What Is Cocktail Attire? Stylists Crack the Cocktail Dress Code for Us

You get an invitation to attend a fun shindig, and the dress code wording toward the bottom says something like “cocktail attire preferred.” Naturally, this calls for a cocktail dress. But what are cocktail dresses, and how are they different from every other type of dress out there? Read through our quick guide to ensure you show up appropriately dolled up for whatever event you’ve got penciled into your cal. 

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What Are Cocktail Dresses? 

Cocktail dresses are shorter, semi-formal dresses that typically range from mini skirt length to just below the knee. Traditionally, cocktail dresses embraced a sort of understated elegance, but today’s version can range from fun and flirty to sophisticated and elegant to unapologetic sensuality. On the spectrum of attire, cocktail dresses aren’t quite as casual as summer dresses, but they’re also not as fancy as evening gowns. 

“Summer dresses are truly casual meant for wearing at the beach, a walk in the park, casual lunch with friends, or staying cool while out shopping—a casual moment in which you want something lightweight and airy,” says luxury clothing designer Tess Mann of Tess Mann Atelier. “Formal gowns are specifically used for black tie affairs—special events in the evening, where they received their nickname ‘evening gown.’” 

In that sense, cocktail dresses are more refined compared to casual dresses, often featuring finer fabrics, beautiful embellishments, and more tailored fits. Evening gowns take this up another notch with highly intricate detailing, a more structured silhouette, and often much longer hemlines. 

Where to Wear Cocktail Dresses 

While the name “cocktail dress” implies this garment is intended for happy hour, you can wear it anywhere that “cocktail attire” is recommended or preferred. 

“Cocktail dresses are superbly versatile and can be seen during fine dining, a wedding, a semi-formal party, company dinners, fundraisers, attending fashion shows, or enjoying live shows,” Mann says. “Many cocktail dresses can even be worn at more formal events with the correct material choice, style of dress, and the appropriate accessories.” 

Expert Tips for Styling Cocktail Dresses 

Planning to wear a cocktail dress in the near future? Follow these expert styling tips. 

• Add Luxe Accessories: “Even the most simplistic of cocktail dresses can be made more glamorous with a beautifully beaded belt, your favorite jewelry, purse, or clutch,” Mann says. 
• Choose Complementary Footwear: There are no hard rules, but often some variation of a heeled shoe looks best with a cocktail dress. Consider a pointed pump, a block-heel sandal, or a kitten heel for some extra oomph. 
• Consider Hair and Makeup: A little extra finesse when it comes to hair and makeup goes a long way when styling a cocktail dress. Opt for a sleek updo or low chignon or wear your hair in soft waves. Don’t shy away from glamor when doing your makeup.
• Layer With a Jacket: Layers are your friend, especially during events that go from day to night. “It’s not uncommon to wear a beautiful beaded crop jacket with that very special little black dress,” Mann says. You can also try a beautiful shawl, wrap, bolero, or cape.