Imagine this: You’ve been invited to a wedding or get-together with friends, and the host requests cocktail attire as the dress code. Where do you start from in nailing your outfit?
Not knowing what to wear is one thing. But having a strict dress code splashed across an invite as you rummage your wardrobe for an outfit is another hassle. While the cocktail style of dress may be popular, not everyone knows exactly what it means. You may already be familiar with the term but aren’t sure which garments fit into the aesthetic. And that’s okay.
Below, we explore cocktail outfits for people, with styling tips and additional considerations to remember.
What is a Cocktail Attire?
Cocktail attire is a semi-formal dress code typically worn for evening and late afternoon events such as weddings, galas, high-end dinners, receptions, and cocktail parties. It is a step higher than business casual but not as formal or fancy as black-tie attire.
In other words, this type of outfit falls somewhere between casual and black tie. It often features evening wear made with luxurious fabrics. The goal is to look sophisticated and put together while still maintaining a strong sense of style.
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Brief History of Cocktail Attire
This dress code was first popular in the 1920s. Back then, U.S. women began participating in public social activities. They wanted to embrace their individuality while freeing themselves from the confining gender stereotypes of the Edwardian era.
During this period, women donned elaborate pieces such as long skirts, corsets, and layers. In the next decade, dress styles switched to shorter hemlines and looser silhouettes, though they retained the same level of embellishment and detailing.
French couturiers like Chanel and Schiaparelli, who had an American clientele base, adopted cocktail outfits. They dressed hostesses of private, high-class cocktail events in lush, loungy attire. Similarly, Hollywood movies starring Mae West and Greta Garbo popularized these looks.
However, it wasn’t until decades later that Christian Dior made the name itself famous. As written on the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s website:
“Christian Dior was the first to name the early evening frock a ‘cocktail’ dress in the late 1940s, and in doing so allowed magazines, department stores, and rival Parisian and American designers to promote fashion with cocktail-specific terminology.”
The designer also released a collection titled ‘New Look‘, which introduced a generation of versatile styles, featuring dresses with cinched waistlines and voluminous skirts.
Fast-forward to the 1950s, cocktail dresses were made of satin, black taffeta, and chiffon fabrics often stayed at mid-calf length. A classic example is Audrey Hepburn’s party look in Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
However, toward the second half of the 20th century, new trends emerged as young people began to imbibe more freedom of expression in their dressing. For instance, women’s cocktail dresses in the ’60s incorporated Mod styles. It became acceptable for women to wear a dressy suit to cocktail events. After a while, cocktail parties included various events, and the dress codes became diverse.
Why You Should Follow a Cocktail Dress Code
Dress codes can be confusing, especially when they sound or look similar. But it’s worthwhile to know the basics of each, in this case, cocktail attire.
First, it shows you respect the host and the occasion. Furthermore, it makes you feel confident, knowing you’re neither underdressed nor overdressed for the occasion. Above all, it ensures you fit into the ambiance without feeling out of place when hanging around other guests.
Cocktail Attire for Women
Cocktail ensembles vary, depending on the event, the hosts, and the season of year. Typically, women can wear either separates or one-piece clothing like dresses or jumpsuits.
Dresses
Wear well-fitted, tailored styles that stay around your knees to your ankles. Some flattering cocktail silhouettes include sheath, A-line, empire, ruching, wrap, and slip. You can also wear a jumpsuit that frames your figure properly. However, you’re welcome to try other options so long as they’re polished and elegant.
Separates
Opt for either pants or a skirt and a complementary top. For example, pair your pants with a dressy silk top. You can also try on wide-leg pants or a midi skirt and a top with a more sophisticated silhouette. Then, layer with a blazer. When styling separates as cocktail attire, use your tops or bottoms to make a style statement like a bold color or a print.
Shoes
Cocktail parties work best with heels. They give you that extra height that amps your confidence and creates the illusion of longer legs. But remember, comfort is key. So, go for heels you can strut in all night long without sacrificing your comfort for style. Examples include pumps, kitten heels, open-toes, or dressed-up flats.
Accessories
Jazz up your cocktail attire with accessories that instantly transform and elevate your look. When choosing these add-ons, consider the neckline of your dress for necklaces and your hairstyle for earrings.
For example, drop earrings pair great with ponytails or updos, and shorter necklaces are an excellent complement for off-the-shoulder necklines. Furthermore, consider handbags like a clutch, minaudière, or even a Birkin bag.
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Cocktail Attire for Men
Wear these elements for the perfect put-together masculine look:
Blazer
A well-tailored blazer in neutral colours like black, white, navy, greige, taupe, brown, beige, charcoal, etc., is appropriate. It serves as the basis of your outfit.
Dress Shirts
A crisp white, long-sleeved collared shirt always comes in handy for men’s cocktail attire. Don it underneath your blazer and achieve that polished look. If you don’t want a white shirt, wear other solid colors or try patterns.
Tailored Pants
Pair your shirt and blazer with well-fitted chinos or dress pants tailored to your body shape. Also, ensure the color of your pants complements or beautifully contrasts your blazer. For example, a pair of navy pants and a navy blazer or a charcoal blazer and a pair of black pants.
Accessories
Elevate your attire by adding finishing touches with accessories such as a belt, tie, socks, pocket squares, wristwatch, handkerchief, etc. They punctuate your outfit and add more flair to your look.
Shoes for Men’s Cocktail Attire
Dress shoes are necessary during events like this. They add a suave touch to your look, transforming you into a sleek man. So, depending on the formality of the event and the time of the year, complete your cocktail attire with shoes like brogues, Oxfords, monk-straps, Chelsea boots, loafers, etc.
Do’s and Don’ts of Cocktail Attire
- Keep your outfits dressy, not casual. Therefore, denim, tank tops, maxi skirts or dresses, and casual flats are a no-no.
- Avoid mini dresses, plunging necklines, super tight-fitting clothes, and sheer outfits. Cocktails are semi-formal, so don’t show too much skin.
- Add details and accents like embellishments, sequins, or accessories to your look. They take your outfit from plain to glam.
- Shun fabrics like cotton, spandex, and linen, and instead, wear lush fabrics like silk, satin, velvet, or beading. They give you a sophisticated look.
- Follow your host’s specifications. For example, if they say the dress code is all-black cocktail, adhere to it.
- For a spring or summer wedding, patterns like florals are welcome.
Hosts may sometimes specify other dress code requirements, such as a color theme or restrictions. You have to honor their requests and wear what they want whether or not they’re in line with the regular cocktail specs.
Cocktail attire is a go-to option for many formal events as it seamlessly blends formal wear with casual bits. Follow the tips above and be free to dress up a little more than usual while prioritizing your personal style.
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