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.

  • Nancy Formal Satin Short Dress

    Special Occasion

     A luxe style that flaunts relaxed, sophistication that's perfect for wedding guests and celebrations! The Natalie formal dress features a crew neckline, long peasant sleeves with elastic cuffs, a back keyhole with tie closure, and a cinched waist leading to her short-length hem. The formal dress is composed of a satin knit fabric with a subtle sheen. Style with statement heels to complete your dressy look!

    Fit & Features

    • Crew neckline
    • Long peasant sleeves, elastic cuffs
    • Back keyhole, tie closure
    • Cinched waist, flowy, short-length hem
    • Satin knit fabric, subtle sheen
    • Bra-friendly design
    • Fits true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1521

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Like Magic Sequin Halter Dress

    And just like magic, you'll be bringing the sparkle in this sequin mini dress featuring a sleeveless halter neckline, open lace-up back with tie closure, and side ruched seams to accentuate your curves along the bodycon fit. Style with sleek block heels for a dressy occasion!

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless halter neckline
    • Open lace-up back with tie closure
    • Side ruched seams, hidden side zipper closure
    • Bodycon silhouette
    • Mini-length hem
    • Sequin mesh fabric, knit lining, minimal stretch
    • Fits true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-2151

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $6.97 $42.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Katrina Beaded Mesh Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Soft glamour takes center stage in the Katrina mini dress, a beaded mesh bodycon mini dress designed to feel effortlessly polished from every angle. The strapless neckline and delicate scallop hem lend a romantic finish, creating a look that moves with confidence through every chic celebration.

    Fit & Features

    • Mesh fabric with intricate beaded detailing, double knit lining
    • Strapless neckline with supportive structure
    • Sculpted bodycon fit
    • Scallop mini hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Wedding receptions, engagement parties, bridal celebrations, cocktail soirees, date nights, birthday dinners, rehearsal dinners, holiday parties

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000530

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $99.90

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Girl On The Town Satin Mini Dress

    Head out with the squad in a mini dress that is perf for a memorable GNO! The dress features a sleeveless square neckline, a partially sheer bodice, piping accents, and a mini-length silhouette. The dress is composed of a contrast satin and mesh fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with minimal stretch. Complete look with stilettos and a clutch.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless square neckline, partially sheer bodice
    • Piping accents, structured boning
    • Back zipper and hook and eye closure
    • Mini-length silhouette, ruched detailing
    • Contrast satin and mesh fabric 
    • Form-hugging fit, minimal stretch 
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05103-3891

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $42.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Mesmerizing Mesh Ruched Mini Dress

    Mesmerize for your next night out in a dress that radiates the glam! The dress features a sleeveless square neckline, a diamond-shaped design accented with foiled detail, and a mini length silhouette. Complete your look with black heels

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless square neckline
    • Spaghetti straps
    • Diamond-shaped pattern with foiled detail
    • Mini length silhouette
    • Mesh fabric, ruched body throughout
    • Form hugging fit
    • Moderate stretch 

    Style Number/Barcode: 05103-1166

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $35.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
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  • Fab With Flair Mini Dress

    This trendy mini dress is fab with all the flair! It features a square neckline, long sleeves unlined chiffon sleeves and a pleated detailing to flatter your curves. The dress is composed of a smocked knit fabric that offers plenty of form hugging stretch. Zipper closure not included.

    Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24.5" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size small.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0224

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $48.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Fae Floral Ruffled Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Dreamy and ethereal, the Fae mini dress is adorned with a floral garden print on a flattering bodycon fit with a chic ruffled hem.

    Fit & Features

    • Floral garden print, stretch woven fabric, sewn-in knit lining
    • Square neckline
    • Wide shoulder straps
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Bodycon silhouette
    • Ruffled mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Prom, weddings, shower celebrations, dinner parties, afternoon tea parties, dressy dates

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2802

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Off Shoulder Puff Sleeve Mini Dress

    With puff sleeves and an off-shoulder neckline, you'll be making a trendy and stylish statement in this romantic little number! 

    Fits & Features 

    • Off Shoulder Neckline I No-Slip Interior Slip 
    • Puff Long Sleeves With Ruffle Accents At The Cuffs & Shoulders
    • Smocked Back I Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure
    • Mini Length Silhouette 
    • Woven Fabric I Smooth Knit Lining 
    • Ties At The Hem 
    • Relaxed Fit I Minimal Stretch 

    Style Number/Barcode: 05102-0596

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • V Right There Asymmetrical Mini Dress

    The party doesn't start until you walk in! Slay the night away in the V Right There mini dress!

