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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Larissa Glitter Lace Up A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Sheer corset detailing gives this glitter mini a fresh, trend-forward edge. The scoop neckline and spaghetti straps keep the shape light, while visible boning and a lace-up back add structure and dimension. The A-line skirt balances the look with movement for a polished, current finish.
Fit & Features
- Glitter sequin mesh fabric, woven lining
- Scoop neckline, padded bra cups, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Sheer corset bodice, flexible boning
- Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure hidden side pockets
- A-line mini silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, big birthday events, glamorous parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000844
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $129.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: SAGE, NAVY
Available Size: 0, 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Marlena Floral Lace Up Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The Marlene mini dress is defined by its intricate floral detailing. Sheer tulle, dimensional appliqués, and beaded accents create a textured finish that feels polished from every angle. A lace-up back adds one more standout detail.
Fit & Features
- Sheer tulle overlay, floral pattern, appliqué, bead and sequin accents
- Stretchy knit and crinoline linings
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, non-slip grip lining
- Padded bra cups
- Lace-up back with lower zipper and hook-and-eye closure
- Mini-length A-line silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, weddings, semi-formal events, milestone birthdays, dressy brunches
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001255
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $119.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: YELLOW
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Sugar Rush Sequin Bodycon Mini Dress
This mini dress is all about a sleek, sculpted silhouette with a high-impact finish. The halter neckline and open back frame the upper body while the close sequin skirt keeps the look streamlined. Pair it with strappy heels for a sharp, polished finish.
Fit & Features
- Sleek satin top, lined knit body
- Iridescent sequin embellishments
- Plunging halter V-neckline, tie straps
- Open-back design, lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Bodycon mini silhouette
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05103-001131
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $54.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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Brianna Sequin Lace-Up Party Mini Dress
Special Occasion
You'll be the most fabulous invite on the list wearing the Brianna sequin party mini dress! She captures hearts and attention in her sleeveless V-neckline adorned with spaghetti straps that lace up in the back, a flattering bodycon silhouette, and a mini-length hem. The formal party dress is designed with an eye-catching sequin embroidered pattern in multiple sizes to make your sparkly entrance! Complete the look with earrings for a holiday party or birthday!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless V-neckline, padded bust, spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, lower zipper, hook and eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette, mini-length hem
- Sequin embroidered pattern, multiple sizes
- Sheer mesh fabric, knit lining, moderate stretch
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1870
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $14.97 $49.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Living For The Night Neon Dress
Hit those trendy rooftops with the squad in this statement dress! It features a neon green color, a sleeveless bodice, a cowl neck, narrow straps and an open back. The slim fit bodice leads to a curve hugging mini length silhouette. Dress is composed of a stretchy smooth knit fabric.Model is 5'7" with a 34" bust, 24" waist and 36" hips. She is wearing a size small.
Style Number/Barcode: 05103-0109
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $10.00 $32.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Rina Sequin Mesh Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
A sequin mini dress makes styling the rest of the look feel effortless. The Rina bodycon mini dress features damask sequin mesh, adjustable spaghetti straps, and a scoop neckline for a sleek base with standout texture. Pair it with a clean heel and let the lace-up back finish the outfit.
Fit & Features
- Damask sequin mesh fabric, knit lining
- Scoop neckline, padded bra cups
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Bodycon mini silhouette
- Lace-up back detail, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, birthday parties, date nights, glam events, GNO, Vegas, bachelorettes
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000964
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: MAUVE
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- New Arrival
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Lindsay Taffeta Strapless Bow Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Your fabulous presence in the Lindsay taffeta bow mini dress will be such a gift to everyone at holiday parties, banquets, and school dances! She features a strapless neckline, a padded bust, a pleated bodycon silhouette, a statement side bow that adds a captivating touch of chic, and a mini-length hem. The formal mini dress is crafted from a taffeta woven fabric with a subtle sheen for an effortless glow and has a sewn-in knit lining to provide comfort. Complete the look in sassy platform heels and a bolero.
Fit & Features
- Strapless neckline, padded bust
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Pleated bodycon silhouette
- Statement side bow
- Mini-length hem
- Taffeta woven fabric, subtle sheen, sewn-in knit lining
- Runs true to size
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-1843
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $29.97 $59.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Christy Formal Sleeveless Heat Stone Dress
Special Occasion
Sparkle like the queen are in our shimmering Christy heat stone dress!
Fit & Features
- Sleeveless
- V-Neckline
- Spaghetti Straps
- Heat Stones
- Mini
- Lined Mesh
- Curve Hugging | Slight Stretch
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0188
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $19.97 $54.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Camille Corset Bodice Satin Skater Dress
Special Occasion
A defined waist and flared skirt give this shape its polished presence. The satin mini dress pairs a structured corset bodice with a softly pleated skirt for a balanced fit-and-flare effect. It’s the kind of silhouette that makes getting dressed feel instantly considered.
