Short Cocktail Dresses

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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.

  • Shea Pearl Beaded Long Sleeve Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Sweet and alluring, the Shea formal mini dress is crafted with all-over faux pearl and beaded embroidery in a detailed swirl pattern on the airy mesh fabric. It features a boat neckline, sheer long fitted sleeves with flared hems, a bold open back to turn heads, and a short bodycon silhouette to flaunt your curves.

    This dress is made for the spotlight. Want more ways to stand out? Shop our vibrant pink prom dresses or find a chic, event-ready look in our wedding guest dresses.

    Fit & Features

    • Sheer mesh fabric with partial knit lining
    • All-over faux pearl and beaded embroidery, swirl pattern
    • Boat neckline
    • Sheer long fitted sleeves with flared hems
    • Open back, top bar strap
    • Mini-length bodycon silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2567

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $89.90

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Allison One-Shoulder Velvet Bow Sequin Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    A sleeveless sequin mini dress features a statement one-shoulder neckline with a velvet bow and a flattering bodycon silhouette. Perfect for the school dance or a banquet.

    Fit & Features

    • Sequin pattern, mesh fabric lined with stretchy knit
    • One-shoulder neckline
    • Velvet bow on adjustable strap
    • Padded bra cups
    • Bodycon mini-length silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2226

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Carmela Metallic Shine Party Dress

    Special Occasion

    You'll be leading the dance floor in our sparkling Carmela! Twist, twirl, and bust a move in her flowy skater skirt while showcasing all the shine from every angle. Style her up with some rhinestone heels and a pair of earrings to match! 

    Fits & Features

    • Adjustable Spaghetti Straps 
    • V Neckline I Padded Bust I Mesh Inset 
    • Mini Length Hem I Skater Silhouette 
    • Mesh Inset At Back With Triple Row Detail I Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure 
    • Mesh Lined Metallic Threaded Fabric I Fully Lined
    • Form Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch

     

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0417

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $31.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Sleeveless In Seattle Dress
    Spend your sleepless party nights in this simple yet sexy LBD! It has a deep V neckline leading to an empire waist seam, spaghetti straps, and a faux wrap skirt creating an asymmetrical hem. Dress has a body-hugging fit and is composed of a ponte knit fabric that offers a moderate stretch. 

    Model is 5'7" with a 32.5" bust, 22.5" waist and 34.5 hips. She is wearing a size small.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05103-3235

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $13.97 $34.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Charlie Velvet Satin Bow A-Line Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Charlie mini dress is pure sophistication with a playful twist—crafted in plush velvet with a satin foldover neckline and bow trim that feels timeless yet fresh. Its sculpted bodice and A-line mini silhouette strike the perfect balance of flirty and refined, made for moments that deserve to be remembered.

    Fit & Features

    • Luxe velvet structured fabric, sewn-in knit lining, slight stretch
    • Strapless satin foldover bow trim neckline, padded bra cups
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Hidden side pockets
    • A-line silhouette
    • Mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Holiday parties, festive dinners, weddings, formal celebrations, date nights, birthday parties, fashion-forward events, cocktail soirees, nights at the theatre

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000521

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Jada Formal Floral Satin Party Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Keep it stunning in a satin dress that brings elegance! Our Jada dress features a strapless square neckline with vertical seams at the bust, a floral pattern, and a party-length silhouette with hidden side pockets that keep essentials close to you. Complete your stunning formal outfit with rhinestone earrings

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless square neckline
    • Vertical seams at the bust
    • Floral pattern 
    • Satin fabric
    • Party-length silhouette
    • Hidden side pockets
    • Form-hugging fit

     

    Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust,  25" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size three. 

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0433

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $54.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Fiercely Wild Mini Dress

    You're fiercely wild, so you need a dress to match! This mini dress features a sleeveless bodice, spaghetti straps, a scoop neckline, and a short, flattering fit. The dress is composed of a lined knit fabric and offers plenty of stretch and a curve hugging style. Zipper not included. 

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

    Style Number/Barcode: 05102-3946

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $30.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Tracey Velvet Button Skater Dress

    Special Occasion

    Made for your slow-spin moment under the lights, the Tracey velvet dress blends corset-inspired structure with soft velvet movement. The wired sweetheart neckline, covered button front, and flared mini skirt create a look that feels both vintage-glam and effortlessly current—your go-to for any night worth remembering.

