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.

  • New Romantics Lace Mock Neck Dress

    Enter into a romantic fashion era starting with this swoon-worthy lace mock neck dress featuring peasant long sleeves, dual button neck closures, a bodycon silhouette, a mini-length hem, and a sultry open-back with chiffon tie closure. Complete the look in lace-up heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Peasant long sleeves
    • Mock neck, dual button closures
    • Open-back, chiffon tie closure
    • Bodycon silhouette
    • Mini-length hem
    • Floral lace fabric, partial lining, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-1772

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $52.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Dana Glitter A-Line Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Dana mini dress captivates with its shimmering glitter finish and timeless A-line silhouette. The sweetheart neckline and lace-up back strike the perfect balance between elegance and allure—ideal for any RSVP that calls for turning heads.

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter fabric, sewn-in knit lining
    • Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
    • Cap sleeves
    • Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
    • A-line silhouette
    • Mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    HOCO, weddings, cocktail parties, birthdays, formal celebrations, rehearsal dinners, and date nights.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000789

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $69.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: LIGHT, BLUE, BLACK

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

  • Get It Together Mock Neck Mini Dress

    Sometimes the best looks only need a little bit of sparkle, bby gurl!

    Fits & Features

    • Mock Neckline
    • Exposed Back Zip Closure
    • Embellished Bottom Hem With Rhinestone Chain Accent
    • Unlined, Crepe Fabric 
    • Curve Hugging Fit I Minimal Stretch

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

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0181

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $38.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Celebrate Good Times Crepe Dress

    Celebrate good times in this crepe short dress for a night you'll never forget! The dress shimmers and sparkles with every step featuring a sleeveless square neck, adjustable spaghetti straps, pleated side seam, bodycon silhouette, and rhinestone fringe trim along the asymmetrical hem with a faux wrap design. Complete the look in bold rhinestone heels.

     Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless square neck, adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper, hook and eye closure
    • Pleated side seam
    • Bodycon silhouette
    • Rhinestone fringe trim, asymmetrical short hem, faux wrap design
    • Crepe fabric, knit lining, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-1967

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $5.97 $48.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Meghan Sequin Lace-Up Party Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Meghan party dress is the prettiest pick for dances and beyond! She enchants and mesmerizes in her sleeveless scoop neckline, lightly padded bust, and satin adjustable spaghetti straps that lace up along the open-back design. Her fitted bodice offers a structured fit with flexible boning inserts, princess seams, and a high waist that leads to the short skater silhouette with hidden side pockets to keep your hands warm. The formal party dress is composed of a sequin scroll and glitter mesh woven fabric with a knit lining and tulle trim to create a voluminous effect. Complete your dressy look in this short dress with a sparkly hair accessory and heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Scoop neck, lightly padded bust, satin adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Open lace-up back, tie, and zipper closure
    • Fitted bodice, flexible boning, high waist seam
    • Hidden side pockets, short hem, skater silhouette
    • Sequin scroll and glitter mesh woven fabric
    • Knit lining with tulle trim, no stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1094

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $99.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Kennedy Strapless Satin Corset Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    A sleek satin finish meets sculpted corset detail. This strapless satin corset mini dress combines structured boning, draped pleating, and a lace-up back for a silhouette that feels polished and undeniably chic. The result is elegant, modern, and subtly seductive.

    Fit & Features

    • Satin fabrication, full knit lining, high stretch
    • Strapless neckline, padded bra cups 
    • Structured corset bodice with boning
    • Draped waist pleating
    • Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Bodycon mini-length silhouette
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, cocktail parties, birthdays, date nights, bachelorettes, Vegas, bridal celebrations, engagement photoshoots, honeymoons

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001048

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $69.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: IVORY, HUNTER

    Available Size: XS, S, M, L

  • Party Plans Floral Jacquard Skater Dress

    Consider the dress code handled. This floral jacquard skater dress pairs a structured square neckline and open back with crisp pleats made for dances, parties, and every RSVP worth dressing up for.

    Fit & Features

    • Floral jacquard woven fabric with knit lining
    • Sleeveless square neckline
    • Halter strap with elastic back detail, partially open back
    • Back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • Pleated skater silhouette
    • Short-length hem
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-001288

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $48.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: LIGHT, BLUE

    Available Size: XS, S, M, L

  • Marleigh Satin Off-Shoulder Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Sleek silky satin knit fabric gives the Marleigh mini dress its chic allure, perfect for your next formal party. It features an asymmetric off-shoulder neckline, pleated detailing at the bodice and waist, and a short bodycon silhouette to showcase your stunning curves.

