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.

  • Captivating Glitter Open Back Dress

    Lock down a glowing look with this sparkling open back mini dress bby! 

    Fit & Features

    • Crew Neck
    • Long Sleeves
    • Strappy Open Back 
    • Glitter 
    • Lined
    • Form Hugging Fit 
    • Moderate Stretch 

     

     

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

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0306

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $38.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Liliane Sequin Velvet Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Liliane sequin velvet mini dress has party written all over it! She features a sleeveless scoop neckline adorned with shoulder straps, a bodycon silhouette, and a flirty front slit along the mini-length hem. The formal mini dress is crafted with dazzling sequins on velvet fabric for the perfect shimmer and has a stretchy knit lining. Complete the look in lace-up heels for a birthday party or GNO!

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless scoop neckline
    • Shoulder straps
    • Bodycon silhouette
    • Front slit, mini-length hem
    • Sequin velvet fabric, stretchy knit lining
    • Bra friendly design
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1356

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $54.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Michelle Sequin Mesh Party Dress

    Special Occasion

    Showcase a gorgeous and glam look this holiday season in our pretty Michelle party dress! She features a high neckline with a back zipper closure, a high waist, a flirty skater skirt, and lined side pockets. The dress is composed of a sheer mesh fabric with an all-over intricate sequin pattern and a knit lining. Pair this dress with strappy heels and a sleek clutch.

    Fit & Features

    • High neckline
    • Back zipper and hook and eye closure
    • High waist
    • Skater skirt
    • Lined side pockets
    • Sheer mesh fabric with a sequin pattern
    • Knit lining

     

    Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0419

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Casual Cut Out Mini Dress

    This cute and casual cut out mini is perf for your next day out. The dress features an off the shoulder elastic banded square neckline, short sleeves, a trendy front cut out at the waist, and a short, form hugging fit. The dress is composed of a stretchy knit fabric with a knit lining.

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

    Style Number/Barcode: 05102-0211

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $32.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Lille Bow Back Satin Strapless Skater Dress

    Special Occasion

    Designed for nights that deserve a little extra, the Lille satin skater dress pairs a sleek strapless bodice with a full, twirl-ready skirt. The oversized bow back—removable for when you want to switch up the vibe—lets you choose between playful drama or chic style.

    Fit & Features

    • Premium satin fabric, woven and tulle linings, no stretch
    • Strapless sweetheart neckline, no-slip strip
    • Padded bust, flexible boning, hidden back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • V-shaped waist
    • Removable back bow accent, button attachments
    • Short skater silhouette, pleating
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, birthday celebrations, fancy parties, and formal date nights.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000097

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $39.97 $79.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Dazzle Queen Heat Stone Mini Dress

    Reign on and dazzle like the glam queen you are in this off the moment mini! The dress features a mock neck, long fitted sheer sleeves, a back zipper closure, and a short, curve hugging fit. The dress is composed of a stretchy, sheer mesh fabric with a knit lining and all over glimmering heat stones.

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

    Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0242

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $27.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Viviana Floral Embroidered Corset Ruffled Skater Dress

    Special Occasion

    Romance comes alive in the Viviana floral embroidered corset skater dress, designed with a tiered ruffled skirt that twirls with every step. A flattering lace-up back and structured bodice create the perfect balance of elegance and allure.

    Fit & Features

    • Sheer tulle fabric, satin woven, tulle, and stretchy knit linings
    • Sleeveless V-neckline, lined and padded bust
    • Sheer corset bodice, flexible boning, sequin and beaded embroidered floral applique
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Open lace-up back design, lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • Short skater silhouette, tiered ruffled design
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, formal birthday parties, and fancy affairs.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000111

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $119.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • I Think It's Love Off-The-Shoulder Mini Dress

    A mini dress that effortlessly combines sultry and glam! Strut into any party or event in this stunning dress boasting an off-the-shoulder neckline to show some skin and a ruched bodycon silhouette that fits like a glove.

    Fit & Features

    • Smooth knit fabric, moderate stretch
    • Off-the-shoulder neckline, U-wired insert
    • Back zipper closure
    • Ruched bodycon silhouette
    • Mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-000445

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Soiree Ready Strapless Crepe Skater Mini Dress

    Short, sweet, and soiree-ready! Effortlessly chic and versatile, the strapless design and skater silhouette flatter your figure, while the mini-length hem adds a playful touch.

