What is a cocktail dress?

A cocktail dress is a semi-formal dress typically falling between the knee and mid-calf. It sits between casual and black-tie on the formality scale and is worn to events like weddings, work functions, birthday celebrations, holiday parties, and evening dinners. The style allows room for personal expression within a polished framework.

What color cocktail dress is most versatile?

Black is the most universally wearable cocktail dress color and pairs with any shoe or accessory. Navy, emerald, and burgundy are strong alternatives that bring color while staying event-appropriate. For weddings, soft pastels and jewel tones are popular choices that complement most settings.

What is the difference between a cocktail dress and a party dress?

A cocktail dress tends to be slightly more polished and refined, with structured fabrics and a hemline at or below the knee. A party dress is often shorter, bolder, and less bound by dress code expectations. Both have a place in your wardrobe, but when an invitation specifies "cocktail attire," lean toward the more tailored option.

Where can I buy cocktail dresses in the US?

Showpo's cocktail dress collection covers every silhouette, color, and occasion in sizes 0 to 16. The Size Guide helps you find your perfect fit, the Returns Policy makes exchanges easy, and fast US shipping (including next-day delivery) means your dress arrives when you need it. Visit the Showpo Blog for more occasion dressing and styling guides.

Women’s Cocktail Dresses | Party, Holiday & Event Styles

Runaway The Label - Jordi Mini Dress

Int

$

53.00

$~~109.95~~

You save 52%

Sierra Midi Dress

Sequin Square Neck Bodycon Dress in Green

$

73.00

$~~129.95~~

You save 44%

Silvana Midi Dress

Halter Ruched Side Split Dress in Citrus

$

70.00

$~~109.95~~

You save 36%

Larson Maxi Dress

Asymmetric Tie Neck Column Dress in Red

$

126.00

$~~129.95~~

You save 3%

Sonya Maxi Dress

Cowl Neck Asymmetric Fit And Flare Dress in Chocolate

$

68.00

$~~139.95~~

You save 51%

Dannika Maxi Dress

Blue Pleated Dress in Blue

$

84.00

$~~119.95~~

You save 30%

Jonas Midi Dress

Strapless Corset Bodice Draped Waist Skirt Dress in Chocolate

$

73.00

$~~149.95~~

You save 51%

Emilee Midi Dress

Side Cut Out Long Sleeve Plunge Dress in Pink Floral

$

63.00

$~~129.95~~

You save 52%

Judai Mini Dress

Lace Off Shoulder A Line Dress in Lemon

$

54.00

$~~109.95~~

You save 51%

Angie Maxi Dress

Strapless Bias Column Dress with Scarf in Electric Bloom Lemon

$

90.00

$~~159.95~~

You save 44%

Metzie Midi Dress

High Neck Gathered Mesh Dress in Burgundy

$

117.00

$~~129.95~~

You save 10%

Denise Maxi Dress

Halter U Ruched Neck Cut Out Jersey Dress in Chocolate

$

36.00

$~~119.95~~

You save 70%

Crisanta Maxi Dress

Long Sleeve Contrast Lace Bodycon Dress in Pink

$

79.00

$~~129.95~~

You save 39%

Jiraye Midi Dress

Flutter Sleeve Tuelle Plunge Dress in Lemon

$

63.00

$~~139.95~~

You save 55%

Ariella Midi Dress

Strappy Cut Out Back Split Dress in Lemon

$

38.00

$~~89.95~~

You save 58%

Judee Midi Dress

One Shoulder High Side Split Dress in Red

$

97.00

$~~129.95~~

You save 25%

Aria Midi Dress

Strapless Tie Waist Dress in Orange

$

75.00

$~~119.95~~

You save 37%

Judai Mini Dress

Lace Off Shoulder A Line Dress in White

$

62.00

$~~109.95~~

You save 44%

Brailey Jacquard Mini Dress

Puff Sleeve Dress in Pink

$

79.00

$~~139.95~~

You save 44%

Alexia Midi Dress

One Shoulder Bust Slip Dress in Ice Blue

$

67.00

$~~109.95~~

You save 39%

Alvia Midi Dress

Diamante Strap Ruched Straight Neck Dress in Black

$

73.00

$~~129.95~~

You save 44%

Marga Midi Dress

Plunge Ruffle Detail Cut Out Dress in Petal Paradise

$

68.00

$~~139.95~~

You save 51%

Larson Maxi Dress

Asymmetric Tie Neck Column Dress in Cream

$

79.00

$~~129.95~~

You save 39%

Isabel Midi Dress

Twist Off Shoulder Bodycon Dress in Lemon

$

54.00

$~~109.95~~

You save 51%

Runaway The Label - Denver Maxi Dress

In Red

$

57.00

$~~139.95~~

You save 59%

Magnolia Midi Dress

Scoop Neck Bodycon Dress in Black

$

117.00

$~~129.95~~

You save 10%

Riley Maxi Dress

Gathered Over Bust Dress in Chocolate

$

99.00

$~~109.95~~

You save 10%

Isabel Midi Dress

Twist Off Shoulder Bodycon Dress in Red

$

62.00

$~~109.95~~

You save 44%

Hathaway Maxi Dress

U Shaped Neck Pleated Dress in Chocolate

$

63.00

$~~129.95~~

You save 52%

Sharley Midi Dress

Diamante Detail Pencil Dress in Black

$

108.00

$~~119.95~~

You save 10%