Here’s a Toast to co*cktail Attire!
When you receive an invitation nowadays, you’ll likely recognize many of the dress codes, such as Business Casual or Black Tie, and have some idea of what kinds of clothing they entail. But what about co*cktail Attire? What are you supposed to wear for this dress code?
Table of Contents
- Here’s a Toast to co*cktail Attire!
- Understanding the co*cktail Attire Dress Code
- The Essential Components of a co*cktail Attire Outfit
- Seven Dos of co*cktail Attire
- Seven Don’ts of co*cktail Attire
- co*cktail Attire Events
- Two co*cktail Attire Looks
- Traditional co*cktail Attire from the Golden Age of Menswear
- Conclusion
- co*cktail Attire FAQ
This guide will help explain precisely what co*cktail Attire is, so you are perfectly dressed and able to enjoy yourself. Whether you have a co*cktail in your hand or not, you’ll make exactly the right impression at any event with the guidelines and tips available here.
Understanding the co*cktail Attire Dress Code
What the co*cktail Attire Dress Code Is: The Bridge Between Formal and Casual
“co*cktail Attire” refers to a very broad dress code traditionally worn in social settings in the afternoon or evening that were given over to leisure and conversation. In the present day, this dress code is employed in various locations and can be worn on multiple diverse occasions.
“Life is like a co*cktail, made up for the most part of sweet things, and tinged with a dash of bitters. We must drain it to the dregs to get at the cherry, just as we must live a full and rounded life to know all of its pleasures.”
Edgar Guest
On the scale of dress codes, co*cktail Attire is the middle, a step up from Business Casual but less formal than Black Tie. It is considered on par with Business Attire, so in composition, it is very similar to an outfit you would wear to your office or an interview to create an excellent co*cktail attire ensemble. Essentially, co*cktail Attire almost perfectly straddles the dress code scale between Semi-Formal and Formal.
What The co*cktail Attire Dress Code is Not
Existing in the middle of the dress code spectrum, it is easy for anyone to become confused as to precisely what is and what is not co*cktail Attire. Part of the confusion stems from the name: if you associate co*cktails with a glamorous evening at a fancy bar or restaurant, you would not be remiss in thinking that a more formal ensemble, such as a tuxedo, would be appropriate. Conversely, if you associate drinking with a rollicking good time with friends, you might assume that a more casual look should be in the offing.
In reality, co*cktail Attire is intended to fill the sartorial void that exists between these two spheres: it offers the refinement and cohesion of more formal ensembles mingled with the creativity and opportunities for self-expression of the more casual.
As such, clothing that is more casual – such as jeans, polo shirts, or casual sneakers – has no place in the co*cktail Attire dress code, but neither does more formal menswear – such as dinner jackets, formal waistcoats, or cumme*rbunds.
co*cktail Attire Ensembles Exist on Both Ends of the Formality Spectrum
Occupying its central position within the larger progression of dress codes does mean, however, that co*cktail Attire garments can vary drastically in their overall formality. One co*cktail Attire look could appear to be just a few steps in formality above a Business Casual outfit, while another co*cktail Attire ensemble might, at first glance, seem only slightly removed from a formal ensemble.
This range of looks can be attributed to the fact that co*cktail Attire evolved in a liminal space between the formal and the casual, and has adopted sufficient elements from both to function at either end of the spectrum. In order to decide whether to craft a co*cktail Attire ensemble that is more casual or more formal, you will primarily be guided by the nature of the event you are attending.