    Fit & Features

    • Knit satin fabric with knit lining, moderate stretch
    • Asymmetric off-shoulder neckline
    • Tank strap, thin off-shoulder strap
    • Pleated detailing
    • Mini-length bodycon silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2642

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Axelle Formal Sequin Puff Sleeve Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Bring the glitz with a formal dress that gives those A-List vibes. Axelle features sparkling sequins throughout, a wrap V-neckline, padded cups, short puff sleeves, ruching, and a mini-length silhouette. The dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a form hugging fit with minimal stretch. Complete look with chrome heels. 

    Fit & Features

    • Wrap V-neckline, padded cups
    • Short puff sleeves
    • Ruching
    • Mini length silhouette
    • Sequins 
    • Lined mesh fabric
    • Form hugging fit, minimal stretch, runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0829

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Oksana Formal Satin Mini Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Make a striking impression with a formal mini dress that is perf for raising a toast at cocktail hour! Oksana features a sleeveless V-neckline with padded cups, tank-like shoulder straps, vertical seams at the bust, and a mini-length silhouette with a draped ruffle accent. The dress is composed of a lined satin fabric that offers a form hugging fit with minimal stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels and a rhinestone bracelet. 

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless V-neckline
    • Padded cups, tank-like shoulder straps
    • Vertical seams the bust
    • Draped ruffle accent at hem
    • Mini length silhouette
    • Lined satin fabric 
    • Form-hugging fit, minimal stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0724

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $99.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Reign In Glamour Beaded Mini Dress

    Reign in glamour in this sexy beaded mini dress! It features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline, a sheer lace bustier-designed top with lined molded cups, adjustable spaghetti straps, front beaded, sequin, and pearl detailing at the top, and a short, curve-hugging silhouette. Style this dress with rhinestone earrings and strappy heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless sweetheart neckline
    • Sheer lace bustier-designed top, lined molded cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper and hook and eye closure
    • Front beaded, sequin, and pearl detailing at the top
    • Mini-length, form-hugging fit
    • Sheer lace fabric, ponte fabric, knit skirt lining, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05103-3807

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $56.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Drop Dead Gorgeous Mini Dress
    You'll be a total dream in lace with this beautiful little black dress! It features a sleeveless bodice, adjustable spaghetti straps, a sweetheart neckline with a lined padded bust, sheer waist insets, a back double hook and eye closure with a cut out, a hidden back zipper and hook and eye closure, a high waist seam, and a short, form hugging fit. The dress is composed of a partially sheer lace and crepe fabric that offers moderate stretch.

    Model is 5'6" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 37" hips. She is wearing a size small.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-8526

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $10.00 $52.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Glimmer And Glitter Mini Dress

    Glimmer and glitter the night away in this mini dress that will be sure to make you stand out! It features a sleeveless bodice, spaghetti straps, a square neckline, a sheer waist inset with a mini waistband detail, and a short, form-hugging fit. The dress is composed of a sheer glitter mesh fabric with a knit lining and offers moderate stretch. Glitter may transfer.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0311

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $12.97 $32.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Marisa Sequin Corset Tulle Skater Dress

    Special Occasion

    Made to shimmer with every step, the Marisa tulle skater dress features delicate sequin embroidery and a tiered silhouette that feels both playful and polished. A sheer corset bodice and textured straps add a romantic finish, perfect for unforgettable nights out.

    Fit & Features

    • Sequin embroidery, tulle fabric, crinoline and woven linings
    • Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
    • Sequin-embellished adjustable shoulder straps
    • Sheer corset-structured bodice
    • Back zipper closure
    • Ruffled layered skater silhouette, short-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    HOCO, weddings, birthdays, formal events, glamorous cocktail parties, milestone celebrations, holidays

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000840

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $159.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: WINE, BLACK

    Available Size: 0, 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Lisa Sequin V-Neck Party Dress

    Special Occasion

     For a look that glows, reach for the Lisa party dress for homecoming or the next formal event! She features a sleeveless v-neckline with adjustable spaghetti straps, a front v-notch wire insert, a high-waist seam, and a short skater silhouette. The formal dress is composed of a delicate sequin-knit mesh fabric with lining and minimal stretch. Complete your dressy look in a princess tiara and heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless v-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Strapless or adhesive bra recommended
    • Front v-notch wire insert, back zipper closure
    • High-waist seam
    • Short, skater silhouette
    • Sequin-knit mesh fabric, lining, minimal stretch
    • Fits true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1047

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Sequin Darling Mini Dress

    Strut your stuff in this sexy sequined bodycon dress.

