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.

  • Cheers To Chic Vibes Velvet Mini Dress

    Show off chic vibes as you celebrate in style in this luxe velvet mini dress. It features a low V-neckline with a wrap-front design, long fitted sleeves, a draped front accent and front sash, ruching down the side seams, a faux wrap-front hem, and a fitted, bodycon silhouette. The smooth velvet fabric offers a moderate stretch. Complete your look with gold statement earrings.

    Fit & Features

    • Low V-neckline, wrap-front design
    • Long fitted sleeves
    • Draped front, front sash
    • Ruching down the sides
    • Faux wrap-front asymmetric hem
    • Mini-length hem, form-hugging fit
    • Velvet fabric, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-1825

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $38.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Taya Rhinestone Velvet Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Sparkle the night away in the glamorous Taya mini dress! She features a sleeveless wrap-front V-neckline, spaghetti straps, a flattering high waist, and a short, curve-hugging silhouette with a faux wrap-front skirt. The smooth velvet fabric is embellished with all-over rhinestones for a gorgeous look. Complete the outfit with rhinestone statement earrings.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless wrap-front V-neckline
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper closure
    • High waist, faux wrap-front skirt
    • Mini-length, form-fitting silhouette
    • Velvet fabric, rhinestone embellishments
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0567

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $54.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Jess Off The Shoulder Dress

    Special Occasion

    You're known for your moves—make 'em in our dynamite satin Jess dress! She features an off-the-shoulder neckline, seamless sleeveless bodice with fold-over detail and back zip, and an A-line flared mini with pockets at either hip. Jess is made from a smooth, shiny material with moderate stretch.

    Model is 5’7” with a 32” bust, 23” waist, and 34.5” hips. She is wearing a size small.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0033

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $20.97 $54.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Heat Wave Mini Dress

    It's getting hot in here! Bring in the heat wave in this mini dress! It features a deep V neckline, narrow shoulder straps, contrast piping for a harness-like effect, and a body-hugging fit. Dress is composed of an unlined crepe fabric that offers plenty of stretch. Includes a hidden back zipper and hook and eye closure. 

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

    Style Number/Barcode: 05103-3195

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $16.97 $41.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Desirae Sequin Feather Short Dress

    Special Occasion

    Inspired by flappers, embody a 1920s allure in the Desirae short party dress to make your striking entrance! She features long sleeves with feathered cuffs, a V-neckline, a bodycon silhouette, and a short-length feather hem. The formal dress is composed of a mesh sequin patterned fabric with beading and feather accents, a knit lining, and minimal stretch. Complete your dressy look in glitzy stiletto heels for a holiday party!

    Fit & Features

    • Long sleeves with feathered cuffs
    • V-neckline, bra-friendly design
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Bodycon silhouette, short-length hem
    • Beading and feather accents
    • Sequin pattern mesh fabric, knit lining, minimal stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1184

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $159.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Unforgettable Nights Lace Mini Dress

    Make your night one to remember in a dress that stuns from head to toe! The mini dress features a gorgeous floral lace design, a sleeveless V-neckline with padded cups, adjustable spaghetti straps, and padded cups. The high waist leads to a short-length hem with a mini side slit. The short dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a form hugging fit with minimal stretch. Complete look with chrome heels and a moto jacket. 

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless V-neckline
    • Lightly padded cups
    • Floral lace pattern
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • High waist, exposed back zipper
    • Short length, mini side slit
    • Lined mesh fabric, form-hugging fit, runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-1289

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $46.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Ashton Glitter Midi Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    For the kind of entrance that feels effortless yet unforgettable, the Ashton dress brings just the right amount of shimmer to the room. Designed in glitter fabric with an off-the-shoulder neckline, bodycon midi silhouette, and sleek front slit, it’s a polished statement made for formal evenings alike.

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter knit stretch fabric, sewn-in knit lining
    • Off-the-shoulder neckline
    • Flexible boning inserts along the bodice
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Front high slit
    • Bodycon midi-length silhouette
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, weddings, cocktail parties, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, date nights, anniversary dinners, birthdays, shower celebrations, milestone parties, award nights

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000720

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $64.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: LIGHT, BLUE, BROWN

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

  • Julie Velvet Slit Midi Formal Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Julie formal dress blends soft velvet texture with a sculpted, form-hugging silhouette. The square neckline and daring front slit create an elegant balance of sophistication and subtle allure—perfect for when the invite calls for something effortlessly refined.

