Top 10 Affordable Cocktail Dresses

DESIGN DETAILS
Ringing up under $150, this affordable cocktail dress features a one-shoulder neckline with a design accent akin to a tulip sleeve. The silhouette provides a flattering fit thanks to the figure-forming, stretchy fabric—which also means you can probably get away with skipping the shapewear. 

GOOD TO KNOW
Headed to a hot summer wedding? Opt for this dress—reviewers say it's surprisingly breathable.

DESIGN DETAILS
Flattering as can be, this unique satin cocktail dress features a relaxed collar and V-neckline with a ruched wrap-style bodice. It’s available in five different colors, from a striking red to an electric teal, and the tie can be styled into a feminine bow or left to drape down your legs in a dramatic fashion.

GOOD TO KNOW
There’s a hidden side zipper that makes this dress easy to get on and off, and the size range is relatively inclusive with options from XXS to XL. 

DESIGN DETAILS
Sexy and simple, this satin mini cocktail dress is designed to drape along your body effortlessly. At $148, it's a relatively inexpensive cocktail dress—especially considering how versatile it is. Snag it in black, silver, white, or one of the other eight colors it's available in.

WHAT TO LOVE
Show Me Your Mumu took their best-selling maxi dress style and converted it into a mini dress for the summer. That’s the origin story of the Jasmine Halter cocktail dress, and you’ll understand why the original is so popular after one glimpse at the unique criss-cross halter top of this style.

DESIGN DETAILS
Bring the drama with WAYF's Hampton Tiered Midi Dress. Combining a deep V-neckline with shoulder bows, a leg slit, and a slightly-sheer tiered skirt, this style is undeniably a head-turner. 

GOOD TO KNOW
Another reason why this is one of the best party dresses? Somehow it's machine washable.

DESIGN DETAILS
French Connection made this mini dress with wedding season in mind, so if there’s a ceremony on your calendar that you’re lacking an outfit for, this affordable cocktail dress is a safe bet. That’s not to say that it’s not a stunner, though, because, with ruffle sleeves and a fitted bodice, you’re sure to turn some heads as you make your way to the dance floor in this number. 

GOOD TO KNOW
Because this style runs small, Nordstrom recommends ordering a size up from your usual.

DESIGN DETAILS
The perfect example of a versatile cocktail dress, Lulu's Forever Your Girl Bodycon toes the line between simplicity and trendiness. It features a shallow V-neckline, a princess-seamed bodice, and a wrap skirt for a figure-flaunting fit.

GOOD TO KNOW
It's hard to come by a high-quality, inexpensive cocktail dress—especially one that's less than $50. At $48, this style fits the bill. Not to mention, it has over 2,500 5-star reviews and comes in 10 different colors.

DESIGN DETAILS
This unique cocktail dress is a one-shoulder style with ruching all along the bodice and a tulip-style leg slit that shows just enough skin. It’s available in eight different colors, including a steely blue and a champagne gold.

GOOD TO KNOW
According to reviewers, this is a great option for those with a petite frame thanks to the midi-length hem and leg slit.

DESIGN DETAILS
A draped neckline, leg slit, and strappy back infuse effortless sexiness into this satin cocktail dress. In addition to the ultra-feminine Icy Pink version, you can purchase this dress in Sage, Denim, Lime, and Bright Fuschia.

GOOD TO KNOW
Whatever the occasion, the Gaia Dress is down to be your plus one. Equal parts gown and party dress, it doesn't get much better than this affordable cocktail dress with unmatched versatility.

DESIGN DETAILS
This cute cocktail dress has it all: a sexy lace overlay, sheath-style slip, and figure-hugging silhouette—not to mention, 15 different colors to choose from.

GOOD TO KNOW
This is the fifth best-selling cocktail dress on Amazon, and we’ll go ahead and let you know that it also has over 10,000 5-star reviews. 

DESIGN DETAILS
No doubt about it, this midi cocktail dress is super sophisticated. We’d expect nothing less from Reformation, but it’s always nice to see options that offer coverage while still being sexy. And with a crew neckline, cap sleeves, and a high-leg slit, the Frasier Dress is exactly that. 

GOOD TO KNOW
Another aspect of this style that makes it one of the best party dresses available for less than $250 is the flattering placement of the buttons on the bodice. Plus, you can purchase this it in black, cherry red, or green, as well as six additional patterns.