Short Dresses and Mini Dresses For All Occasions

How to Select a Short Dress

When it comes time to select a short dress for your special occasion, there are important things to keep in mind. When choosing a short special-occasion dress it’s best to:

1. Check the Dress Code: Are you attending a school dance? You’ll want to check the school dress code when selecting short prom dresses, short homecoming dresses, and 8th grade formal dresses, to make sure that your hemline isn’t too risky for the occasion. While a slinky mini dress may not get you through the doors there are plenty of short dresses that fall at or below the finger tips that ensure you can where a short dress comfortably. Going to a wedding? Check the invitation for the dress code so you’ll know if you need a short formal cocktail dress, a semi-formal party dress, or a casual short dress.
2. Consider the Venue: If your event does not have a specified dress code, you can get a good idea of what’s appropriate by considering the venue. Generally, the fancier the venue, the fancier the dress. Will you be on the go from one setting to the next? Quickly transition from day to night in a sleeveless short party dress that doubles as a short career dress.
3. Keep the Time of Day in Mind: The basic rule is to stick with short party dresses in lighter colors and simple styles for daytime or more casual events, and leave the classic little black dresses, elegant lace dresses, and bold dark blue cocktail dresses for formal events or parties after dark. For a daytime event, slip into a short v-neck party dress in gleaming satin or a pink mini dress for a pretty and feminine vibe. If you wish to wear a short party dress to a nighttime event, a dark color provides an elegant look and feel. Short cocktail dresses in rich plum, dark navy, or black, as well as short sequined dresses, short formal dresses with beading, and metallic mini dresses, are lovely for evening events.
4. Choose a Flattering Fit: Stick with short party dresses that flatter your figure for a confident and comfortable fit. Explore the possibilities of the classic a-line short dress or chic high-low dress, or go bold with a tight short party dress that hugs the curves. For tips on shopping for your figure, check out the body type page to discover which styles best flatter different body shapes.

When you’re ready to select a short dress for your next special occasion, shop PromGirl for figure-flattering styles that include classic short homecoming dresses, fun and flirty party dresses, or curve-hugging short prom dresses with bold or daring details.