Invite in hand, you’re scouring your mind for ideas on what to wear to a cocktail party. Can you wear a mini dress, or is that a fashion faux pas? Should you opt for something colourful or stick to neutral tones? There’s a lot to navigate when it comes to a cocktail dress code. Below, we look at the top four cocktail party silhouettes that will have you RSVP ready, no matter your style.
What to Wear to A Cocktail Party: On-trend and Up to Date
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What Is Cocktail Attire?
Cocktail attire, which may also be referred to as semi-formal attire, is the dress code you’ll often come across for weddings, evening functions, and parties. When you’re deciding what to wear to a cocktail party, it’s important to remember a few things.
Firstly, length matters. So, what length should cocktail dresses be? They’re generally mid-length, meaning they should not fall above the knee or below the ankle. Floor-length gowns are usually reserved for black-tie or formal dress codes. While it’s long been suggested that mini dresses are best left for more casual events, they can also be worn as cocktail dresses in some settings — we will touch on this later in the article.
Secondly, keep necklines in mind. For cocktail events, you’ll want to avoid anything with a plunging neckline or too many cut-outs. It can be helpful to ask yourself: would I comfortably wear this in front of my boss or my grandparents? If the answer is no, then steer in a different direction.
Below, we take a closer look at four cocktail party silhouettes and share the styling tips that will have you feeling as great as you look.
The Midi Dress
The fool-proof cocktail party silhouette is the midi dress. The degree of freedom you have in terms of design will depend on the event you’re heading to.
If you’re off to a wedding or birthday party with a cocktail dress code, you could look to a midi dress with trending features such as cut-outs and side-split hems. Bright colours are best suited for weddings that start during the day, birthday parties in the evening or are dependent on the season in which the event takes place.
If your cocktail party is work-related, it’s best to stick to a more structured silhouette. A chic off-shoulder design will work well, as will styles that are slightly more fitted in the body. Opt for styles in neutral hues for a polished and sophisticated look.
For special cocktail events such as functions or fundraisers, you could look to a style with a statement feature such as an oversized bow or draped skirt. These unexpected features can help to keep your outfit feeling fun and fresh while remaining respectful of the dress code.
Aje Victoria Gown
The Aje Victoria Gown in Wild Hydrangea is a gorgeous tiered floral gown. This dress features an a-line silhouette with a simple sweetheart neckline, boned bodice and bright floral pattern. A stunning fun and flirty style that makes the cocktail outfit during the warmer seasons.
Rebecca Vallance Calla V-Wire Midi Dress
The Rebecca Vallance Calla V Wire Midi Dress is a sophisticated style made from a thick structured crepe. This cocktail midi dress has a fit and flare silhouette, v-wire neckline and thick supportive straps. A super elegant design that is comfortable and easy to wear which will have you feeling amazing for events such as date nights, a day at the races and cocktail parties. A versatile design that can be dressed up or down to suit the occasion.
As seen in the images below, this style is available in black, yellow, green and ivory/white.
Rebecca Vallance Montez Midi Dress
The Rebecca Vallance Montez Midi Dress is an elegant one shoulder style made from a structured crepe material. This dress has a flattering slim silhouette and features a dramatic statement bow on the shoulder. This gorgeous dress is suited to all ages and is extremely comfortable which is all you want for a day spent outdoors. Experiment with your style with this stunning statement pink that is perfect for the summer.
House Of CB Lulu Drape Midi Corset Dress
The House of CB Lulu Drape Midi Corset Dress is a beautiful one shoulder corset dress in a delicate sage tone. This dress is perfect for outdoor spring weddings as the gorgeous pastel colour beautifully compliments the environment around you. Corset dresses are also super trendy at the moment so why not jump on the trend while you have the chance! The midi length makes this dress suitable for cocktail events.
This style is available in pistachio green and white.
Aje Serendipity Reflection Midi Dress
The Aje Serendipity Reflection Midi Dress is a mid-length dress with a corset inspired waist, made from a glossy linen material. Made mostly from linen, it is extremely comfortable and in colours blush, champagne and navy. This style is perfect for those who want more coverage in a cocktail dress. This elegant dress can be dressed down with sandals for a more semi-formal look to your next garden party as a wedding guest, or with small heels to a cocktail party event.
