The Ultimate Guide: What to Wear to a Cocktail Party

The invite says cocktail and it’s obvious that you’ll be stuck in the classic “what should I wear?” dilemma. Not too formal, nor casual, it’s that sweet spot in between, and classy elegance is the watchword for cocktail dressing. You should aim for a polished sophisticated look that’s well put together but as expected it doesn't come easy. While it’s always better to err on the side of caution, picking the right outfit for your cocktail event can be tricky as there are no strict rules to follow when it comes to cocktail-appropriate attire (except for the no sweeping hemlines!).

Well, when it comes to cocktail events the first thing you'd reach for is a dress, and that continues to be the best choice. However, today cocktail dressing has evolved to include pants and even jumpsuits. So, what can you wear when the invite says cocktail? Read on to find out.

The Beginning of Cocktail Dressing

The freedom of the roaring twenties had women making an appearance in the public sphere. So, it obviously called for dresses that could creatively blend formal attire with the daytime casuals. And this marked the beginning of the semi-formal cocktail dressing style that became the norm for soirees that were hosted in the late afternoon and early evenings. The six to eight p.m. cocktail dressing was the result of new liberated women hosting events that broke stereotypes and hemlines.

While in the beginning the only difference was the fabrics being used, the dressing style evolved to introduce the sheath with its cinched waist, which slowly became the norm in many private cocktail parties. And it was later that Christian Dior used the term ‘cocktail’ for the evening frock, allowing it to make its way into fashion terminology.

Understanding the Cocktail Dress Code

Not too dressy as the black-tie, nor the casuals of the luncheons, the cocktail hour calls for something chic, yet comfortable. Dressing that’s relaxed yet stylish is the key. Refined, sophistication and clothes that make you feel confident and at ease should be your cue. Well, that’s certainly quite a mix and that’s why cocktail dressing has now evolved to include even skirts, jumpsuits and pants. When it comes to cocktail dressing it’s the clothes, the jewellery, the bags and the shoes that matter. And here’s the checklist we’ve created for you to tick off.

An Elegant Dress

Well, it’s called ‘cocktail dress’ for a reason! Well, things have evolved, and you don’t really have to reach for a dress, but if you do, then just make sure it’s something that’s not your everyday kinda look. Cocktail dresses must feel and look luxurious. Rich fabrics, colours, prints, lace, you name it, and you can wear it. The length doesn’t really matter. While the floor skimming ones are best avoided, your midis and minis are good. Sequined, embellished silks, crepes, georgette, chiffon are all good to go. Choose textured fabrics, fitted silhouette or eye-catching patterns to add a refined touch to your whole look.

Choose One Big Piece of Jewellery

Our recommendation — always go with statement earrings when it comes to a cocktail dinner. Yes, you can go with a big cuff or a statement choker or layered necklace. But if you really want to add some bling that will light up your face, the statement dangler earrings or oversized stud earrings should be your pick.

The Tiny Bag

No satchel and definitely not the tote! A beaded mini bag or the sequinned clutch or the silk pouch, anything goes. Just make sure it’s small and elegant. Your bag should scream cocktail and should be a statement piece.

The Shoes!

Well, after the statement bag and the jewellery, how can you forget the shoes!? Embellished stilettos, or eye-popping bold coloured kitten heels, or the safe and sturdy block heels, you can take your pick. Heels elevate the overall look, but if you’d want to go with something comfortable like flat strappy sandals or ballet flats, then make sure it’s festive to add some sparkle to your cocktail ensemble.  

The Foolproof LBD

When in doubt just reach for your little black dress. You can never go wrong with this one and it’s also easy to accessorise. Choose a black dress in chiffon or georgette, or something that is patterned. Subtle patterns or interesting sleeves or hemlines help create an enchanting focal point. With black you can safely go bold with your statement earrings and choose a beaded or embellished clutch.

What to Wear Other than a Dress?

Midi or mini cocktail dress, not your vibe? Well, pick any structured, well-designed outfit that exudes sophistication and class. Just make sure it’s not too casual. You cannot go wearing ripped jeans and a tee. However, a blazer with a stylish top, or a jumpsuit, wide-leg pants with a dressy top or a nice skirt with a pretty blouse will all do. The cocktail dress code just means anything that makes you look well put-together. So, make the effort to wear well-coordinated clothes and you’d look and feel fabulous.

Outfit Inspiration: Colour Options for Your Next Cocktail Party

Leyla Sailor Collared Side Slit Dress Shimmering Gold Party Bag Zaynab Black Pleated Hem Trumpet Skirt Amethyst Beads Earring Jamila Moroccan Printed Lace Accent Blouse

Leyla Sailor Collared Side Slit Dress Shimmering Gold Party Bag Zaynab Black Pleated Hem Trumpet Skirt Amethyst Beads Earring Jamila Moroccan Printed Lace Accent Blouse

Black

If black is your colour, we recommend Leyla - Sailor collared Side Slit Dress or if you’re looking at separates then go with our Jamila - Moroccan Printed Lace Accent Blouse paired with Zaynab - Black Pleated Hem Trumpet Skirt. It’s classy and exudes understated elegance. Match this with our Amethyst Beads Earring or Floral Filigree Earring and don’t forget the Shimmering Gold Party Bag from our collection.

Red

Well, we’d pick our Garnet Kiss - Midi Printed Party Dress for sure! But if you’re looking at the skirt-top combo then it’s definitely our Maraschino Night - Abstract Printed Frilled Neckline Top matched with our Maraschino Night- Black Satin Peplum Skirt. For earrings we’d pick the Statement Enamel Stud and Cuff but if you’re hoping to add more definition to your face then pick our Blossom Seed Earrings. And for the bag we’d pick our ever favourite Beaded Mini Bag.

Green

We’re not looking beyond our Emerald Dew - Dark Olive Butter Crepe Cocktail Dress. It’s fabulously feminine and is the perfect dress to make sure every head turns your way. Pick any of our gold-plated hoops, carry our red crochet Mini Bag or add some subdued bling with the Essential Party Purse with Embroidery and you should be ready to slay.

Festive colours, layering, sequins, anything goes for cocktail dressing. Just pick the right outfit, jewellery, bag and shoes and you’re ready to make a statement. Need something that accentuates your inner goddess? Shop our cocktail party wear collection for women right here.