The Essential Components of a co*cktail Attire Outfit
Fort Belvedere
Dark Blue Bow Tie in Soft Ancient Madder Silk with Light Blue Red Macclesfield Neats Micropattern
Fort Belvedere
Burgundy Red Handcrafted Linen Pocket Square with White Handrolled edges
Dark to Mid-Gray Suit
co*cktail Attire may not be a strictly formal affair, but in keeping with the refined atmosphere of the occasion, you will be best served wearing a suit that is darker in tone. Navy, Charcoal, Dark Blue, and Mid-Gray are all common options that can also be worn as day or business suits and will therefore ensure good cost-per-wear.
co*cktail Attire is traditionally associated with single-breasted suit jackets, but a double-breasted jacket is acceptable. If desired, you may wear a three-piece suit with a waistcoat, but be aware that this look is considered more formal and might, at certain events, appear a little too stuffy.
Lighter Colors Can Be Worn At Day Events
If you are attending a daytime co*cktail Attire event, usually taking place anytime before five pm, it would be appropriate to introduce lighter colored suit if desired. Potential color choices include Medium Blues, Dark and Medium Greens, and most shades of Brown.
Combinational Are Acceptable For Very Casual co*cktail Attire
Similar Color combinations?
Maybe!
While you should usually avoid combinations in the co*cktail Attire dress code, for more casual occasions, you can consider them. This co*cktail Attire look could be acceptable at a casual day event because the jacket and trousers are both dark, but won’t be entirely in keeping with the conventions of Classic Style.
Contrast Combinational?
Too Casual!
Whether for day or night events, avoid high-contrast jacket and trousers combinations while following the co*cktail Attire dress code. This look is simply too casual for events of this formality.
For most co*cktail Attire events, you will be best served in a suit in which all of its components are cut from the same cloth. That being said, at more informal co*cktail Attire events, especially those taking place during the day, a blazer or sports coat can be acceptable.
However, on those occasions, we recommend coordinating, rather than contrasting, your sports coat with your trousers, as this will ensure that the look remains formal. For example, consider pairing a navy blazer with gray trousers rather than stone trousers.
Button-Up Dress Shirt in White or Muted Colors
For the most classic look, a white dress shirt is an ideal garment for any co*cktail Attire ensemble. Its high-contrast color and simple elegance will help the other aspects of your outfit shine. If desired, light blue shirts will also achieve a similar effect while offering additional visual interest.
A shirt with French cuffs, provided that the accompanying cufflinks are sufficiently sedate, is perfectly acceptable, as are barrel cuffs.
Avoid Jewel-Tone Dress Shirts
In the past, jewel-tone dress shirts, in blues, greens, reds, and purples, were often worn as part of co*cktail Attire. This combination was meant to appear dynamic and refined, but unfortunately, the overall look is now somewhat dated and closely associated with the Lounge Lizard or Swinger ensembles of the late 1980s and early 1990s. It is possible to make this look work for you today, but it will require impeccable color combination and an attentive eye for quality materials – in particular, you want to ensure that your shirt does not appear overly shiny.
Employ Tasteful Textures
To achieve the unique visual interest of a colorful shirt without the risk of appearing too bold, consider a subtle texture or weave that alters the appearance of your shirt without being overbearing.
Neckwear in Solids or Subtle Patterns
Neckwear is an ideal opportunity for injecting color and vibrancy into an outfit, but when selecting a necktie or bow tie for a co*cktail Attire affair, a more muted option will likely produce the best results. Subtle neckwear in classic and versatile colors, with perhaps a subdued pattern, will ensure that the outfit is interesting while remaining sufficiently formal.
Loud or colorful neckwear will generally be too casual for many co*cktail Attire occasions, especially those that take place in the evening. They could be worn more readily during a daytime event or an event that is known to be very casual in nature, but again, you will usually be best served being too formal rather than too casual.
Avoid Black
While you could wear a black necktie with a co*cktail Attire outfit, such a decision is tantamount to throwing away the perfect opportunity to employ a more stimulating color choice. You should explicitly avoid, however, wearing a black bow tie, as this article is closely associated with the Black Tie dress code, a distinct and very different dress code.
Simple Pocket Square
As with neckwear, less is often more with a pocket square. Rather than opting for a flashy selection, you will derive greater benefit from a relatively simple pocket square in either a pleasing solid color or a timeless pattern, such as paisley, medallions, or tasteful graphics.
