With the endless styles of dresses, and varying standards of formality, a question that comes to mind is can the cocktail dress be worn for formal occasions.
Fashion is a primary way many people choose to express their style and identity through unique clothing, footwear, makeup, and even the accessories. But if you’re going to an event at a formal venue but unsure of the formality of the dress code, you may be curious if a cocktail dress is appropriate.
Let’s explore what this dress is all about and what you can do to make it your own.
Where do cocktail dresses originate
A cocktail dress by definition is a short knee-length dress that you can wear at a formal occasion. As its name implies, this dress gets its name from the cocktail parties at which they became popular attire as women gained more independence, drank cocktails publicly, and rolled up their skirt lengths. While earlier generations of women would have never been caught dead sipping mixed concoctions in public and showing their legs, at the close of World War I, the trends were starting to change. Women began indulging in fanicer mixed drinks or cocktails. During this time this dress became associated with the “flapper” dress; a shorter dress decked out in beads which gave it its name thanks to the flapping noise they made while dancing. Today this party dress can be found at number of places. This dress comes in a variety of styles, colors, and patterns. Cocktail dresses can be also be worn at semi-formal events such as cocktail parties, luncheons, and perhaps an afternoon wedding. The commonly known “little black dress” that is a must for every woman to have available in her closet for even the spur of the moment affair.
Formal attire
You may have an idea of what formal dresses are commonly associated with which are evening weddings and black tie functions. There are several different types of formal events that require formal, floor-length gowns, those include black tie optional, black tie, and the most formal, white tie. White tie events are as fancy and formal as it can get. While the man wears an evening tailcoat, women are expected to wear floor length evening gown, covered in your very best jewels and topped of with the finest shoes, preferably heels, you own. Black tie events are similar however, the dress code does not have to be to as strict. You can choose the color of your dress according to the season, though black is a quick and classy option, especially if invited at the last minute.
When to wear what
While cocktail dresses should never be worn at white tie events due to their stricter dress codes, there are many mildly formal venues where a cocktail dress is a perfect option. A cocktail dress is perfect for your boss’s wedding or a bachelorette party with your friends.
If you feel the need to buy a new dress, a lot of questions may run through your head. One question to ask yourself is “What dress length should I focus on?” The answer somewhat depends on how you intend to use the dress, but one type that is useful in all seasons and for many occasions is a midi dress. That is because it is an almost ankle-length dress. Often, a midi dress ends at about the mid point of your calves. When selecting such a dress, the most important feature to look for is a pattern or color that will suit you. It is easy for such a dress to make you look short or make your legs look short. Choosing a good pattern and always wearing heels with the dress can help offset that issue.
Like their longer counterpart, cocktail dresses can be sleek and sexy or those with a fuller skirt can be flirty and fun. Paired with flats or a kitten heel, a full cocktail dress is a great choice for those summer beach weddings or afternoon parties. A more form fitting dress can be the perfect choice for a night out on the town, an elegant dinner, or fundraisers. When wearing a cocktail dress, you should choose something that suits you and your style. Many stores have associates who can help you pick the one for your specific needs such as comfort, body shape, or time of the function. While black is classic, there are many designs and colors you can wear to show off a beautiful drop necklace paired with matching teardrop earrings.
The answer is to this query is yes, cocktail dresses are not just appropriate for formal affairs. This versatile dress can be take from day to night, fancy dinner or to a casual lunch party. It is an open slate to your unique creatively and style.
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