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.

  • Neriah Sequin Marabou Feather Party Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Neriah sequin party mini dress demands diva vibes only! Be of the moment in her strapless neckline featuring a fab marabou feather trim, non-slip grip lining, a padded bust, and a flattering bodycon silhouette with a mini-length hem. The party dress is composed of a sequin-scroll pattern on mesh fabric for the perfect shine and has a stretchy knit lining. Complete the look in this mini dress with rhinestone strap heels for extra sparkle at birthdays or a Vegas weekend!

    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, marabou feather trim
    • Non-slip grip lining, padded bust
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Bodycon silhouette, mini-length hem
    • Sequin-scroll pattern, mesh fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • No bra required
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1812

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $76.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Candle Lit Dinner Velvet Floral Dress

    This velvet floral min dress will look stunning for your next dinner date! It features long sleeves, a v-neck, bodycon silhouette, mini-length, and a front drawstring for a customizable fit. Complete the look in lace-up heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Long sleeves, v-neck
    • Bodycon silhouette
    • Front drawstring, back zipper closure
    • Mini-length hem
    • Flocked velvet floral pattern
    • Mesh fabric, knit lining, minimal stretch
    • Fits true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-1841

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $46.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Nina Tulle Glitter Polka Dot Party Dress

    Special Occasion

    Flirt and flounce in the cute Nina party dress at school dances, banquets, or dressy birthday events! She features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, tulle overlay over the bust and corset-style bodice, and a flared tulle short-length skirt. The party dress is designed with adorable glitter polka dots all over for a hint of shine and has a stretchy knit lining. Complete the look in this formal short dress with a bracelet and earrings.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Tulle overlay over the bust and corset-style bodice
    • Flared tulle short-length skirt
    • All over glitter polka dots on tulle fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Sticky bra or pasties recommended
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1587

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $56.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Beatrice Formal Glitter Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Always the center of attention. Sparkle from the moment you strut into the party in the Beatrice glitter formal dress! Encapsulate an elegant and chic allure in her one-shoulder neckline with a sheer long sleeve, fitted bodice, and a high waist seam featuring a cascading drape on her mini-length, bodycon silhouette. The formal dress is composed of a glittery mesh fabric with a knit lining and minimal stretch. Complete your dressy look in stiletto heels and a clutch.

    Fit & Features

    • One-shoulder neckline, sheer long sleeve
    • Strapless bra recommended
    • Fitted bodice, high waist seam
    • Side cascading drape
    • Mini-length hem, bodycon silhouette
    • Glittery mesh fabric, knit lining, minimal stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1136

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $74.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Diamond Girl Sequin Mini Dress

    Shine on in a mini dress that brings the dazzle to your next night out with the squad. The dress features a stunning diamond pattern composed of sparkling sequins, a crew neckline, and a mini length silhouette. Complete your look with rhinestone duster earrings. 

    Fit & Features

    • Crew neckline
    • Diamond pattern
    • Sequins
    • Fitted long sleeves
    • Mini length silhouette
    • Form hugging fit

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0704

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $21.97 $54.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Kiabeth Off Shoulder Midi Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Show those shoulders in our elegant Kiabeth midi dress!

    Fits & Features 

    • Fold Over, Off Shoulder Neckline
    • Short And Straight Off Shoulder Sleeves
    • Fitted Bodice With Vertical Seams 
    • High Waist Skirt
    • Mid-length Hem That Hits Mid Calf
    • Crepe Fabric
    • Moderate Stretch, Form Hugging Fit 

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

      Royal: Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.  

      Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

      Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0290

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $19.97 $39.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Sale
    • Love Like This Dress

      Make them fall in love with this sexy 'n' elegant bodycon dress.

      Fits & Features

      • Elasticized Off Shoulder Neckline 
      • Long, Off Shoulder Sleeves
      • Mini Length Silhouette
      • Unlined Knit Fabric With Glitter Embellishments 
      • Curve Hugging Fit I Plenty Of Stretch

      Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size small

      Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0260

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $13.97 $35.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Ships Free
    • Effortless Glam Glitter Velvet Strapless A-Line Mini Dress

      Serve effortless glam in this glitter velvet mini dress that catches every light. The strapless neckline and flowy A-line silhouette make it the ultimate party plus one.

      Fit & Features

      • Glitter velvet fabric, moderate stretch
      • Strapless straight-across neckline
      • Ruched fitted bodice
      • Short A-line silhouette
      • Asymmetric hem
      • Runs true to size

      Style Number/Barcode: 05103-000286

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $9.97 $40.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Ships Free
    • Angie Feather Trim Sequin Formal Mini Dress

      Special Occasion

      The iconic style of the Angie feather trim sequin formal mini dress will level up your formal look! She features a sleeveless square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customized fit, a flirty open back with a lace-up strappy design, a mini-length hem with a fabulous marabou feather trim, and a slim-fit silhouette. The lined mesh fabric features iridescent sequin embroidery in a gorgeous scroll pattern. Complete your look for prom or a dressy party with metallic heels!

