Cocktail
The Cocktail dress code is a dress code you often see at parties, weddings, beach events and cocktail parties.
The Cocktail dress code is aimed primarily at women, with the centrepiece being the cocktail dress. Men are a little freer in their choice of clothing. Ultimately, the type of occasion will set the tone for this dress code.
Cocktail is a dress code often used for festive occasions, so when this dress code is on the invitation it's the perfect opportunity to dress up a little.
Cocktail for women
- The Cocktail dress code is informal, but chic
- For women, the cocktail dress is the most suitable outfit
- Cocktail involves pumps, heels or dressy ballerinas
- Accessorise with a matching clutch or purse
- Style with statement jewellery and makeup
The perfect Cocktail outfit
For women, there is a special kind of dress designed for the Cocktail dress code: the cocktail dress.
The cocktail dress is a festive dress that falls just slightly above or to the knee. Fabulous high heels are the perfect shoe for a cocktail dress!
Complete your outfit with a clutch or purse, and eye-catching jewellery. Both bare legs and pantyhose (for the colder seasons) are allowed with this dress code.
Cocktail clothes for women
The cocktail dress is the most obvious dress option. Rather not wear a dress? Then a chic pantsuit is also a great option with the right styling and attention to detail.
Go for special jewellery or sexy makeup. Choose a dress that flatters your body shape and is comfortable to wear.
You can also go for a sexy look for a cocktail party! Show some leg, or wear a low-cut neckline, or a plunging back. But to keep it tasteful, choose just one of these eye-catching details!
Cocktail for men
- The Cocktail dress code is informal, but chic
- A tailored suit or pants with dress shirt is a good choice
- Smart and clean shoes
- Bright colours, prints and sparkle are allowed
- The more festive the event, the more daring your outfit can be
The perfect Cocktail outfit
For gentlemen, Cocktail is a dress code where you have a lot of freedom of expression. Do keep in mind some guidelines. Men can wear a dark suit or tuxedo. This is an outfit suitable for a party in the evening, a luxury event or a wedding in the winter.
For a more informal occasion, a light coloured suit is a better choice. Think of a party on the beach, a summer wedding or a barbecue. Keep it classy and festive. The shoes should always be smart, and dress shirts ironed.
Do read the invitation carefully. Is the party you are invited to not too formal? Then a tuxedo can also be worn… without the bow tie or pocket square. This makes your look a lot less formal.
If you are invited to a party thrown by a club or association, then the guidelines for formal cocktail attire are more appropriate.
Cocktail clothing for men
Let the season guide the choice of fabric for your suit. In the spring and summer, lighter fabrics such as linen are ideal. Just make sure it’s not too casual for the occasion.
In fall and winter, dark and textured fabrics are very suitable. Consider saturated colours such as navy blue, charcoal, dark brown and emerald.
If the cocktail party is part of a wedding, you can combine a blazer in a cheerful colour. Sometimes a colour theme is mentioned in the invitation.
Do remember that the Cocktail dress code can be interpreted very widely. So, a good tip is to ask other guests if they are going formally or informally dressed and adjust your outfit accordingly.
Don’t forget to finish the look with a wristwatch!