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.

  • Glitzy Moves Sequin Mini Dress

    Make major glitzy moves in this glam sequin mini dress! It features a sleeveless cowl neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps for a customized fit, and a short, fitted, A-line silhouette. The lined knit fabric features all-over sequin embroidery for a gorgeous shine. Style this sequin mini dress with platform heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless cowl neckline
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper, hook and eye closure
    • Mini-length hem, fitted, A-line silhouette
    • Sheer knit fabric, full knit lining, moderate stretch
    • All-over sequin embroidery
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-2126

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $5.97 $48.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Marie Cowl Neck Sequin Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Oh-so-alluring, create a bold formal look in the Marie sleeveless sequin mini dress. She features a draped cowl neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, an open back with a lace-up strappy design for a customized fit, and a short, curve-hugging, bodycon silhouette. The lined mesh fabric features all-over sequin embroidery in a chic scroll pattern. Complete the outfit with classic stiletto heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless cowl neckline
    • Adhesive bra recommended
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Open back, lace-up strappy design, tie closure
    • Lower back zipper, hook and eye closure
    • Mini-length hem, fitted bodycon silhouette
    • Sheer mesh fabric, full knit lining, moderate stretch
    • Sequin embroidery, scroll pattern
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1119

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Sleek And Flirty Satin Skater Dress

    Sleek and flirty, this smooth satin skater dress is a stunning choice. It features a sleeveless cowl neckline with pleated detailing, spaghetti straps, and an open-back lace-up design. The high waist seam flows out to a short skater skirt with hidden side pockets perfect for keeping your hands warm. Style this dress with sparkly rhinestone earrings.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless cowl neckline, pleated detailing
    • Spaghetti straps
    • Open back, lace-up design, tie closure
    • High waist seam, short skater skirt
    • Hidden side pockets
    • Luxe satin knit fabric, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-1724

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Monique Sequin Bodycon Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Dazzle them all this Homecoming season in the stunning Monique mini dress! She features a sleeveless V-neckline, dual bungee spaghetti straps that lead to an alluring open back with a strappy design, a short, curve-hugging, bodycon silhouette, and all-over sequin embroidery in a chic scroll pattern. Style with stilettos and a sleek clutch.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless V-neckline
    • Dual bungee spaghetti straps
    • Open back, strappy design
    • Mini-length hem, fitted bodycon silhouette
    • Sequin embroidery, scroll pattern
    • Sheer mesh fabric, full knit lining, moderate stretch
    • Sticky bra recommended
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1091

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Bold Night Out Ruched Mini Dress

    Dare to go bold for your next night out with a halter dress that shows off curves in all the right places! The dress features a halter neck with a sweetheart bust with padded cups, tank shoulder straps that lead to a cross-back design, a ruched body, and a mini-length silhouette. The dress is composed of a smooth knit fabric that offers a curve-hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with rhinestone heels

    Fit & Features

    • Halter neck
    • Sweetheart bust, padded cups
    • Tank shoulder straps, cross back design 
    • Ruched body
    • Mini-length silhouette 
    • Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch 
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05103-4096

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $36.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Julianna Sleeveless Sequin Party Dress

    Special Occasion

    Showcase your sweet side with a pretty sparkle in the Julianna sleeveless party dress! She features a square neckline, spaghetti straps, a cross back lace-up strappy design, a high waist seam, and a short party skirt with a fit and flare silhouette. The lined mesh fabric features all-over sequin embroidery in a chic scroll pattern. Complete the look with rhinestone chandelier earrings and embellished heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless square neckline
    • Adhesive bra recommended
    • Spaghetti straps
    • Open back, cross-back lace-up strappy design, tie closure
    • High waist seam, short party skirt, fit and flare silhouette
    • Sheer mesh fabric, full knit lining, moderate stretch
    • Sequin embroidery, scroll pattern
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1076

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Arina Rhinestone Celestial Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Made for the nights that sparkle, the Arina mini dress shines with rhinestone beading in a celestial sun-and-stars pattern. With its sleek square neckline, bodycon fit, and leg-baring slit, it’s equal parts cosmic glamour and party-perfect allure.

    Fit & Features

    • Rhinestones, beading, celestial sun and stars motif
    • Mesh-lined fabric
    • Square neck, padded bra cups, tank shoulder straps
    • Side zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Front slit
    • Bodycon fit, mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Holiday soirees, cocktail parties, birthday celebrations, date nights, rooftop hotel bars, engagement parties, dressy receptions, girl's night

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000560

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $99.90

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Kiari Formal Off the Shoulder Ruffled Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Bring the charm in a ruffled dress that stuns for your next special occasion. Kiari features an off-the-shoulder neckline, a ruffled overlay, elastic off-the-shoulder straps, and vertical seams that lead to a mini-length silhouette. The dress is composed of a lined scuba knit fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. Complete look with a dainty rhinestone bracelet

    Fit & Features

    • Off the shoulder neckline 
    • Ruffled overlay 
    • Off the shoulder straps
    • Vertical seams
    • Mini length silhouette
    • Lined scuba knit fabric
    • Form hugging fit, moderate stretch, runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0371

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $64.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Of The Moment Wrap Front Mini Dress

    So sultry and of the moment, this wrap front mini dress is perf for a girl's night out on the town! Featuring a flattering, curve-hugging fit with a stretchy knit fabric, this mini dress is a must-have. Pair with some bold statement earrings and strappy heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Spaghetti straps
    • Cowl neckline
    • Wrap front detail creating tulip hem
    • Short, curve-hugging fit
    • Stretchy knit fabric

     

    Black dress: Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.