      Fit & Features

      • Sleeveless square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
      • Open back, lace-up strappy design, tie closure
      • High waist seam, lower back zipper, hook and eye closure
      • Mini-length hem, marabou feather trim, slim-fit silhouette
      • Iridescent sequin embroidery, scroll pattern
      • Sheer mesh fabric, full-length knit lining, minimal stretch
      • Sticky bra or pasties recommended
      • Runs true to size

      Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1952

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $9.97 $64.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Sale
    • This Moment Floral Lace Skater Dress

      Stand out for those special moments with a skater dress that captivates with stylish details. The dress features a sleeveless V-neckline with a scalloped lace trim, a floral lace bodice, a sheer lace back, and a skater silhouette. The dress is composed of a combination of crepe and lace fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with mules and door knocker earrings. 

      Fit & Features

      • Sleeveless V-neckline 
      • Scalloped lace trim 
      • Floral lace bodice, sheer lace back 
      • Skater silhouette 
      • Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch 
      • Runs true to size

      Style Number/Barcode: 05102-0624

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $19.97 $39.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Ships Free
    • Luxe Vibes Only Sequin Long Sleeve Mini Dress

      Keep your look luxe and glamorous in a sequin dress that slays! This mini dress features a V-neckline, long fitted sleeves, a short, curve-hugging silhouette, and all-over sequin embroidery in a chic scroll pattern. The sheer mesh fabric includes a full knit lining. Style with lace-up heels for your next cocktail party.

      Fit & Features

      • V-neckline
      • Long fitted sleeves
      • Back zipper, hook and eye closure
      • High waist seam, mini-length hem, form-hugging fit
      • Sequin embroidery, scroll pattern
      • Sheer mesh fabric, full knit lining, minimal stretch
      • Runs true to size

      Style Number/Barcode: 05101-1749

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $9.97 $64.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Sale
    • Plus Hot Stuff Asymmetrical Dress

      You're looking like hot stuff this evening, babes! This dress has a wrap bodice with a deep V neckline, spaghetti straps, and ruching on the side. A wrap skirt creates an asymmetrical hemline for a party perfect ensemble. Dress is composed of an unlined crepe fabric that offers a moderate stretch. 

      Style Number/Barcode: 15103-0027

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $9.97 $37.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Ships Free
    • Starry Glow Velvet Glitter Mini Dress

      Cue the shimmer. This glitter velvet mini dress brings the drama with a cowl neckline, flirty slit, and pleated seams that hug just right—your new party dress for nights that need extra sparkle.

      Fit & Features

      • Glitter velvet fabric, stretchy knit lining
      • Cowl neckline, padded bra cups
      • Spaghetti straps
      • A-line fit, slit accent
      • Mini-length hem
      • Runs true to size

      Style Number/Barcode: 05103-000370

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $9.97 $42.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Ships Free
    • Disco Babe Glitter Knit Mini Dress

      Shine bright on the dance floor in this eye-catching glitter knit mini dress! It features a square neckline, long loose balloon-style sleeves with tapered hems, ruching down the side seams, and a short, curve-hugging silhouette. The metallic glitter knit fabric offers plenty of stretch. Complete the look with platform heels.

      Fit & Features

      • Square neckline
      • Long balloon sleeves, tapered hems
      • Ruching down the side seams
      • Mini-length hem, fitted bodycon silhouette
      • Metallic glitter knit fabric, plenty of stretch
      • Runs true to size

      Style Number/Barcode: 05101-1761

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $19.97 $42.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Ships Free
    • Sultry Sweetheart Mini Dress

      You'll be a stunning sultry sweetheart in this LBD perf for a night out!

      Fit & Features

      • Long fitted sheer ruched sleeves | Puff shoulders
      • Sweetheart neckline
      • Dart seam detailing
      • Short, form hugging fit
      • Crepe fabric
      • Moderate stretch

      Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0680

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $14.97 $36.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Clearance
    • What's Knot To Like Mini Dress

      Take your look to the next level with this pretty mini dress! It features an off the shoulder neckline, fitted long sleeves, a cinching tie waist belt with loops and an asymmetrical mini length silhouette with a ruched detailing. Dress is composed of a lined crepe fabric that offers a curve hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Zipper not included.  

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

      Style Number/Barcode: 05102-0336

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $12.97 $33.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Clearance
    • Magnificent Glitter Short Dress

      Embrace the magnificent glow you'll have in this glitter short dress at the club! The short dress features long sleeves, a square neckline, an open-back with button closure, a bodycon silhouette, and side pleated seams to accentuate your curves. Complete the look in chic heels.