Nookie Nouveau Midi Dress
The Nookie Nouveau Midi Dress is a stunning midi dress. This dress features a square neckline with pearl detailing along the bust and straps. A super comfortable and easy to wear style that is made from a form fitting scuba crepe material. A classic and modern look that is perfect for any event, especially a cocktail party. Add a little wow to your next event with this gorgeous midi dress.
This style is available in black and nude.
Alemais Dana Midi Dress
The Alemais Dana Midi Dress in marigold is a classic midi dress that is crafted from a luxurious fabric with a sublte shine. This gorgeous dress features a tailored bodice and adjustable back tie. The voluminous skirt adds a timeless elegance. We think this style is perfect for cocktail events and will have you feeling comfortable for a long day at the races. Elevate your look with this stunning piece.
Rebecca Vallance Bon Ami Puff Sleeve Midi Dress
The Rebecca Vallance Bon Ami Puff Sleeve Midi Dress is a gorgeous mid-length cocktail dress in a dark navy blue. Made from a luxurious textured crepe, this dress is designed with an elegant puff sleeve and a flattering fitted bodice. The feminine silhouette is further enhanced with a flattering pencil midi skirt. Featuring a signature bow on the shoulder, this dress screams class and sophistication.
The Suit
If cocktail dresses aren’t your thing, or if you’re after a different take on formal styling, a blazer and pants combo is a great alternative. Not only are suits chic and sophisticated, they also provide a comfort factor that is — let’s face it — missing with cocktail dresses.
We love double-breasted blazers paired with either wide-leg pants or cropped trousers. Fitted suits generally deliver a more polished look, but you could also dress up an oversized suit with strappy heels, a low bun, and dangling earrings.
As for colour palettes, a vibrant colour should be styled back with black or nude heels and delicate jewellery. If you’re opting for a suit in a neutral tone, you can play around with colourful accessories. Think white suit paired with a tangerine coloured clutch and matching heels.
Rebecca Vallance Clara Pants suit
The Rebecca Vallance Clara Pants Suit is a striking blazer and pants suit, made for the cooler months. Featuring dreamy star buttons and shoulder pads, this suit will make a statement at your next cocktail event. This elegant suit will have you feeling sophisticated and confident which is all you want in an outfit.
The Mini Dress
As we mentioned earlier, mini dresses have traditionally been thought of as a no-go at cocktail events. However, we respectfully disagree - in some cases. If you’re heading to a work event, business function, or evening wedding, it’s best to stick to the ‘below the knee but above the ankle’ rule. However, if you’re off to a birthday party or daytime wedding, a mini dress can work perfectly.
We suggest looking at styles that hit anywhere from the mid-thigh to just above the knee. Styles that cut away at the upper thigh are best left for a girl’s night out. If you’re opting for a mini dress, avoid form-fitting designs. Instead, opt for floaty or ruffled hems for a more cocktail-appropriate look. For an on-trend finish, we love exaggerated puff sleeves and high necklines.
Mini dresses in dynamic prints and bright colours are best styled with understated makeup and accessories.
Aje Myriad Cut Out Mini Dress
If you want to opt for a mini dress this is the perfect option for you. The Aje Myriad Cut Out Mini Dress is the perfect summer dress to wear for a cocktail, or formal daytime event. The puff sleeves, intricate ruching detail and voluminous skirt make this unique style a statement piece. Step out of your comfort zone with this gorgeous dress at your next event.
Nookie Fantasy Long Sleeve Mini Dress
The Nookie Fantasy Long Sleeve Mini Dress is a perfect option for if you want to wear something fun and flirty to a cocktail party. The shimmering striped sequin, v-neckline and drape feature across the mid-section will have you feeling glamorous. This mini dress provides ultimate comfort as it is easy to walk in, stretchy and definitely bra-friendly!
This style is available in gold, silver, and fuschia pink.
Rebecca Vallance Catania Mini Dress
The Rebecca Vallance Catania Mini Dress is made from a linen blend and features a floral print, puff sleeves, side pockets and an open back. This mini dress is perfect for the summer season as it is easy to wear and makes the perfect outdoor cocktail dress. Feel fun and flirty with this gorgeous mini dress that will flatter you in all the right ways.
AJE Breathless Frill Sleeve Mini Dress
The Aje Breathless Frill Sleeve Mini Dress stands out in bright lime green. It has a square neckline and trendy frill sleeve design. Because of the linen fabric, there is no stretch in the garment, but it hugs the figure so well and gives a flattering silhouette. This style is versatile as the sleeves can we worn on the shoulder or off. We love this Aje mini dress and think it's the cutest number for cocktail events during the warmer seasons!
