22 Elegant co*cktail Dresses Perfect for All Bodies and Budgets (2024)

FAQs

What is elegant co*cktail attire? ›

When an event calls for a co*cktail dress code, that means you've got permission to look a little more polished and put together. The idea is to look dressed up without going full-blown black tie. This generally translates to wearing well-fitted slacks with a crisp button-up.

“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.”

1. Borrow a dress or outfit from a similarly-sized friend. Most ladies have one or two long dresses hanging in their wardrobes – be it old ball gowns, wedding attire or even bridesmaid dresses. With a few updated accessories, you can make an old dress look like new.

The one thing all pros can agree on when it comes to co*cktail attire is that it's not considered casual. "Don't wear something you'd originally wear to the office to an occasion that calls for co*cktail attire," says Brown. Del Russo agrees and says to avoid denim, casual flats, tank tops, and maxi skirts or dresses.

Also known as “full evening dress”, white tie attire is considered the most formal of all dress codes. The white tie dress code indicates that guests are high-caliber, royal, or have high social standing.

co*cktail dresses typically fall somewhere in the midi range – not too long, not too short. Think just above, at, or just below the knee. It's the sweet spot that keeps things classy and comfortable.

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.

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.

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 co*cktail chic attire look like? ›

The classic little black dress is what should come to mind as proper attire. co*cktail dresses are short, and most often, black. Men should wear dark suits and a tie.

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.

There's nothing more classic than a little black dress. If you're going to a formal function then updos will work perfectly. They're elegant, sophisticated and classy. But if you want to stand out for a co*cktail party, go with something that lays low as most other people will have gone up.

Jeans, if your company allows them, without rips or distressing. Slacks – one light pair and one dark pair. Dress tops, collared and non-collared, that fit with your environment and the changing seasons. A blazer, cardigan or light jacket.

Traditionally, you'll want wear a suit in navy or gray (black can lean a little severe) and pair it with a white or light-colored shirt, a darker tie, and dress shoes. Oxfords are never a bad choice, but you can dress it down (just a little) with loafers or derbies or brogues, too.

co*cktail attire is that sweet spot between your most glamorous gown and your favorite business casual wear. It's about looking polished and poised without feeling overdone. Think of it as your fashion playground for semi-formal events where you get to show off your personal style with a touch of sophistication.

For women, this usually means dresses that hit around the knee, tailored pants with a dressy top, or standout jumpsuits. It's all about looking polished and poised.