Difference between prom dress and cocktail dress?

1- Formality-

Prom Dress: Usually more formal, often floor-length, with luxurious fabrics like satin, tulle, or chiffon. These dresses are meant for special events like proms, galas, or formal dinners.
Cocktail Dress: Typically shorter, usually knee-length or above, and designed for semi-formal or casual events like cocktail parties, evening outings, or less formal gatherings.
2- Style-

Prom Dress: Often more elaborate, with intricate detailing like beads, sequins, lace, or layers. Prom dresses are designed to make a bold statement, sometimes resembling ballgowns or A-line styles.
Cocktail Dress: More streamlined and simple, focusing on elegance and versatility. The styles are usually more fitted, less voluminous, and designed to be sophisticated yet understated.
3- Occasion-

Prom Dress: Worn to formal events such as high school proms or formal evening events. These dresses often have a youthful and glamorous vibe.
Cocktail Dress: Worn to semi-formal events, cocktail parties, or evening functions. They tend to have a chic, timeless appeal that can be worn on multiple occasions.