    Fit & Features

    • Crepe fabric
    • Strapless foldover neckline, side zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Skater silhouette
    • Mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-000011

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $39.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Meriah Floral Applique Satin Strapless Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    You'll be a chic stunner in the Meriah formal mini dress designed with sleek satin knit fabric and a sheer tulle floral applique across the bodice and at the hem for luxe look. It features a strapless straight neckline and a short bodycon silhouette to highlight your curves.

    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

    • Satin knit fabric with knit lining, moderate stretch
    • Strapless straight neckline, flexible boning
    • Sheer tulle floral applique across the bodice and at the hem, rhinestone embellishments
    • High waist seam
    • Back zipper with hook-eye closure
    • Short front slit, mini-length bodycon silhouette
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2539

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Suzanne Taffeta Flower Mini Party Dress

    Special Occasion

    Flower power is for real cute on the Suzanne taffeta party dress! She features a strapless neckline with non-slip grip lining, a front pleated design with a flower inset, a bodycon silhouette that flaunts your curves, and a mini-length hem. The party dress is composed of a taffeta woven fabric with a sewn-in knit lining and minimal stretch. Complete the look in platform stiletto heels and a clutch for a school dance, banquet, or sweet sixteen! 

    Fit & Features

    • Strapless neckline, non-slip grip lining
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Front pleated design, flower inset
    • Bodycon silhouette, mini-length hem
    • Taffeta woven fabric, sewn-in knit lining, minimal stretch
    • Strapless bra or sticky bra recommended
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1880

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Sultry And Stylish Flocked Mesh Mini Dress

    Create a sultry, stylish look in this chic flocked mesh mini dress! It features a high crew neckline, long fitted sheer sleeves, sheer panels, and a short, curve-hugging silhouette. Pair this gorgeous little black dress with a stunning rhinestone bracelet for your next date night.

    Fit & Features

    • High crew neckline
    • Long fitted sheer sleeves
    • Back zipper closure
    • Sheer panels
    • Short, form-hugging fit
    • Flocked mesh fabric

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0890

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $20.97 $42.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Glossy Satin Mini Dress

    Luminate every room you go to with the Glossy Satin mini dress!

    Fits & Features

    • Surplice V Neckline I Square Back
    • Spaghetti Straps
    • Subtle Ruching At The Wrap Skirt 
    • Mini Length Silhouette 
    • Satin-Like Composition I Fully Lined
    • Body-Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch 

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

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

      Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0534

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $12.97 $33.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Clearance
    • Under The Lights Heat Stone Mini Dress

      Shine under the lights with this sparkling mini dress! It features an off the shoulder neckline, a sweetheart bust, unlined fitted long sleeves and a mini length. She is composed of lined mesh fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Dress is adorned with glitzy heat stones throughout! Includes a back zipper closure with hook and eye clasp.

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

      Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0253

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $9.97 $59.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Clearance
    • Leila Velvet One-Shoulder Midi Formal Dress

      Special Occasion

      Designed to flatter from every angle, The Leila formal dress is equal parts sultry and refined. Cut from plush velvet, this form-hugging silhouette features a one-shoulder sweetheart neckline and a wrap front slit that moves beautifully with you through every entrance and exit.

      Fit & Features

      • Soft velvet-lined fabric, stretchy knit lining
      • One-shoulder sweetheart wired neckline
      • Wrap front slit
      • Form-hugging silhouette
      • Midi-length hem
      • Runs true to size

       

      Where to Wear:

      Weddings, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, black tie galas, cocktail soirees, holiday parties, formal celebrations, birthday dinners, fancy date nights, receptions

      Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000510

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $19.97 $59.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Ships Free
    • Alaiya Sequin Bodycon Mini Dress

      Special Occasion

      Showcase a gorgeous sheen in the shimmering Alaiya sequin mini dress! She features a sleeveless sweetheart neckline with padded cups, a sheer mesh insert at the center of the bust, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customized fit, a faux wrap-front skirt, and a short, curve-hugging, bodycon silhouette. The lined knit fabric features all-over sequin embroidery to give the dress its luxe shine. Complete the look with strappy stilettos.

      Fit & Features

      • Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, center sheer mesh insert at the bust
      • Padded cups, sticky bra optional
      • Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper, hook and eye closure
      • Faux wrap-front skirt
      • Mini-length hem, fitted bodycon silhouette
      • Sequin embroidery
      • Sheer knit fabric, knit lining, minimal stretch
      • Runs true to size

      Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1168

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $9.97 $56.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Sale
    • Strike A Pose Asymmetrical Mini Dress

      Strike a post in a mini dress that commands attention! The dress features a sleeveless square neckline, spaghetti straps, and an asymmetrical wrap silhouette. The dress is composed of a smooth knit fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with stilettos and a clutch for a GNO!

