The Best co*cktail Dresses to Wear to a Wedding (2024)

FAQs

What type of dress should I wear to a co*cktail wedding? ›

“The most important idea to take away from the co*cktail dress code is that your goal is to create an elegant look wearing a knee-length, tea-length, or midi dress,” suggests social etiquette advisor Maria Lucrecia Arguello. “This is not the time to wear a gala gown or a short mini skirt.”

Dark colors are generally the go-to choice for men's co*cktail attire (think navy, black or charcoal). However, opt for a lighter color palette—and breathable fabrics like linen and jersey—during spring and summer, particularly for beach weddings or other outdoor events.

What is not acceptable for co*cktail attire? Best to avoid anything too casual or too formal. Leave the jeans, T-shirts, and casual sandals at home, and save the full-length gowns for a black-tie affair. It's all about striking that perfect balance.

It's kind of an in-between place. Think: mini and midi dresses (and even jumpsuits!) that are chic and polished, suiting that's a bit more tailored, and footwear that feels elevated (literally, if you're wearing heels). It's the perfect combination of elegant and comfortable.

co*cktail dresses come in various lengths, but they're generally shorter than floor-length formal gowns. The most common length is just above or just below the knee. However, you can also find co*cktail dresses that are mid-thigh, tea-length (around the calf), or slightly longer.

co*cktail dress codes can also mean different things depending on the event's time of day. For an evening affair, dark colors and more elegant designs are appropriate. For daytime events, co*cktail attire can include lighter fabrics, shorter hemlines, and softer hues.

Dress length is important

When it comes to co*cktail, find a balance between floor length and mini by opting for a length in-between. A midi dress is the ideal choice in this situation. Keeping your outfit choice sleek and sophisticated is also key, and this is where well-tailored pieces will make a world of difference.

The staff suggests that if a wedding is taking place at 4 p.m. or 5 p.m., you should wear something that easily transitions from day to night; any ceremony after 6 p.m. should be strictly co*cktail.

It is normal to wear short lengths to a co*cktail party, while it might not be appropriate for evening occasions. This short co*cktail dress is made of lace and it is great for summer rooftop co*cktail parties. That is why, unlike co*cktail dresses, formal evening gowns are usually long or below the knee.

From the color and fabric of the dress, to the hairstyle and accessories you pair with it, a maxi dress can easily pass as proper co*cktail attire, if styled correctly.

What does a 60 year old woman wear to co*cktail party? ›

A great co*cktail dress should flatter your body: fit-and-flare for hourglass figures, A-line for pear- and apple-shapes, ruching and other volume-creating details for stick-straight bods. If you're looking for more coverage, consider one of these styles that also has a cape, cloak, or shawl.

You've received your invite, and it says you need to wear co*cktail attire. Wedding events with this dress code are somewhat formal, requiring you to wear a suit and a tie. The standard colors are black and navy blue due to their timeless elegance and the ability to match any occasion.

Colorful co*cktail Attire

If you're planning to wear a dress, feel free to embrace a festive pattern such as floral or plaid.

“If the wedding or the couple is less traditional, or the dress code is a little more creative, I don't think there's anything wrong with wearing red as a wedding guest,” adds Hurwitz. And while you might see rumors floating around the web that wearing red means you had a fling with the groom, ignore those.

co*cktail Separates

Soft tailoring looks effortlessly chic for evening and co*cktail attire, too. Keep the look opulent with luxurious jackets in fabrics like Velour and the Black Velour smoking jacket pictured. Are trousers acceptable co*cktail attire? Absolutely!

Wedding co*cktail attire is a blend of formal and casual attire. Unlike a formal wedding, you don't need to wear a long dress but can instead opt for a midi or tea-length dress.

Evening gowns are traditionally much longer and larger than co*cktail dresses, often reaching right down to the floor, while co*cktail dresses go no lower than the knees. Gowns also tend to be made of heavier, richer fabrics, like silk, while co*cktail dresses can be made of lace or chiffon, for example.

Formality: co*cktail dresses are generally more formal than party dresses. They are typically knee-length or slightly shorter, and made from high-quality fabrics such as silk, satin, or lace.