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

Rima Maxi Dress

line Maxi Dress in Black

$

67.00

$~~109.95~~

You save 39%

Isabel Midi Dress

Twist Off Shoulder Bodycon Dress in Lemon

$

54.00

$~~109.95~~

You save 51%

Bernice Maxi Dress

Low Back Side Split Bow Detail Dress in Black

$

36.00

$~~119.95~~

You save 70%

Ylona Midi Dress

Asymmetric Draped Bias Cut Satin Slip Dress in Ice Blue

$

67.00

$~~119.95~~

You save 44%

Judai Mini Dress

Lace Off Shoulder A Line Dress in White

$

62.00

$~~109.95~~

You save 44%

Charlie Midi Dress

V Neck Low Back Frill Detail Dress in Watercolour Floral

$

70.00

$~~99.95~~

You save 30%

Rhyanna Maxi Dress

Twist Front Strapless Dress in Emerald

$

39.00

$~~109.95~~

You save 65%

Marga Midi Dress

Plunge Ruffle Detail Cut Out Dress in Petal Paradise

$

68.00

$~~139.95~~

You save 51%

Iris Maxi Dress

Sleeveless V Neckline Dress in Fuschia Floral

$

62.00

$~~109.95~~

You save 44%

Mimi Maxi Dress

Embroidered Cowl Neck High Split Dress in White

$

49.00

$~~119.95~~

You save 59%

Bec Maxi Dress

Stretch Lace Strapless Dress in Off White

$

54.00

$~~109.95~~

You save 51%

Runaway The Label - Chara Maxi Dress

In Black

$

57.00

$~~139.95~~

You save 59%

Big Love Mini Dress

Square Neck Bodycon Dress in Red

$

30.00

$~~99.95~~

You save 70%

Rory Midi Dress

Embroidered Mesh Dress in White

$

49.00

$~~119.95~~

You save 59%

Anziel Maxi Dress

Underwire Off Shoulder Backless Column Jersey Tie Back in Off White

$

30.00

$~~99.95~~

You save 70%

Edelyn Midi Dress

Cut Out Balloon Sleeve Tiered Dress in Navy

$

54.00

$~~129.95~~

You save 58%

Judee Midi Dress

One Shoulder High Side Split Dress in Sage

$

117.00

$~~129.95~~

You save 10%

Roma Midi Dress

Ruched Cowl Neck Dress in Chocolate Lurex

$

63.00

$~~89.95~~

You save 30%

Palmer Mini Dress

Plunge Cowl Neck Backless Lace Dress in Ivory

$

27.00

$~~89.95~~

You save 70%

Brailey Midi Dress

Thigh Split Strapless Dress in White Jacquard

$

108.00

$~~119.95~~

You save 10%

Harlen Midi Dress

V Neck 3/4 Sleeve Asymmetric Fringe Hem Wrap Dress in Champagne

$

30.00

$~~99.95~~

You save 70%

Alexia Midi Dress

One Shoulder Bust Slip Dress in Soft Pink

$

37.00

$~~109.95~~

You save 66%

Adelaide Maxi Dress

Georgette Asymmetric Ruffle Hem Bias Cut Dress in White

$

36.00

$~~119.95~~

You save 70%

Blaire Midi Dress

Strappy Ruched Front Column Fitted Textured Jersey Dress in Off White

$

33.00

$~~89.95~~

You save 63%

Yuna Midi Dress

Halter Twist Detail Drape Lace Dress in Red Orange

$

36.00

$~~119.95~~

You save 70%

Flordeliza Midi Dress

Cowl Neck Thigh Slit Slip Dress in Chocolate

$

38.00

$~~89.95~~

You save 58%

Yuna Maxi Dress

Halter Neck Ruched Cut Out Bodycon Dress in Chocolate

$

25.00

$~~99.95~~

You save 75%

Dalton Maxi Dress

Cowl Neck Tie Back Dress in Black/White Polkadot

$

51.00

$~~89.95~~

You save 43%

Carmella Midi Dress

One Shoulder Twist Detail Dress in Grape

$

49.00

$~~119.95~~

You save 59%

How Will I Know Midi Dress

Wrap Waist Tie Tulip Hem Dress in Champagne

$

42.00

$~~139.95~~

You save 70%