    Fit & Features

    • Luxe velvet fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Square neckline, padded bra cups
    • Adjustable shoulder straps
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Front slit
    • Form-hugging, midi-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Weddings, cocktail parties, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, formal celebrations, date nights, holiday soirees, upscale birthdays

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000455

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $59.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: PURPLE

    Available Size: XS

  • Living My Best Life Glitter Halter Mini Dress

    Live your best life in this glitter mini dress for birthdays or dressy nights out! The short dress features a halter neckline with tie-back closure, a ruched bust seam, a form-hugging fit, an asymmetrical mini-length hem with a flirty side slit, and an adjustable side drawstring so you can customize the style. The mini dress is crafted from a rainbow glitter mesh fabric with a stretchy knit lining. Complete the look with platform heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless halter neckline, tie-back closure
    • Ruched bust seam
    • Form-hugging fit
    • Asymmetrical mini-length hem, side slit
    • Adjustable side drawstring
    • Rainbow glitter mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-2709

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $45.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Lori Sequin Lace Up A-Line Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    All-over sparkling sequins take center stage in the statement Lori dress. The fitted bodice and scoop neckline create a streamlined base, while the lace-up open back adds another layer of detail. The A-line silhouette keeps the embellished design balanced and refined.

    Fit & Features

    • Allover sequin embellishment
    • Mesh fabric lined with woven satin
    • Scoop neckline, padded bra cups, spaghetti straps
    • Fitted bodice
    • Lace-up open back, zipper and hook-eye closure
    • A-line mini silhouette
    • Runs true to size 

     

    Where to Wear:

    HOCO, birthday parties, formal and semi-formal events

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001117

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $79.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: NAVY

    Available Size: XS, M

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Gabrielle Rhinestone One-Shoulder Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    All shimmer, all sophistication—the Gabrielle mini dress is made to command attention. Crafted from rhinestone knit fabric with a draped cowl neckline and sculpted wrap-style mini hem, it’s the perfect mix of modern glamour and timeless polish.

    Fit & Features

    • Rhinestone-embellished, knit-lined stretchy fabric
    • One-shoulder neckline with drape
    • Flexible boning inserts
    • Bodycon silhouette
    • Wrap-style mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Cocktail parties, birthdays, date nights, bachelorettes, Vegas, glam soirees

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000513

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $79.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: BLACK, ROYAL

    Available Size: XS, S, M, L

  • Sultry And Stunning Halter Mesh Mini Dress

    Sultry and stunning, this mesh mini dress is a must-have for your next GNO! It features a sleeveless square neckline, thin halter straps that tie at the back of the neck, ruching down the sides, and a short, curve-hugging fit. The sheer mesh fabric has a nude knit lining. Style this dress with sleek hoops.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless square neckline
    • Thin halter straps, tie at the back of the neck
    • Ruched sides
    • Mini-length, form-fitting silhouette
    • Sheer mesh fabric, nude knit lining, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05103-3907

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $35.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Stunner In Satin Mini Dress

    Be the absolute stunner you are in this sleek and sultry satin mini dress! It features a sleeveless bodice, tie shoulder spaghetti straps, a square neck and back, flattering vertical seam detailing at the bust, and a short, form hugging fit that hits mid-thigh. The mini dress is composed of a satin-like fabric that offers moderate stretch.

    Model is 5'9" with 32" bust, 24" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0136

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $32.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Helen Crepe Lace-Up Skater Party Dress

    Special Occasion

    Twirl all night in the flirty Helen crepe party dress at school dances, birthdays, or banquets! She features a sleeveless square neckline, tank shoulder straps, an eye-catching lace-up back with tie closure, hidden side pockets for keeping your hands warm, and a flattering skater silhouette with a short-length bonded hem. The party dress is composed of a crepe knit fabric with a bust lining and plenty of stretch. Complete the look in this short skater dress with strappy block heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless square neckline, tank shoulder straps
    • Lace-up back, tie closure, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Hidden side pockets, skater silhouette
    • Short-length bonded hem
    • Crepe knit fabric, bust lining, moderate stretch
    • Sticky bra or pasties recommended
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1693

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $56.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Classic Glam Mini Dress

    Add a touch of classic glam to your look with this chic mini dress. It features an off the shoulder square neckline, short sleeves, a front waist cut out with a scalloped hem, and a short, form hugging fit. The dress is composed of a sheer glitter lace fabric with a knit lining. Glitter may transfer.

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

    Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0213

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $36.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Rachael Velvet Faux Pearl Party Dress

    Special Occasion

    Radiate party-girl energy in the luxe Rachael velvet faux pearl mini dress at bachelorettes or formal dances! She features an off-the-shoulder sweetheart neckline adorned with puff short-sleeve cuffs, a ruched and padded bust, and a bodycon silhouette that flaunts your curves down to the hem. The short party dress is designed with colored faux pearl embellishments all over on soft velvet fabric with a stretchy knit lining. Complete the look with a clutch and stiletto pumps.

