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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Hannah Pearl Beaded Floral Satin Corset Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Chic with a stunning allure, the Hannah pearl beaded floral satin corset mini dress is an iconic choice for homecoming or your next formal party. Crafted with sleek satin woven fabric with a knit lining, she showcases a gorgeous embroidered floral applique accented with mini faux pearls, sequins, and beaded embellishments in an intricately placed design. The short dress features a strapless square neckline, a fitted corset bodice overlay with flexible boning to provide structure, a bold open lace-up back, and a bodycon silhouette to flaunt your curves. Complete the look with stiletto heels.
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 woven fabric with knit lining, minimal stretch
- Floral applique with faux pearls, sequins, and beading
- Strapless square neckline
- Corset bodice overlay, flexible boning
- Open lace-up back design, lower zipper closure
- Bodycon fit
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-2243
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $49.97 $99.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Gorgeous Goddess Metallic Mini Dress
You'll look like a total gorgeous goddess in this sultry metallic mini dress! It features a sleeveless V-neckline, thin shoulder straps, a backless design, a mini-length, curve-hugging silhouette, and a metallic sweater knit fabric with center seam detailing down the front. Style this dress with gold hoop earrings and clear heels for a sexy summer look.
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline
- Thin shoulder straps
- Backless design
- Short, form-hugging fit
- Metallic sweater knit fabric, front center seam detailing
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 06005-0665
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $4.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Power Moves Metallic Velvet Mini Dress
Hit 'em with the power shoulders and leave them staring in this boss-babe approved mini!
Fits & Features
- Surplice Deep V Neckline
- Long Fitted Sleeves With Puff, Power Shoulders
- Wrap, Mini Length Skirt With Faux Button Closure
- Velvet Fabric With Metallic Finish
- Form Flattering Fit I Minimal Stretch
- Zipper Not Included
Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0611
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $21.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Rose Formal Satin Party Dress
Special OccasionFrom the moment you try on Rose, you'll never want to let go! She features a strapless sweetheart neckline, a no slip strip, built in boning and padded cups. Her flared party skirt features hidden side pocket with an embroidered detail and rhinestone embellishments. She is composed of a lined satin fabric that offers a form hugging fit with minimal stretch. Includes a petticoat and back zipper closure.
Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size small.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-4113
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $53.97 $154.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Lori Sequin Lace Up A-Line Mini Dress
Special Occasion
All-over sparkling sequins take center stage in the statement Lori dress. The fitted bodice and scoop neckline create a streamlined base, while the lace-up open back adds another layer of detail. The A-line silhouette keeps the embellished design balanced and refined.
Fit & Features
- Allover sequin embellishment
- Mesh fabric lined with woven satin
- Scoop neckline, padded bra cups, spaghetti straps
- Fitted bodice
- Lace-up open back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- A-line mini silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, birthday parties, formal and semi-formal events
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001117
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Double Take Lace Bodycon Mini Dress
Serving the kind of look that gets a double take from across the room. This lace bodycon mini dress hugs in all the right places with a ruched drape, side sash, and an open back that knows exactly what it’s doing.
Fit & Features
- Sheer lace fabric with knit lining, high stretch
- Sleeveless V-neckline
- Halter strap
- Open back, lower tie-back spaghetti straps
- Ruched draped front design, side sash
- Mini-length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05103-000801
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $39.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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Floral Doll Long Sleeve Mini Dress
Show your blooming beauty in this flattering mini!