Fit & Features
- Woven satin fabrication
- Structured corset bodice with built-in boning
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline
- Spaghetti straps with open tie-back design
- Fitted through the bodice
- Flared mini A-line skirt
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthday celebrations, bridal showers, dressed-up dinners, and date nights.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000822
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $129.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE
Available Size: 0, 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Audrina Sequin Lace-Up Corset Bodycon Dress
Special Occasion
The silhouette is sleek; the lace-up back is keeping things interesting. This sequin bodycon mini dress hugs the figure with a structured shape, while the sweetheart neckline and lace-up back look for a playful, trend-right finish. It’s polished, flattering, and very now.
Fit & Features
- Sequin-embellished, lined mesh fabrication
- Sweetheart neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back
- Bodycon mini silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, birthday parties, bachelorettes, Vegas, date nights, glam events
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001125
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: LIGHT, BLUE, NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- New Arrival
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Lucienne Metallic Floral Corset Dress
Special Occasion
Metallic florals give the Lucienne dress its luminous finish. The corset bodice pairs structured boning and molded cups with a textured overlay, while the tiered A-line skirt adds soft volume. The layered details create a polished statement from bodice to hem.
Fit & Features
- Metallic floral jacquard textured pattern
- Mesh fabric lined with tulle and a smooth woven lining
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, non-slip grip lining
- Molded padded bra cups, underwire insert
- Corset bodice with flexible boning
- Gathered waist with tiered A-line mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, weddings, fancy birthday brunches, shower celebrations, afternoon tea experiences, daytime soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000885
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $99.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLUE
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Liza Satin Mesh Party Dress
Special Occasion
Ready for an epic evening? Then light up the night in our lovely Liza dress! She features a strapless, seamed sweetheart bodice with light padding at bust and a back zip. Liza's A-line satin skirt has pockets and sits atop a structured mesh-tulle underlay, giving her party-perfect volume. Liza is lined and made from a smooth, shiny cotton blend with moderate stretch.
Special Occasion products cannot be returned to any retail locations.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-0022
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Sale
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Caley Glitter Mesh Corset A Line Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The shimmer finish gives this mini its standout edge. A sculpted bodice with V-wire detail and a flared skirt keeps the shape polished while the textured mesh catches the light. It’s the kind of detail-driven dress that does the work for you.
Fit & Features
- Sweetheart neckline with V-wire detail, padded bra cups
- Glitter sequin mesh fabric, woven lining
- Corset-style bodice, flexible boning
- Adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Hidden side pockets, A-line mini length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthday celebrations, dressed-up dinners, and date nights.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000843
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $129.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WINE
Available Size: 0, 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Sienna Beaded Fringe Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The details do all the talking here. A close-cut mini silhouette is framed by an embellished bodice and rows of beaded fringe that bring dimension to the hem. The result feels polished, bold, and made to be noticed.
Fit & Features
- Ponte knit stretch fabrication
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline
- Embellished bodice with beaded detailing
- Beaded fringe trim at the hem
- Bodycon fit
- Mini length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, birthdays, date nights, cocktail soirees, dressy celebrations, fashion-forward events
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000890
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $109.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Thalia Floral Sequin Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Made to catch the light from every angle, the Thalia dress pairs a curve-skimming bodycon mini silhouette with intricate floral sequin embellishments and a sleek strapless neckline. The lace-up back adds a flirty finish made for homecoming, birthdays, bachelorette plans, and glam nights out.
Fit & Features
- Sheer mesh fabric with knit lining, moderate stretch
- Tonal and iridescent sequin embellishments, floral pattern
- Strapless straight-across neckline, no-slip strip
- Padded bust
- Lace-up back, open lower back
- Mini-length bodycon silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, glitzy parties, birthday celebrations, bachelorette parties, and glam nights out.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000792
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $59.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- New Arrival
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Kassia Beaded Sequin Ruffle Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Sparkle is back in a big way, and this dress knows how to keep it fun. This beaded sequin bodycon mini dress pairs a sleek fitted shape with a playful ruffle hem for a look that feels polished, current, and just a little flirty.
Fit & Features
- Beaded and sequin-embellished fabrication
- Strapless neckline
- Fitted bodycon silhouette
- Ruffled mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthdays, bachelorettes, date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001237
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $99.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Willa Sequin Lace-Up A-Line Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The sequin mini trend gets a polished update with a lace-up finish. Allover beads and sequins bring dimensional shine to the A-line silhouette, while the V-neckline keeps the look sleek and current. The result feels fresh, feminine, and ready for statement dressing.
