Find out out how both guys and gals can nail a stylish cocktail look for weddings
Wedding dress codes can feel like a minefield—especially when invitations ask you to show up “cocktail-style”. Why? Because it can be tricky at times to know exactly what that means. For instance, how formal should you be? Does cocktail attire for men include a tie? What’s appropriate—and what’s a total no-no? Luckily, you don’t have to wrestle with these questions, as we’ve got you covered with our expert tips to stylish and sophisticated cocktail attire for a wedding.
First off, what exactly is cocktail-style attire? Essentially, it’s still about dressing up and looking glam, but in a less formal way than a white tie event (tailcoats and ball gowns—you might expect this dress code at a royal-themed wedding) or a black tie affair (tuxedos and floor-length gowns). Instead, with a cocktail style wedding dress code, you get to have a little more fun and express your personality. So here’s our breakdown on the best choices for dresses, shoes, suits, and much more.
Cocktail wedding attire tips for women
1. Dress to impress—but don’t be overly formal
When it comes to choosing the perfect cocktail outfit, it’s all about striking the right balance between elegance and relaxed comfort. So while a white or black tie dress code almost always calls for a floor-length gown, with a cocktail dress code, you probably want to go for a knee-length or midi dress. Alternatively, you could choose a sleek and well-cut pants suit. However, avoid mini skirts or dresses—you want the eyes to be on the bride, not your killer pins.
Overall, when it comes to cocktail dresses to wear to a wedding, you want to pick a cut and fabric that feels comfortable and fairly relaxed. Yet you also want your outfit to be elegant enough to acknowledge the specialness of the event. Silk, satin, lace, organza, and chiffon are all classic cocktail dress fabrics, while cotton or linen would make ideal summer choices.
Also, feel free to add a hint of sparkle to glam up your look—but resist the urge to go overboard. After all, you want to shine like a beacon of style, not dazzle like a disco ball at Studio 54. Because while cocktail-style weddings definitely have a glitzy feel, you’re not heading to a nightclub either.
Want a good rule of thumb? Make sure that whatever outfit you choose will look appropriate for all of the stages of the day, from morning ceremony, to meal, to dancing.
2. Make sure your shoe game is strong
Your footwear is not just an accessory—it’s the foundation of your entire cocktail ensemble. With this in mind, let’s talk heels. Whether you opt for sleek stilettos or chunky blocks, the key is to find a pair that both compliments your outfit and also keeps you comfortable enough to dance the night away. Pro tip: before the big day, take your chosen heels for a test drive. Practice your moves around the house to ensure they’re easy to maneuver in. Trust us, your feet will thank you later!
But what if heels aren’t your thing? Fear not, because dressy flats are a stylish alternative that can be just as chic and elegant. Opt for a pair with embellishments or intricate detailing to add a touch of sophistication to your look. You will be able to move with ease and grace and also enjoy the festivities without worrying about blisters.
And let’s not forget shoe color and style. While classic black or nude heels are timeless choices that pair well with almost any outfit, don’t be afraid to experiment with bolder hues or statement-making designs for a cocktail dress code. Whether you choose a metallic finish, a pop of color, or even a daring animal print, let your shoes be a reflection of your personality and style. Plus don’t forget that these days, you can sometimes get away with wearing white shoes to a wedding (although always check with the bride first!).
3. Accessorize with attitude
Accessorizing is the cherry on top of your cocktail wedding attire, adding that final touch of flair and personality to your ensemble. But like with any aspect of fashion, there’s a fine line between accessorizing just right and going overboard. Here’s how to strike the perfect balance.
Let’s start with the essentials—the bag. A sleek clutch bag is the perfect companion for a cocktail wedding, adding a touch of sophistication without overpowering your outfit. Ideally, opt for a classic black or metallic clutch that complements your attire and has just enough room for your essentials (including your “can’t-live-without-it” shimmery lip gloss). However, for summer weddings, you might want to pick a clutch in a pastel, beige, or champagne shade instead.
Next up, let’s look at jewelry. While a statement piece or two can undoubtedly elevate your look, it’s essential not to overdo it. Choose accessories that accentuate your outfit rather than competing with it. Elegant earrings, a dazzling necklace, or a delicate bracelet can add a touch of sparkle and sophistication without stealing the spotlight.
Finally, headwear—usually, you don’t need to worry about wearing a hat to a cocktail-style wedding. However, if you’d like to top off your outfit, then choose a cute or retro cocktail hat or an elegant fascinator.
The overall “rule” is that less is often more when it comes to accessorizing. Avoid layering on too many pieces at once, as this can overwhelm your look and detract from your overall ensemble. Instead, focus on selecting a few key pieces that complement each other and tie your outfit together seamlessly.
