What is Cocktail Attire?

What Is Cocktail Attire?

Elevated. Formal. Effortless. If you’ve been invited to an event with ‘cocktail attire’ as the dress code, you’re in luck. This is the perfect opportunity to show off your more elevated side and step out of your casual clothes for the day. Cocktail attire is a slightly more elevated dress code than semi-formal attire, but is less formal than a black tie dress code. Think garden weddings, engagement parties and fancy dinners. From cocktail dresses to cute matching sets, just because it’s formal doesn't mean it can’t be fun. If you’ve left your cocktail party outfit to the last minute, keep reading! You’ll quickly find a look you’ll love in seconds, plus we’ll get it to your door ASAP.

Cocktail Attire for Women

Our top pick for cocktail attire for women are dresses and matching sets. Along with ticking all the dress code boxes, these styles will be on repeat long after your event is over. At Princess Polly, we want you to find styles you’ll love for years to come. Having timeless dresses and versatile matching sets in your capsule wardrobe is a must. Choose cocktail attire that you see yourself wearing at multiple events. The days of once-off wears are over!

woman wearing strapless midi dress for cocktail party

Nektaria Strapless Midi Dress Multi

Cocktail Dresses

Cocktail dresses come in various different lengths; from mini to maxi to midi. You’ll want to make sure you’re choosing an appropriate style for the occasion. If the event you’re attending is more party vibes, opt for shorter styles like the Varney Thrill Mini Dress. For a more formal look, midi dresses are always a slay. Don't shy away from bold colours or prints though! Cocktail attire is your chance to make a statement. A bright red dress or a floral number is a big yes.

Nektaria Strapless Midi Dress Multi

woman wearing mauve maxi dress for cocktail party

Destinations Maxi Dress Mauve

woman wearing black frill mini dress for cocktail party

Varney Frill Mini Dress Black

woman wearing sage top & asymmetrical skirt for cocktail party

Pappilion Top Sage & Pappilion Asymmetrical Skirt Sage

Cocktail Sets

Let’s talk sets! If you thought dresses were your only option for cocktail attire, we’re here to tell you that is not the case. Matching sets are the ultimate cheat code when it comes to weekend plans. You have a put-together look in seconds, you can mix n’ match them with other styles in your wardrobe, plus they’re super flattering and comfortable. From black matching sets for formal dinner dates to frilly and bright sets for birthday brunches, a matching set will always fit the vibe. Summer through to winter, we’ll be reaching for the matching sets below season after season.

Pappilion Top Sage & Pappilion Asymmetrical Skirt Sage

woman wearing black two piece set for cocktail party

Jericho Set Black

woman wearing lemon two piece set for cocktail party

Peterstone Set Lemon

woman wearing silver rings for cocktail party

Medora Rings Silver

Cocktail Accessories

The right accessories can take your cocktail attire outfit from stunning to iconic. Whether it’s ring stacks or hair clips, you’ll want one statement accessory that stands out. We’ll always be obsessed with classic silver and gold jewelry; dainty bracelets to chunky rings and necklaces. Pro tip: if your cocktail dress has a high neckline, wear your hair tied up in a luxe claw clip. This immediately creates an elegant effect and is the perfect hairstyle for those more formal events.

Medora Rings Silver

woman wearing gold bracelets for cocktail party

Kelsie Bracelet Pack Gold

woman wearing gold hair clip for cocktail party

Take It Off Hair Clip Gold

Cocktail Attire Etiquette: Dos & Don'ts

Your crash course in cocktail attire! Here are some of our top dos and don'ts when it comes to dressing for the occasion.

Dos:

Double check the dress code! For anything described as ‘cocktail attire’ you can expect to dress more on the formal side. But it’s important to make sure there are no other requests (eg. colour preferences).
Dress for the season. Bring extra layers if you need to, just because it’s cocktail attire doesn’t mean you can’t be cozy!
Experiment with different fabrics and silhouettes to find which style you like the most.

Don’ts:

Dress super casual. Don’t get us wrong, we love a casual look, but not for cocktail attire. Put your cozy track pants to the side for when you get home.
Don’t wear uncomfortable shoes. You’ll likely be walking around and talking to people at your event, so it’s important to have shoes you’re comfortable in (they can still be cute, promise!).

FAQs

What should I wear to a wedding with a cocktail dress code?

A chic midi dress is our top pick, but there’s loads of options. Scroll through our Wedding Guest Dresses collection to find a look you’ll love.

Are separates and jumpsuits appropriate cocktail attire?

100% yes, you just have to find the right one! The matching sets in this blog is the perfect place to start.

Does cocktail attire change based on the season?

The criteria is always formal, but you might want to add a few more layers in the colder seasons. Think midi dresses with oversized blazers.

Is there a difference between cocktail attire and semi-formal attire?

Cocktail attire is slightly more formal, but these terms are often used interchangeably. Anything in this blog would also suit a semi-formal attire dress code!

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