Best Cocktail Attire Guide — Dress Properly to A Cocktail Party

Jake Tse
4 min readOct 21, 2022

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What is Cocktail Attire?

You must have heard about the term “cocktail party” and “cocktail attire”, but what does cocktail attire actually mean? I think most of you would have the same question; and what really upsets you is you don’t know what to wear to a cocktail party. It’s more than a one-size-fits-all dress, it’s about dressing right.

Generally speaking, a cocktail attire, or a cocktail dress, is a knee-length party dress to wear for a cocktail party — semi-formal or formal occasions. Dress code is hard to define, but there are secrets to stay fashion, elegant and suitable. This is of no exception for the cocktail attire. And today we are glad to share with you some tips for a cocktail party and show you where to shop the pieces.

cocktail attire guide for women
Cocktail Attire Guide for Women

Six DOs and DON’Ts of Cocktail Attire for Women

Cocktail party can be very different according to purpose, occasion, host/hostess, season, and so on. So before you go to the party, think over all information you get. Dressing appropriate will save you trouble and it is also a must to show your respect to the host and other guests.

Rule #1:Don’t: Wear Anything Too Exposed
Do: Keep Necklines and Hemlines Appropriate

It’s a cocktail party but not a girl’s night out, so it is better not to be too revealing. Yet you don’t need to cover yourself fully. A midi dress is usually the good idea.

Recommendation 1: VEIISAR Women’s Elegant Cocktail Party Dress

Cocktail Party Dress
Cocktail Party Dress

Recommendation 2: Moyabo Sleeveless V Neck Midi Flared Tank Dress

Cocktail Attire Midi Dress
Rule #2:Don't: Wear Jeans
Do: Wear Sleek Trousers

If you don’t like dress, you can think about dressing up a pair of denim, though it’s not suggested. But avoid jeans because they are just for casual occasions. Polished trousers would be the ideal option as cocktail attire for women.

Recommendation 1: Rekucci Women’s Ease In Stretch Pants

Ease In Stretch Pants for Cocktail Party
Ease In Stretch Pants for Cocktail Party

Recommendation 2: Cemi Ceri Women’s J2 Love Flowing Palazzo Pants

Flowing Palazzo Pants for Cocktail Attire
Flowing Palazzo Pants for Cocktail Attire
Rule #3:Don't: Wear Too Many Statement Accessories
Do: Choose One Standout Accessory

It’s never a good idea to wear too many accessories to a cocktail party since it’s not to show off. You just need one standout accessory that best describes you. A piece of necklace, bracelet, or a pair of earrings is OK. Of course, it should match your cocktail outfit in style and color.

Recommendation 1: Billie Bijoux Women’s 925 Sterling Silver Bracelet

Sterling Silver Bracelet
Sterling Silver Bracelet

Recommendation 2: Sterling Silver Pressed Flower Teardrop Earrings

Sterling Silver Pressed Flower Teardrop Earrings
Sterling Silver Teardrop Earrings
Rule #4:Don't: Wear Wrinkled Garments
Do: Use a Steamer

Just like what you pay attention to your the outfit for job interview, make sure your cocktail attire is straight without wrinkles. Get rid of the wrinkles with a steamer before putting on the garments.

Recommendation 1: PurSteam Elite Powerful 7–1 Steamer

Clothing Steamer
7–1 Garment Steamer

Recommendation 2: URPOWER Garment Steamer

URPOWER Garment Steamer
URPOWER Garment Steamer
Rule #5:Don't: Use a Large Handbag or Shoulder Bag
Do: Bring a Clutch Bag

It may look quite awkward to have a oversize bag over your shoulder in the cocktail party. A clutch bag in small size can keep your elegance along with the exquisite cocktail party attire. It’s enough to store all your necessary accessories such as keys and lipsticks.

Recommendation 1: ELEOPTION Women Ladies’ Evening Clutch

Ladies’ Evening Clutch
Ladies’ Evening Clutch

Recommendation 2: SCOUT Lightweight Clutch

Lightweight Clutch for Cocktail Party
Lightweight Clutch for Cocktail Party
Rule #6:Don't: Wear Sneakers or Flat Shoes
Do: Wear Heels

A pair of flat shoes might be just acceptable but not suggested. But sneakers are definitely not allowed. The best match to cocktail attire is stilettos, kitten heels, or block heels.

Recommendation 1: DREAM PAIRS Open Toe Pump Heel Sandals

Open Toe Pump Heel Sandals
Open Toe Pump Heel Sandals

Recommendation 2: Honeystore Rhinestone Chunky Heel Sandals

Rhinestone Chunky Heel Sandals
Rhinestone Chunky Heel Sandals

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