Are you tired of showing up to events unsure of what to wear? Do dress codes like "cocktail attire" leave you feeling confused and overwhelmed? If so, you're not alone. Many of us struggle with deciphering dress codes, but fear not - help is on the way!

In this new series, I'll be decoding different dress codes and sharing some of my favourite outfit ideas to ensure you always look and feel your best. And what better place to start than with the cocktail dress code? With its popularity on the rise, it's important to know what it entails and how to dress appropriately.

So sit back, relax, and let's dive into the world of cocktail attire. By the end of this series, you'll be a dress code expert and never feel out of place at an event again.

What Exactly Is A Cocktail Dress?

First, let's take a look at the history of the cocktail dress code. It evolved from the lounge suit, which was the formal dress code for both men and women attending parties. Nowadays, the cocktail dress code can be found at various events, including social networking events and certain weddings.

So, what exactly is a cocktail dress code? It falls right in the middle of the dress code spectrum, not as formal as black tie or white tie, but still dressier than business professional attire. It's important to remember that when dressing for a cocktail event, you should aim to dress one notch up from your daily wear. This can be achieved through bold accessories or fancy shoes.

Although there are no strict rules for the cocktail dress code, the time of day, season, occasion, and people attending the event should be taken into consideration when deciding what to wear. For example, a mini cocktail dress may be appropriate for a friend's birthday party, but a professional event may call for a longer dress with a closed neckline.

If you're ever in doubt about the dress code for an event, it's always better to ask the host for clarification. However, if you receive no response or indication of a dress code, assuming it's a cocktail dress code is a safe bet.

Ins And Outs Of The Cocktail Dress Code

When it comes to choosing an outfit for a cocktail dress code, women have a lot of options. Length-wise, you can go for a mini dress or a knee-length dress, but avoid full-floor gowns as those are better suited for black or white tie events. While some people used to argue that mini dresses weren't appropriate for cocktail events, fashion has evolved and now they are welcome, as long as you keep the occasion in mind. You can also experiment with other clothing items like jumpsuits, pantsuits, or skirts and blouses. Just remember to stay one notch above your everyday wear.

When it comes to shoes, pumps are a great choice, but the height and style are up to you. Sandals are also acceptable for a cocktail dress code, as long as they're not sneakers. As for bags, small to medium-sized bags are recommended, and a clutch is a great option that allows you to keep your right hand free for greeting people. When it comes to accessories, anything goes, but keep in mind the occasion and the people who will be there. For example, bold accessories may not be appropriate for a professional event, but they could be perfect for a friend's birthday party.

For men, dress pants with a matching or different jacket or blazer and a shirt of any colour, fitting, or material are appropriate, but shorts and jeans are not. Men also have plenty of options when it comes to their wardrobe, including the colour, fitting, and material of their shirt. Sneakers are not allowed, so dress shoes like oxfords, brogues, monk straps, and derbies are more appropriate. Adding a bow tie or tie can elevate the look for a cocktail dress code wedding.

The time of day, season, and event will determine what to wear for a cocktail dress code. For example, a dark burgundy velvet jacket is perfect for winter, while a white linen jacket works well for summer. When selecting cocktail dresses, it's best to opt for timeless, classic colours like black, white, navy, and red, without bold patterns or seasonal trends. This way, you can wear the dress multiple times and change your look with makeup, hairstyle, and accessories.

Ultimately, the key is to find your unique style and let it speak to your personality. Cocktail dress codes give both men and women the opportunity to experiment with their looks and have fun with fashion! You can check out my video on the topic of Cocktail Dress Code and watch me pick out my top cocktail dresses.