    Fit & Features

    • Luxe velvet fabric, sewn-on lining
    • Square neckline, wired notch accent, padded bra cups
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Skater silhouette, hidden side pockets
    • Mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Holiday party, cocktail soiree, wedding guest, semi-formal event, birthday dinner, celebratory night out, glam date night, formal dances

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000526

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: NAVY

    Available Size: S

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Katie Rhinestone Short Party Dress

    Special Occasion

    Dare to take everyone's breath away in the striking Katie party dress perfect for school dances or celebrations! She features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customizable fit, a built-in padded bust with an underwire, and a short bodycon silhouette. The dress is composed of a nude mesh fabric with a knit lining and all-over rhinestone and faux pearl embellishments. Style with fringe earrings and platform heels to complete the look!

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Side zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Built-in padded bust, underwire
    • Bodycon silhouette, short-length hem
    • All-over rhinestone and faux pearl embellishments
    • Mesh fabric, knit lining, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1450

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $59.97 $119.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Wrapped In Chic Satin Mini Dress

    Get a chic and sleek look wrapped up in this trendy satin mini dress! It features a one-shoulder sweetheart neckline with a single off-the-shoulder strap, a padded bust, a wrap-front skirt with ruched detailing, and a short, curve-hugging silhouette. Style this dress with rhinestone statement earrings.

    Fit & Features

    • One-shoulder sweetheart neckline
    • Single off-the-shoulder strap
    • Padded bust
    • Back zipper and hook and eye closure
    • High waist seam, wrap-front skirt, ruching
    • Mini-length, form-fitting silhouette
    • Satin knit fabric, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-1162

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $38.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Florence Heat Stone Midi Dress

    Special Occasion

    Show some class in our Florence! She has a v neckline, tank straps, and a form fit. Her hem hits below the knee and has a small slit at the side. She is composed of a knit material with a mesh overlay that is adorned with reflective heat stones. She offers moderate stretch, and a full lining. Pair with your favoirte black heels to complete the look! 

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

     

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-4121

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $24.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Winter Shine Sequin Short Dress

    Spread your shine this winter in shimmering sequins! Stun at the club in this sequin short dress featuring a sleeveless v-neck with a draped overlay, adjustable spaghetti straps that criss-cross along the backless design, elasticized back band, and a bodycon silhouette. Style with sleek stiletto heels to complete the look!

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless V-neck, draped overlay
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Criss-cross backless design
    • Elasticized back band, zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Short, bodycon silhouette
    • All-over sequins, knit lining, minimal stretch
    • Fits true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05103-4739

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $42.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Lace Stunner Layered Skater Dress
    Stun in lace as you make a gorgeous impression! The dress features a sleeveless bodice, a V neckline, a lined floral lace bodice and adjustable narrow cross straps. The slim fit bodice leads to a double layered skater skirt. Dress is composed of a lined chiffon fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a minimal stretch.

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

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-8745

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $15.00 $38.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Marlie Formal Glitter Rhinestone Strap Midi Dress

    Special Occasion

    Undeniable shine! Amaze every partygoer in the Marlie formal glitter midi dress when you arrive on the scene. She features a classy square neckline adorned with rhinestone embellished straps for a hint of glamour, a padded bust, and a flattering bodycon silhouette and wrap front slit along the midi-length hem. The formal dress is composed of a glitter crepe knit fabric that sparkles under any light and has a stretchy knit lining. Complete the look with a chic clutch for a banquet or fancy party!

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless square neckline
    • Rhinestone embellished straps
    • Padded bust
    • Bodycon silhouette, wrap front slit
    • Midi-length hem
    • Glitter crepe fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2081

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Elevated Romance Rosette Velvet Mini Dress

    Elevate the romance on your next dinner date in this rosette velvet mini dress! It features a sleeveless V-neckline with a surplice design, spaghetti straps, a high waist seam with dual chic rosette appliques, a mini-length hem with a wrap-front design, and a bodycon silhouette. The smooth velvet fabric has a moderate stretch. Complete your look with a sleek clutch and strappy stilettos.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless V-neckline, surplice design
    • Spaghetti straps
    • High waist seam, dual rosette flower appliques
    • Mini-length asymmetric wrap-front hem
    • Bodycon silhouette
    • Velvet fabric, knit lining at the bust, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-2660

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $5.97 $38.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Presently Chic Satin Bow Mini Dress