The key to ensure elegance and versatility is to select a pocket square that features muted, classic colors that will enliven your ensemble without appearing too brash. In this way, your pocket square will heighten the other aspects of your look without distracting from them.
Dark Dress Shoes
As with most events taking place in the evening, co*cktail Attire occasions should be the exclusive domain of dark leather shoes. Such shoes convey the gravity of the occasion and will also prove far easier to pair with your larger ensemble.
In general, black shoes are best suited to a co*cktail Attire event, although very dark brown or dark oxblood are also acceptable. The shoe should be relatively simple, without excessive detailing, like brogueing. An oxford will therefore be your best choice, although sedate derbies will also work.
Can You Wear Dress Sneakers? Not According to Classic Style Conventions, But …
Finally, many modern gentlemen, including those interested in the Classic Style, have embraced the dress sneaker on an increasing number of occasions. Such a shoe is not in keeping with the formality of most co*cktail Attire events, but could, perhaps, be worn at a very casual, daytime co*cktail Attire affair. Ultimately, the choice is yours, although in these situations dress sneakers are not typical of the Classic Style.
Add Personality with Coordinating Shoe Laces
Shop for Sensational Shoelaces!
To add personality to leather shoes without reverting to unusual styles or colors, consider adding a pair of unique shoelaces that pick out another color in your outfit. For more formal occasions, you will want to select colors that coordinate with your shoes, trousers, and socks, while on more casual occasions, you can be more creative and opt for shades with more contrast.
Coordinate Your Leathers
As a unique finishing touch to your entire ensemble, it is always beneficial, but especially upon more formal occasions, to make an effort to match all of the leather components of your outfit, such as your belt or suspenders, shoes, and watchband. Doing so will contribute to the overall elegance of the outfit and make it clear that you are an attentive and well-coordinated dresser.
Coordinated Dress Socks
Socks are an often overlooked component of menswear, but the co*cktail Attire dress code affords many opportunities for visually exciting socks that are still refined enough for the occasion. Solids or subtle patterns are both equally acceptable, provided that they are rendered in sedate colors. Two-tone or striped socks are also an excellent choice.
In general, you should endeavor to match your socks to your trousers or to pick up the coloration of another article in your outfit, such as your neckwear or pocket square.
Impeccable Personal Grooming
It is unlikely that you will find yourself invited to a co*cktail Attire event on the spur of the moment, and therefore you will have ample opportunity to ensure that both you and your clothes are in perfect order. To that end, ensure that your garments are neatly pressed and recently cleaned, if needed. You, in turn, should see that your hair has been recently trimmed and your facial hair either neatly coifed or cleanly shaved.
The Dos & Don’ts of co*cktail Attire
Seven Dos of co*cktail Attire
1
DO abide by the stated dress code – a co*cktail Attire invitation has certain specifications that should be followed and is not an opportunity to wear whatever you please.
2
DO wear your best-fitting dark suit, even if you usually reserve it for work – it will be appropriate for the occasion and the superb fit will make you look all the better.
3
DO employ elegant color combinations that are visually pleasing without being flashy – this usually means pairing different shades of warm and cool colors, rather than contrasting colors.
4
DO proactively determine how formal or informal your outfit should be based on the time of day, location of the event, and what you know about the hosts.
5
DO utilize unique accessories to add personality to your co*cktail Attire look, but remember that less is often more, so employ a quality-over-quantity approach.
6
DO wear interesting textures and materials to create visual interest.
7
DO remember that the co*cktail Attire dress codes affords opportunities for tasteful and elegant personalization, so do not be afraid to add your personal touch to your outfit.
Seven Don’ts of
co*cktail Attire
1
DON'T wear a tuxedo or a White Tie ensemble, as they are too formal and constitutes their own respective dress codes.
