Short Cocktail Dresses
The invite says cocktail, but your dress can still have a little fun with it. This short cocktail dress edit is full of strapless, cowl neckline, corset bodice, off-the-shoulder, and long sleeve silhouettes that go from sleek to statement. Choose mesh, slinky jersey, silky satin, velvet, or lace, then add your kind of drama with floral print, rhinestones, sequins, beading, or a side sash. Black, red, burgundy, navy, and emerald green keep the mood polished for birthday soirees, sorority formals, and guest of wedding plans—aka every excuse to dress up and take too many photos. Finish with heels and a mini bag, then let the dress handle the rest.
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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.
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Valda Formal Floral Metallic Dress
Special Occasion
Radiate beauty in blooming florals as you make an unforgettable entrance in our glowing Valda metallic dress! Her gorge floral design is accented with a metallic finish and her pockets add a unique detail! Pair her with a luxe clutch to complete your look!
Fit & Features
- Plunging V-Neckline | Padded Cups
- Adjustable Spaghetti Straps | Cross-Back Straps
- Pleated Skater Silhouette
- Hidden Side Pockets
- Embroidered Floral Print Pattern | Metallic Brocade
- Lined Woven Knit Fabric
- Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0426
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $36.97 $79.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Glam Girl Rhinestone Fringe Mini Dress
You'll be a total glam girl this holiday season in this gorgeous mini dress! It features a halter neckline with a back rhinestone button closure, an open back with a cascading rhinestone fringe trim, and a short, curve-hugging silhouette. Style this dress with rhinestone duster earrings and a chic envelope clutch.
Fit & Features
- Halter neckline
- Back rhinestone button closure
- Open back with rhinestone fringe trim
- Mini length form-hugging fit
- Nylon Ponte fabric with moderate stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05103-1126
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $9.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Who's That Girl Scoop Mini Dress
Who's that girl? That's what they will all say, as you own it in this sleek mini dress! It features a sleeveless bodice, a scoop neckline, tank-like straps, verticals seams along the sides to frame curves and a mini length silhouette with a mini side slit. Dress is composed of a coated stretchy faux leather-like fabric that offers a curve hugging fit. Includes a back zipper closure.
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small
Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0320
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $9.97 $36.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Sparkle And Glow Sequin Mini Dress
Add your own sparkle to the party in this sequin mini!
Fits & Features
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Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
- V Neckline
- Mini Length Silhouette
- Fully Lined, Mesh Fabric With Damask Patterned Sequins
- Curve Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
- Zipper Not Included
Model is 5'7" with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0424
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $17.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
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Catch The Bouquet Dress
This neutral ditsy flower pattern dress has us swooning! With a floral bouquet pattern it features a square neckline, ruffled stretchy spaghetti straps, a square back with a hidden zipper and double straight hem down the middle. This mini dressed has a ruched side detailing and an inner linen lining.
Style Number/Barcode: 05102-0207
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $9.97 $47.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Chambray Today Ruffle Mini Dress
As playful as it is party-ready, this casually chic chambray mini dress is going places. Dress features thick straps, square neckline, a ruffle hem, and smocking from bust through thigh. Dress is made from a lightweight cotton blend and offers plenty of stretch through the middle.Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Style Number/Barcode: 05102-0139
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $32.97 $39.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Spring Vibes Floral Skater Dress
This ivory skater dress is a perfect, soft vision of spring. It features a square neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps that lead to a sheer lace back and zipper closure, a high waist seam, and a fitted bodice that leads to a short flowy skirt. Dress is composed of a stretchy scuba fabric with an all over ivory and blush floral print.Model is 5'6.5" with a 32" bust, 23.5" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-8683
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $10.00 $36.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Glam Attitude Strapless Rhinestone Crepe Mini Dress
A glam mini dress features a strapless neckline, form-hugging fit, and a mini-length hem perfect for styling with heels. The crepe fabric is embellished with countless rhinestones for a luxe look.