Odd Muse Ultimate Cap Sleeve Mini Dress
The Odd Muse Ultimate Cap Sleeve Mini Dress is a must-have for a cocktail party. This dress features a high neck, cinched waist and cap sleeve design. The most chic and versatile style that gives the ultimate silhouette. The perfect classic mini dress that can be styled in every which way. This cocktail mini dress will have all eyes on you, is super comfortable and easy to wear which is why we know you will fall in love with this style.
Eliya The Label Kayla Dress
The Eliya The Label Kayla Dress is a stunning white mini dress that is perfect for a cocktail party event. Featuring a well-defined and fitted corset bodice that cascades into a full mini skirt adorned with pearl embellishments in the seams, this dress exudes class and elegance. With removable sleeves, this dress makes a versatile style for a cocktail party and can be styled in many ways to suit the occasion. Stand out in this beautifully sophistcated style for a cocktail party, or anything bridal.
Odd Muse Ultimate Muse Pearl Dress
The Odd Muse Ultimate Muse Pearl Dress is a gorgeous long sleeve black mini dress. If elegance were a dress, she would be it. With a dramatic square neck line that features a pearl trim from front to back, a tight fitted bodice that flares into a full skirt, this dress gives a flattering silhouette. Guaranteed to make you feel amazing, this cocktail mini dress is the perfect style for those who love simple designs with a unique twist.
Rebecca Vallance La Isla Bonita Mini Dress
The Rebecca Vallance La Isla Bonita Mini Dress is made from a printed silk featuring an abstract floral print. This gorgeous smock frock has a relaxed fit, long sleeves, button detailing, a frill neckline with button fastening, elasticated waist with waist tie for a cinched look. This style can be dressed up or down with sandals or heels depending on the occasion. An effortless and classy look which is all you want in a cocktail outfit.
The Jumpsuit
For a contemporary look, slip into a jumpsuit. Jumpsuits usually offer full coverage, making most styles appropriate for a cocktail event. Jumpsuits provide a level of comfort, so you’ll be dancing the night away with ease.
A sleek sequinned style is ideal for birthday parties, weddings, and functions with friends, while a printed boilersuit is best suited to work or late-afternoon events. A jumpsuit will pair effortlessly with mules and a clutch. To elevate the look further, opt for a neat ponytail or slicked-back hairstyle and add a bold lip colour.
Nookie Fantasy Jumpsuit
The Nookie Fantasy Jumpsuit is the perfect outfit to make a statement. Crafted from a dazzling striped stretch sequin, this halter style jumpsuit will have all eyes on you. Featuring a wide leg, this 70's jumpsuit is perfect for a disco themed party, but we also love this jumpsuit as a wedding guest outfit. This jumpsuit is extremely comfortable and flattering which is all that you want in a cocktail outfit. If you are wanting to make a statement at your next event, this style is for you.
Nookie Vamp Velvet Jumpsuit
The Nookie Vamp Velvet Jumpsuit is a flattering style that will never go out of fashion. This wide leg jumpsuit features a waist tie and plunging neckline. This jumpsuit flatters in all the right ways as the velvet hugs the body. A comfortable style that is suitable for cocktail events when paired with heels and accessories to dress up the look.
Nookie Treasure Jumpsuit
The Nookie Treasure Jumpsuit is a show-stopping one shoulder black jumpsuit that features a flattering shoulder pad detail and wide leg for an edgy look. This gorgeous evening jumpsuit exudes elegance as it is crafted from a stretch sequin designed to hug your body and provide the most flattering silhouette. This jumpsuit is perfect for parties, birthdays and black tie events as it can be accessorised anyway to be dressed up or down.
Finding Your Fit
Whether you’re heading to a wedding or work function, it’s important that you feel good in your outfit. The tricky thing about cocktail dresses? They can carry a hefty price tag, and, let’s be honest, are more often than not worn once before being shoved to the back of the wardrobe. Why not save your dollars and maximise wardrobe space by hiring an outfit? If you choose to hire instead of buy, you’re also shopping in a way that’s better for the environment. So, the benefits are threefold. Need more convincing? Our article on the top 5 reasons to hire instead of buy can help.
Now that you know what you’re looking for, it’s time to start shopping. You can explore our beautiful cocktail items available for hire here, or discover our full range of dresses and formalwear here.
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