What Is a Cocktail Dress?
21 Nov 2023
In the world of stylish looks, there is one thing that will always give you sophistication and elegance cocktail dresses. It is not just a thing in your closet, but a very interesting thing with its own character. In most cases with the concept of "cocktail dress code", we have to face it when we receive an invitation to a solemn or corporate event. What is this dress code and what are its main features?
A cocktail style outfit for a woman, assuming a cocktail dress or a set of skirts and blouses. Fun fact: cocktail suits appeared thanks to emancipation, booze, and scarcity. How did this happen? Those cocktail dresses appeared in the United States during Prohibition. Young ladies danced Charleston in it, with tiny handbags in their hands and tiny hats. Also, it was customary to wear long gloves, as the dress was always sleeveless.
The standard cocktail dress is a little black dress made of satin or velvet. Such a dress can suit any woman, regardless of her age and clothing size. Let's answer the question, what is a cocktail dress, talk about the history of this thing and how to wear it correctly.
A cocktail style outfit for a woman, assuming a cocktail dress or a set of skirts and blouses. Fun fact: cocktail suits appeared thanks to emancipation, booze, and scarcity. How did this happen? Those cocktail dresses appeared in the United States during Prohibition. Young ladies danced Charleston in it, with tiny handbags in their hands and tiny hats. Also, it was customary to wear long gloves, as the dress was always sleeveless.
The standard cocktail dress is a little black dress made of satin or velvet. Such a dress can suit any woman, regardless of her age and clothing size. Let's answer the question, what is a cocktail dress, talk about the history of this thing and how to wear it correctly.
What Exactly Is Cocktail Attire?
From 1920 to 1933, America had a "prohibition." Strange as it may seem, but it became the reason for crowded parties, where this very alcohol poured out in rivers. Remember the fragments of "The Great Gatsby", where Leonardo DiCaprio does not let go of a martini glass, and his guests enjoy the bubbles of sparkling wine. In this difficult time cocktail dresses appeared, a dress code for girls who dreamed of getting into cheerful company and drinking fashionable mixed drinks at that time.
The so-called cocktail hour fell on the period from six to eight, so the dresses became a transition from the strict daily style to the pompous evening toilets. They were worn exclusively by young girls who were not afraid to go beyond the conservative Victorian ways. Often ladies in cocktail dresses were referred to as "flappers"—liberated representatives of fair sex, who valued freedom and willfulness, attended noisy gatherings and danced Charleston in a puff of tobacco smoke.
Nothing superfluous: no collar or sleeves, but the material was always expensive and luxurious (satin, chiffon or silk). The image was complemented by small handbags embroidered with glass beads, elegant open shoes in tone, gloves reaching the elbows, miniature hats with narrow brim, shaped like a helmet. Dresses were created according to the strict rules of etiquette: if fashion designers opened the top of the dress, the bottom must be restrained, and vice versa.
In 1926 Coco Chanel appeared on the cover of Paris Vogue in a little black dresses. It literally turned the fashion world upside down. Strict color broke into the environment of fun and couture, black not only slimmed, but also emphasized precious jewelry.
Coco's dress was compared in the press to a Ford car, hinting at simplicity and long-term prospects. The new glory of cocktail attire in the late 30s was brought by Coco Chanel. Her little black dress could well be called a cocktail dress. With her light hand, black became the most elegant and popular choice for ladies for a long time, and a string of pearls is still considered a classic addition to a Chanel-style dress.
Traditionally, the main fabrics used to create refined and elegant ensembles are fabrics that maximally emphasize the figure – the same silk, chiffon and luxurious satin in which dresses were flaunted by fashionistas at the beginning of the XX century. Accessories, combined with a cocktail dress, have also not changed since its first appearance . However, now, instead of a miniature purse on a chain, women are increasingly choosing an evening clutch. The formal style of such clothing is adopted for special occasions that do not require the appearance of a long evening dress.