2
DON'T wear a black suit, because it could be mistaken for a Black Tie dinner jacket and is generally too austere for this dress code, being better suited to funerals.
3
DON'T wear pinstripes, bright colored ties, a bold paisley shirt, or flashy accessories at a co*cktail Attire event that is honoring someone else, such as a retirement party, reception, or wedding – the person being honored should be the center of attention and not you.
4
DON'T wear casual clothes such as khakis, chinos, jeans, polo shirts, or a casual sports jacket – essentially, avoid any article associated with the Business Casual dress code.
5
DON'T wear causal shoes that are lace-less, like loafers or moccasins.
6
DON'T go sockless – this summery look is just too casual for the co*cktail Attire dress code.
7
DON'T forget a tie or bow tie – some kind of neckwear will be expected at any co*cktail Attire event you are likely to attend.
co*cktail Attire Events
Common Occasions for Wearing co*cktail Attire
Parties
Receptions
Weddings
Because of its position in the middle of the dress code spectrum, co*cktail Attire has become an extremely popular dress code for a variety of events. You will often see it as the suggested dress code for many weddings, private parties, galas, and even professional occasions, ranging from networking events to retirement parties.
Examples of More Formal co*cktail Attire Events
Understanding the nature of these events will guide you as to whether or not to craft a co*cktail Attire outfit that is more casual or more formal. For instance, a wedding that takes place in a church with a reception at a historic hotel hints at a more dignified occasion that requires a more formal look. Similarly, any co*cktail Attire event associated with your place of work or professional contacts will likely be a more formal affair.
Examples of More Casual co*cktail Attire Events
Understanding the nature of these events will guide you as to whether or not to craft a co*cktail Attire outfit that is more casual or more formal. For instance, a wedding that takes place in a church with a reception at a historic hotel hints at a more dignified occasion that requires a more formal look. Similarly, any co*cktail Attire event associated with your place of work or professional contacts will likely be a more formal affair.
How to Utilize the Versatility of co*cktail Attire for Multiple Events
A significant benefit of the range of looks within the co*cktail Attire dress code is its versatility. Assuming that you own a suit that is appropriate for Business Attire, you already own the basic elements needed to craft an excellent co*cktail Attire ensemble. It will be worth your time and effort to invest in garments within this dress code range because they can be similarly employed in other situations.
Understanding the Versatility of co*cktail Attire
In a pinch, you can wear co*cktail attire with a dark suit instead of a tuxedo when Black Tie Optional is called for as the dress code. It is also appropriate for funerals and other solemn occasions when formality is required. In this case, a solid dark navy or charcoal suit can be worn if you don’t own a black one, and your accessories should be muted, such as a black grenadine tie, black leather oxford dress shoes, and a solid white shirt. Even if you wear smart casual or jeans on a day-to-day basis, it pays to have at least one co*cktail Attire outfit ready in your closet for short notice events.
Alternative Dress Codes: Decoding “co*cktail Casual,” “Semi-Formal” and “Formal Attire”
What the “co*cktail Casual” Dress Code Means
Adding to the confusion that already surrounds the co*cktail Attire dress code, you will occasionally encounter dress codes with similar names or meanings. “co*cktail Casual” refers to a dress code similar to co*cktail Attire but noticeably less formal, usually allowing for bright colors, unusual patterns, and combinational outfits.
What the “Semi-Formal” Dress Code Means
“Semi-Formal” literally means “Half” or “Nearly Formal” and refers broadly to any style of dress that is not formal but also is not casual. It often entails a look akin to co*cktail Attire or Black Tie Optional, and in many cases, when hosts use the phrasing “Semi-Formal,” what they have in mind is basically a co*cktail Attire look. If you are a host yourself, we suggest avoiding this terminology precisely because it is confusing and instead employ a more precise dress code.
