What to Wear When the Dress Code Is Cocktail Attire

While black tie affairs beckon for you to break out that fancy floor-length gown and causal nuptials have sundresses written all of them, cocktail attire falls somewhere in that gray area between the two. Think: elegant, yet comfortable. According to stylist Rahimah Yoba, cocktail attire has evolved over the years and will most likely keep evolving. “It is now a mixture of comfort and ease with a splash of sparkle and non-gender-specific silhouettes."

Keep scrolling for our guide to what to wear to a cocktail attire event.

Try a Tea-Length Dress

Tea-length hemlines fall below the knee but above the ankle, somewhere around the mid-calf. Michelle tells us this style of dress—in fabrics like satin, silk, crepe, or velvet—is her favorite. The best part? “Tea-length dresses are the perfect moment to show off a really special shoe,” she adds. “Brands like Khaite, Galvan, and Alex Perry have a lovely range from fitted to loose in their collection.”

Stick With a Classic Formula

When it comes to putting together a cocktail attire outfit, don't overthink it. Danielle and Alix cite a midi dress plus a special shoe and bag as their go-to formula. “This structure feels timeless and feminine and allows some personality to shine through. Some shoe designers we love for this type of occasion include Rene Caovilla (their snake wraps specifically) and Sophia Webster; their heels can make any simple dress pop. Along with that, we are big fans of Judith Leiber’s novelty clutches and Paco Rabanne’s iconic sparkle bags.”

Swap a Dress for a Suit

Not a fan of dresses? No problem. “Formalwear and tailored suits are now seen in the same setting as edgy, oversized women’s pants suits and deconstructed blouses," says Yoba. Consider accessorizing your suit with sparkly jewelry to elevate the look and instantly take it from daywear to cocktail attire, she adds.

Reinvent an Old Favorite

Not sure what to do with that old bridesmaid's dress? Or how about that evening gown that is getting harder and harder to find a new audience for? Michelle recommends following Cate Blanchett's lead and repurposing a formal dress by making a few alterations, like shortening, for one. As for footwear, “I even love an ankle-wrap shoe with a cocktail dress to make it a little sexier and less formal,” she says.

Reach for a Blazer

ICYMI: Blazers are back in a big way and are stretching their versatility. Here, Jourdan Dunne makes a strong case for a structured blazer and sheer black lace pant pairing. "It’s fun, free-flowing, and fashion-forward with an overtone of individuality,” says Yoba. To adapt this look to spring, opt for an oversized blazer and lose the pants — it's as simple as that.

Lead With a Statement Skirt

Since cocktail attire isn't as conservative as black tie, you have some more wiggle room to get creative. According to Danielle and Alix, “You can venture into suiting, interesting silhouettes, vibrant colors, and standout accessories." This silver sequined wrap skirt combined with a unitard is simple yet sophisticated. Don't forget matching accessories to really accent the look.

LBD or Bust

When all else fails, you can never go wrong with your trusted LBD. This classic number will turn heads on its own but can also get a modern makeover with the right accessories. Do what works for you.