    Fits & Features

    • Wrap V Neckline
    • Spaghetti Straps Lead To Cut-Out Design And Adjustable Ties At Back
    • Slight Ruching At The Top Side Seams
    • Asymmetrical Hemline 
    • Stretch Knit Fabric I Moderate Stretch 

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

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0449

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $13.97 $34.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Glowing Gem Strapless Skater Dress

    You'll look like a glowing gemstone in this gorgeous satin skater dress! It features a strapless wired V-neckline, pleated detailing at the bodice, a high waist seam, hidden side pockets, and a short skater skirt with a fit and flare silhouette. Style this adorable dress with embellished heels for all the more glow.

    Fit & Features

    • Strapless wired V-neckline
    • Pleated detailing at the bodice
    • High waist seam
    • Hidden side pockets
    • Short skater skirt, fit and flare silhouette
    • Smooth satin knit fabric, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-1846

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Stunning Sparkle Rhinestone Mini Dress

    This sultry and stunning rhinestone mini dress will have you sparkling all night long! It features a sleeveless V-neckline, spaghetti straps that lead to a cross-back lace-up design, a mini-length, curve-hugging silhouette, and all-over rhinestone embellishment. Style this dress with pretty earrings and new heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless V-neckline
    • Spaghetti straps
    • Cross-back lace-up design
    • Ruching
    • Short, form-hugging fit
    • Rhinestone embellishment
    • Runs true to size

     

    Style Number/Barcode: 05103-3795

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $6.97 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Viona Floral Sleeveless Lattice Dress

    Special Occasion

    Bring the charm in our lovely Viona floral lattice dress! She features a sleeveless scoop neckline with padded cups, adjustable spaghetti straps leading to a lattice back design, a high waist with a fit and flare party skirt silhouette, and a chic all-over floral print. Style the dress with twinkling earrings for an elevated look!

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless scoop neckline 
    • Padded cups 
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps, lattice back design, tie closure
    • Pleated mini-length flared silhouette, hidden side pockets 
    • Floral print 
    • Lined woven satin fabric, relaxed fit, minimal stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0422

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $10.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Carine Metallic Glitter Ruched Mini Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Almost instantly, Carine's glitter metallic shine will draw eyes your way. You'll be loving her figure-flattering fit that'll have you look and feel amazing. Don't forget to include some stiletto heels and earrings to really finish the look! 

    Fits & Features 

    • Adjustable Spaghetti Straps 
    • V Neckline I Padded Bust 
    • Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure 
    • Mini Length Silhouette 
    • Ruched Down Center Front, Back & Sides 
    • Smooth Woven Glitter Knit I Fully Lined
    • Form Hugging Fit I Minimal Stretch 

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0326

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $36.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Back for More Satin A-Line Mini Dress

    Cute from the front… but the back deserves its own moment. This open-back halter dress brings drama, shine, and main character energy to every invite on your calendar.

    Fit & Features

    • Smooth satin fabric, woven lining
    • Halter V-neckline with self-tie detail
    • A-line silhouette, side zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Open back with a adjustable spaghetti strap
    • Mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-000101

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Glowing Glitter Mini Dress

    Radiate a glowing look in this glam mini dress! It features an off the shoulder neckline, a sweetheart bust, a built in no slip strip and a mini length silhouette with an asymmetrical hem. Dress is composed of a luxe glitter knit fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Includes a back zipper closure. 

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

     

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0202

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $39.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Kaia Off-Shoulder Corset Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Corset structure brings the standout detail into focus. This corset mini dress features off-shoulder straps, a sweetheart neckline, and boning for a shaped look with a polished finish. The ruched front detail and lace-up back add dimension from every angle.