The so-called cocktail hour fell on the period from six to eight, so the dresses became a transition from the strict daily style to the pompous evening toilets. They were worn exclusively by young girls who were not afraid to go beyond the conservative Victorian ways. Often ladies in cocktail dresses were referred to as "flappers"—liberated representatives of fair sex, who valued freedom and willfulness, attended noisy gatherings and danced Charleston in a puff of tobacco smoke.
Nothing superfluous: no collar or sleeves, but the material was always expensive and luxurious (satin, chiffon or silk). The image was complemented by small handbags embroidered with glass beads, elegant open shoes in tone, gloves reaching the elbows, miniature hats with narrow brim, shaped like a helmet. Dresses were created according to the strict rules of etiquette: if fashion designers opened the top of the dress, the bottom must be restrained, and vice versa.
In 1926 Coco Chanel appeared on the cover of Paris Vogue in a little black dresses. It literally turned the fashion world upside down. Strict color broke into the environment of fun and couture, black not only slimmed, but also emphasized precious jewelry.
Coco's dress was compared in the press to a Ford car, hinting at simplicity and long-term prospects. The new glory of cocktail attire in the late 30s was brought by Coco Chanel. Her little black dress could well be called a cocktail dress. With her light hand, black became the most elegant and popular choice for ladies for a long time, and a string of pearls is still considered a classic addition to a Chanel-style dress.
Traditionally, the main fabrics used to create refined and elegant ensembles are fabrics that maximally emphasize the figure – the same silk, chiffon and luxurious satin in which dresses were flaunted by fashionistas at the beginning of the XX century. Accessories, combined with a cocktail dress, have also not changed since its first appearance . However, now, instead of a miniature purse on a chain, women are increasingly choosing an evening clutch. The formal style of such clothing is adopted for special occasions that do not require the appearance of a long evening dress.
Cocktail Attire Vs Semi-Formal
Always when it comes to dress code, we think many people feel very embarrassed. One of the most frequently asked questions is: Are semi-formal and cocktail attire the same thing?
The semi-formal style is in the gray area between casual and formal. "However, cocktail attire tends to be a bit more dressy than semi-formal dress." Some examples of what to wear to a semi-formal event include midi dresses, chic jumpsuits, or dresses with a scoop neck. For cocktail attire, stick to structured dress.
Cocktail dress. The classic option is a shortened women's dress for formal and festive events without collar and sleeves. Appeared in fashion as an outfit for cocktail parties in America in the mid-twenties. In modern fashion, the main principles are simplicity and elegance. Cocktail dress is always beautifully sewn, with elegant trim, exquisite silhouette. Length – just above or just below the knee.
Of the fabrics favored velvet, expensive silks, satin, but a variety of fabrics are acceptable, knitwear. Bright colors are suitable for summer options. In winter, preference is given to black, red, gold or silver, and in summer, bright colors are acceptable. Accessories – a small handbag can be decorated with original details, author's jewelry, stones – semi-precious, in no case diamonds.
We just talked about cocktail party outfits, now let's take a look at what the semi-formal dress code is.
When it comes to dressing up for semi-formal events, creating the perfect ensemble can be tricky. A code that is formal above cocktail attire and below black tie can be confusing to those who are unfamiliar with it.
A semi-formal dress code, which provides for a more relaxed choice of attire. It is set for dinner parties, corporate events or family celebrations with a large number of guests. The main requirement: your outfit should correspond to the theme of the event and not be too frank. If the event takes place during the day, pantsuits, short elegant dresses in light colors or a skirt-top ensemble will be perfect.
To make getting dressed for a semi-formal function simple, try choosing those sophisticated and fashionable dresses that ends at knee level. Alternatively, a chic suit will work for women. At the same time, it is not at all necessary to wear heeled shoes. Pay attention to stylish loafers, brogues, ballet flats or sandals on a flat sole. For evening corporate parties it is better to pick up those dark cocktail dresses of medium length. Make everyday makeup in delicate nude colors with an accent on the lips and match the outfit with a small handbag.
Which dress to choose?