Fit & Features
- Rhinestone embellished crepe fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Strapless neckline
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Form-hugging mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05103-5552
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $9.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Heather Formal Heat Stone Dress
Special Occasion
Bring the sparkle as you dazzle in our metallic Heather dress! Her glitzy heat stones are complemented with luxe pearls for a super glam look!
Fit & Features
- V-Neckline
- Spaghetti Straps
- Heat Stones
- Gemstones
- Ruched
- Lined Mesh
- Form Hugging Fit | Moderate Stretch
Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0269
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $25.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Such A Flirt Skater Dress
Leave a flirty impression in this flowy little skater dress! It features a sleeveless bodice, spaghetti straps, a V neckline, flattering horizontal seams along the bust, a square back, a high waist seam, slanted side pockets, and a flowy skater skirt. The dress is composed of a nylon ponte knit fabric that offers moderate stretch.Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0158
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $9.97 $31.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Liza Corset Tulle Skater Dress
Special Occasion
Cue the curtain call—the dreamy Liza corset mini dress brings all the ballet-core magic. A sheer mesh bodice shimmers with sequins and faux pearls, while the layered skater tulle skirt floats with every step, giving you that effortlessly en pointe vibe.
Fit & Features
- Sheer tulle and mesh fabric, multiple satin and tulle linings
- V-neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Sheer mesh corset bodice, sequins, faux pearls, flexible boning
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Drop waist seam, skater silhouette, mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthday events, glam cocktail receptions, engagement parties, night at the ballet or theatre
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000095
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $19.97 $119.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Mina Rhinestone Strapless Velvet Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Dare to bring the glam allure in the stunning Mina rhinestone strapless velvet mini dress at parties or dances! She features a strapless straight-across neckline with a gorgeous sparkling rhinestone trim, a mini-length asymmetric hem with a wrap-front design, and a bodycon silhouette to showcase your curves. The smooth velvet fabric will radiate a luxe vibe. Complete your glitzy formal look with rhinestone fringe earrings and silver heels!
Fit & Features
- Strapless straight-across neckline
- Rhinestone-embellished trim
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mini-length asymmetric hem, wrap-front design
- Bodycon silhouette
- Velvet fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Strapless or sticky bra recommended
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1629
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $9.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Major Babe Mini Dress
You'll be a major babe in this alluring mini! The dress features a sleeveless bodice, spaghetti straps, a scoop neckline with a ruched and padded bust, a square back, and a short, curve hugging fit. Garment is composed of a stretchy knit fabric for comfortable wear.
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size small
Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0361
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $9.97 $32.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Fresh And Flirty Mini Dress
Leave a flirty first impression in this fresh and fun mini! The dress features a sleeveless bodice, adjustable spaghetti straps that lead to a cross back, a V neckline with scalloped detailing, vertical seams down the bust, a high waist seam, a back zipper and hook and eye closure, and a short, form hugging fit. The dress is composed of a sheer lace fabric with a knit lining and offers moderate stretch for comfortable wear.
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0017
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $9.97 $35.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Off Shoulder Glitter Velvet Mini
Step out a in a mini that shows off those curves! This edgy piece features a straight neckline, and sleeves that are off shoulder. Hem hits mid thigh, and is composed of a velvet material that offers moderate stretch and a form fit. This crushed velvet dress is adorned with chunky glitter that reflects hues of purple, blue and gold depending on the light that you catch.
Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0226
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $12.97 $32.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Sleeveless Chevron Glitter Mini Dress
Glow up in this shimmering mini dress! It features a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V neckline with padded cups and spaghetti straps that lead to a cross back. The relaxed fit bodice leads to a curve hugging mini length silhouette. Dress features a trendy chevron print throughout and adorned with glitter accents. Garment is composed of a lined glitter knit fabric that offers a slight stretch. Zipper not included.
Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Style Number/Barcode: 05103-3488
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $9.97 $34.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Eira Strapless Lace Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
A sculpted mini silhouette gives this dress a sleek, seductive edge. The strapless sweetheart neckline and corset-style seam detailing define the fitted shape, while the lace-up back and scalloped lace hem sharpen the finish. It feels dark, glamorous, and confidently sultry.