    Fit & Features

    • Lined mesh fabric
    • Sweetheart neckline, off-shoulder straps, padded bra cups
    • Corset bodice with boning
    • Ruched front detail
    • Bodycon mini silhouette
    • Lace-up back detail, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Hoco, birthday parties, Vegas, date nights, vacations, honeymoons, resort getaways, GNO, fashion-forward events

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000909

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $79.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: NAVY, PURPLE

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

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Shania Rhinestone Bead Applique Mini Dress With Sash

    Special Occasion

    The exquisite Shania mini dress will make you look and feel like a work of art! She features fitted long sleeves, shoulder pads for structure, and a mock neckline, this mini dress exudes sophistication and elegance. The bodycon silhouette, attached side floor-length sash, and gorgeous rhinestone beaded applique make for an eye-catching ensemble. The mini dress is composed of a smooth knit fabric with plenty of stretch. Complete the look in statement platform heels for a black tie party or red carpet occasion.

    Fit & Features 

    • Fitted long sleeves, shoulder pads
    • Mock neckline, back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Bodycon silhouette, side attached floor-length sash
    • Rhinestone and beaded applique
    • Mini-length hem
    • Smooth knit fabric, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size, bra friendly design

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1939

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $119.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Rosabel Party Dress

    Special Occasion

    Get flirty in our Rosabel Party Dress! She has a one shoulder neckline, a thin strap that crosses over in the back, and a fitted bodice with a zipper closure. Her skirt meets high waist and flows out with the help of a partial tulle lining. She is composed of a satin-like material that offers moderate stretch with a relaxed fit.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0020

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $84.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Lily Bonded Velvet Mini Dress
    Special Occasion

    A rich ruby-red hue and gorgeous bonded velvet texture lend our Lily dress its effortless elegance. She features adjustable spaghetti straps, a V neckline, a seamed bodice with back zip, and a gently pleated A-line skirt with pockets. Lily is fully lined and made from a thick, heavier-weight velvet material with a touch of stretch.

    Model is 5’9” with a 32” bust, 24.5 waist, and 35” hips. She is wearing a size small.

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0000

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Party Time Glitter Mesh Mini Dress

    This glitter mini dress will inspire your next look for a party! It features sheer long sleeves, a square neck, and a bodycon silhouette. Style with strappy block heels to complete the look.

    Fit & Features

    • Sheer long sleeves
    • Square neck
    • Bodycon silhouette
    • Mini-length hem
    • Glitter mesh fabric, partial knit lining
    • Moderate stretch
    • Fits true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-1943

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $36.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Sultry Lace Feather Trim Mini Dress

    Keep your winter cocktail hour attire on point with this sultry lace mini dress. It features a mock neckline, a keyhole cutout at the bust, sheer lace long fitted sleeves with marabou feather trims, and a short, curve-hugging silhouette. The crepe fabric offers a moderate stretch. Style this bodycon dress with strappy heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Mock neckline
    • Keyhole cutout at the bust
    • Lined lace bodice
    • Sheer lace long sleeves, marabou feather trims
    • Back zipper closure, high waist seam
    • Mini-length hem, fitted bodycon silhouette
    • Crepe fabric, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-1897

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $6.97 $46.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Palisades Beauty Chiffon A-Line Dress

    This breezy beauty is perfect for capturing a twirl-worthy moment! This sleeveless dress features a strappy halter neckline with adjustable spaghetti straps and a flowy A-line silhouette that leads to a short-length hem. Complete the look in sparkly earrings and a sleek clutch.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless, strappy halter neckline
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Flowy a-line silhouette
    • Short-length hem
    • Chiffon fabric, inner knit lining, no stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-1587

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $37.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Sydney Formal Sequin Scroll Mini Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Dazzle in a formal mini dress that looks like a true masterpiece! The dress features a boat neckline, long sleeves, a gorgeous sequin scroll pattern, and a mini-length silhouette. Complete your breathtaking formal outfit with chrome heels and a pair of rhinestone earrings.

    Fit & Features

    • Boat neckline
    • Long fitted sleeves
    • Sequin scroll pattern
    • V-back design, lower back zipper and hook and eye closure
    • Mini-length silhouette
    • Lined mesh fabric, form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0611

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Gwen Heat Stone Midi Dress

    Special Occasion

    Bring all that sparkle and heat in our gorgeous Gwen!  

    Fits & Features 

    • Dual Spaghetti Straps
    • Plunging V Neckline I Back Zip With Hook & Eye Closure
    • Midi Length Silhouette I Side Slit
    • Ruching Along Center Back & Sides 
    • Lined Glitter Lurex Fabric With Heat Stone Embellishments 
    • Curve Hugging Fit I Plenty Of 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: 05001-0347

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $39.97 $74.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Ships Free