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

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0538

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $35.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Fearlessly Flashy Sequin Mini Dress

    Don't be afraid to be a little flashy bae! This sequin dress is bringing us life! The mini dress is designed with a square neckline, bungee spaghetti straps, and a short, form-fitting silhouette that offers a moderate stretch. The fully lined mesh fabric is embroidered with sequins showcasing a swirling vintage pattern. Style this dress with sparkly earrings and a sleek clutch.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless square neckline
    • Bungee spaghetti straps
    • Mini-length, form-fitting silhouette
    • Sheer mesh fabric, full knit lining, moderate stretch
    • Embroidered sequins, vintage pattern
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-1501

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $5.97 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Talulla Formal One-Shoulder Sequin Mini Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Channel a look that is over the top with a formal mini dress that brings the glitz! Talulla features a one-shoulder neckline with a secure no-slip strip, a fitted long sleeve, sparkling sequins throughout, a mini-length silhouette, and a draped train accent. The mini dress is composed of a lined mesh fabric that offers a form-hugging fit with minimal stretch. Complete the look with chrome heels and door-knocker earrings. Be sure to shop this dress in the other luxe fabrications!

    Shop Crepe Dress: Emily One-Shoulder Pleated Asymmetric Mini Dress

    Shop Velvet Dress: Zhuri Formal One-Shoulder Velvet Dress

    Fit & Features

    • One-shoulder neckline, no-slip strip at the bust
    • Fitted long sleeve
    • All-over sequin embroidery
    • Mini-length silhouette
    • Draped train accent
    • Form-hugging fit, minimal stretch
    • Strapless or sticky bra recommended
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0716

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $89.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Gorgeous And Glitzy Bodycon Dress

    This glitter mesh bodycon dress will have you looking gorgeous and glitzy for every party! It features a sweetheart neckline, long sheer bishop sleeves, ruched detailing to enhance your natural curves, and a short, form-hugging silhouette. Style this dress with rhinestone earrings and heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sweetheart neckline, padded cups, no bra required
    • Long sheer bishop sleeves, cinched hems
    • Ruching to enhance curves
    • Mini-length, form-hugging fit
    • Glitter mesh fabric, moderate stretch
    • Fits true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-1116

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $44.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Josie Ruffle Detail Satin Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Short and sassy, the Josie satin mini dress will step up your formal looks! This saying dress dares to be flirty and bold with a strappy lace-up back and a ruffled side trim that brings some drama. 

    This dress brings the fun and the fashion. If you love a bold, playful look, explore our stylish short prom dresses or make an entrance in our stunning short wedding guest dresses in short and mini lengths.

    Fit & Features

    • Stretch satin fabric, moderate stretch
    • Square neckline, spaghetti straps
    • Open back, lace-up strappy design, tie closure
    • Mini-length hem, form-fitting silhouette
    • Wrap-front skirt, ruffle side detail
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    School dances, date nights, bachelorettes, weddings, dinner parties, birthdays, milestone celebrations, cocktail soirees, bridal showers, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties and photoshoots

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1142

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $14.97 $54.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Romantic Ruffle Detail Mesh Bodycon Dress

    This stunning little black mini dress will showcase some major romantic vibes! It features long sheer loose sleeves with tapered smocked hems, a V-neckline, ruffle trim detailing, and a short, curve-hugging fit. Pair this bodycon dress with some statement earrings and a chic clutch for your next date night with bae.

    Fit & Features

    • Sheer peasant long sleeves
    • V-neckline with a ruffle trim
    • Back zipper closure
    • Side ruched seams
    • Bodycon fit, mini-length hem
    • Mesh-lined fabric, minimal stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0934

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $5.97 $44.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Paris Satin Corset Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Form-fitting and chic, Paris brings the flirty allure to every party! She features a sleeveless boat neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps, a mesh corset-style illusion bodice with flexible boning, and a wrap-style mini-length skirt. The formal dress is composed of a buttery smooth satin-lined fabric with a moderate stretch. Complete your dressy look in lace-up heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless, boat neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Back zipper closure, bra-friendly design
    • Sheer mesh illusion corset bodice, flexible boning 
    • Form-hugging fit
    • Wrap-style skirt, mini-length
    • Satin-lined fabric, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1028

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Wrap Around My Heart 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.

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

    Style Number/Barcode: 05103-3609

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $12.97 $31.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Emmie Floral Jacquard A-Line Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Made for sunny invites and camera-ready moments, the Emmie floral jacquard mini dress feels equal parts polished and playful. The A-line silhouette and textured detailing create an effortlessly chic look that’s perfect for celebrating in style.

