Cocktail attire is less formal than formal attire but not too casual. Men should wear a dark suit or slacks and sport coat, while women can wear a cocktail dress or nice top and skirt. Shoes should be professional-looking leather lace-ups or loafers, and jewelry should be kept to a minimum. It’s important to consider the context of the event and choose an outfit that fits well and feels comfortable.
Cocktail attire is generally described as less formal than formal attire, but not too casual. Similar to, but generally slightly less formal than semi-formal attire, it generally means a dark suit or slacks and sport coat for men, and a cocktail dress or nice top and skirt for women. What is appropriate to wear when an invitation calls for cocktail attire can vary by location and event; The most important element is that the outfit fits you well and looks good.
male clothing
For men, the definition of cocktail attire is relatively simple, although there is room for variation. A dark suit or well-pressed slacks, sport coat, and crisp dress shirt and tie suffice for most occasions. For less formal events, a man may not wear a jacket, or alternatively wear a suit without a tie. It’s usually a good idea to carry both, however, just in case they’re needed.
Cocktail attire is typically requested for events like weddings or celebrations, so there is room for personality. A sweater or sweater vest may be worn over the dress shirt, with or without the jacket. Some style experts suggest that dark jeans, without holes or other obvious wear, may be acceptable, depending on the context. If you wear jeans, you should also wear a jacket.
Small details can greatly affect the perception of how well a man is dressed. Shoes should be professional-looking leather lace-ups or loafers, and should be polished. A beautiful set of cufflinks and a stylish watch could complete the look.
women’s clothing
There is more variety in women’s cocktail attire, although there are some standard guidelines. Hems for dresses and skirts are usually relatively short, at or slightly above the knee. Elegant long pants with a silk blouse or cashmere sweater might also be appropriate.
The traditional choice is a cocktail dress. These dresses can range from strapless and statement to a more conservative little black dress, so a woman should be able to find a look that she feels comfortable in. In general, it’s best to choose an outfit that’s more dressy than flashy, and one that’s not too short or too revealing. Again, the context of the event is important, and it’s usually better to be a little conservative than to be too flashy.
Typically, cocktail wear is knee length, although if a woman is wearing a simple straight skirt, longer is acceptable. A skirt and jacket or evening suit can be worn for a cocktail event, especially when paired with an elegant top. Cocktail attire generally suggests fun, so a woman shouldn’t look like she’s going to a business meeting.
Women shoes
Seasonally appropriate high heels or boots can match your cocktail attire. Unless they are going to be a major accent piece, the height and shine of the shoes should be kept to a minimum to allow the focus to be on the elegance and grace of the outfit. Trainers and flip flops are not appropriate for cocktail attire, but elegant sandals or pretty ballet flats can easily fit the look.
jewelry and accessories
There’s room for a little sparkle and shine in cocktail attire, but it’s best to practice moderation. A piece of jewelry that matches the outfit or will stand out can really enhance the look without being flashy; a cocktail ring, a watch or a pair of earrings are all that is really needed. Clutches are often small, such as a clutch, evening bag, or elegant bracelet.
Other considerations
Cocktail attire is often required for dinner parties or happy hour events, or nights that will include a wide range of activities, from dancing to award presentations. Knowing the nature of the event can help a person determine how formal to dress, but it is possible to incorporate some versatility into an outfit; Both men and women can add a jacket to the outfit, for example, which can be removed in less formal situations. Clothing or shoes that are uncomfortable or make the wearer feel self-conscious are usually not a good choice, as they can make it very difficult to enjoy the event.
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