Best Cocktail Dresses For Women In 2022 (All Occasions & Body Types)
From Formal Cocktail Dresses For Weddings To Sexy Cocktail Minis For Any Parties
The cocktail dress code is a semi-formal style for women and men, designed for late-afternoon to early-evening events, social gatherings, and similar occasions.
First introduced in the 1940s, cocktail dresses evolved — in terms of style and function — to match people’s current needs and the changing fashion trends.
With new cuts, hemlines, waistlines, and fabrics, cocktail dresses have undergone several changes in style, aesthetic, and functionality over the last century.
Whereas in the past, cocktail dresses were reserved for swanky late-afternoon drinking, nowadays, this dress code is required at most semi-formal social events.
You can see cocktail dresses at evening festivities, theatre, birthday parties, after-work events, get-together occasions, and even professional settings.
There are cocktail dresses according to the occasion, location, time, and the kind of cocktail event you will attend.
In this article, I’ll break down the main types of cocktail dresses and explain the ideal ones for each event, from formal occasions to the beach and back.
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Best Wedding Cocktail Dresses
BLOOMINGDALE’S
I find it interesting that most women think a little black dress must be the number one choice for a wedding cocktail dress attire.
If you want to stand out from the crowd, opt-in for a super-feminine dress in a light color — highly suitable at any wedding event.
The best materials are silky fabric, lace, or chiffon, made to add an extra charming look and make you feel like a guest of honor at any events, from formal business meetings to daytime weddings.
To finish the look, add a pair of flats and matching accessories for a super stylish vibe apart from the general crowd.
Aqua Red One-Shoulder Long Cocktail Dress
$268
Ralph Lauren Ruffled Off-the-Shoulder Cocktail Dress
$155 $77.50
Eliza J Asymmetric Lace Midi Cocktail Dress
$188
Aqua Sequin Long-Sleeve Cocktail Dress
$248 $74.33
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Best Plus Size Cocktail Dresses
MACY’S
Choosing the right plus-size clothing for your plus-size cocktail dress is trickier as it requires understanding angles, colors, and lighting.
While black is always fashionable, shades like navy, burgundy, and emerald green are suitable for curvy bodies.
Select cocktail dresses in flowy, relaxed fabric and unique details to ensure your cocktail dress isn’t too casual or plain.
Complete the look with mid-heeled sandals and a small shoulder bag.
Instead of heavy jewelry, consider wearing a colorful silk headband for a fun touch.
Plus Size Tulip Velvet Sheath Cocktail Dress
$79 $29.93
Trendy Plus Size Ruched Cocktail Mini Dress
$29
Trendy Plus Size Side-Tie Cocktail Midi Dress
$39
Plus Size Embroidered Lace Cocktail Dress
$139 $68.99
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Best Cocktail Party Dresses
WINDSOR
Party cocktail dresses stand out from the overall dress code for a good reason, and here’s why.
Party means a relaxed environment where you can play with your style and showcase your unique touch.
Instead of velvet, wool, and cashmere, the best party dresses are made of silk and satin adorned with sequins and feathers.
Consider lighter hues like baby blues, vibrant greens, deep shiny charcoal, and even variations of yellow when choosing the right color.
The same applies to shoes and accessories; the colors must be fresh, young, and complementary.
Chanel Formal Sequin Feather Cocktail Dress
$62.90
Add Some Flair Ruffle Detail Cocktail Midi Dress
$35.90
Zoey Sleeveless Chiffon Cocktail Party Dress
$49.90
Lola High Slit Satin Cocktail Party Dress
$54.90
Read the full article in The VOU Magazine
