PARTY QUEEN / Jun 29, 2021
Dressing up for an occasion is always exciting, but figuring out what to wear can be tricky. There seems to be a different dress code for every event! So today, we're helping you decode: co*cktail attire.
*✧ What is co*cktail attire?
Since a co*cktail party isn't super formal, there's no need to bust out your ball gown—but co*cktail attire does allow for some sparkle and glam. Typically, women will wear a short or mid-length dress, but skirts and pantsuits are also appropriate.
From there, the world is your oyster. To get you inspired, we'll be discussing five co*cktail dresses and how to accessorize them. By the end of this article, you'll not only know what co*cktail attire is but also how to dress to impress for your next event.
Get the look: style GS2833 | Jewel and Sequin Embellished Glitter Mesh Short Dress
Off-the-shoulder dresses are all the rage right now—and a short or mid-length one would be perfect co*cktail attire. Show off those shoulders, ladies!
At co*cktail parties, we see a lot of sparkle—sequins, jewels, gold, silver. Embrace your inner queen! As you can see below, this co*cktail dress is super textured and bedazzled—it's sure to catch the light and score some looks.
Neutral colors, such as gold, silver, black, and nude, are common colors for co*cktail dresses.
Pair this dress with a clutch and strappy heeled sandals. Simple, yet stunning.
Get the look: style GS3092 | Asymmetric Sequin Bodycon Short Dress w/ Feather Embellishment
Speaking of exposed shoulders, a one-shoulder dress is totally fit for co*cktail attire. For an extra fabulous look, opt for a bodycon dress with an asymmetric neckline and show off your slim waistline! Va-va-voom.
Sparkly sequin on point? Yes, please! We love that the co*cktail dress decorated with beautiful feather with dazzling sequin—it's eye-catching but not too flashy. Look up "co*cktail dress" in the dictionary, and you'll see this: subtle glam.
If you pick a baby blue dress, glossy silver heels would work—but we encourage you to get a little bold and choose a gold pair of heels. Complete the look with a lovely half-up half-down hairstyle.
Get the look: style GS1439 | Two-Piece Embroidered Pencil Skirt Dress
Are you a gal that loves to be different? Then you have to take a look at this two-piece co*cktail dress that showcases beautiful floral embroidery.
Want to show off your figure? Go for a pencil skirt and embrace that hourglass figure! Don't worry, a higher neckline—as you see below—will balance the cropped top.
If you choose a dark color, we encourage you to add some glitter to your shoe choice. Gold, silver, bedazzled—any will do.
To keep this look fun and unique, rock a fishtail braid. They're so beautiful and surprisingly simple to do—everyone will ask you how you did it!
Get the look: style GS2134 | Long Sleeve Bodycon Short Dress Accented with Jewel and Sequin
Another body-hugging dress that's great for co*cktail attire is the long-sleeve bodycon dress.
These long-sleeve beauties are perfect for co*cktail parties in the fall and wintertime—you can show off your legs while keeping warm. (Pro tip!)
As you can see below, you can totally play around with different fabrics and textures. We love the mesh sleeves here—and the sequin embroidery laid on top.
Because the dress is such a showstopper, feel free to keep the accessories minimal. Pairing it with silver or gold shoes is a fabulous way to bring the look together.
Get the look: style GS2856 | Cut-Away Shoulder Glitter Crepe Bodycon Dress
From the dress to the accessories, this has co*cktail attire written all over it. A form-fitting dress with off-the-shoulder sleeves is a classy choice for your next co*cktail party.
Like on the dress below, subtle glitter captures the glam that is typical for co*cktail attire—but it's not too distracting. (Skip the neon yellow this event)
Anytime you pair a dress with nude heels, you elongate the legs. For a short co*cktail dress like this one, it's the perfect opportunity to do so.
Lastly, but certainly not least, we encourage you to rock a co*cktail hat or headpiece, because. when else can you?! Trust us, you'll feel like royalty when you put it on. (Move over Meghan Markle.)
Got another upcoming occasion?
Decoding dress codes doesn't start here—and it certainly doesn't end here either. There are many events where you'll need to create the perfect look: weddings, galas, prom, quinceanera, homecoming, and more. So take a look at our blog—we've got you covered!
