The Best Short Formal Dresses For Women

Marva Crandall
9 min readApr 5, 2024
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Looking for the perfect short formal dress to make a statement at your next event? Our collection of stylish options caters to women who love to stand out. From elegant little black dresses to vibrant colors and prints, our roundup has you covered. Keep reading for a selection of stunning, versatile designs that will elevate your evening wear game. Don’t forget to bookmark your favorites!

The Top 5 Best Short Formal Dresses For Women

  1. Exquisite Off-Shoulder Skater Dress in Black — Exquisite off-shoulder high-low skater dress designed by USA for cocktail, homecoming, or any special occasions, featuring thick, comfortable material for all-season wear and a perfect fit for any body type.
  2. Dazzling Rhinestone Low Back Mesh Mini Dress — Experience dazzling elegance with the Meilani Low Back Diamante Mesh Mini Dress. This eye-catching, well-made, and comfortable party attire flaunts a low back and mesh chain detail, making it perfect for impressions at any event.
  3. Zipper-Closure Women’s Short Lace Formal Dress in Green — City Studio Women’s Neckline Short Fit Flare Formal Dress in Green: This stunning dress features lace detailing, an asymmetrical neckline, and nylon fabric for all-day comfort, making it the perfect addition to your formal attire
  4. Women’s Short Off The Shoulder Prom Dress in Victorian Lilac — Experience the elegance of this short off-the-shoulder prom dress, featuring glitter accents and a soft cup for a perfect fit. Perfect for wedding guests and semi-formal occasions in colors like Victorian Lilac, Champagne, and more.
  5. A-Line One-Shoulder Cocktail Party Dress — Discover a stunning one-shoulder A-line skater dress designed with convenience and versatility in mind, perfect for any semi-formal event from cocktail parties to weddings.

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Reviews

Exquisite Off-Shoulder Skater Dress in Black

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I’ve recently found this elegant and high-quality skater dress for my daughter’s homecoming. The material is super soft and comfortable, making it perfect for all day events.

The off the shoulder look is both trendy and sophisticated, while the high low hem adds an touch of uniqueness. I must say, though, that the waist area could have been a bit tighter to provide better support.

Overall, this dress was a great choice for our special event and definitely helped my daughter stand out from the crowd.

Dazzling Rhinestone Low Back Mesh Mini Dress

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Alright folks, I recently got my hands on the Meilani Low Back Glow Mesh Mini Dress in Silver and it’s a show-stopper, trust me! This glittery little number is perfect for any special occasion. The mesh chain detail and halter neckline make it stand out from the crowd.

One thing I want to highlight is how well-made this dress is. It’s made with an Aluminum and Rhinestone fabric, which gives it a unique shine. However, due to its delicate nature, it doesn’t have any stretch, so if you’re in between sizes, especially in the hips area, I’d recommend sizing up.

Mentioning the sizing, I’m 5'10" and usually wear a size S and found that the dress was a bit long on me. So, if you’re shorter, you might want to consider getting it hemmed.

As for the overall fit, the low back detail is very alluring but might show a bit too much cleavage for some people. The neckline isn’t adjustable, so keep that in mind when choosing your size.

The best part about this dress? Its comfort! Despite being heavy, it’s fully lined, making it comfortable to wear all night.

Some minor complaints are that it can be a bit heavy around the neck, but it’s not too unbearable. And since it runs small, you might need to size up if you want a more comfortable fit.

Overall, I absolutely love this dress! It’s perfect for any special occasion where you want to shine bright. So, if you’re on the market for a stunning and dazzling dress, the Meilani Low Back Glow Mesh Mini Dress is definitely worth considering.

Zipper-Closure Women’s Short Lace Formal Dress in Green

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I recently had the pleasure of sporting the City Studio Women’s Neckline Short Fit Flare Formal Dress in green, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer. The first thing that caught my eye was the stunning lace detailing that gave this dress an alluring, feminine touch. The asymmetrical neckline added a touch of elegance and made me feel a million bucks.

Being made of nylon, this dress offers that perfect blend of comfort and style that makes it perfect for those long, formal events. On top of it all, its affordability is unmatched, making it a truly amazing addition to my wardrobe.

While I adore this dress for its visual appeal, it does have a minor downfall — it runs a bit small. As a slim person, I felt snug in it, but it’s something to consider when ordering your size.

All in all, the City Studio Women’s Neckline Short Fit Flare Formal Dress has been a reliable and stylish choice for me, and I’m sure it would be for you as well.

