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If you’re looking for a new short dress to wear to a formal occasion, look no further because we rounded up the most fabulous frocks. When it comes to formal occasions there are two ways you can go – a long dress or a short dress. If you want to show some leg, then a short dress is a perfect choice, and below, we rounded up some fabulous options that you will love.
Short formal dresses come in all different shapes, sizes, and colors which is why we did the honors of picking out some of our favorite dresses that come in a variety of styles.
From halter-neck dresses to V-necks, sleeveless, off-the-shoulder, and more – we rounded up all of our top picks that come in tons of different colors and you can see them all when you click through our list below. No matter what body type or style you have, you will be sure to find a dress you love!
Detailing the Leading Short Formal Dresses in 2024
Knitee Deep-V Neck Ruffle Formal Dress — Best Overall
We are obsessed with this simple but sexy midi dress! The wrap dress has a plunging V-neckline and flattering ruffled caplet sleeves. The frock is fitted and cinched in at the waist which adds some definition and makes it super flattering. On the pencil skirt is one decorative ruffle that leads to a thigh-high slit on the side of the leg. The best part is, the dress is available in 12 different colors so there’s something for everyone!
FAIRY COUPLE Halter Hi-Lo Floral Lace Dress — Runner Up
Available in a whopping 33 colors, you cannot go wrong with this short formal dress. It is sleeveless and has a halter neckline with a subtle keyhole cutout at the chest. It’s cinched in at the waist and flows into a pleated flowy high-low skirt that is shorter in the front and longer in the back. The lace material makes this dress fancier and it comes in a ton of fabulous colors.
MISSMAY Vintage Floral Lace Dress — Honorable Mention
This is the most flattering and feminine dress. It has a lace off-the-shoulder neckline with short sleeves that end in the middle of the arms. The fit-and-flare dress has a tight bodice and a cinched-in waist but flows into a flowy pleated skater skirt. The skirt has a lace overlay on top and a sheer hem that adds some definition to the frock. Even better, the dress is available in 21 colors.
HOMEYEE Sleeveless Cocktail Dress — Contender
This sleeveless dress is unbelievably flattering as it has a tight, high-neck bodice and a cinched-in waist that is accentuated with a thick lace belt. The dress has a gorgeous silhouette that hugs your figure in all the right spots and below the waist, the skirt flows into a flowy A-line skirt. The dress is available in 23 stunning different colors and patterns.
Alicepub Halter Chiffon Formal Party Dress — Also Consider
Available in 44 colors, you cannot go wrong with this classic formal dress. The sleeveless frock has a halter neckline which is fastened with thin spaghetti straps and the bodice is fitted with a crisis cross ruched chiffon fabric. The waist is cinched-in to add some definition while the rest of the dress flows down into a loose-fitting straight skirt that has layered chiffon pieces.
Buying Guide: Short Formal Dresses
How to Choose a Short Formal Dress
Here is a list of things you need to keep in mind when shopping for a short formal dress.
Occasion
The first and foremost thing to consider is the type of event you are buying this dress for. If you have to attend a formal event like a banquet, then a short dress might not be the perfect fit. However, a short formal dress might make you look and feel glamorous for events like fine dining. Most people are also breaking barriers by wearing shorter dresses at their own weddings.
Budget
The second thing that you need to consider is your personal budget. Luckily short formal dresses are available in all kinds of price ranges so you can find your perfect dress in a reasonable range. When deciding on a budget, you look for factors like how long you plan to use it and the number of events that can be attended in a particular short formal dress.
The budget does not mean that you are up for a cheaper quality product. Go for something that fits comfortably and also makes your body look stunning. Some people also buy the fabric and get their designs stitched. However, this technique is helpful if you know how stitching works.
Style
There are plenty of options for short formal dresses, from bandage dresses to bodycon and mini dresses out there. The dress you pick should complement your body type and complexion. Since formal short dresses are worn at high-end, classy events, you must go for something you feel confident in. Don’t forget to leave room for accessories.