      Fit & Features

      • Long sleeves, square neckline
      • Open-back with button closure
      • Side pleated seams
      • Bodycon silhouette
      • Short-length hem
      • Glitter knit fabric, lined, minimal stretch
      • Fits true to size

      Style Number/Barcode: 05103-4860

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $9.97 $45.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Sale
    • Priscilla Sequin Wrap Party Dress

      Special Occasion

       Perfect for fall weddings, banquets, and bachelorette parties, Priscilla is fun and flattering in glowing sequins and flirty short length! She features a sleeveless wrap-style v-neckline with adjustable spaghetti straps, side pleating, bodycon silhouette, and an asymmetrical hem. The formal party dress is composed of a sequin scroll mesh embellished fabric with a knit lining and minimal stretch. Complete your dressy look in metallic heels and a clutch.

      Fit & Features

      • Sleeveless wrap-style v-neckline
      • Adjustable spaghetti straps
      • Bra-friendly design
      • Back zipper closure, side pleating
      • Bodycon fit, asymmetrical short-length hem
      • Sequin scroll mesh fabric, knit lining, minimal stretch
      • Fits true to size

      Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1124

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $9.97 $64.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Sale
    • Making A Point Mini Dress

      Make a point in this sultry mini!

      Fits & Features

      • Plunging V Neckline
      • Narrow Shoulder Straps
      • Asymmetrical Hem
      • Ponte Knit Composition I Fully Lined
      • Curve Hugging Fit I Offers Moderate Stretch 

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

      Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0266

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $13.97 $35.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Clearance
    • Gladys Sequin Scroll Party Dress

      Special Occasion

      Glam and undeniably eye catching, our Gladys dress is perfect for your next party! She features sequin embellishment atop a mesh overlay, adjustable spaghetti straps, a plunging V bodice with back zip, and a swing-y A-line mini skirt. Gladys is fully lined and made from a woven material with minimal stretch.

      Model is 5’8” with a 32” bust, 25 waist, and 35” hips. She is wearing a size small.

      Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

      Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0118

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $29.97 $64.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Ships Free
    • Shayna Lace-Up Skater Party Dress

      Special Occasion

      The charming Shayna short party dress brings that modern 50s-inspired vibe to every dressy banquet or event gala! She features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline, a lightly padded bust, flexible boning inserts along the bodice, and thin shoulder straps that lead to her lace-up back with hidden zipper closure. Her high waist seam gently flares out into the pleated, skater silhouette with hidden side pockets for keeping your hands warm. The formal dress is composed of woven satin fabric with tulle and woven lining with no stretch. Complete your dressy look in strappy heels and a bracelet.

      Fit & Features

      • Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, thin shoulder straps
      • Lightly padded bust, bra optional
      • Lace-up back, hidden zipper closure
      • High waist seam, hidden side pockets
      • Pleated, short skater silhouette
      • Woven satin fabric, tulle, and woven lining, no stretch
      • Fits true to size

      Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1058

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $19.97 $139.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Clearance
    • Glitter And Glam Long Sleeve Mini Dress

      Bring the glitter and glam this holiday season in this stunning mini dress! It features long fitted sleeves, a wrap front V neckline, subtle ruched detailing, and a short, tulip hem and overall curve-hugging fit. Style this dress with strappy heels and a rhinestone wristlet.

      Fit & Features

      • Long fitted sleeves
      • Wrap front V neckline
      • Ruched detailing
      • Short, tulip hem
      • Form-hugging fit
      • Unlined glitter knit fabric
      • Plenty of stretch

      Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0876

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $9.97 $35.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Ships Free
    • Ready To Party Strapless Bodycon Mini Dress

      Call up the girls cause this strapless bodycon dress is ready to party! With a flattering bodycon silhouette and side sash, you'll be the hit of the night.

      Fit & Features

      • Mesh lined knit fabric
      • Strapless neckline
      • Back zipper hook-eye closure
      • Side sash
      • Bodycon silhouette
      • Mini-length hem
      • Runs true to size

      Style Number/Barcode: 05103-6095

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $9.97 $46.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Ships Free
    • Night Out Glamour Glitter Mini Dress

      Showcase sultry glamour your next night out in this stunning glitter knit mini dress! It features an off-the-shoulder sweetheart neckline with short sleeves, a draped cowl accent at the bust, and a short, curve-hugging silhouette. Style with sleek hoop earrings and strappy heels.

      Fit & Features

      • Off-the-shoulder sweetheart neckline
      • Short sleeves
      • Draped cowl detail at the bust
      • Mini-length hem, fitted bodycon silhouette
      • Glitter knit fabric, partial knit lining at the bust
      • Moderate stretch
      • Runs true to size

      Style Number/Barcode: 05101-1736

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $9.97 $44.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Sale