What the “Formal Attire” Dress Code Means
“Formal Attire” refers to any of the Formal dress codes, and can include Morning Wear for daytime occasions, and Black Tie Optional, Black Tie, or White Tie for evening occasions. Again, this dress code is confusing because it is relatively broad, but in most cases today, any invitation asking guests to wear Formal Attire likely indicates that Black Tie is desired.
What to Wear to a co*cktail Attire Wedding
Even though the above guidelines for co*cktail attire may seem a bit subdued, they will be appropriate for most weddings. The result of the co*cktail attire dress code is that you will be elegantly and respectfully attired for the occasion without being flashy or otherwise drawing attention away from the focus of the day – the bride and groom. Unless you have information suggesting otherwise, such as a beach or barn location, you can’t go wrong with traditional co*cktail attire at a wedding.
Never Overshadow the Wedding Party
If the bridegroom has a flamboyant personality or is someone who wears shorts and t-shirt, no matter what, try to adjust your outfit so you will not be completely out of place: for a more casual wedding, go with more colorful accessories and for a completely informal wedding, skip the tie and just wear a combination with a dark jacket and lighter colored slacks – again, it is the bridge and groom’s special day so you should try not to catch much attention with your outfit or risk overshadowing the wedding party.
What to Wear to a co*cktail Party
Ironically, a co*cktail party does not necessarily call for co*cktail Attire. While the ladies may have an easy out for a co*cktail party look, taking advantage of the appropriately-named co*cktail dress, it is not as clear for men what attire they should wear to a co*cktail party. You will need to judge the nature of the event before you decide what to wear.
“The bar is in full swing, and floating rounds of co*cktails permeate the garden outside, until the air is alive with chatter and laughter, and casual innuendo and introductions forgotten on the spot, and enthusiastic meetings between women who never knew each other’s names.”
from The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
If the event suggests a dress code, wear whatever the hosts have suggested. If not, consider that co*cktail parties are supposed to be relaxed occasions, and although not wrong per se, a classic dark suit such as navy or charcoal is probably a tad too formal. During the winter, you can wear flannel, with patterns, and maybe a bow tie. Be more daring than with your business wardrobe and pay attention to accessories such as cuff links, tie bars, pocket squares, and boutonnieres, but don’t overdo it. We suggest using only two accents at a time to appear sedate and dignified.
An Example of a co*cktail Party Ensemble
Fort Belvedere
Wine Red, Yellow,Blue, Green, Orange Silk Wool Medallion Pocket Square
Two co*cktail Attire Looks
Because co*cktail Attire events can run the gamut from relatively casual to relatively formal, it is essential to craft your outfit around the anticipated level of formality. To give you a sense of what this spectrum can entail, we’ve put together two variations on co*cktail Attire suited for two different levels of formality. Use these examples to inspire your creativity and achieve a benchmark for how formal and informal different ensembles should be.
Outfit Variation #1: Formal and Fun with Unexpected Colors
Fort Belvedere
Midnight Blue and Burgundy Shadow Stripe Ribbed Socks Fil d'Ecosse Cotton
This variation is well-suited to most co*cktail Attire events, although it is overall a slightly more casual look because of its interesting use of contrasting colors. The base of the outfit, a navy blue double-breasted suit, is inherently more formal, so to add more informal whimsy, contrasting buff neckwear has been added, as it will lighten up the blue of the suit and create unexpected visual interest. The whole-cut shoes have similarly been rendered in a more unusual oxblood shade, as they are otherwise very formally cut. The burgundy of the striped socks also offers bold color that is kept in check by the midnight blue. Finally, an ivory dress shirt, with a coordinating pale yellow pocket square, plays with this dress code’s conventions by subtly subverting expectations.
