These Cocktail Dresses Are the Only Ones You'll Wear for Fall Events

There’s a rather stark difference in the formal wear you’d style for summer gatherings versus fall functions. To prepare for weddings, parties and other events you have on the calendar, you have to check out the flattering cocktail dresses available on Amazon — yes, really! To sweeten the deal, we focused on dresses that are under $50. This list is proof that you can snag a new elevated dress at a great price . . . so you’re not wearing the same one over and over.

Cocktail dresses typically go to the knee or past it, but we threw in varying lengths so you could find one you love. Many of these these autumn-geared picks feature long sleeves, come in a fall-friendly colors and are made with heavy-ish materials to get you ready for the cooler weather ahead.

18 Cocktail Dresses for Every Fall Event — All Under $50

1. Our Favorite: You’ll be dressed up on a budget in this under-$40 one-shoulder dress that has a defined waistline and center slit.

2. Magical Metallic: You can’t go wrong with a little bit of shine, and this elbow-length dress has metallic stars all over for a formal feel.

3. Feathered Friend: This simple black dress gets an immediate upgrade when you look at the removable feathered cuffs that add a little extra glam.

4. Pretty Pleats: The top half of this sleeveless cocktail dress is a simple halter, however, the bow-tie belt cinches at the waist, giving it a pleated skirt-like appearance.

5. Sweet Sequins: Add sparkle in an elegant way with this sequined slit-sleeve dress that’s available in 20 colors and seven sizes.

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6. Must-Have Mock Neck: This no-frills dress is anything but boring. It has a draped mock neck, defined waist and clean satin-like fabric for a polished midi option.

7. Easily Asymmetrical: This short-sleeve dress looks good on everyone because it has a soft V-neck, cinched-in waist and cool asymmetrical skirt that moves with you when you dance.

8. Satin Slay: The satin-like material on this short sleeveless dress gives it a more dressed-up appearance. Yep, it’s the perfect excuse to break out your shiny accessories.

9. Hot Halter: Don’t overthink it, and go for this simple halter dress that has a forgiving midsection and comes in 30 colors and patterns.

10. Ruched Velvet: The fabric gives ‘fall,’ but the sleeveless design gives summer vibes, making this bodycon cocktail dress ideal for this time of year.

11. Plus-Size Find: Available in sizes 14 to 26, this long-sleeve chiffon dress has a sweetheart neckline and silhouette that skims the body.

12. Vintage Feel: Looking for a classic pick that can carry over with you into the holidays? This formal velvet dress has an A-line silhouette that makes it straight-up party material.

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13. Sultry and Sleeveless: This just might be the most versatile option of the bunch; the sleeveless high-low dress has a simple design with super-flattering ruching at the waist.

14. Delightful Drapes: Despite being long for a cocktail dress, we know the focus will be on the top half. That’s because this A-line pick has a draped chest design and sleeves that stops at the defined waistline.

15. Lacy Lady: For under $40, you get an adorable knee-length dress that has a fully lace top and ruffled skirt for compliments galore.

16. Sexy Spaghetti: The all-over floral pattern on this spaghetti strap dress is a similar color as the base, so it looks more elegant.

17. Sassy Satin: Ideal for a wedding, this satin-like cocktail dress has a sweetheart neckline, cutout back and flutter sleeves, giving it a lovely feminine feel.

18. Lovely High-Low: The criss-cross halter neck automatically draws interest, but the high-low hemline, defined waist and bold color options make this affordable cocktail dress a no-brainer.

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