesh drop waist design with ruched detailing
    • Mesh skirt with flared A-line silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-001491

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $56.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: IVORY, BLACK

    Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL

  • Flirty Vibes Ruffled Mini Dress

    Bring the flirty vibes to date night in this sleek satin mini dress! It features a sleeveless square neckline, spaghetti straps that lead to a cross-back design, a high waist seam, and a short wrap-front skirt with a ruffled accent hem for some extra flair. Style with strappy stilettos.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless square neckline
    • Spaghetti straps, cross-back strap design
    • High waist seam
    • Wrap-front skirt, ruffled hem
    • Mini-length, form-hugging silhouette
    • Satin-knit fabric, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-1635

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $39.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Rina Sequin Mesh Bodycon Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    A sequin mini dress makes styling the rest of the look feel effortless. The Rina bodycon mini dress features damask sequin mesh, adjustable spaghetti straps, and a scoop neckline for a sleek base with standout texture. Pair it with a clean heel and let the lace-up back finish the outfit.

    Fit & Features

    • Damask sequin mesh fabric, knit lining
    • Scoop neckline, padded bra cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Bodycon mini silhouette
    • Lace-up back detail, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    HOCO, birthday parties, date nights, glam events, GNO, Vegas, bachelorettes

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000964

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $69.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: MAUVE

    Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L

  • Sultry Glitz And Glamour Bodycon Dress

    This sultry bodycon dress will bring the glitz and glamour to your date night 'fit! Featuring a ruched sweetheart neckline, sheer long fitted sleeves, and a short, curve-hugging silhouette, this dress will keep all eyes on you. Complete the look with embellished heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sweetheart neckline, ruching
    • Sheer long fitted sleeves
    • Mini-length hem
    • Fitted bodycon silhouette
    • Sheer glitter mesh fabric, knit lining, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-1633

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $44.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Slay Today Velvet Mini Dress

    Slay today and every other day you sport this mini! 

    Fits & Features

    • Mock Neck With Two-Button Closure At Nape
    • Faux Wrap-Style Bodice With Cutouts At Back, Bust, Waist
    • Fitted Long Sleeves
    • Slim Pencil, Mini Length Skirt
    • Bodycon Fit
    • Velvet Composition I Moderate Stretch 

    Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust,  24" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size small.  

    Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0157

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $35.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Keeping Knit Classy Sleeveless Mini Dress

    Class up your basic mini dress with details that stand out! The dress features a sleeveless crew neckline, dramatic shoulder pads, and a mini length silhouette. The dress is composed of a cotton knit fabric that offers a relaxed fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with chunky sneakers for a casual vibe.

    Fit & Features

    • Crew neck
    • Sleeveless bodice
    • Shoulder pads
    • Mini length silhouette
    • Cotton knit fabric
    • Relaxed fit
    • Moderate stretch 

    Style Number/Barcode: 05102-1033

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $29.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Belle Tulle Rhinestone Short Dress

    Special Occasion

    Airy tulle cinches at the waist to create the flawless Belle ruffled short dress designed with a glimmering rhinestone trim waist perfect for a charity dance or wedding! She features a strapless, sleeveless neckline, non-slip grip lining, and voluminous ruffled tulle short-length hem. The formal dress offers a smooth knit lining, a hidden zipper, and a hook-eye closure. Complete your sassy look with striking heels and a clutch!

    Fit & Features

    • Strapless, sleeveless neckline
    • Strapless or adhesive bra recommended
    • Non-slip grip lining, a hidden zipper, and hook-eye closure
    • Rhinestone trim waistband
    • Ruffled, flare silhouette, short-length hem
    • Tulle fabric, knit lining, no stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1262

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $99.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Zoey Sequin Floral Chiffon Tie Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Light catches every step in the Zoey mini dress, where layers of sequin floral tulle float over an effortlessly twirly A-line silhouette. A delicate tie-back detail cinches the waist, creating a romantic yet playful shape perfect for unforgettable celebrations.

    Fit & Features

    • Sequin floral embellished
    • Tulle fabric, dual stretch knit linings
    • Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Chiffon tie back design, zipper and hook-eye closure
    • A-line fit, mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, birthdays, date night, weddings, red carpet occasions, rooftop hotel restaurants, milestone celebrations, dinner parties

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-000156

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $48.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Stay Sweet Velvet Mini Dress

    Stay sweet and stylish in this classic velvet mini dress!

    Fits & Features

    • Off Shoulder Neckline With Short Straps
    • Faux Wrap Front V Neckline
    • High Waist Seam
    • Asymmetrical Short Hem
    • Soft Velvet Composition
    • Moderate Stretch 

    Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust,  23" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.  

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-8837

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $36.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Katlyn Floral Sequin Lace-Up Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Katlyn bodycon dress is made for the kind of entrance that turns a simple RSVP into a standout moment. Crafted from floral print sequin fabric, this fitted mini dress features a square neckline, flattering pleats, a subtle side slit, and a lace-up open back that feels equal parts romantic and unforgettable.

    Fit & Features

    • Floral print, sequin-embellished, knit-lined fabric
    • Square neckline, padded bra cups
    • Wide shoulder straps
    • Lace-up back detail, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Pleated bodycon silhouette
    • Side slit accent, mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Bridal celebrations, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties and photoshoots, birthday brunches, garden parties, formal soirees, vacations, honeymoons, resort destinations

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000862

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $69.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: WHITE, PRINT

    Available Size: XXS, XS, M

  • Ria Heat Stone Formal Mini Dress
    Special Occasion


    The Ria dress brings the sparkle to your special evening! Shimmer from the moment you enter the room in a dress that showcases your glamorous taste. The Ria dress features glitzy heat stones, sheer mesh long sleeves to show off a hint of skin, and a curve-hugging mini-length silhouette. Complete your special evening outfit with chrome heels for maximum shine. 

    Fits & Features

    • V-neckline
    • Unlined, fitted long sleeves
    • Mini length silhouette
    • Lined mesh fabric adorned with heat stones
    • Curve hugging fit, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-3979

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free