So you've nailed the 'smart casual' and 'black tie' dress codes. What about a cocktail? This is trickier, largely since it can vary a lot more than other dress codes, concerning the time of the big event, the place or venue, and also the season.

WHAT IS CONSIDERED COCKTAIL ATTIRE?

Traditionally, a cocktail dress code bridged the gap between night and day. Where evening events warranted a full-length gown and daytime events required shorter dresses, the issue these days would be that the gap between night and day is pretty big, and also the rules happen to be all but trashed.

That said, a secure way to approach cocktail attire would be to think of it as dressy, although not overdressed. A floor-sweeping gown isn't necessary, however, you should also think hard before wearing anything too 'daytime', just like a dress you'd wear to the office. The goal would be to look elegant, sophisticated, and set together.

HOW TO WEAR AND STYLE A COCKTAIL DRESS

Choosing a cocktail outfit depends upon the duration of the event you've been invited to, as well as the place or venue and also the season. For daytime events or less formal venues, neutral colors along with a tea- or knee-length dress are great options, while for evening and much more swanky locations, darker hues and pieces embellished with sequins, feathers, or carried out with embroidery are fantastic cocktail styles. Here

HOW TO ACCESSORIZE A COCKTAIL DRESS

When you are looking at accessorizing a cocktail dress, again, it depends upon the cocktail style you've chosen. If it is rich with detail—beads, feathers, embroidery as well as bold colors—it's smart to pare it down by upholding your accessories simply. Pumps or sandals in black or perhaps a metallic shade are a mainstay in a cocktail attire wardrobe, out of the box a sleek, streamlined clutch in similar hues.

WHAT DO YOU WEAR OVER A COCKTAIL DRESS

Depending on the duration of the day and the duration of the year, you will need to layer something over your cocktail dress. Besides being a practical consideration, it's also an essential stylistic one—after all, there's nothing worse or even more annoying than ruining an excellent cocktail outfit by having a big blanket or jacket that simply doesn't match.

Options for pieces to layer on the cocktail dress incorporate a faux fur bolero or satin stole, silk or cashmere shawl or scarf, as well as an oversized blazer (keep the arms out from the sleeves and put it on thrown approximately your shoulders for any look that's more nonchalant-cool than office appropriate). Whatever you choose, make sure it has the same overall vibe and degree of formality as the cocktail dress.

OUR FAVORITE DRESSES FOR COCKTAIL ATTIRE

HAND-BEADED HALTER SWING DRESS IN IVORY GOLD

Look no further for any cocktail dress that's equal parts refined, fun and fabulous—this halter dress is all from the above. Ideally worn for an evening event, because of hand-beaded details that lend a feeling of glamour, it's perfect for any duration of the year.

LONG SLEEVE PRINTED EMPIRE WAIST DRESS WITH TIE NECK IN BURGUNDY MULTI

For winter or evening events, this printed dress is a superb cocktail attire option. Made from lightweight matte satin, it provides a split neckline, long sleeves, subtle ruffles as well as an empire waist that falls right into a flattering, flared mid-length skirt.

PLUS SIZE METALLIC KNIT DRESS IN TRUE RED

The sheath plus size cocktail gets an upgrade for winter in softly shimmering metallic knit. This is ideal for both daytime and evening events—or if you need to transition from day to night effortlessly. The tie detail in front is an elegant final touch.

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