Fits & Features
- Crew Neckline
- Sheer Fitted Long Sleeve
- Mini Length Silhouette
- Smooth Jersey Knit Fabric I Fully Lined
- Curve Hugging Fit I Moderate Stretch
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0590
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $9.97 $35.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Blossom With Beauty Bodycon Dress
Let your beauty blossom with this beyond gorg bodycon dress! It features a sleeveless bodice, a V neckline, spaghetti straps that lead to a sheer lace back with an exposed zipper closure, a back cut out, a high waist seam, and a short, form hugging fit. The black dress is composed of a scuba knit fabric that offers moderate stretch and showcases an all over floral print with hues of pink, green, and ivory.Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-8812
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $9.97 $36.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Marine Cowl Neck Corset Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Corset-inspired structure gives the Marine mini dress its defining detail. Visible boning shapes the bodice, while the cowl neckline and pleated waist add softness and dimension to the fitted silhouette. The contrast of structure and drape gives the look a polished finish.
Fit & Features
- Sleek knit lined fabric with stretch
- Cowl neckline, padded bra cups, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Corset-style bodice with flexible boning
- Pleated waist detail
- Fitted bodycon mini silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, birthday parties, brunches, date nights, Vegas, bachelorettes, cocktail parties, nights out
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001053
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: DARK, DENIM, YELLOW, BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Anissa Satin Sash Corset Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Texture and structure work together in this statement mini. Floral appliqués and illusion mesh accent the satin corset design, while the draped side sash creates movement and dimension. The lace-up back finishes the look with added detail.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabrication, knit lining, high stretch
- Strapless neckline, non-slip grip lining, padded bra cups
- Corset bodice, flexible boning
- Floral appliqués with illusion mesh panels
- Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon mini-length silhouette, draped side sash
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, birthday events, bachelorettes, Vegas, dressed-up date nights, cocktail parties, glamorous occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000948
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $99.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PLUM, BLACK
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Aaliyah Glitter Mesh Lace-Up Short Dress
Special Occasion
Shimmer with every step in the Aaliyah short dress, a glitter-dusted skater dress designed to move effortlessly. The ruched sweetheart bodice and lace-up back add a romantic finish that feels polished yet playful.
Fit & Features
- Glitter mesh-lined fabric
- Sweetheart neckline, ruched bust seam
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back
- Hidden side pockets
- Skater silhouette, short-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthdays, date nights, milestone celebrations, weddings, engagement parties, fancy brunches, and afternoon tea
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000565
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $39.97 $109.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Satin Boat Neck Mini Dress
Smooth out your worries about what to wear tonight with this satin number. It features a boat neckline, open back with self ties at the top, zipper at center back, long sleeves, and an asymmetrical mini-length silhouette. Fully lined, this dress showcases a form-hugging fit with little-to-no stretch. Includes zipper at back.
Model is 5'7" with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0522
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $19.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Taking The Plunge Sweetheart Dress
Take the plunge in this daring mini dress! It features a plunging wired sweetheart neckline, fitted long sleeves and a curve hugging mini length silhouette that showcases curves in all the right places. Dress is composed of a double lined smooth knit fabric that offers a moderate stretch.
Model is 5'8" with a 32" bust, 23" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small
Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0354
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $17.97 $44.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Fab In Floral Lace Back Mini Dress
Look your absolute best in this fab light blue floral mini dress! It features a plunging V neckline, spaghetti straps that lead to a partially exposed lace back with a zipper closure, and a form hugging bodycon fit. Crepe fabric offers moderate stretch.Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Style Number/Barcode: 05101-8813
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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Korrie Glitter Mesh Dress With Pockets
Special Occasion
All sparkle, all spotlight—the Korrie glitter mesh dress is built to shine from every angle. With a corset-inspired bodice and twirl-ready skirt, it’s the perfect mix of structure and shimmer for a night you won’t forget.
Fit & Features
- Glitter mesh fabric with lining
- Sweetheart neckline
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Corset-inspired bodice
- Hidden side pockets
- Skater short silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, weddings, birthdays, milestone celebrations, red carpet events, cocktail soirees, fancy date nights, holidays
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000569
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $109.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Dreamy Velvet Mini Dress
Keep it dreamy in rich velvet! This mini dress features an off the shoulder neckline that creates a slight cowl neck accent, long sleeves and a relaxed waist that leads to a curve hugging mini length silhouette. Dress is composed of a lined velvet fabric that offers a moderate stretch. Zipper closure not included.
Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0485
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $12.97 $32.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Dazzling Heat Stone Satin Dress
Dazzle under the stars in this sparking mini! It features a rich navy blue color, a high round neck with a double row button closure at the nape of the neck, a racer front and an open back with lattice back design. The all over heat stones let you shine from all your best angles! Dress is composed of a lined stretchy satin-like fabric that offers a form hugging fit.Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-4130
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $29.97 $64.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Major Mesh Moment Mini Dress
Have a major mesh moment in this stunning mini! The dress features a sleeveless bodice, a mock neck with a sheer mesh overlay, a partially lined front and back with a square neckline, a back zipper and hook and eye closure, a high waist seam, and a short, form hugging fit. The skirt of the dress is composed of a crepe fabric that offers moderate stretch, while the top is composed of mesh with a glitter dotted print.
Model is 5’7” with a 34” bust, 24" waist, and 36” hips. She is wearing a size small.
Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0061
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $9.97 $36.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Dana Glitter A-Line Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The Dana mini dress captivates with its shimmering glitter finish and timeless A-line silhouette. The sweetheart neckline and lace-up back strike the perfect balance between elegance and allure—ideal for any RSVP that calls for turning heads.
Fit & Features
- Glitter fabric, sewn-in knit lining
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Cap sleeves
- Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- A-line silhouette
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, weddings, cocktail parties, birthdays, formal celebrations, rehearsal dinners, and date nights.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000789
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: LIGHT, BLUE, BLACK
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
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Lace Crew Neck Mini Dress
Look a vision in lace with this captivating mini dress!
Fits & Features
- Crew Neckline
- Long Sleeves
- Zipper At Back
- Mini Length Silhouette
- Lace & Knit Composition I Partially Lined
- Curve Hugging Fit I Little To No Stretch
Model is 5'9" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0649
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $9.97 $46.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Nicola Sequin Jacket Dress
Special Occasion
Show em' all who the star of the show is in our stunning Nicola sequin jacket dress! She features puffed shoulders leading to long fitted sleeves, a classic lapel collar and a tie front belt to snatch your waist. She has a mini length form-hugging silhouette to enhance your curves. The allover sequin detailing will have all eyes on you. Pair this gorgeous dress with trendy clear heels for your next party, or really anytime you want to get all dressed up!
Fit & Features
- Puffed shoulders
- Long fitted sleeves
- Lapel collar with a V neckline
- Tie front belt
- Short, form-fitting style
- Allover sequin detailing
- Knit lining
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0478
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $31.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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One Shoulder Puff Sequin Mini Dress
All eyes will be on you in this statement sequined number! This dress features a slanted neckline, single long sleeve with puffs at the shoulder, and a mini length silhouette. The garment is composed of a sequined knit material that offers a form-hugging fit with a moderate amount of stretch.
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size small
Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0636
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $16.97 $42.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Wrap Me In Satin Dress
We are all about a wrap dress! This dress features a V neckline and quarter sleeves that offer a little puff at the shoulder. Bodice is fitted and meets skirt with a tie waist closure. Skirt of this dress is A line with a ruffled hemline, and dress is composed of a satin material that offers a lightweight feel with minimal stretch.
Model is 5'9" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 35.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0258
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $9.97 $46.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Clearance
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Taylor Glitter Bustier Skater Short Dress
Special Occasion
Designed to shimmer with every step, the Taylor glitter skater dress features a sheer bustier detail and lace-up back that was made for unforgettable entrances. The playful silhouette strikes the perfect balance of flirty and polished, making it a true spotlight look.
Fit & Features
- Glitter mesh fabric, lined
- Square neckline, spaghetti straps
- Sheer mesh bustier bodice, lace-up back
- Skater silhouette
- Short-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthdays, semi-formal galas and events, milestone celebrations, cocktail parties, holidays, fancy date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000574
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $109.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free