Food, music, dance, and alcohol; a cocktail party is a classy informal or semi-formal gathering among friends or business associates. The best part about the night is to adorn a dazzling outfit and throw sass around like confetti.
The dress code for this party is a little tricky to navigate, but women should remember that cocktail dresses are appropriate attire.
But what exactly does the term “cocktail dresses” mean, and how should you wear them? If you’re new to this dress code but excited to flaunt a glam statement, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered!
Here’s your go-to guide for getting ready for a cocktail party and making a splash.
WHAT IS COCKTAIL ATTIRE?
Cocktail attire is the *one* that is suitable for semi-formal occasions. It is a balance between formal and casual and elegant and comfortable.
As a rule of thumb, women should stay away from maxi and mini dresses and look for something in between. A knee-length dress is the most appropriate style for a cocktail night. Although, you can go for mini cocktail dresses if the party is super casual or informal.
Not to mention – cocktail attire isn’t just limited to dresses – jumpsuits, dressy pantsuits, blazers, skirts, and blouses are also in. They’re great alternatives for women who are not into feminine dresses.
COCKTAIL ATTIRE: DO’S & DON’TS
While the dress code for a cocktail party is fun and dazzling, there are certain guidelines to keep in mind. Take a look here!
DO: Dress For The Body Shape
The key to looking flawlessly stunning is to dress for the body shape. Choose the silhouette that accentuates your best features and camouflages your flaws.
For example, if you have an hourglass figure (lucky you!), a body-hugging dress, such as a sheath, mermaid, or trumpet, will help highlight your defined waist.
On the other hand, if you’re plus-size or apple-shaped, you can balance out your proportions in an a-line dress. It is fitted to the waist and then flares out gradually to the hem. The magic in the a-line silhouette is that it minimizes the midsection, hips, and thighs, creating an illusion of a slimmer look.
Some of the other flattering cocktail & party dress styles for plus-size women include fit & flare, empire waist, wrap dresses, and one with a plunging v-neck.
DON’T: Show Too Much Skin
A gentle reminder: the cocktail party is different from a girls’ night out. It is a semi-formal social gathering; thus, it’s inappropriate to flaunt the flashes of your bra, bralette, or cleavage.
If you’re going for a little revealing detail, such as spaghetti straps, off-shoulder neckline, one-shoulder sleeve, open back, or slit, make sure to balance the look. Keep the rest of the parts covered to avoid looking shabby and superfluous.
DO: Play Up With Details
A little black dress (LBD) is the most sought-after cocktail dress for women. But if you wish to stand out from the crowd, playing up with details is always an option.
From timeless ruffles and pleats to trending sequins, beads, fringes, and rhinestones – choose what best vibes your personality.
DON’T: Wear Jeans
We don’t doubt your love for jeans, but if you are wearing it to a cocktail party, you will certainly look underdressed.
Rather, attempt jumpsuits, sleek trousers, or sassy pantsuits. They look super stylish if you pair them with statement accessories and carry them with confidence.
DO: Accessorize
Accessories are girls’ BFF and certainly a key for them to take their style game up a notch.
To look perfectly balanced with your accessories, go for one statement piece at a time. For example, just a pair of hoop earrings with an embellished women’s cocktail dress or a layered necklace with a plain dress is sufficient to upgrade the vibe.
Avoid going too matchy-matchy, as it is so outdated and looks tacky.
COCKTAIL ATTIRE: TRENDING IDEAS
Now that you know about the appropriate women’s cocktail dress style and how to wear the ONE, have a sneak peek into the top trending ideas to create a fashion-forward look for the glam night.
1. Bell Sleeves
It’s 2022, the year to have fun with your sleeves. Long bell sleeves are the most popular choice for casual and special occasions, as they add an ideal amount of flounce to the outfit. They look most impeccable with form-fitting silhouettes, such as a sheath.
2. Strappy Sequin Dress
Sequins are having a big moment this year. From runways and red carpets to the streets, you can see fashionistas flaunting their glamorous side in sequin dresses.
A strappy knee-length sequin dress is one of the trendiest of them all. It can be your go-to cocktail & party dress, especially if you wish to create a bold statement for the big night.
3. Long Sleeve Monotone Dress
An exclusive and effortless way to enhance your elegance is to wear a long sleeve monotone dress. When paired with statement accessories, it’ll look super chic for the cocktail night.
4. One-Shoulder Jumpsuit
Stand out from the crowd in an avant-garde one-shoulder jumpsuit. Whether simple or accessorized, it is sure going to make you a showstopper.
There you have it – all the details to dressing up dazzling for a cocktail party. If you’re already excited to strike a unique impression among the crowd, wait no more, and start shopping for a trendy cocktail dress now. Make sure to add a touch of smile and confidence in the end to wow everyone.
Charm up for the cocktail night!