Every woman asks herself the question: what kind of dress to wear in a particular case – evening or cocktail? If the event organizers do not specify the requirements for the dress code, then when choosing you need to know exactly two things: the time and the type of celebration.
To begin with, it is useful to know that in the morning or afternoon evening dress is not worn. Formally, it is considered that the time of the cocktail - from 17 to 19 hours, after that comes the evening. In reality, cocktail dresses are worn to all daytime celebrations.
In the theater or at the opening of an exhibition, a charity event or solemn registration of marriage - a cocktail dress is required. It is also worn for any holidays in the apartment, for children's and family celebrations and anniversaries, if they are not celebrated in a restaurant.
In a restaurant, at a banquet, an evening reception for which the style is negotiated long before the event or indicated in the invitation. And one more nuance - a lady in evening can not come alone, evening attire assumes the presence of a solemnly dressed companion. And, of course, she can not go in a crowded bus in a dress with a train.
Last but not least: do not forget the main rule – the evening dresses should be worn in a beautiful setting.
The semi-formal style is in the gray area between casual and formal. "However, cocktail attire tends to be a bit more dressy than semi-formal dress." Some examples of what to wear to a semi-formal event include midi dresses, chic jumpsuits, or dresses with a scoop neck. For cocktail attire, stick to structured dress.
Cocktail dress. The classic option is a shortened women's dress for formal and festive events without collar and sleeves. Appeared in fashion as an outfit for cocktail parties in America in the mid-twenties. In modern fashion, the main principles are simplicity and elegance. Cocktail dress is always beautifully sewn, with elegant trim, exquisite silhouette. Length – just above or just below the knee.
Of the fabrics favored velvet, expensive silks, satin, but a variety of fabrics are acceptable, knitwear. Bright colors are suitable for summer options. In winter, preference is given to black, red, gold or silver, and in summer, bright colors are acceptable. Accessories – a small handbag can be decorated with original details, author's jewelry, stones – semi-precious, in no case diamonds.
We just talked about cocktail party outfits, now let's take a look at what the semi-formal dress code is.
When it comes to dressing up for semi-formal events, creating the perfect ensemble can be tricky. A code that is formal above cocktail attire and below black tie can be confusing to those who are unfamiliar with it.
A semi-formal dress code, which provides for a more relaxed choice of attire. It is set for dinner parties, corporate events or family celebrations with a large number of guests. The main requirement: your outfit should correspond to the theme of the event and not be too frank. If the event takes place during the day, pantsuits, short elegant dresses in light colors or a skirt-top ensemble will be perfect.
To make getting dressed for a semi-formal function simple, try choosing those sophisticated and fashionable dresses that ends at knee level. Alternatively, a chic suit will work for women. At the same time, it is not at all necessary to wear heeled shoes. Pay attention to stylish loafers, brogues, ballet flats or sandals on a flat sole. For evening corporate parties it is better to pick up those dark cocktail dresses of medium length. Make everyday makeup in delicate nude colors with an accent on the lips and match the outfit with a small handbag.
Which dress to choose?
Every woman asks herself the question: what kind of dress to wear in a particular case – evening or cocktail? If the event organizers do not specify the requirements for the dress code, then when choosing you need to know exactly two things: the time and the type of celebration.
To begin with, it is useful to know that in the morning or afternoon evening dress is not worn. Formally, it is considered that the time of the cocktail - from 17 to 19 hours, after that comes the evening. In reality, cocktail dresses are worn to all daytime celebrations.
In the theater or at the opening of an exhibition, a charity event or solemn registration of marriage - a cocktail dress is required. It is also worn for any holidays in the apartment, for children's and family celebrations and anniversaries, if they are not celebrated in a restaurant.
In a restaurant, at a banquet, an evening reception for which the style is negotiated long before the event or indicated in the invitation. And one more nuance - a lady in evening can not come alone, evening attire assumes the presence of a solemnly dressed companion. And, of course, she can not go in a crowded bus in a dress with a train.
Last but not least: do not forget the main rule – the evening dresses should be worn in a beautiful setting.