Women’s Short Off The Shoulder Prom Dress in Victorian Lilac

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I remember the first time I wore this stunning off-the-shoulder prom dress to a friend’s wedding. The moment I slipped it on, I felt like a princess. The glittering fabric, off-the-shoulder long sleeves, and soft cup padded inserts made for a perfect combination of elegance and comfort. And you know what’s really great about this dress? Its versatility! Depending on the event, I can dress it up with some jewelry and high heels, or keep it casual with flats and a light scarf. Plus, the detachable belt adds a lovely touch of detail without being overwhelming.

However, one downside I noticed was that the sizing isn’t spot on according to the size chart provided. I ended up needing to exchange it for a size up. But overall, I am absolutely thrilled with my short off-the-shoulder prom dress. It’s the perfect mix of glamour and ease, making it a must-have for anyone’s wardrobe.

A-Line One-Shoulder Cocktail Party Dress

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I used this one-shoulder dress for a cocktail party and was pleasantly surprised by its quality. The first thing that caught my eye was the trendy design and flattering A-line silhouette.

It was very comfortable to wear, and the pockets added a nice touch of practicality. However, I did find that the zipper was a bit stiff and required some effort to close fully.

Overall, I would recommend this dress to anyone looking for a versatile, stylish option for formal occasions. Just be sure to follow the care instructions carefully to keep it looking nice! .

Buyer’s Guide

When it comes to finding the perfect short formal dress for women, there are several important factors to consider. This buyer’s guide will provide you with all the necessary information to make an informed decision and choose the best dress to suit your needs.

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Important Features

  1. Material: The quality of the fabric is crucial when choosing a short formal dress. Look for materials that are comfortable, breathable, and suitable for your body type. Some popular fabrics include satin, chiffon, and lace.
  2. Fit: Ensure that the dress you choose fits well and accentuates your best features. Short formal dresses come in various styles, such as A-line, trumpet, and sheath, so find the one that flatters your body shape.
  3. Versatility: Consider how versatile the dress will be depending on the occasions where you plan to wear it. A black or navy dress can often double as office wear and special event attire.

Considerations

  1. Occasion: Consider the event you’ll be attending when choosing your short formal dress. Factors to consider include the dress code, the time of day, and the level of formality.
  2. Personal Style: Incorporate your unique style into your choice of dress. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors, patterns, and embellishments, but always keep your personal preferences in mind.
  3. Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend on a short formal dress, and shop accordingly. There are plenty of affordable options available without sacrificing quality or style.
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General Advice

  1. Try Before You Buy: Whenever possible, try on the dress before making a purchase, especially if ordering online. This will help ensure a perfect fit and allow you to see how the dress looks on your body type.
  2. Consult a Tailor: If you find a dress that fits well but needs minor alterations, consult a tailor to make any necessary adjustments. This can significantly enhance the overall appearance and comfort of the dress.
  3. Accessorize Wisely: Selecting the right accessories can elevate your short formal dress and make it truly stand out. Consider adding a statement necklace, clutch, or pair of heels to complete your ensemble.

FAQ

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Where can I buy short formal dresses for women online?

Short formal dresses for women are available at various online retailers, including Macy’s, Amazon, and Asos. Also, consider visiting websites specialized in women’s fashion like Lulus or Forever 21 for a wide selection of styles.

What occasions are short formal dresses appropriate for?

Short formal dresses are typically considered appropriate for semi-formal events such as cocktail parties, weddings, award ceremonies, and holiday parties. They are also suitable for other events like gala dinners, charity events, or corporate functions depending on the dress code.

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How can I pick the right size when shopping for short formal dresses online?

When shopping online for short formal dresses, always consult the size chart provided by the retailer to ensure you choose the correct size. If possible, look for reviews from other customers sharing their sizing experiences for a specific dress. Additionally, consider buying from retailers with hassle-free return policies, should adjustments need to be made.

What should I look for in terms of fabric and quality when choosing a short formal dress?

  • Choose dresses made from high-quality fabrics like silk, satin, lace, or chiffon for a luxurious feel and appearance.
  • Ensure the dress has well-constructed seams and zippers, and pay attention to the quality of stitching to ensure it will last through multiple wears.
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How can I accessorize a short formal dress?

  • Consider wearing matching heels or strappy sandals to elongate your legs and elevate the look of the dress.
  • Add statement jewelry like bold earrings or a necklace to draw attention to your neckline and face
  • Carry a clutch or small purse that complements the colors and style of your dress.
  • Consider wearing a shawl or bolero in case the event you are attending has a chilly air conditioning system or if the venue is outdoors.

How should I care for and store my short formal dress?

To maintain the quality of your short formal dress, always follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. In general, silk and satin dresses should be dry cleaned, while other fabrics may be hand-washed or machine-washed on a gentle cycle. Store your dress in a breathable garment bag or wrapped in acid-free tissue paper to prevent yellowing or fabric damage. Avoid hanging silk or satin dresses for long periods, as they may stretch over time.

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