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

Carli Maxi Dress

Adjustable Strap Corset Bodycon Lace Dress in Watermelon

$

54.00

$~~129.95~~

You save 58%

Hattie Midi Dress

Ruffle Detail V Neck Dress in Pink

$

40.00

$~~99.95~~

You save 60%

Joel Midi Dress

Halter Sweetheart Neckline Bodycon Dress in Orange

$

24.00

$~~109.95~~

You save 78%

Roseville Mini Dress

Wrap Front Halter Dress with Hardware Detail in Black

$

60.00

$~~89.95~~

You save 33%

Lacie Midi Dress

V Neck Bias Cut Ruffle Tie Front Dress in Red

$

70.00

$~~99.95~~

You save 30%

Carly Maxi Dress

Stretch Lace Scoop Neck Dress in Off White

$

70.00

$~~99.95~~

You save 30%

Meagan Midi Dress

V Neck Flutter Sleeve Pleated Detail Wrap in Pink

$

23.00

$~~99.95~~

You save 77%

Hance Midi Dress

neck Lace Open Back Dress in Red

$

57.00

$~~109.95~~

You save 48%

Big Love Mini Dress

Square Neck Bodycon Dress in Red

$

25.00

$~~99.95~~

You save 75%

Katie Maxi Dress

Ruffle Plunge Neck Long Sleeve Dress in Green

$

52.00

$~~119.95~~

You save 57%

Blanchett Midi Dress

Sequin One Shoulder Gathered Asymmetric Midi Dress in Silver

$

26.00

$~~109.95~~

You save 76%

Bernice Maxi Dress

Low Back Side Split Bow Detail Dress in Black

$

36.00

$~~119.95~~

You save 70%

Freya Mini Dress

Puff Sleeve V Neck A Line Dress in White

$

43.00

$~~169.95~~

You save 75%

Felt So Happy Midi Dress

One Shoulder Drape Dress in Wine

$

33.00

$~~129.95~~

You save 75%

Ada Maxi Dress

Halter Plunge Textured Jersey Open Back Dress in Green

$

54.00

$~~109.95~~

You save 51%

Abby Maxi Dress

Bias Cut Diamante Trim Dress in Dove Blue

$

19.00

$~~99.95~~

You save 81%

Rory Midi Dress

Embroidered Mesh Dress in White

$

49.00

$~~119.95~~

You save 59%

Arichie Maxi Dress

Cowl Back Diamante Strap Satin Dress in Black

$

30.00

$~~99.95~~

You save 70%

Isabelle Midi Dress

Ruche Front Deep U Off Shoulder Fitted Dress in Black

$

49.00

$~~99.95~~

You save 51%

Enid Midi Dress

Sweetheart Neck Ruched Bodycon Dress in Rose Blanca

$

28.00

$~~109.95~~

You save 75%

Amalia Maxi Dress

Off the Shoulder Slip Dress in Black

$

31.00

$~~99.95~~

You save 69%

Pepper Midi Dress

One Shoulder Ruched Mesh Dress in Ethereal Iris Print

$

33.00

$~~109.95~~

You save 70%

Amitola Midi Dress

V Neck Cut Out Slip Dress in Lilac

$

30.00

$~~99.95~~

You save 70%

Claudita Midi Dress

Long Sleeve High Low Hem Dress in Dusty Rose

$

33.00

$~~109.95~~

You save 70%

Eiren Midi Dress

Corset Bodice Fringe Detail Dress in Black

$

33.00

$~~109.95~~

You save 70%

Yuna Midi Dress

Halter Twist Detail Drape Lace Dress in Red Orange

$

36.00

$~~119.95~~

You save 70%

Tahlia Maxi Dress

Contrast Lace Sweetheart Neck Bodycon Dress in Blue

$

42.00

$~~99.95~~

You save 58%

Rholie Midi Dress

Plunge Neck Fringe Hem Fixed Wrap Dress in Pink

$

36.00

$~~119.95~~

You save 70%