Negosentro.com | Everything You Need to Know About Cocktail Dresses | So, you finally got the invite to the event that will allow you to network and launch off into the life of your dreams. Then, you realize they are expecting something more than you arriving with an appetite and visions of the open bar hanging around the stars in your eyes.
When you receive an invitation with a specific dress code and you start to question everything about your wardrobe, we’re here to help. Business casual? You rock that everyday. Black tie? A little much, but leaves no question. Cocktail attire? 911? Yes, we have an emergency.
One Hour Party?
Usually a cocktail party is situated before another planned event. Your inner college student might identify it with a “pregame” situation. Oftentimes they will hold a cocktail hour before dinner is served, either by the hosts or at another event all will be attending. Regardless of the specifics, it’s primary function serves to get the social juices flowing.
Make sure whatever you choose to wear (including footwear) is going to be comfortable for you to stand, walk, and sit in long after cocktail hour has ended. You don’t want a wardrobe malfunction to be the reason you didn’t get to meet the cutie the host was hoping to introduce you to.
LBD
The little black dress is the personification of cocktail attire. It is considered a mandatory staple in most women’s wardrobes because of its versatility and appropriateness in nearly all party situations. Hitting just above the knee and typically body hugging, it can be paired with shoes and accessories of all kinds. You can be bold or subtle. You can rock that extravagant necklace or you can let your dress do the talking.
Dress Don’t Guess
For most cocktail parties, any cocktail dress you feel comfortable and a little sexy in, is going to go over famously. Think of the hosts and how they present themselves at similar affairs. If they tend to be flashy, feel free to go a little bolder, they will love it! If they are more conservative, you might consider wearing a longer pencil skirt and cute blouse.
Just because it says cocktail attire, doesn’t mean you have to wear a dress. Anything that looks smart, without being stuffy, should fit the bill. Well matched separates or even a stylish jumpsuit can make you stand out without overdoing it.
Devilish Details
When choosing your dress or other stylish clothing, there are a few important details to keep in mind. The fabric and cut of the dress, the event timing, location and purpose can all help you decide between an appropriate outfit and an outstanding one.
First, consider the fabric and cut of the garment. Some people exude confidence in a clingy little black dress. Others may opt for a more flowy, wrap neckline. Unless it’s specified “garden cocktail” or you know the location is outdoors, it’s usually best to steer clear of cotton and other leisurely fabrics, like linen. The fabric of garment is a not so subtle indication of its appropriateness. Velvet (crushed or otherwise) is a bold, yet stylish, choice for the winter holiday season, but not appropriate for a springtime or summer soiree.
As you can see, the location and timing of the event will be as important a consideration as any other. A cocktail party in the winter indoors, will not require anything special, apart from a warm coat that will be ditched upon arrival anyway. A cocktail hour before a company dinner might be more conservative than a cocktail hour before a wedding reception.
When choosing a cocktail staple, pick a dress you can wear to two parties in a row with different eye catching jewelry, scarves or jaw dropping makeup, and no one would notice. Classic cocktail attire is almost always appropriate and never out of style. Matching the appropriate accessories and makeup will make this your go-to outfit.
