Yahoo Lifestyle A full explainer of what 'cocktail attire' actually means
Let's cut to the chase: dress codes are hard to follow. After all, there are SO. MANY. of them. From black and white tie to whatever smart-casual actually means, it's kinda impossible to get to grips with them all. Thankfully, some are more common than others – meaning more people know the rules behind them. One definitely worth remembering? Cocktail attire.
Whether you're headed to a wedding (and it can be hard to pick a wedding guest outfit at the best of times) or have plans to attend a swanky party, the cocktail attire dress code comes up pretty often. Essentially, when you see this written on an invitation, it means you should dress in relatively formal clothing – but not too formal. It's kind of an in-between place. Think: mini and midi dresses (and even jumpsuits) that are chic and polished, suiting that's a bit more tailored and footwear that feels elevated (literally, if you're wearing heels). It's the perfect combination of elegant and comfortable.
To give you a better idea of what this entails, keep scrolling for the dos and don'ts of cocktail attire for women, along with ways to shop 'fits that are totally appropriate for this particular dress code.
Skip the floor-length ballgown
Instead, save those for a black-tie event and opt for a dress that has a mini or midi length. This allows you to be a little bit more casual without skimping on style. Top tip: sometimes, when you add a sky-high pair of heels, a dress can appear even shorter.
For your own comfort (and the sake of the dress code), peek in the mirror to double-check the look of the length. We love micro mini dresses around here, but for weddings or more formal events, it's usually better to stick to mid-thigh hemlines or longer.
Jeans are a no-go
Chic trousers, on the other hand, make for a great 'fit. You can pair them with a simple, sleek blouse, a flirty top, or a classic shirt and blazer (if you want to go full suit). Wide-leg trousers can work just as well as ultra-tailored ones here, it all depends on your styling.
Avoid athleisure
We get it – you wanna be comfy. But there are plenty of non-leggings ways to ensure you're feeling great while also adhering to a cocktail attire dress code. Meet your new BFF: the jumpsuit. A dressier jumpsuit gives you the comfort you want (hi, trousers) without making you look too casual.
Trainers? Let's not
Of course, slipping into a pair of trainers is a great feeling. When the dress code is cocktail attire, though, it's best to swap them out for something a little more formal. A go-to is a classic pair of heels or a dressy flat (for those who want extra comfort). Whether you keep it simple or opt for something trendy and statement-making, your footwear should complement whatever you're wearing – and make your 'fit look even more fab.
Leave the graphic tees at home
Casual tops are likely not gonna fly at a cocktail party. Sure, a T-shirt tucked into trousers might look formal enough for some offices, but this particular dress code is a bit stricter on that front. Instead of a tee, try a cool one-shoulder blouse or a flowy shirt paired with trousers or a cute skirt.
Don't be afraid to make a statement
How many opportunities do you have to wear sequins, statement-making florals, or big bows? Cocktail attire gives you license to go super trendy or a bit bolder than you would for every day. From bright colours to fun cut-outs – live your best cocktail party dreams.
Remember though that cocktail attire is, in a word, chic. So don't pack all the trends on at once. The art of turning heads without making people double-take is practically a science. When in doubt, silky fabrics paired with bold accents will be your best bet.
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