Outfit Variation #2: Dignified Elegance with Timeless Style
Fort Belvedere
Collar Bar Clip in Platinum Silver For Classic Narrow Spread Collars
This look exudes classic charm and has considerable vintage appeal, combining timeless colors with antique detailing that is all united with the use of shades of red. The single-breasted suit itself is a mid-gray color enlivened with a subdued hound’s-tooth pattern that pops, mainly because of the more formal and evening-appropriate peaked lapels. Continuing the theme of unique textures, two-tone black oxford boots with suede both ground the look and help it stand out, as further exemplified by the muted gray socks with vibrant burgundy clocks. The tie is in a very muted burgundy, but polka dots and a silver collar clip prevent the burgundy from appearing too drab against the gray. A simple white shirt and pocket square elegantly complete the ensemble, tying all of the other elements together, thanks mainly to the red detailing around the latter.
Traditional co*cktail Attire from the Golden Age of Menswear
The Historical Origins of co*cktail Attire
co*cktail Attire arose in the early 20th century with the development of co*cktail Culture in Europe and North America. Traditionally, ladies and gentlemen would have distinct garments worn during the day – usually day suits or similar apparel – that they would change out of in the evening in favor of dinner clothes – either Black or White Tie.
Building a Bridge Between Day Clothing and Evening Clothing
In the early 20th century, a liminal period developed between the end of the day and the start of supper that became known as the co*cktail Hour, usually beginning around five PM. At this time, after a hard day of work or an afternoon spent out-and-about, the ladies and gentlemen of the house, and their guests, would enjoy a quick co*cktail before making their preparations for dinner.
As this co*cktail Hour usually took place at the end of the day, the co*cktail Attire dress code developed out of the same types of clothes that would have been worn during the day. Hence, relatively formal dark suits, shoes, and neckwear were the norm for gentlemen.
Modern co*cktail Attire Develops
Eventually, co*cktail Attire assumed social occasions of its own, usually consisting of private parties or other more informal affairs that did not merit the full formal ensembles of a dinner party or gala event. As the 20th century progressed, co*cktail Attire began to eclipse Black Tie, the former favorite for evenings out, in all but the most formal situations.
Soon, co*cktail Attire, sometimes under the guise of “Semi-Formal” nomenclature, was preferred for even more formal events, such as dinner parties and even weddings. By the late 20th century, this segue from day to evening dress had become a form of evening wear in its own right.
Three co*cktail Attire Looks from the 1930s
Fashion illustrations are a window into a bygone era when every man seemed to be dressed to the nines. The following fashion illustration is from 1936,the Golden Age of Men’s Classic Style, and shows us a nice mix of co*cktail attire for men that would still work today. If the party is during the day or in the afternoon, you can add more color and patterns to your outfit, although the basics mentioned above apply here as well. In the evening, you can wear darker suits, fewer patterns, and more muted colors.
Stroller with Striped Trousers
Ideal for Day Events
Vintage Class
This jacket is a typical single-breasted stroller, peaked lapel style with two buttons and jetted pockets in a charcoalgray. Note the red carnation that goes well with the buff waistcoat, white shirt, and light blue tie. The trousers are striped with a wide stripe in black and white. Even though the shoes aren’t visible, they are probably black oxfords to match the colors in the outfit and the formality of this look. This co*cktail outfit used to be particularly popular for wear on Sunday afternoons and was often seen at the smartest co*cktail bars. Today, the stroller is definitely the most formal of all the co*cktail suits.
Windowpane Overplaid Sharkskin Suit
The Ultimate co*cktail Party Ensemble
Plaid Panache
This rust brown subdued windowpane over-plaid on a gray sharkskin suit is worn as a 3-piece suit with an ivory-colored shirt and navy-red club tie.The proportions of this suit are very moderate. It has an average lapel width and gorge, round quarters, and a reasonably long jacket. Windowpane suits are one of the most underrated outfits in menswear, and hence, they are an ideal chance for you to differentiate yourself without being overly loud. As a general rule, you should keep in mind that the more patterns and colors, other than navy and gray, you have in your outfit, the less formal it will be.