Fit & Features
- Allover bead and sequin embellishment
- Lace mesh layered fabric with satin woven lining
- V-neckline, padded bra cups, adjustable straps
- Corset bodice, flexible boning inserts
- Lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- A-line mini silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, weddings, big birthday events, fancy occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001250
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $119.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: SAGE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Talia Applique Tulle A-Line Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The Talia formal dress is all about the close-up. An embellished sweetheart bodice and floral appliqué bring dimension to the tulle mini dress, balanced by a softly layered skirt. The effect is intricate, current, and anything but basic.
Fit & Features
- Strapless sweetheart neckline
- Embellished bodice with floral appliqué detail
- Layered tulle A-line mini skirt
- Fitted through the bodice with a flared shape
- Back zipper closure
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, big birthday parties, glamorous occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001254
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $119.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: SAGE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Julissa Floral Sequin A-Line Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Floral sequins give this mini a fresh, trend-forward finish. The strapless neckline keeps the shape clean, while the lace-up back and front slit add modern detail to the A-line silhouette. The result feels polished, playful, and distinctly current.
Fit & Features
- Floral sequin embellishment, knit fabric
- Strapless neckline
- Lace-up back
- A-line mini silhouette
- Front slit
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, birthday parties, fancy brunches, engagement parties, daytime soirees, shower celebrations, anniversaries, dressed-up dates
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001011
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PERIWINKLE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Marianna Rhinestone Bodycon Mini Dress
Special Occasion
This mini is all about a close, streamlined silhouette. A draped cowl neckline balances the bodycon shape, while slender straps keep the look light through the shoulders. Rhinestone embellishment adds texture and shine across the fitted form.
Fit & Features
- Allover rhinestone embellishment
- Abstract pattern, sewn-in satin woven lining
- Cowl neckline with adjustable spaghetti straps
- Side zipper and hook-eye closure
- Bodycon silhouette
- Mini length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthday dinners, date nights, Vegas, bachelorettes, cocktail parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001340
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $109.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: GOLD
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Halle Floral Applique Velvet Skater Dress
Special Occasion
Crafted in plush velvet with a twirl-worthy skater silhouette, the Halle formal dress brings chic style with its sculpted satin floral applique—built for that slow-motion entrance you know you’re making. A romantic yet modern moment, it’s the dress that turns every dressed-up plan into an unforgettable one.
Fit & Features
- Velvet fabric, moderate stretch, stretch knit lining
- Sleeveless V-neckline, padded bust
- Center satin floral applique
- Adjustable spaghetti straps, back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Side pockets
- Short pleated skater silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Dressed-up dinners, cocktail parties, winter formals, birthday celebrations, and romantic date nights.
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000527
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $29.97 $69.90
On Sale: Yes
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Anne Velvet Dress With Floral Shawl
Special Occasion
The Anne dress delivers high-impact glamour with a playful twist. This velvet bodycon dress features a sculpted sweetheart neckline, sheer plunge detail, and a dramatic organza puff shawl that transforms every entrance into a moment worth remembering.
Fit & Features
- Velvet fabric
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, sheer mesh insert
- Includes an organza floral shawl
- Bodycon mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Birthday events, cocktail parties, bachelorettes, fashion-forward occasions, hoco, special date nights, vacations, honeymoons, anniversaries, Vegas, girl's night
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000943
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $74.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- New Arrival
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Cara Taffeta Corset Bubble Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The bubble hem is having its moment, and Cara wears it with polished drama. Crisp taffeta shapes the mini silhouette, while the corset bodice, bow detail, and cutout bring a sharp, fashion-forward finish.
Fit & Features
- Taffeta fabrication, sewn-in tulle and knit linings
- Strapless sweetheart neckline with bow detail, padded bra cups
- Structured corset bodice with boning
- Front cutout and lace-up back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Voluminous bubble silhouette
- Mini length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Homecoming, birthdays, date nights, formal celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-001083
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Darla Rhinestone Corset Mini Dress
Special Occasion
The Darla mini dress is defined by its mix of structure and sparkle. Rhinestones trace the corset bodice and continue through the layered tulle skirt for a dimensional finish. The strapless sweetheart neckline keeps the embellishment in focus.
Fit & Features
- Rhinestone embellishments
- Layered tulle fabric lined with stretchy knit
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, non-slip grip lining
- Built-in padded bra cups and underwire insert
- Corset bodice, flexible boning inserts
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Skater mini silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
HOCO, big birthday events, glamorous parties, red-carpet events, pageants
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000801
Category Name: Short Cocktail Dresses
Price: $129.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK
Available Size: XXS, XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free