Cocktail Dress Code Dos & Don'ts
The ideal choice for the warm season is cocktail dresses in a light muted or bright color. For the fall and winter season, it is advisable to choose a dress in a darker color. By the way, this is just the case when a black or gray dress looks particularly appropriate. As for printing and decoration, any patterns and details should correspond to seasonality and fashion trends.
Despite the fact that fashion stylists say that the rules and seasonality – it's just a convention, believe me, you are unlikely to look appropriate in a translucent short dress and sandals. Only stars can dress like that for the red carpet. Also, if you don't want to attract judgmental eyes all night long, you should not appear at a dinner party in open shoes and a dress with a bright floral print, especially if it's fall. And, on the contrary, in summer time, fur decor and accessories are absolutely inappropriate for dresses.
Do not wear a ball gown of floor length.
Instead, save it for a formal event and choose a mini or mid-length dress for cocktail attire. This will make you look more casual but not regretful in style. Watch the hem of your dress before you go out! Sometimes when you put on high heels, your dress gets even shorter. For your own comfort (and to comply with dress code rules), carefully check the length in the mirror before you go out.
Jeans are not the way to go.
When other people at the event are wearing elegant dresses, it is better not to wear your daily jeans. On the other hand, chic pants fit your figure perfectly. You can pair it with a simple elegant blouse, a flirty top, or a classic button-down dress and blazer (if you want to look full-bodied). Keep in mind that tailored pants are likely to look more sophisticated than something more trendy. So while you might opt for a pair of wide-leg pants, make sure they're formal.
Sneakers? Let's not.
A great pair of sneakers is a great thing. However, when the dress code calls for a cocktail dress, it's better to change it to something more formal. Go for classic heeled shoes or dressy shoes without heels (for those who want extra comfort). Whether you keep it simple or opt for something trendy and spectacular, your shoes should complement everything you're wearing especially the dresses, and make your figure even more spectacular.
Don't overdo it.
By all means, choose bold bright colors and fun necklines – just don't use elements like sequins and other flashy details. In short, cocktail attire is all about glamour. So it's best to go for understated vibes. Replace sequins with silky fabric and wild jewelry with bold accessories. You'll still look gorgeous.
Despite the fact that fashion stylists say that the rules and seasonality – it's just a convention, believe me, you are unlikely to look appropriate in a translucent short dress and sandals. Only stars can dress like that for the red carpet. Also, if you don't want to attract judgmental eyes all night long, you should not appear at a dinner party in open shoes and a dress with a bright floral print, especially if it's fall. And, on the contrary, in summer time, fur decor and accessories are absolutely inappropriate for dresses.
Do not wear a ball gown of floor length.
Instead, save it for a formal event and choose a mini or mid-length dress for cocktail attire. This will make you look more casual but not regretful in style. Watch the hem of your dress before you go out! Sometimes when you put on high heels, your dress gets even shorter. For your own comfort (and to comply with dress code rules), carefully check the length in the mirror before you go out.
Jeans are not the way to go.
When other people at the event are wearing elegant dresses, it is better not to wear your daily jeans. On the other hand, chic pants fit your figure perfectly. You can pair it with a simple elegant blouse, a flirty top, or a classic button-down dress and blazer (if you want to look full-bodied). Keep in mind that tailored pants are likely to look more sophisticated than something more trendy. So while you might opt for a pair of wide-leg pants, make sure they're formal.
Sneakers? Let's not.
A great pair of sneakers is a great thing. However, when the dress code calls for a cocktail dress, it's better to change it to something more formal. Go for classic heeled shoes or dressy shoes without heels (for those who want extra comfort). Whether you keep it simple or opt for something trendy and spectacular, your shoes should complement everything you're wearing especially the dresses, and make your figure even more spectacular.
Don't overdo it.
By all means, choose bold bright colors and fun necklines – just don't use elements like sequins and other flashy details. In short, cocktail attire is all about glamour. So it's best to go for understated vibes. Replace sequins with silky fabric and wild jewelry with bold accessories. You'll still look gorgeous.
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