Cocktail wedding attire tips for men
1. Suit up with confidence
When it comes to mastering the art of cocktail attire for men, there’s one essential piece that should always be at the forefront of your wardrobe—the suit. A well-fitted suit is a statement of style and sophistication that sets the tone for your entire look, so you want to get it just right.
First and foremost, let’s talk about fit. The key to looking sharp in a suit is finding one that fits you like a glove. Opt for a tailored or slim-fit style that accentuates your physique without feeling too tight or restrictive. Pay attention to the shoulders, chest, and waist measurements to ensure a sleek and streamlined silhouette that flatters your figure.
Next, let’s discuss color. While black may be a classic choice for formal events, cocktail attire allows for a bit more versatility and creativity. Consider opting for timeless hues like navy blue or charcoal gray, which exude sophistication and refinement while still offering a touch of modern flair. These shades are not only universally flattering but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to mix and match with different shirts, ties, and accessories to create a variety of stylish looks.
Finally, don’t forget the importance of fabric choice. When choosing a suit for a cocktail wedding, opt for lightweight and breathable materials that will keep you comfortable throughout the day. Wool blends are an excellent choice for year-round wear, offering a balance of durability, drape, and breathability that’s perfect for any season. If you’re attending a summer wedding, consider lightweight fabrics like linen or cotton, which offer excellent moisture-wicking properties and a relaxed, laidback vibe.
2. Pick the perfect shirt
Your choice of shirt isn’t an afterthought—it’s a crucial element in crafting the right cocktail attire for you. When it comes to selecting a shirt, classic colors like crisp white or light blue are always a safe and stylish choice. Also, you want to opt for a dress shirt with a clean and tailored fit that accentuates your physique without feeling too snug or restrictive.
Your choice of shirt collar style can also have a big impact on the overall look and feel of your outfit. For a traditional and polished look, opt for a classic point collar or spread collar, which pairs perfectly with a sleek and streamlined suit. If you’re aiming for a more contemporary and relaxed vibe, consider a button-down collar or a trendy mandarin collar, which adds a modern twist to your ensemble.
Next, let’s discuss the details. Look for shirts made from high-quality materials like Egyptian cotton or fine linen, which offer breathability and a luxurious feel against the skin. Additionally, check for thoughtful details like reinforced seams, sturdy buttons, and precise stitching, which are all indicators of a well-made shirt that will stand the test of time.
Now, let’s deal with the tie dilemma. While a tie can add a touch of formality and sophistication to your outfit, it’s not always necessary for a cocktail attire look. If you’re aiming for a more relaxed and laidback vibe, feel free to skip the tie and opt for an open collar instead. However, make sure that your shirt is well pressed and neatly tucked in, as even the most casual of looks should still show a little James Bond polish.
3. Show suave attention to detail
When it comes to mastering the art of cocktail attire, it’s the little things that make all the difference. While your suit and shirt are the foundation of your ensemble, it’s the accessories that truly tie your look together.
First, let’s talk pocket squares. This small but mighty accessory is a true game-changer when it comes to adding a dash of personality and flair to your outfit. Whether you opt for a classic white linen square for a timeless look or a bold patterned silk square for a pop of color, the pocket square adds refinement and sophistication to your jacket pocket. Experiment with different folds and placements to find the perfect finishing touch for your ensemble.
Next, let’s discuss the importance of a good watch. When it comes to cocktail attire for weddings, a watch should be a stylish statement piece. For a timeless aesthetic, opt for a classic timepiece with a sleek and minimalist design. To make more of a bold statement, pick a watch with unique details and features. Whatever style you choose, a well-chosen watch is sure to add a touch of sophistication and polish to your cocktail attire ensemble.
Last but not least, let’s talk about cufflinks. These small but mighty accessories are the perfect finishing touch for any cocktail attire look. Whether you opt for classic silver or gold cufflinks for a classic feel or choose bold and eye-catching designs for a contemporary twist, cufflinks can really help to “finish” your outfit. Experiment with different styles and materials to find a pair that reflects your personal style and adds a touch of personality to your ensemble.
Get ready to rock the perfect wedding cocktail outfit
With our expert tips, you’ll look confident and elegant in cocktail attire. Remember that it’s all about striking a balance between elegance and comfort, as well as choosing styles and fabrics that fit with the season. And most importantly, don’t be afraid to let your unique personality shine through.
Find the ideal venue for your big day
Planning a wedding in New Jersey? Il Tulipano in Cedar Grove is perfect for a stylish ceremony and reception surrounded by Italian gardens. Our venue has just had a makeover and been praised by New Jersey Bride, The Knot, and Wedding Wire. The Il Tulipano team will treat you like family, so get in touch with us today and let’s plan your dream wedding.
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