      Fit & Features

      • Sleeveless square neckline
      • Spaghetti straps
      • Asymmetrical wrap silhouette
      • Mini length 
      • Smooth knit fabric
      • Form hugging fit, moderate stretch
      • Runs true to size

      Style Number/Barcode: 05101-1085

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $9.97 $35.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Ships Free
    • Long Sleeve Sequin Mini Dress

      Shine tonight with sparkling sequins to bring the glamour! The dress features a crew neckline, long sleeves with puffed cuffs, shimmering sequins throughout and a mini length silhouette. Garment is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a slight stretch.Includes an exposed back zipper with hook and eye closure. 

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

      Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0251

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $21.97 $54.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Clearance
    • Hot Commodity Satin Mini Dress

      You'll be such a hot commodity in this sultry satin mini! The dress features a sleeveless bodice, double spaghetti straps that lead to a cross back, a lower back zipper closure, a plunging V neckline, flattering princess seams leading to a high waist seam, and a mid-thigh length, curve hugging skirt.

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

      Style Number/Barcode: 05103-3490

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $9.97 $42.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Clearance
    • Tahlia High Halter Open Back Dress

      Special Occasion

      Sleek up top, daring in the back, and just shiny enough to make it fun. The Tahlia high halter dress features a cowl keyhole bust detail and open back for a finish that feels current, polished, and a little unexpected. The result is sultry with a sharper, trend-right edge.

      Fit & Features

      • Rhinestone-embellished, lined mesh fabric
      • High halter neckline with tie straps
      • Cowl keyhole bust detail
      • Open back
      • Bodycon mini-length silhouette
      • Runs true to size

       

      Where to Wear:

      Homecoming, birthday celebrations, date nights, Vegas, bachelorettes

      Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001208

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $79.90

      Availability: In Stock

      Available Color: CHARTREUSE, PLUM

      Available Size: XS, S, M, L

      Product Badge:
      • Ships Free
    • Serving Allure Halter Ruched Mesh Mini Dress

      Serve an alluring silhouette in this curve-hugging mini dress designed with lined mesh fabric offering plenty of stretch. It features a sleeveless plunging V-neckline with a halter strap, a ruched wrap-front design, and a short bodycon fit to flaunt your stunning figure.

      Fit & Features

      • Sheer mesh fabric with knit lining, plenty of stretch
      • Plunge V-neckline, halter strap
      • Partially open back
      • Ruched wrap-front design
      • Mini-length bodycon silhouette
      • Runs true to size

      Style Number/Barcode: 05103-5848

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $11.97 $46.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Sale
    • Life's A Gem Crepe Mini Dress

      Live your life looking fabulous in this crepe mini dress ready to party! Featuring a sleeveless sweetheart neckline with rhinestone trim, adjustable and detachable straps, a built-in padded bust with underwire, and a bodycon silhouette. Complete your club look in a necklace and earrings set.

      Fit & Features

      • Sleeveless, sweetheart neckline
      • Rhinestone trim, back zipper closure
      • Adjustable and detachable straps
      • Built-in padded underwire bust
      • Bodycon mini silhouette
      • Lined crepe fabric, minimal stretch
      • Fits true to size

      Style Number/Barcode: 05103-4488

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $9.97 $44.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Sale
    • Lyra Glitter Lace Party Dress

      Special Occasion

      Glide around the dance floor in our captivating Lyra! Made from a sparkling glitter lace fabric and featuring a full, skater-style skirt, you'll feel party-ready the moment you slip her on! Don't forget to accessorize with some sparkling earrings and heels to match!

      Fits & Features 

      • Adjustable Spaghetti Straps
      • Surplice V Neckline I Padded Bust
      • Back Zipper With Hook & Eye Closure 
      • Mini Length Silhouette I Petticoat I Skater-Style Silhouette
      • Lined Glitter Lace Fabric 
      • Moderate Stretch 
      • Glitter May Transfer

      Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

      Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0425

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $19.97 $69.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Clearance
    • Trendy Tie Front Cut Out Dress

      The trendy tie front cut out mini is your new go-to everyday dress! It features a high round neckline, long fitted sleeves, a front tie detail with a waist cut out below, and a short, form hugging fit. The dress is composed of a ribbed knit fabric with plenty of stretch and a lining.

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

      Style Number/Barcode: 05102-0198

      Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

      Price: $9.97 $33.90

      On Sale: Yes

      Availability: Out of Stock

      Product Badge:
      • Clearance