    You'll be presently chic in this satin mini dress for dressy birthday dinners or date nights! The dress features a sleeveless V-neckline, spaghetti straps, a statement bow across the bust, a bodycon silhouette, and a flirty slit accent on the hem. Complete the look in platform heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless V-neckline
    • Spaghetti straps
    • Statement bow across the bust
    • Bodycon silhouette
    • Slit accent, mini-length hem
    • Smooth satin fabric, slight stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-2412

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $39.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Stacie Glitter Skater Party Dress

    Special Occasion

    Radiate sparkle with every step on the Stacie glitter party dress made to shine all night! She features an eye-catching, cutout one-shoulder neckline with dual adjustable straps, princess seams along the bodice, a high waist seam, hidden side pockets to keep your hands warm, and a skater-style short-length skirt. The formal dress is composed of a metallic sherri glitter woven fabric with partial lining and no stretch. Complete your dressy look in stiletto mules and a clutch.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless, cutout one-shoulder neckline
    • Dual adjustable straps, back zipper closure
    • Strapless or adhesive bra recommended
    • Princess seam bodice, high waist seam, hidden side pockets
    • Skater-silhouette, short-length hem
    • Sherri glitter woven fabric, partial lining, no stretch
    • Fits true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1046

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Floral Love Mini Dress

    Show your love for florals! This sexy mini dress features a v neckline, spaghetti straps, and a form fitting silhouette that shows those curves! Spaghetti straps are adjustable and lead to a square back with a zipper closure. Short hemline reaches mid thigh, and dress is composed of a soft knit fabric that offers minimal stretch and showcases a velvet burnout floral pattern.

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

     

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0103

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $13.97 $33.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Classically Sleek Sleeveless A-Line Mini Dress

    The woven knit mini dress features a sleeveless v-neckline and a flared A-line silhouette. Complete your date night outfit with strappy stiletto heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Lined woven knit fabrication
    • Sleeveless v-neckline
    • Back zipper closure
    • A-line silhouette
    • Mini length hem
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-3861

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $22.97 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Living For Lace Mini Dress

    Keep sweet in lace with this pretty mini dress, perfect for brunch! Pair this lovely must have with your favorite pumps or wedges for head-turning look! 

    Fit & Features 

    • Square Neckline | Racer Bust
    • Padded Cups
    • Adjustable Spaghetti Straps 
    • Lined Floral Lace 
    • Relaxed Fit | Minimal Stretch 
    • Mini Length Silhouette 
    • Eyelash Trim 

     


    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0498

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $6.97 $41.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Stunner Status Body Con Dress

    Make an immediate impression in this fab, curve-flattering mini! (Think future LBD hall-of-famer.) Dress features spaghetti straps, a sweetheart bodice with back zip, seamed bust with wire V detail at chest, a banded waist cutout, and a slim-line pencil skirt. Dress is made from a woven nylon and viscose blend with moderate stretch. 

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

    Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0273

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $35.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Sweet With A Twist Polka Dot Halter Mini Dress

    Soft, flirty, and just a little daring. This halter mini dress pairs classic polka dots with a lace-trim neckline and open back that feels romantic without trying too hard—easy to dress up, impossible to forget.

    Fit & Features

    • Polka dot print, knit fabric with lining
    • Halter neckline with lace trim detail
    • Open back with adjustable tie closure
    • Mini-length silhouette, subtle flared hem
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05102-000685

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $34.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: PINK

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

  • Malia Off Shoulder Ruched Dress

    Special Occasion

    Look captivating in our mesmerizing Malia! She'll hug you in all the right places and show off your figure!  

    Fits & Features

    • Off Shoulder Neckline With Mesh Fold-Over 
    • Unlined, Fitted Long Sleeves 
    • Midi Length Silhouette I Side Slit
    • Mesh Fabric I Knit Lining I Ruching Throughout
    • Curve Hugging Fit I Plenty Of Stretch 
    • Zipper Not Included

     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: 05001-0369

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $34.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Feelin' Fresh Floral Mini Dress

    So fresh and so fine! This mini dress features a straight neckline, long sleeves, and a short hemline. Sleeves are sheer and sides of the dress are ruched for a curve flattering fit. Dress is lined with a smooth inner lining, and the overlay is composed of a mesh material adorned with foiled floral. Dress offers moderate stretch.

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

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0292

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $42.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free