Wide Strip Worsted Flannel Suit
Exceptional Evening Alternative
Striped Style
The red stripes are reflected in the rest of the outfit, such as the red boutonniereand Bordeaux tie. This three-piece flannel suit with stripes benefits from the peaked lapels, which provide a little more formality. If the lady in blue were to step aside, you would see that the trousers of this suit are without cuffs, which raises the formality bar by another notch. Note that in this illustration, the red stripe appears very vibrant, but as seen in the fabric swatch below, it appears much more sedate in real life.
Conclusion
When co*cktail Attire is called for as the dress code at your next event, now you know what you need to wear to look and feel great. Keep in mind that the standards of co*cktail Attire are often dictated by the nature of the event attended, so keep some commonsense rules in mind while crafting your ensemble.
At a wedding, try to be properly dressed without being too flashy and always keep the bride and groom in mind. For co*cktail parties and receptions, leave your business navies and grays in the closet and add a splash of color. If you have a waistcoat – even a contrasting one – wear it if it pairs well with the suit. And most important of all – have fun and enjoy the company and the drinks!
co*cktail Attire FAQ
What is the co*cktail Attire dress code?
The co*cktail Attire dress code is a semi-formal-to-formal dress code that is typically worn on evening occasions that can include professional events, retirement parties, co*cktail parties, and weddings. It is typified by a dark suit, muted shirts, sedate accessories, and dark shoes.
Is co*cktail Attire the same thing as Semi-Formal?
Technically, co*cktail Attire can be an example of semi-formal attire, but other dress codes can also be considered semi-formal. That being said, Semi-Formal is often used interchangeably with co*cktail Attire, although it can also sometimes be used to refer to Black Tie Optional.
What is Casual co*cktail Attire?
Casual co*cktail Attire is a subset of the co*cktail Attire dress codes in which the hosts want their guests to be more creative and casual in selecting their outfits. Therefore, you can feel free to experiment with more bold colors and patterns, wear combinationals, or even forego neckwear.
Do I have to wear co*cktail Attire to a co*cktail party?
While the co*cktail Attire dress code may derive its name from the enjoyment of co*cktails, co*cktail parties will not necessarily require the co*cktail Attire dress code. If the hosts of the co*cktail party have specified a dress code, follow it. If they have not, a co*cktail Attire ensemble, tuned to the relatively anticipated formality of the evening, will almost certainly be appropriate.
Do I have to wear a jacket as part of a co*cktail Attire ensemble?
Yes, certainly for any event taking place in the evening. Ideally, this jacket should always be part of a matching suit, although, for more casual co*cktail Attire events, a dark sports coat with coordinating trousers might be acceptable, although not in keeping with the conventions of Classic Style.
Do I have to wear a tie as part of a co*cktail Attire ensemble?
Yes, some kind of neckwear, whether a necktie or bow tie, will be expected for nearly every co*cktail Attire occasion. Unless you know for a fact that your hosts expect some guests to forgo them, wear a necktie or bow tie.
Can I wear a blazer or sport coat as co*cktail Attire?
Conventionally, your jacket should be a suit jacket cut from the same cloth as your trousers. As part of a more modern look, you can potentially wear a blazer or sports coat at a casual co*cktail Attire event, but this will not be in keeping with the traditional rules of the Classic Style. If you do opt to wear combinations, make sure that they are in dark, similar colors, especially for evening events.
Can I wear jeans as co*cktail Attire?
You cannot wear jeans as part of a co*cktail Attire ensemble, not even dark jeans, as they are simply too casual for the occasion.
Can I wear a sweater or similar knitwear as co*cktail Attire?
Muted knitwear such as a vest can be worn under a jacket at casual co*cktail Attire events, but a sweater or cardigan is not an acceptable substitute for a jacket.
Can I wear sneakers as co*cktail Attire?
Traditionally, no sneakers, not even dress sneakers, are appropriate for a co*cktail Attire affair. Similarly, you should also avoid any lace-less shoes, like loafers or moccasins. All of these shoes are too informal for this dress code.
