A little booze, a little glamour and oodles of conversations – what’s there not to like at a cocktail party? There will be a lot of movement and mingling involved, so you would like to dress comfortably, yet not too casually. Usually held for 3-4 hours before lunch or dinner, the dress code for cocktail parties is something less than formal, and something more than casual. Check out some tips to select the best piece for the upcoming cocktail party.
Purpose of the Party
The purpose will help you decide what you should wear to the cocktail party. If, for example, your friend is hosting a housewarming cocktail party for a group of friends, then the nature of the event is less formal.
Meanwhile, if you are attending a charity raising event in a high class establishment, it’s safe to assume the event will be a relatively formal one and so should your attire be.
Party Hours: Pre Lunch or Pre Dinner?
Generally, evening parties are more formal than afternoon ones. So if you know that the cocktail party will be followed by lunch rather than dinner, dress slightly more towards the casual to make sure you look just right.
Solid colors such as crimson, grey, black, red, etc. work well for the evenings, or events held in the fall. For afternoon or summer events, floral prints and light, pastel shades are a good choice.
Avoid Long Lengths
Full-length gowns are going to make you look like you are ready to walk down the red carpet in a relatively less formal event. The best length for dresses to be worn at a cocktail party are knee-length or calf length.
Going too short is not a great idea either as the last thing you’d want is to be remembered as ‘the girl who wore that inappropriately short dress’ at the party. You can choose a sheath dress, a wrap dress, a one-shoulder dress or anything that not only looks good on you, but that you are comfortable in as well.
Don’t Want To Wear A Dress?
Instead of a dress, you can also go for a pantsuit or a knee length skirt and top. Just don’t make it too corporate.
Go for a silken top with lace, for instance, to have that feminine appeal. Make sure your pieces are well-tailored to make you look graceful and elegant.
Shoes, Makeup And Jewelry
Makeup and jewelry should never be overdone. Keep it minimalistic and simple to make your outfit and your natural beauty stand out. Stick to a statement cocktail ring or necklace.
Select dainty high heels, but make sure you are comfortable walking in them. Flip-flops are definitely out, but pretty ballet pumps and sandals can be worn, especially for the afternoon events.
Once you are all done, don’t forget to carry a beautiful clutch to look picture perfect. Now don’t blame reneesadvice.com if all eyes are on you at the cocktail party!