    Fit & Features

    • Off-the-shoulder sweetheart neckline
    • Puff short-sleeve cuffs
    • Ruched and padded bust, back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Bodycon silhouette, mini-length hem
    • Faux pearl all-over embellishments
    • Velvet fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2000

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • In The Spotlight Rhinestone Mini Dress

    Shine on the spotlight in a mini dress that commands attention! The dress features a sleeveless square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, an asymmetrical rhinestone trim, and a mini-length silhouette. The dress is composed of a lined crepe fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels and door knocker earrings.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless square neckline
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps 
    • Asymmetrical rhinestone trim 
    • Mini length silhouette
    • Lined crepe fabric
    • Form hugging fit, moderate stretch 
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05103-3984

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $38.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • So Into You Faux Suede Mini Dress

    You'll be so into this sleek faux suede mini dress! It features a sleeveless bodice, bungee spaghetti straps that lead to an open lattice back, a square neckline, and a short, curve hugging fit. The faux suede fabric offers plenty of stretch and includes a front knit lining.

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

    Style Number/Barcode: 05102-0274

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $12.97 $31.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Out For The Night Plunge Wrap Mini Dress

    Step out for the night in this sultry plunge long sleeve mini dress designed to accentuate your curves on a bodycon silhouette with side ruching. Composed of a slinky knit fabric with a moderate stretch. Style with lucite mules and statement earrings.

    Fit & Features

    • Long peasant sleeves
    • Plunge v-neckline
    • Wrap mini skirt, side ruching
    • Bodycon silhouette
    • Slinky knit fabric, moderate stretch
    • Fits true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-1301

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $36.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Sammy Formal Crepe Cutout Midi Dress

    Special Occasion

    For looking sultry and sleek! Sammy is a class act and full of surprise in her sleeveless crew neck style with front and side sultry cutouts and a chic wrap-style bodice. Her curve-hugging silhouette ends below the knee to elongate your figure while the back slit accent adds extra detail. The formal dress is composed of a crepe texture knit fabric with a moderate stretch. Finish the look in stiletto heels and a rhinestone bracelet.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless, crew neck, bra-friendly
    • Front cut bust and side cutout
    • Back zipper closure, slit accent
    • Wrap-style bodice
    • Form-fitting silhouette
    • Midi-length hem
    • Crepe texture knit fabric, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0898

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $46.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Party Starter Satin Mini Dress

    Get the party started in this sleek satin mini dress! It features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline with a structured and padded bust, thin shoulder straps, a high waist seam, ruching down the sides and back, and a short, curve-hugging silhouette. Style with strappy stilettos.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless sweetheart neckline
    • Structured and padded bust, ruched detailing
    • Thin shoulder straps
    • Back zipper, hook and eye closure
    • High waist seam, ruching down the side seams and down the back
    • Mini-length hem, bodycon silhouette
    • Smooth satin knit fabric, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-1636

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $10.97 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Valentina Ruched Satin Dress

    Special Occasion

    Make a stylish statement in our lovely Valentina! 

    Fits & Features

    • Spaghetti Straps That Cross & Lace-Up At The Back I Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
    • Plunging V Wire Neckline I Pleating Detail At Bust 
    • Midi Length Silhouette I Ruching Accent I Side Slit 
    • Satin-Like Fabric 
    • Curve Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch 

     

    Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 35.5" hips. She is wearing a size small. 

       

      Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

      Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0336

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $29.97 $49.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Ships Free
    • Laurel Velvet Skater Short Dress With Pockets

      Special Occasion

      Playful yet polished, the Laurel velvet short dress balances a structured bodice with a flirty flared skirt. The open back cutout detail adds a touch of modern allure to a timeless party silhouette.

      Fit & Features

      • Soft plush velvet fabric lined with stretchy knit
      • Sweetheart neckline
      • Wide shoulder straps
      • Cutout back, hook strap and zipper hook-eye closure
      • Hidden side pockets
      • Skater silhouette, short-length hem
      • Runs true to size


      Where to Wear:

      Formal school dances, weddings, birthdays, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, date nights, milestone celebrations, red-carpet occasions, galas

      Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000482

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $14.97 $74.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Sale
    • Avery Formal Mesh Bodycon Midi Dress

      Special Occasion

      The Avery formal midi dress is a state-making piece that'll make every head turn! She features a sassy sweetheart neckline with a cowl overlay, a padded bust, adjustable spaghetti straps, and a figure-hugging ruching and bodycon silhouette that steals the show. The formal midi dress is composed of a lightweight mesh fabric with a sewn-in knit lining and minimal stretch. Complete the look in strappy heels for a banquet or fancy dinner date!

      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

      • Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, cowl overlay
      • Padded bust, adjustable spaghetti straps
      • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
      • Ruching, bodycon silhouette
      • Midi-length hem
      • Mesh fabric, sewn-in knit lining, minimal stretch
      • Runs true to size

      Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2063

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $9.97 $59.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Ships Free