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You’ve probably overturned your wardrobe looking for what to wear to that cocktail party next saturday. Or maybe you have an outfit in mind but are unsure if it would be inappropriate or ‘not-so-stylish.’ We know the feeling. Stepping into a cocktail event can feel like navigating a fashion minefield and finding what to wear to a cocktail party — a dilemma. With dress codes that often blend formal and semi-formal looks, finding the ideal stylish cocktail attire for women in your style and fitting for the party can be tricky.
You probably know that the perfect cocktail dress can make a lasting impression, hence the need for the effort. Whether you’re dressing for a wedding, a birthday celebration, or a corporate gathering, finding the right cocktail dress is essential. In this guide, we’ll explore the best cocktail party outfit ideas and styling tips to take off the stress of overthinking your outfit.
Choosing the Perfect Cocktail Dress
Cocktail parties are the right moments to bring on your classy juice. Below are some of the best cocktail dress styles you can wear at any event. But as long as they are chic and stunning, you can overstep and opt for the styles you love.
- Midi Dress: Midi dresses are the signature style at cocktail parties. If you’re wondering what to wear to a cocktail party such as a birthday or wedding with a cocktail dress code, you won’t go wrong with a midi dress that has cutouts and side slit accents.
- Slip Dress: The slip dress is a classic cocktail dress silhouette. From its loose fit to the sheeny look, there’s everything to love about this dress. Plus, it is a one-and-done option if you’re looking for cocktail party outfit ideas to twin with bae. All you have to do is choose a complementary color with your partner and throw on a few key accessories.
- Two-Piece Outfits: Some days, single dresses are for the win, and other times two piece dresses are the best bet. There’s this unspoken elegance that comes from this outfit and you can literally feel the stare from the crowd with every step you take. Velvet and satin fabrics will be an excellent buy here.
- Wrap Dress: You don’t have to stop at A-line or fit-and-flare dresses, especially if you’re a pear-shaped girlie. Wrap dresses have an air of mystery to them, and they make stylish cocktail attire for women. Also, you can tap deep into your feminine charm with a plunging neckline option.
- Mini Dress: A mini dress for cocktail parties should top your list when the code is more casual than formal or you’re in for a spicy vibe rather than a classy feel. A sequin rose gold mini dress with a thin bracelet and gold hoops is super chic for your cocktail party.
Accessorizing for a Cocktail Party
Considering that the cocktail party dress code is a gray area between formal and semi-formal, your accessories should not be as bold as you would for a casual event and not as subtle as on formal occasions. You should find a meeting point in your accessories when you want to accessorize cocktail party outfit. Opt for subtle, eye-catching accessories like a delicate necklace paired with a matching bracelet if your dress is heavily embellished. Or you can step up a simple party dress by stacking several bracelets in a fun, trendy way, wearing a lavish ring, and pairing up with a sleek clutch. Always ensure you have one or two statement pieces in your accessories, and strive to coordinate the look as much as possible.
Styling Tips to Look Perfect on a Cocktail Party
Here are some of the top cocktail party fashion tips that will ensure you look glam and chic at your party:
- Dress: Start your styling with the dress. Whether you’re going for single dresses or 2-piece sets, your outfits should complement your body type and be in the correct size. Solid-colored dresses and monochrome are bolder and more elegant for cocktail events.
- Shoes: High heels, dress shoes, loafers, and Chelsea boots are the top shoes to wear with cocktail dresses for women depending on the event’s formality and season.
- Accessories: You need only simple and classy accessories, such as a small, elegant clutch, a pair of earrings, a necklace, and a bracelet.
- Makeup: Elegance and simplicity should be your watchwords when applying makeup. You certainly don’t want to go overboard; in fact, a ‘no makeup-makeup look’ is the catch.
- Hairstyle: A simple updo or sleek waves can be all you need to complete your look.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right dress for cocktail parties is a pinch of personal styling, a shot of the event’s dress code, and a cup of what suits you. Remember to wear confidence in your looks, whether you opt for a thigh-slit midi dress, a cute slip dress, or a stylish two-piece outfit. Accessorizing thoughtfully and keeping your makeup and hairstyle simple and elegant will undoubtedly elevate your look, but you need confidence to perfect it.
If you’re ready to steal the shine at your next cocktail party ‘without doing too much,’ check out the stunning selection of cocktail dresses available at SunsetFashion LA. With the right outfit, you’ll not only fit in, but you’ll stand out! So go ahead, make a statement, and have a fabulous time at your next soirée!