    Fits & Features

    • Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
    • V Wire Front I Padded Bust 
    • Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure At Back 
    • Fully Lined, Mesh Composition I Sequin Embellishments Throughout
    • Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch 

    Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0199

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $17.97 $44.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Summer Vibes Gauzy Mini Dress
    Feel the heat while keeping it cool in this gauzy olive skater dress. Dress features a deep V at front and back, side bar cutouts, an elasticated waist, and an all-over crinkle effect. Dress is made from a rayon fabric with moderate stretch. Dress is semi-sheer and unlined.

    Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05102-3847

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $36.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Adley Formal Glitter Party Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Bring that glow to your evening with a formal party dress that brings endless shine! The dress features a sleeveless V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, a built-in padded bust, and a fit and flare silhouette with pleating, hidden side pockets. and a mini-length hem. The dress is composed of a woven glitter fabric that offers minimal stretch. Complete look with chrome heels. 

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Built-in padded bust
    • Hidden side pockets
    • Fit and flare silhouette with pleating
    • Woven glitter fabric, minimal stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0923

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Long Sleeve Ribbed Mini Dress

    Keep it cozy with this pretty knit dress! It features a plunging V neckline, long puff sleeves and a mini length silhouette. Dress is composed of a ribbed knit fabric that offers a form hugging fit. 

    Burgundy: Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size small.

    Hunter: Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size small.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05102-0365

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $28.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Embellished Beauty Mini Dress

    Strike a pose in this spotlight worthy mini! The dress features a high rounded neckline, long fitted sheer sleeves, and a short, form hugging fit. The dress is composed of a sheer mesh fabric that offers plenty of stretch, includes a knit lining, and is embellished with studs in a beautiful intricate pattern. Zipper at back. 

    Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0265

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Ceri Sequin Floral Sweetheart A-Line Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Floral print, sequins, and a ruched satin bodice give the Ceri mini dress a polished, playful finish. The sweetheart neckline, fitted waist, and A-line silhouette balance structure with movement, while the open back adds a chic detail.

    Fit & Features

    • Ruched satin bodice
    • Sweetheart neckline with adjustable tank straps, padded bra cups
    • Floral print mesh fabric with knit lining, sequin embellishment, moderate stretch
    • Open back, strap with bar closure, lower zipper with hook-eye closure
    • Fitted waist
    • Mini-length A-line silhouette
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, dances, formal parties, birthday celebrations, date nights, and dressy dinners.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001358

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $69.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: PINK/PRINT

    Available Size: S, M, L

  • Sweet Luxe Rhinestone And Pearl Mesh Mini Dress

    Dripping in shine and dripping in confidence—this mini dress knows how to keep it luxe. With rhinestone and pearl accents over sleek mesh, it’s your go-to for glam nights out.

    Fit & Features

    • Sheer mesh fabric with knit lining, high stretch
    • Swirl embroidery, iridescent rhinestone and tonal faux pearl embellishments
    • Sleeveless cowl neckline
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Ruching
    • Mini-length bodycon silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05103-000241

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $54.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Shining Star Glitter Mini Dress

    Showcase stunning looks in this beyond gorgeous glitter knit mini dress! It features a wrap front V neckline, high waist seam, and a wrap front skirt with a short asymmetrical hem and ruched detailing. Pair this shimmering dress with a rhinestone collar necklace to add all the more glam.

    Fits & Features

    • Spaghetti straps
    • Surplice V neckline
    • Square back with zipper and hook and eye closure
    • Wrap front skirt with ruched detailing
    • Asymmetrical mini length hem 
    • Glitter knit fabric with moderate stretch
    • Curve-hugging fit

    Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0579

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $35.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Alluring In Lace Mini Dress

    Show them the way in lace!

    Fits & Features

    • High Neckline
    • Sheer Long Sleeves & Inset Down Center Bodice
    • Mid-Waist Skirt | Sheer Lace Inset Detail | Hem Meets Mid-Thigh
    • All Over Lace Detail | Knit Lining
    • Curve Hugging Fit | Moderate Stretch 
    • Back Zip Closure 

    Model is 5'6.5" with a 32" bust, 23.5" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size small.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0290

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $39.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance