A cocktail party is a perfect excuse to get all dressed up. Not too casual, not too formal, the cocktail dress code strikes that ideal balance, which really lets you style whatever look your heart desires. No matter where you’re planning on toasting cocktail hour, follow these tips for perfecting your next party look.
What Is The Cocktail Dress Code?
Think of the cocktail dress code as an event that combines elegance and personality. It opens up the opportunity to play around with different looks, allowing you to experiment with fresh fabrics, colors, finishes, and prints – all in the hopes of letting your unique style shine. Similar to semi-formal attire, cocktail wear signals that your look should be dressy but still relaxed enough for you to enjoy and have fun. This can span anything from a stunning two-piece set, a power suit, a playful mini dress, a classic midi style, or a dialled-down maxi gown. Hit the balance between feeling your best and staying comfortable, and you’re already onto a winning ensemble.
Cocktail Party Dress Style Ideas
Now that you’ve decided just what cocktail wear means, it is time to get inspired! Discover these elegant cocktail party dress ideas to make an entrance at your next event.
Take On Texture
Tap into the texture to bring something different to your next exciting evening event. Embellished components add extra intrigue and style to even the simplest of silhouettes, making for a comfortable and chic look that is sure to turn heads. Choose a feminine midi dress with full-length puff sleeves, a classic sweetheart neckline, and a sweeping A-line skirt to serve as the perfect backdrop to texture petals and floral motifs.
Opt for a bold yet fresh tone like bright blue or buttercup yellow to lean into the sweetness of the look.
Perfect In Pink
A pink mini-dress will never fail to make an impression. Choose a bright, bold shade of hot pink with a reflective finish for a stunning foundation for your piece. A style with off-the-shoulder, full sleeves, a plunging V-neckline, and a full, tiered mini skirt will create an elegant yet energetic look that will take all the work out of getting ready. Finish your look with strappy leather heels and a swipe of your favourite lipstick, and you’re ready for the dance floor!
Set To Impress
Sometimes, you need to break things up a little. A two-piece set is one of those great investments that brings you a complete and chic outfit that is ready for the party but also adds to your everyday wardrobe rotation. Choose a feathered crop top with a strapless neckline to balance with the fullness of a floaty midi skirt or wide-leg pants.
For something a little bolder, look for a sequined gold two-piece set with a figure-hugging frame and eye-catching wrap-up accents. You can swap out your bottoms or top and dress with more casual pieces for a little cocktail hour glamour all day long, too!
Which of these stunning party dresses will you wear to your next cocktail affair?
Bob Duncan is the lead writer and partner on ConversationsWithBianca.com. A passionate parent, he’s always excited to dive into the conversation about anything from parenting, food & drink, travel, to gifts & more!