Earlier reserved for the elite and wealthy, designer cocktail dresses are now a staple in every woman’s wardrobe.
Some may consider them as a dress, particularly for cocktail parties. However, cocktail dresses are truly versatile as they can be worn everywhere, including after-work parties, weddings, school reunions, or birthday celebrations, and would still be appropriate.
Cocktail attire as a dress code can sometimes be tricky to interpret, so we are here with a guide for you.
Continue reading the post to understand how to dress comfortably and elegantly in the latest cocktail dresses in the market.
Do’s & Don’ts To Remember
Keep reading to discover quick dos and don’ts of dressing up in designer cocktail dresses:
- Don’t Go Overboard With Skin Show
For any cocktail event, you must not wear something that you wouldn’t want your boss to see you in.
Instead, opt for a neckline or hemline that suits your body type and the gathering of the event you’re supposed to attend.
- Wearing Jeans Is A Big NO NO!
You might successfully dress up yourself for the big cocktail party, but is it worth the risk of being underdressed?
However, it is not essential to go for designer cocktail dresses to look appropriate for the cocktail party – polished trousers can do similar justice to your appeal. Satin trousers with heels are a sleek alternative to dresses.
- Say NO To Big Handbags
It is never a good idea to pair your cocktail outfit with a huge slouchy tote bag that keeps slipping down your shoulder.
Carrying a clutch or a small bag always keeps your look elegant and refined. Sleek and simple is the mantra for pairing your cocktail outfit with a bag.
- Don’t Go Overboard With Statement Jewelry Pieces
As Coco Chanel recommended, always remove an accessory before leaving the house. The best way to pair your outfit with an accessory is to pick a standout item that you really like. Keep your earrings subtle or standout to pull a look together.
- Never Ever Wear Trainers To Cocktail
Anything from flats to kittens and stilettos to block heels can add a little extra lift to your appearance, especially when it comes to formal events. However, sneakers are no-brainers, even if you want to have an overall comfortable cocktail dress.
- Don’t Show Up In A Wrinkled Outfit
No matter what you wear – the color or the material of your dress – wrinkles are always easily visible. They tend to make you look shabby and untidy, even if you are wearing a million-worth dress. Always use a steamer to get rid of the wrinkles quickly.
- Avoid Any Undergarment Mishap
Some might neglect the undergarment thing, but in reality, it is always recommended to go the extra mile to make sure there are no mishaps.
Your bra style, straps, slips or shapewear must be worked out in advance to ensure you come across as polished as you want.
What If There Is No Dress Code On The Invitation?
Although most of the invites have a dress code column. But what do you do if nothing is mentioned about it?
Here are a few ways to figure it out on your own:
- Briefly Inspect The Invitation
For an engraved, letterpress, or embossed-on quality invite, it is most likely that the host has invested time and resources into the event. Thus, you need to show appreciation for their efforts with a dressy gown or cocktail dress.
On the other hand, deciphering a store-bought card can be difficult as they range from extravagance to simplicity, so consider other clues. For E-invites, consider design and wording for hints on appropriate attire.
- Check With The Host
If you can’t decipher anything from the invite, the best way to find out about the dress code is to ask the host. If you are uncomfortable with the same, you can ask your friends who will attend the party and decide on a dress code you can all agree on.
- Be Mindful Of The Theme Of The Event
For attending an annual charity event or gathering organized by an organization, go back in time and look for the photos and documentation online to get an idea of how to dress up.
In the case of a religious ceremony, it is crucial to dress up a little conservatively as a sign of respect.
- Note The Timing
As per a general rule, the parties that are planned to start after 5 p.m. means curating a more elegant look. On the other hand, daytime events tend to be relatively low-key compared to evening cocktail celebrations.
- Analyze The Location
A gathering at someone’s home typically indicates a more relaxed atmosphere than an event at a formal venue. However, if the party is hosted at a catering hall, consider browsing their website or visiting in person to assess its level of formality.
Outdoor parties generally tend to be more casual than indoor functions. Regarding country club events, sundresses are usually more appropriate attire than jeans.
Final Takeaway
No matter what you decide to wear to feel comfortable, it is always advisable to check through the mentioned dressing criteria beforehand.
If you are hellbent on wearing a perfect cocktail dress, check for the latest cocktail dresses before you go on and buy anything.
Hopefully, now you know more about how to dress appropriately for the event and the gathering. You can’t go wrong with the dos and don’ts we have provided for your assistance!
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