Cocktail Attire for Weddings: What to Wear and How to Do It Right
At weddings, cocktail attire is the standard for everything that is not formal or casual. It is a flexible dress code, but there are certain elements that you should keep in mind when selecting your attire. Read on for everything you need to know about cocktail attire for weddings.

What is Cocktail Attire?
When it comes to cocktail attire, there is no hard and fast rule. Generally, it involves a mid-length dress or cocktail-length gown for women and a suit and tie or a sport coat and slacks for men. It is still important to consider the formality of the event – a wedding is likely to be more formal than a company gathering, for example. This means that you may want to opt for slightly longer dresses and more formal suits.

For Women
For women, the key is to look polished and elegant. A dress should be of a cocktail length, meaning no longer than right above the knee and preferably with a high neck or an interesting twist or detailed neckline. You can add a tailored jacket for a touch of formal elegance, but keep it simple with neutral colors and stick to high-end fabrics like silk or velvet. If you’re unsure of what to wear, start by selecting a simple color and then adding accessories from there. If you are wearing a suit, select a suit color that complements your dress or the wedding color scheme.

For Men
For men, a suit and tie or a sport coat and slacks are usually the standard for cocktail attire. For a stylish and sophisticated look, opt for a two-button single-breasted blazer with cuffed pants and a shirt with a subtle pattern and color. Tie selection is very important; opt for a silk tie in a classic color such as navy or gray. Don’t forget to wear a pocket square and get creative with your shoe selection—a pair of cognac or suede oxfords are an excellent choice.

Styling Tips
No matter what you choose to wear, there are a few styling tips that you can keep in mind:

● Accessories are key—opt for a bold statement piece such as a necklace, a pair of earrings, or a chunky bracelet.
● Keep in mind the weather and choose fabrics accordingly.
● Avoid over-accessorizing. Too many pieces can be overwhelming and distracting.
● Pick shoes that coordinate with the rest of your look.
● Add a touch of personality to your look with signature pieces such as a colorful pocket square or a statement belt.

Cocktail attire is a versatile dress code that can be adapted to fit a variety of occasions. Use these tips as a guide to ensure you look your best and make the most of the occasion.