Fit & Features
- Floral eyelash lace fabric, ponte knit lining
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, non-slip grip lining
- Built-in padded underwire bust
- Corset-style seam detailing
- Bodycon silhouette, scallop mini-length hem
- Lace-up back, side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Cocktail parties, birthday dinners, date nights, bachelorettes, Vegas
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001140
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $64.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Best Seller
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Work It Girl Scoop Neck Ponte Short Dress
Work it, girl, in this ponte short dress in the office or at networking events! With its cap sleeves, scoop neckline, and bodycon silhouette, it flatters your figure and hugs your curves in all the right places while the center back slit offers movement. Pair with sleek pumps and minimal jewelry for a polished and poised look!
Fit & Features
- Smooth ponte knit fabric with stretch
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Center back slit
- Bodycon fit
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-3271
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $9.97 $42.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Irresistible Charm Satin A-Line Dress
Who resist your charm the second you stroll in looking fabulous in this satin a-line dress! It features a sleeveless mock neck with dual button closures, a pleated open-back design, and a short-length hem. Style with an envelope clutch and heels to complete the look!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless mock neck, dual button closures
- Pleated open-back design
- Hidden side zipper and hook-eye closure
- A-line silhouette
- Short-length hem
- Smooth satin, woven lining, no stretch
- Fits true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-2314
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $9.97 $48.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Amp Up The Sparkle Rhinestone Mini Dress
Amp up the sparkle for your next night out in a mini dress that brings elevated glamour! This dress features a sleeveless square neckline with an eye-catching rhinestone fringe trim, adjustable spaghetti straps, front pleated detailing, a mini-length hem with a faux wrap-front design, and a bodycon silhouette. The lined crepe fabric offers a moderate stretch. Style with rhinestone heels.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless square neckline, rhinestone fringe trim
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper, hook and eye closure
- High waist seam, pleating at the front
- Mini-length asymmetric hem, faux wrap-front design
- Bodycon silhouette
- Crepe fabric, full knit lining, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05103-4752
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $5.97 $46.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Jaclyn Long Sleeve Sequin Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Dazzle them all away in our beyond gorgeous Jaclyn sequin mini dress! She features long fitted sleeves, a deep V neckline, and a high banded waist with a mini length curve-hugging silhouette. Pair this stunning dress with strappy heels for an elongated look.
Fit & Features
- Long fitted sleeves
- V neckline
- Back zipper closure
- High rise banded waist
- Short, form-hugging fit
- Allover sequin detailing
- Knit lining
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0479
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $29.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Gina Floral Satin Party Dress
Special OccasionStun and charm in pretty florals! Gina features an ivory color with soft pinks for a romantic vibe, a sleeveless bodice, a plunging V neckline, padded cups and narrow straps that lead to an unlined floral lace panel. Her slim fit bodice leads to a flared party length skirt with hidden side pockets and a dramatic petticoat.
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size three.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-4077
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $24.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Camille Corset Bodice Satin Skater Dress
Special Occasion
A defined waist and flared skirt give this shape its polished presence. The satin mini dress pairs a structured corset bodice with a softly pleated skirt for a balanced fit-and-flare effect. It’s the kind of silhouette that makes getting dressed feel instantly considered.
Fit & Features
- Woven satin fabrication
- Structured corset bodice with built-in boning
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline
- Spaghetti straps with open tie-back design
- Fitted through the bodice
- Flared mini A-line skirt
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthday celebrations, bridal showers, dressed-up dinners, and date nights.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000822
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $129.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE
Available Size: 0, 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Feelin' Flirty Strapless Bow Mini Dress
This adorable mini dress will have you feelin' flirty and fine! It features a strapless straight-across neckline, a wrap design at the waist with a trendy bow accent, a mini-length hem, and a bodycon silhouette that will hug your curves. Style with strappy heels for date night.
Fit & Features
- Strapless straight-across neckline
- Wrap design at the waist, bow accent
- Mini-length hem
- Bodycon silhouette
- Smooth scuba knit fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-2374
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $9.97 $42.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale