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.

  • Scarlett Glitter Corset Lace-Up Dress

    Special Occasion

    Turn every glance into a double take with the Scarlett glitter short dress, designed to shimmer under the lights. The corset-inspired bodice and lace-up back bring striking detail, while the flared skirt moves with playful elegance with convenient hidden pockets.

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter mesh fabric, lined
    • V-neckline
    • Spaghetti straps
    • Lace-up open back
    • Corset-inspired bodice, hidden side pockets
    • Skater silhouette
    • Short-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, weddings, birthdays, red-carpet events, milestone celebrations, cocktail parties, holidays

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000573

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $109.90

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Jodie Satin Skater Corset Dress

    Special Occasion

    Designed to dazzle with every step, the Jodie satin dress is elegance in motion. Crafted with a sculpting corset bodice and sweetheart strapless neckline, this mini-length skater dress turns timeless structure into a modern fairytale, with hidden side pockets for an effortlessly poised finish. 

    Fit & Features

    • Stretch satin fabric, crinoline and woven linings
    • Sweetheart strapless neckline,cowl pelated drape, padded bra cups
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Structured corset bodice, flexible boning inserts
    • V-waist drop seam, hidden side pockets
    • Voluminous skater silhouette, mini-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    School dances, weddings, bridal shower, engagement party, reception dress, rehearsal dinner, birthdays, milestone celebrations, black tie events

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000060

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $49.97 $99.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Wrapped In Luxe Velvet Mini Dress
    Get all wrapped up in luxe velvet in this holiday ready mini dress. It features long sleeves with slight puffed shoulders, a wrap front creating a V neckline, a hidden back zipper and hook and eye closure, a double O ring front accent completing the wrap, and a short hem. The velvet fabric offers moderate stretch.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0555

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $18.97 $46.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Lila Glitter Corset Skater Short Dress

    Special Occasion

    Shimmer from every angle in the Lila glitter mesh skater dress, designed with a sweetheart neckline and structured corset bodice for a touch of modern romance. Its flared skirt moves effortlessly, making it perfect for twirling through the night.

    Fit & Features

    • Glitter mesh-lined fabric
    • Sweetheart pleated neckline
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Corset bodice, flexible boning
    • Skater short silhouette
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, birthdays, milestone celebrations, fancy brunches, glam parties and events

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000570

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $109.90

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Eliza Ruffled Sequin Corset Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Made for unforgettable entrances, the Eliza sequin mini dress catches the light with every move. Its curve-hugging silhouette and flirty ruffle hem bring the perfect mix of elegance and playful charm.

    Fit & Features

    • Mesh fabric with floral sequin embroidery
    • Sweetheart neckline with adjustable straps
    • Corset bodice with piping contrast
    • Bodycon mini silhouette
    • Ruffled hem
    • Scoop back with zipper closure
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, weddings, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, bridal showers, wedding showers, birthdays, anniversaries, red carpet events, industry parties, photoshoots, date night

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000553

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $29.97 $59.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Tyra Crepe One Shoulder Ruffle Party Dress

    Special Occasion

    Every girl needs the chic Tyra crepe party dress to bring the charm for cocktail soirees or dressy birthdays! She features a sleeveless one-shoulder neckline, a wide shoulder strap, a padded bust, a flattering bodycon silhouette, and a wrap-style ruffled mini-length hem. The formal dress is composed of a sleek crepe fabric with a partial sewn-in knit lining and moderate stretch. Complete the look with a statement bracelet.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless one-shoulder neckline
    • Wide shoulder strap, padded bust
    • Back zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Bodycon silhouette
    • Wrap-style ruffled mini-length hem
    • Crepe fabric, partial sewn-in knit lining
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1332

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $42.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Ruched And Ready Mini Dress
    Get ready to go out with the squad in this must have LBD! The black dress features a sleeveless bodice, a square neckline, narrow shoulder straps and a mini length silhouette. The body features ruched detailing throughout to showcase curves! Dress is composed of a lined mesh 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: 05103-0177

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $40.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Mindy Satin Corset Lace-Up Dress

    Special Occasion

    The Mindy mini dress delivers polished glamour with a modern edge. Designed in stretch satin, this bodycon mini silhouette features a structured corset bodice with boning, a pleated waist drape accent, and an unforgettable lace-up back.

    Fit & Features

    • Stretch satin fabric, knit lining
    • Square neckline, wide adjustable shoulder straps
    • Corset bodice with flexible boning
    • Back lace-up, side zipper and hook-eye closure
    • Pleated waist drape accent
    • Curve-hugging A-line mini silhouette
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Bridal celebrations, receptions, elopements, courthouse weddings, bachelorettes, birthdays, engagement photoshoots, graduations, date nights

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000760

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $59.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: WHITE, NAVY

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

  • Gracie Beaded Tie Back Skater Dress

    Special Occasion

    A sparkle-soaked moment with a twist—the Gracie beaded mini dress turns heads with every step, while the dramatic bow back ensures your exit is as unforgettable as your entrance. Effortless, flirty, and built for nights that call for a little extra shimmer.

    Fit & Features

    • Beaded embellished, mesh-lined fabric
    • Crew neckline
    • Open tie-back design
    • Skater silhouette
    • Short-length hem
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, birthdays, milestone celebrations, weddings, dinner parties, date nights, rooftop brunch restaurants

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000550

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $19.97 $99.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Marina Fringe Choker Neck Satin Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    Flirtatious and sultry, the Marina satin mini dress is perfect for your next party! She features a sleeveless choker neckline with cascading fringe detailing, a back zipper closure, an open front with a sweetheart bust with padded cups, an alluring corset-designed bodice, and a pleated faux wrap-front skirt. The curve-hugging bodycon mini dress is composed of a silky-smooth satin-knit fabric that offers a moderate stretch. Complete the look with strappy stilettos.

    Fit & Features

    • Sleeveless choker neckline, fringe trim
    • Back zipper, hook and eye closure
    • Open front, sweetheart bust, padded cups, no bra needed
    • Corset-designed bodice, flexible boning, high waist seam
    • Faux wrap-front skirt, pleating, mini-length hem
    • Fitted bodycon silhouette
    • Satin-knit fabric, moderate stretch
    • Runs true to size

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1440

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $54.90

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Sale
  • Chic And Sleek Wrap Mini Dress

    Lookin' like a real smooth talker! This satin crafted mini dress features a plunging v-neckline with a wrap design at the front and a keyhole opening at the back with button closure. Long sleeves trail at the sides with gold-tone buttons adorned at the cuffs. Bottom half showcases ruching with gold-tone zipper at center back. This dress is fully lined and offers moderate stretch fit. 

    Model is 5'8.5" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size small.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0520

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $54.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Smocked In Ruffles Mini Dress

    Keep it adorable and sweet in ruffles! This dress features a square neckline, sheer ruffled short sleeves and a mini length skirt with a ruffled hem. The all over print adds to this vibrant mini! Dress is composed of a stretchy smocked fabric that offers a form hugging fit. Includes a smooth knit lining.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05102-0298

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $18.97 $46.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Opal Floral Chiffon A-Line Mini Dress

    Special Occasion

    The floral chiffon and lace trim make the styling feel sweet without overdoing it. This floral chiffon mini dress features a structured bodice, visible boning, and an A-line mini silhouette for a softly shaped look. Pair it with delicate heels and simple jewelry to keep the finish refined.

    Fit & Features

    • Floral chiffon fabric, smooth lining
    • Lace trim strapless neckline
    • Structured bodice with boning
    • A-line mini silhouette
    • Lace-up back detail
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Bridal celebrations, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, birthday brunches, vacations, honeymoons, formal celebrations, semi-formal events, hoco

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000757

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $69.90

    Availability: In Stock

    Available Color: WHITE, PRINT

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

  • Twist Of Glam Ribbed Midi Dress

    Give your basics a little twist of glam to create a captivating look! Dress features a crew neck with a single button closure at the nape of the neck, fitted long sleeves and a bold open back that leads to twist knot design. Dress is composed of ribbed knit fabric that offers a form hugging fit with a moderate stretch. 

    Model is 5'9" with 32" bust, 24" waist and 34.5" hips. She is wearing a size small.

    Style Number/Barcode: 06005-0305

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $4.97 $44.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Totally Textured Off Shoulder Dress
    Go for body con with a fresh, textured twist in this streamlined mini! Dress has a curve-hugging cut and features an off-the-shoulder neckline, thigh-skimming rounded hem, and snaking lines of textured detail, lending it the illusion of horizontal crisscrossing. Dress is made from a lightweight woven material with moderate stretch.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0256

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $28.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Rianna One Shoulder Heat Stone Dress

    Special Occasion 

    Light up the night with dazzling heat stones as you wow in our Rianna dress!

    Fit & Features 

    • One Shoulder Neckline
    • Ruched Side Seam 
    • Heat Stones
    • Lined Mesh 
    • Midi Silhouette 
    • Form Hugging Fit 
    • Moderate Stretch 

     Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0268

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $24.97 $69.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Stunner In Floral Mini Dress

    Look at you stunner! Radiate effortless gorgeous looks in this floral mini! The dress features a sleeveless bodice, spaghetti straps, a wrap front V neckline, a square back, a front waist cut out, and a short, curve hugging fit. The dress is composed of a scuba knit fabric that offers moderate stretch.

    Model is 5'3" with a 32" bust, 22.5" waist and 34" hips. She is wearing a size small.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0092

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $34.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Hazel Satin Lace-Up Dress With Pockets

    Special Occasion

    Effortlessly sleek yet playfully flirty, the Hazel satin short dress stuns with a ruched bodice, corset-inspired cutout, and a lace-up back made for head-turning exits. A twirl-ready skirt adds movement, giving you the perfect mix of edge and elegance.

    Fit & Features

    • Premium satin fabric with lining
    • Sweetheart neckline
    • Adjustable spaghetti straps
    • Cutout bust accent
    • Hidden side pockets
    • Skater short silhouette
    • Runs true to size

     

    Where to Wear:

    Homecoming, weddings, black tie events, birthdays, milestone celebrations, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, cocktail soirees, holidays

    Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000567

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $129.90

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Glow Chaser Glitter Mini Dress

    Nobody has time for chasing scrubs, instead chase that glow girl! This glittering mini dress is just what you need! 

    Fit & Features

    • Off The Shoulder Neckline
    • Wired V-Neck Bust
    • Long Sleeves
    • Glitter 
    • Fully Lined
    • Form Fitting | Moderate Stretch 
    • Zipper Not Included 

     

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0556

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $42.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Fierce Flocked Velvet Mini Dress

    Keep it fierce and fab in this head turning mini dress! It features a plunging V neckline, fitted long sleeves, and a mini length silhouette that rests at the mid-thigh level. Dress is composed of a lined smooth knit fabric with a flocked velvet pattern throughout. Garment offers a curve hugging fit with a slight stretch. Zipper not included.

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

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0205

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $16.97 $41.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Classic Chic Shirt Dress

    This classic chic mini shirt dress is everything you need and more. It features a collar, a plunging wrap front V neckline, long sleeves with buttons to cuff, a high waist seam, side ruched detailing, and a short fit. The dress is composed of a woven fabric with no stretch.

    Model is 5'9" with a 33" bust, 24" waist and 35.5 hips. She is wearing a size small. 

    Style Number/Barcode: 05102-0293

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $46.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • In Love In Lace Crochet Dress

    We are obsessed with crochet! This dress features a V neckline with a scalloped trim ande long sleeves that are sheer. The crochet bodice meets skirt high waist and is composed of a crepe material that offers moderate stretch.

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

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0107

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $41.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Clearance
  • Cute As A Button Mini Dress
    You'll look cute as a button in this pretty mini dress! The dress features a blue hue, a sleeveless bodice, a square neckline, adjustable narrow shoulder straps, a button down side seam and a mini length silhouette. Dress is composed of a linen fabric that offers a form hugging fit with minimal stretch.

    Model is 5'8.5" with a 32" bust, 24" waist and 35" hips. She is wearing a size small.

    Style Number/Barcode: 05102-3921

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $42.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free
  • Ruffle My Feathers Mini Dress
    Channel effortless warm-weather style in this fun, flirty dusty pink mini dress. Dress has thick straps, a sweetheart neckline with a small V, side smocking, a hook-and-eye zip closure, and a flared hem. Dress is made from a linen-like fabric with generous stretch at sides. 

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

    Style Number/Barcode: 05101-0090

    Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses

    Price: $9.97 $44.90

    On Sale: Yes

    Availability: Out of Stock

    Product Badge:
    • Ships Free