There's something about a mini dress that feels like an invitation to dance the night away. With parties quickly filling up our holiday calendar, dancing is now back on the agenda, and designers have indulged our desire for sparkly, colorful, and spirited mini dresses. From retro-inspired corseted designs to dramatic open-back silhouettes, this season's minis feel modern and exciting.
We researched a range of stylish options suitable for every budget, from Nasty Gal's feather-trimmed white mini to designer Laquan Smith's textured knit number. Whether you'd like to refresh your affordable assortment or splurge on birthday look, these mini dresses will speak to your tastes and pair well with any plan on the agenda.
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Feather-trimmed pieces are having a moment right now, and it's no wonder. This Nasty Gal Feather Trim Square Neck Mini Dress ($18, originally $60) feels like an invitation to party; save it for the next cocktail party or fancy house gathering.
This is the point of the article where we drop our mics, because this Nasty Gal Backless Slinky Cowl Long Sleeve Mini Dress ($18, originally $60) is too hot to handle. The back alone makes a bold and exciting proposition, but everything else about it is flattering.
A fun twist on a traditional LBD, this Jewel Trim Velvet Dress ($90) will lift up anyone's spirt thanks to the festive fabric and sparkly embellishments. It's a gorgeous find.
This Fringed Mini Dress ($50) will be sure to enliven any party, and it'll shine bright under the disco balls. The fringed details add a luxe element, while the silhouette is flirty and fun.
This Fringed Mini Dress ($70) will transport you back to the 1920s with the flapper-style silhouette. The deep blue will look gorgeous on your skin.
This & Other Stories Metallic One-Shoulder Mini Dress ($119) is the way to making a head-turning entrance. The sweetheart neckline and fitted bodice are extremely flattering, giving it plenty of sex appeal.
You'll be among the best dressed people in this Allegra K Spaghetti Strap Mini Party Dress ($37). You cannot not get notice while wearing it.
This all-pink LIKELY Beverly Dress ($85) oozes femininity and confidence. The mini length makes it modern and flirty, while the plunging neckline and fitted bodice dial up the sex appeal.
The side strings of this Nasty Gal Ruched Satin Cowl Mini Dress ($30, originally $99) give it texture, while the satin fabric will likely feel soft to the touch. It will hug your curves nicely.
Consider wearing this slink Cut-out Velour Dress ($30) to a hot date or to the next girls' night out. We love the addition of the rhinestone chains, which dial up the sex appeal.
We have a thing for brown this season, especially if it looks as rich as on this Satin Dress ($70). This mini is ready to party!
This Zeagoo Sequin Mini Dress ($70) makes a festive choice for an office party or a fancy event. Finish with mules or your favorite strappy heels.
This & Other Stories Draped One-Sleeve Mini Dress ($119) oozes effortless elegance and femininity. We love the draped silhouette and dramatic sleeve.
This Laquan Smith Textured-Knit Mini Dress ($1,195) is cut in a winter-friendly material, so it'll provide some dose of warmth and comfort as you navigate the room. The back details amp up the elegance while the sleeveless silhouette gives it plenty of sex appeal.
The great thing about this Satin Dress ($35) is that it's extremely versatile. By day, pair it with tall riding boots and a trench coat for the office, and for the wedding, replace the shoes with heels.
This H&M Sequined Dress ($35) isn't your average black slip dress. With its sparkly fabric and feminine flair, it'll put you at the center of the party.
This Sequin Mini Dress ($70) will shine bright like a diamond, whether on the dance floor or at the dinner table. It features a flattering bodice and eye-catching sequins.
This Reona Halterneck Dress ($135) will look flattering and will make you feel really confident when you slip into it. Paired with a blazer, it makes a powerful statement about who's in charge.
This Sequin Wrap Mini Dress ($179) will boost your mood as soon as you slip into it, whether you wear it for date night or to celebrate a friend. It's a classic party silhouette.
This Fitted Sequin Mini Dress ($179) is the kind that will get you noticed anywhere, whether you're dropping moves on the dance floor or gathering around the table with family members. The curved hem makes it really cool.
This H&M Short Satin Dress ($18) is extremely wearable, sultry, and modern. It also has a low back, which dials up the allure.
This Nué Rhinestone-Detailed One-Shoulder Jersey Mini Dress ($1,070) leaves us speechless — how's that for a daring proposition? It's unexpectedly playful, flirty, and impeccably made. Consider it a splurge-worthy birthday present.
This Rhinestone-detail Cut-out Dress ($25) is made even cooler with the placement of the cutout. We also like the small slit at the hem. It's edgy, effortless, and all-around cool.
This H&M Fitted Dress ($18) is a great match for a cocktail hour or a party that will extend into the morning. It will look flattering on you.
You can't go wrong with a red dress for the holidays. We love that this H&M Jersey Bodycon Dress ($18) comes with cute cutouts; they make it unexpectedly playful.
The length and square neck of this Corduroy Aidy Tiered Mini Dress ($138, plus 40 percent off with code HOLLYJOLLY) make it modern and fun, a good choice if you celebrate Christmas. There's no denying that it oozes a lighthearted femininity and confidence.
Embrace the holiday spirit with this polished and festive Embroidered Corduroy Button-Front Mini Dress ($148, plus 25 percent off with code HOLLYJOLLY). The fabric motifs make it stand out even more.
We like the mesh corset of this Combination Tulle Dress ($50), which oozes confidence and femininity. It's perfect for date night.
This Green Mini Dress ($50) will guarantee a fashionable time. The deep forest hue combined with the silhouette makes it festive and joyful.
This Velvet Mini Dress ($50) makes the perfect day-to-night look, and it's best paired with heels for a guaranteed fun time. The velvet fabric gives it a royal elegance.
Opt for something joyful this season with this Short Sequin Dress ($50). It's modern, pretty, and uplifting.
They say colorful dresses have all the fun, so go for this Sequin Mini Dress ($70). It's guaranteed to turn heads.
If you feel like showing a bit more skin, this Draped Mini Dress ($70) is the way to go. It makes a flattering LBD.
This Buttoned Mini Dress ($50) offers a surprising twist with the asymmetrical button lining. The cutouts definitely dial up the allure.
This Sequin Dress With Fringe ($70) looks inviting; it'll move beautifully as you dance under disco balls. Wear it to ring in the new year.