co*cktail attire is arguably the leader of all wedding dress codes, but when it comes to deciding what to wear as a guest, the popular choice can get tricky. With the help of a few etiquette experts, we’ve taken the guesswork out so you can choose an outfit with confidence.
What Is co*cktail Attire?
co*cktail attire is a balance between formal and casual and elegant and comfortable. To an event with this dress code, such as a wedding, men typically wear a suit and tie while women wear a co*cktail dress.
“co*cktail attire is meant to bridge the gap between day and night,” explains bridal consultant LauraLee Baird. “It is still an occasion to dress up, but a full-length gown is not necessary. This merges the silhouette of a garden party dress (shorter) with the fabric and embellishments of a formal gown.” Think somewhere between a sophisticated formal occasion and office or party wear, adds Alena Kate Pettitt, author of English Etiquette: The Motivation Behind the Manners.
Still, with so much ambiguity, co*cktail attire could mean different things depending on the venue, the time of day, and the season. Read on to learn more about deciphering this common wedding dress code.
co*cktail Attire for Men and Women
“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.”
If you do opt for a longer dress, ensure it’s in a less formal fabric, as to not appear overdressed.
During the day, think natural colors and fresh styles and in the evening, feel free to utilize darker hues and embellishments such as sequins or feathers (so long as your dress doesn’t sweep the floor). Remember: The goal is to look polished and dressy, but not so much so that you take away from the bride.
When in doubt, your best LBD, a pair of sensible heels or dressy flats, some nice earrings, and a classy clutch will always work for a co*cktail event, no matter the venue or time of day. In addition to a traditional co*cktail dress, women can also wear dressy suits or nice jumpsuits paired with heels or formal flats.
All experts agree: a suit and tie are required for co*cktail attire. Go with darker hues in chillier months or for evening events, but feel free to wear lighter grays or blues in warmer weather or for daytime celebrations.As for shoes, keep it classy with a nice pair of dark dress shoes that match your belt.
Still, even with more relaxed venues (such as a beach, barn, or vineyard), if the couple chose a co*cktail dress code, it means a jacket and tie are a must no matter what. During the formalities, the jacket and tie need to remain on, advises Pettitt. “The only acceptable time to remove your jacket and tie is after the formalities have ended and the sun has gone down, and/or the groom or senior male attendants have removed theirs.” Traditionally, this means the jacket needs to stay on during dinner, but feel free to scan the crowd and if others are shrugging out of them before sitting for the first course, it’s fine to do so as well.
co*cktail Attire Etiquette
While a co*cktail dress code isn’t as strict as white or black tie, it’s not an invitation to wear just anything. The bride and groom are expecting you to dress up for the occasion and this should be reflected in your outfit. Anything too tight, short, or revealing is a big “no,” as well as jeans, ripped clothing, shorts, and sandals (for men).
“Having made an effort shows regard for the event, and creates a jovial collective mood for all those who attend,” says Pettitt. “Adhering to the dress code is not only polite, but it will help you feel at ease in your surroundings.” If you’re still at a loss, feel free to reach out to the mother of the bride or the maid of honor (never the bride) for further clarification to ensure you look and feel your best.
The venue will also give you a clue as to how stringent you need to be with your attire. “Read the invitation for the setting of the event as co*cktail attire for an afternoon outdoor vineyard wedding would likely be less formal than the co*cktail attire of an evening wedding taking place at a private club,” advises Baird.
FAQ
What should I wear to a wedding with a co*cktail dress code?
When attending a wedding with a co*cktail dress code, your goal is to look polished and put together but not overly elaborate. Take cues from details like the formality of the venue, the season, and even the vibe of the invitation to determine what to wear.
What is summer co*cktail attire?
For a summer wedding with co*cktail attire, opt for light and airy fabrics such as chiffon, linen, or organza. A floral maxi dress, a pastel midi or knee-length dress, as well as a jumpsuit are all great options. Elevate your look with simple accessories and a pair of wedges or block heels.
What is semi-formal attire?
Semi-formal attire is another term that is often used interchangeably with co*cktail attire. Like a co*cktail dress code, it represents the middle ground between formal wear and casual wear.
