Cocktail dresses are shorter in length and are worn by women at cocktail parties. These dresses are also worn on semi-formal and formal occasions. At semi-formal functions, women are dressed up with less elaborate versions of cocktail dress. In the 1960s and early 1970s, cocktail dresses were worn with a tie. However, today, a black tie is only worn with a longer and full-skirted cocktail dress. In the 20th century, the long cocktail dresses were selected as the 'dancing costumes' in some countries. However, these were only suitable for formal dances and not for balls and other white tie affairs; at these occasions, a ball gown was a must.

The cocktail dresses are available in various lengths. The length of the cocktail dress depends on the occasion, the fashion, and the custom. The length of a cocktail dress varies from tea length, which is two inches above the ankle to ballerina length, which touches the ankle. Sometimes, the ballerina length is included in the evening gown category. The most popularly used colors for a cocktail dress are red, pink, black, white, blue, cream, and grey.

Having a cocktail dress is considered to be a necessity by every woman in the West. These dresses are designed according to the occasion, for example, one may put diamonds, accessories, stilettos, and wear it with long gloves to make it look like a formal dress. A suit is often worn over the cocktail dress to make it a formal dress for the business meetings.

A variety of materials such as satin, silk, chiffon, and others are used to make these dresses. The dress is combined with styles and accessories so that it fits to the occasion.