COCKTAIL ATTIRE
WHAT DO I WEAR ?
I have an invite here, and the dress code says cocktail attire. (There are many different dress codes usually associated with a wedding, I have written about dress codes before.) To me, that seems slightly vague or maybe even old-fashioned. I suppose they may mean a cocktail dress for the women and a jacket and trousers or a suit for the men. Do I have to wear a tie? I don't wear ties, well, not very often. If I do wear a tie, lately I prefer a bowtie. My mind is flooded with questions. Since you have as many questions, I will try to give you the answers.
COCKTAIL ATTIRE
WHAT IS COCKTAIL ATTIRE?
Cocktail attire, also known as semi-formal attire, is the style of clothing you'll wear at evening events like fundraisers and weddings. For women cocktail attire is typically a cocktail dress: a knee-length dress designed for just such an occasion. For men, cocktail attire generally entails a suit, that is less formal than a tuxedo.
COCKTAIL ATTIRE
WHAT'S THE EVENT AND WHO WILL BE THERE?
Dress codes are confusing for most people, but darling, I know how to handle this one. First things first, what is the event? In my case, the event is the opening of an art show. Art Vancouver is a large event that features 1200 different pieces of art, attracts a diverse crowd, and is in a massive nondescript venue. I am gathering information. If you are going to an event, it is best to decipher the nature of the event and who might be in attendance.
While these questions may seem simple, they help you evaluate the garment you may choose to wear. First, this event is an art show, telling you that you can feel free to dress creatively. Furthermore, it is not a conservative crowd letting you know you can express yourself with color, maybe a more daring cut for a dress, or perhaps a piece a little more avant-garde.
COCKTAIL ATTIRE
WHAT IS A COCKTAIL DRESS?
Cocktail dresses typically hit around the knee and come in varied colors, the most classic of which is the little black dress. As a general rule stay away from both maxi and mini dresses and opt for something in between. You don't have to wear a cocktail dress to a cocktail party; jumpsuits, pantsuits, blazers, and blouses in fine materials are all great alternatives.
COCKTAIL ATTIRE
HOW DO I MAKE SURE I FEEL COMFORTABLE?
Feeling comfortable is perhaps the most important consideration. A cocktail party, art opening, or other function is a social event. Socializing at an event like this means a certain amount of standing therefore, stylish yet comfortable footwear is a must. Furthermore, watch out for high-maintenance garments like fussy shawls that may slip off or clutch bags that you need to hold: you may have a drink or catalog in your hands. Another reminder, find out if there is a coat check this may be a consideration on what you wear.
HOW DO I MAKE SURE I FEEL COMFORTABLE MENTALLY?
Moreover, feeling mentally comfortable means considering your self-confidence in your garment choice. Consider your favorite little black dress as an option. You can always style your favorite dress differently. Remember, it is probably your favorite because you feel great wearing it. Another consideration is what are your companions wearing? If you are going as a couple it's nice to feel coordinated. Feeling coordinated does not mean being matchy-matchy, it means looking like you belong together, this may be achieved by a similar color palette, fabric, or style. If you are going with a group of friends, it's also nice to feel comfortable as a group. How many times do your friends ask "What are you wearing?". In most cases, this is because everyone wants to feel like they belong or don't want to wear something too similar to others. If you are going to an important event you may be more comfortable wearing something you've worn before. On the other hand, wearing something new can be just the boost you need. New clothes often give us a new spring in our steps.