Color
The color of your short body dress should complement the time of the event. For instance, women prefer wearing darker colors like black, maroon, and navy blue for nighttime events. However, you can opt for lighter colors like pink, sky blue, and white during the day. The color combination you choose makes or breaks your look at the party. It is essential to choose outfits that go with the theme of the event.
Body shape
Your body shape is an essential consideration when buying a short formal dress. If you have a strawberry-shaped body, it is necessary to go with deeper cleavage but fewer embellishments on the top of your dress. On the other hand, women with pear-shaped bodies can go for A-line dresses.
Why Do Most People Choose Short Formal Dresses?
Short formal dresses have been quite a talk of the town for the following reasons.
Comfortable feel
A full-length formal dress can be uncomfortable for some people because of restricted movements. However, when it comes to shorter formal dresses, you can be mobile throughout the event without worrying about tripping over your dress. This comfortable feel guarantees confidence and helps you improve your personality and look for the day.
Cost-effective
Whether you are going for a dress with sequins, or something minimalistic and super particular, short formal dresses use less fabric and decorations. This means they are more budget-friendly and do not cost as much as their larger counterparts. For example, if you go in a short formal dress for your wedding, you can spend the same money on other things like the honeymoon or food.
Versatile
Like long dresses, short formal dresses can be paired up with accessories and clothing to make a whole new look. For example, pairing your body con dress with a leather jacket and skin-tight jeans might make it a perfect option for a girls' night out. The same dress can be worn with stockings and a pair of stunning heels for your next formal dinner.
Plus size convenience
Plus-size women might find it hard to fit in longer and tighter dresses. This is because their body requires more room when moving. However, you do not have a restricted motion with shorter dresses, which allows you to change your position comfortably. These dresses are also available in different sizes, so you can pick something convenient to make your body look attractive.
What Are the Types of Short Formal Dresses?
Let’s discuss the most common type of short formal dress suitable for different body types and events.
Baby doll
An all-time classic baby doll dress just falls above your knees. It has a loose finish that does not enhance your body type. Baby doll dresses have long sleeves and a high neckline. They are perfect for different semi-formal events. A baby doll dress is designed to make your legs look prominent. Therefore if you have issues showing off your figure, this might be the perfect dress for you.
Bandage
A bandage dress has a figure-hugging finish that makes your body shape look prominent. These dresses look the most flattering on women with an hourglass figure. Bandage dresses were designed to be knee-length or shorter. The longer lengths make it harder for people to move. Additionally, they have a cleavage-enhancing neckline, so you need to go with a suitable bra.
Blazer
Designed to look like a coat, these dresses are mainly worn at work-related events. A blazer dress comes with buttoned finishing in the front and a typical V Neckline. they also come to your knees and have a tighter finish.
Bodycon
Bodycon dresses have a form-fitting design. They hug your figure and make it look prominent. Although a body con dress can be made in any fabric, most women prefer flexible and stretchy material.
Mini
A mini dress is very short and finishes a little beneath your hips. It is available in tight and loose versions. However, most women prefer wearing it at events like cocktail parties and nightclubs where a lot of drinking and fun is involved.
Slip
Slip dresses are made from lightweight garments like satin and silk. They have spaghetti straps and come with lightly embellished lace for a close-fitting.
When to Wear a Short Formal Dress
Typically short formal dresses are perfect for dinners, cocktail parties, and work-related events. However, in recent times women are breaking barriers to dressing. This has led to short formal dresses becoming popular in events like weddings. You can wear a short formal dress in any event, but it is essential to stick to the theme and find something fitting for your figure.
Conclusion
Short formal dresses are a hot commodity among females who go out a lot. They are worn at different events like parties and weddings. You can find a perfect dress that enhances your body type and makes you feel confident. We have reviewed the top short formal dresses in 2022 to complement your body and personality.