    Fit & Features

    • Floral jacquard fabric with metallic threading, woven lining, no stretch
    • Sleeveless square neckline with tank straps
    • Back zipper with hook-and-eye closure
    • A-line silhouette
    • Mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Garden parties, dressy family gatherings, bridal showers, baby showers, birthday celebrations, chic brunches, graduations, spring school dances

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000653

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $69.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: IVORY

    Available Size: XS, S, M, L

    Product Badge:
    • Back In Stock
  • Subtle Glam Vibes Long Sleeve Glitter Mini Dress

    This chic long sleeve glitter mini dress will showcase those subtle glam vibes you love! It features a cowl neckline, long balloon-style sleeves with cinched hems, ruching down the side seams, a mini-length hem, and a bodycon silhouette that will hug your curves. The textured glitter knit fabric has plenty of stretch. Style with a gemstone collar necklace and strappy heels for a dressy dinner.

    Fit & Features

    • Cowl neckline
    • Long balloon sleeves, elastic cinched hems
    • Ruched side seams
    • Mini-length hem
    • Bodycon silhouette
    • Textured glitter knit fabric, knit lining at the bust, plenty of stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-2531

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $5.97 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Dancing Diva Satin Skater Dress

    Get ready to twirl all night long in this flirty homecoming satin skater dress! The mini dress features a sleeveless V-neckline, dual spaghetti straps that lead to a cross-back design, a high waist seam, a short skater skirt with a wrap-front layered design, and a fab fit and flare silhouette. Style this short party dress with rhinestone earrings and strappy heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless V-neckline
    • Dual spaghetti straps, cross-back design
    • High waist seam
    • Short skater skirt, wrap-front layered design
    • Fit and flare silhouette
    • Smooth satin-knit fabric, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-2216

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $5.97 $46.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Into The Club Satin Cutout Dress

    Strut into the club looking flawless in the satin mini dress featuring a sleeveless square neckline, spaghetti straps, a cutout waist, and side ruched seams that accentuate your natural curves along the bodycon silhouette. The smooth satin fabric offers a moderate stretch. Complete your night out look with lace-up heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless square neckline, spaghetti straps
    • Cutout waist
    • Side ruched seams
    • Bodycon silhouette
    • Mini-length hem
    • Smooth satin fabric, knit lining at the bust, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05103-4465

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $34.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Erina Formal Woven Glitter And Lace Dress

    Special Occasion

    Bring on the shine with a formal skater dress that creates those twirl-worthy moments! Erina features a sleeveless V-neckline, padded cups, adjustable spaghetti straps that cross at the back, a sheer scalloped lace back, hidden side pockets to keep your hands warm, and a flattering fit and flare skater silhouette on a short-length hem. The skater dress is composed of a woven sparkling glitter fabric that offers a stretchy knit lining. Complete the look with heels.

    Fit & Features

    • V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Built-in padding, sticky bra optional
    • Cross-back straps, sheer scalloped lace back design
    • Hidden side pockets, back zipper, hook-eye closure
    • Empire waist, short skater skirt
    • Lined woven glitter fabric, minimal stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0945

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Araceli Plunge Neck Satin Formal Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Own the night in the stunning Araceli satin formal dress. She features adjustable spaghetti straps for a customized fit and a plunge V-neckline with padded cups. The structured bodice has flexible boning to highlight her figure while the tulip wrap skirt adds the perfect finishing touch. Complete your look with a glittery clutch and heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless deep V-neckline, built-in padded bust
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Structured bodice, flexible boning
    • Back zipper, hook and eye closure
    • Mini-length tulip wrap skirt
    • Satin fabric
    • Form-hugging fit, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0992

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Marcy Glitter Bow Mini Party Dress

    Special Occasion

    Dazzle from every angle in the sleek and stunning Marcy glitter mini party dress! Turn heads at weddings, school dances, and formal cocktail parties. She features a strapless, square neckline with non-slip grip lining, a hidden side zipper closure, and front and back pleat and ruching that creates the illusion of an hourglass figure. She stuns from the back with her flirty big bow tie with a dramatic train that glides against the floor. The formal dress is composed of a glitter woven fabric with a sewn-in knit lining and minimal stretch. Complete your dressy look in metallic heels and jewelry!

    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 square neckline, non-slip grip lining
    • Strapless or sticky bra recommended
    • Hidden side zipper, hook and eye closure
    • Front and back pleat/ruching, bodycon fit, mini-length hem
    • Detachable back bow with train
    • Glitter woven fabric, sewn-in knit lining, minimal stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1556

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $39.97 $76.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Madeline Satin Bodycon Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Look oh-so-stunning for your next night out in the Madeline sleek satin mini dress! She features a sleeveless V-neckline with a padded bust, dual spaghetti straps leading to a strappy lace-up back design, ruching at the back, and a mini-length, bodycon silhouette. Complete the outfit with clear heels.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless V-neckline, padded bust
    • Dual spaghetti straps, adjustable
    • Strappy lace-up back design
    • Ruching at the back
    • Short, curve-hugging fit
    • Satin knit fabric, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0650

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $49.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale