While cocktail attire occupies a liminal space between formal and casual, it is easy to get things wrong. Aim for a polished look that maintains an air of elegance, and steer clear of plunging necklines and short hemlines.
While traditional dark dress shoes are the safest option, you can experiment with unconventional footwear to elevate your look. Just ensure that the footwear remains stylish and cocktail-appropriate.
Dress in neutrals
A cocktail attire outfit should be a balance of elegance and style. But that doesn’t mean you should be afraid to add a little personality to your look! Just make sure to keep the accessories minimal.
Sneakers should be left at home for this occasion! But it would help if you realized that other types of footwear can also be a no-no for this event.
For example, flip-flops, boots, gladiators, and flat sandals are inappropriate for a cocktail party. Instead, opt for classic dress shoes like Oxfords, Derby lace, or loafers. Heels are also a must, as they will give you that extra height to help elevate your ensemble! But remember to opt for a heel that is just a little high.
Could you keep it simple?
One thing to remember when crafting a cocktail attire loo from a tuxedo rental in Baltimore is to stay relaxed and check that Oversized bags must be left at home; anything floor-length is unfit for the occasion.
Instead, opt for a sleek, elegant look that showcases your personality and individuality. Keep your accessories minimal and straightforward, and match them with your shoes and suit or dress pants. Also, skip patterned socks in favor of classic black or brown options. A dashing pocket square or lapel pin can add color and flair to your look, but be careful not to over-accessorize. Too many bold items can quickly turn your cocktail attire into a costume.
Go for a statement piece.
The great thing about cocktail attire is that it allows you to show off your personality through your outfit. This could mean a suit with a bold accessory or a dressy jumpsuit for men.
However, it’s important to remember that balance is the key to success when dressing for wedding cocktail attire. It would help if you balance elegance and creativity.
For example, while the bog-standard poplin shirt will always be acceptable, experimenting with patterned and more unique pieces is also a good idea. Just be sure that any pattern you choose is in sedate colors and will not clash with the rest of your outfit. For shoes, avoid flip flops and instead opt for heels or platforms. This will help elevate your look, making bending down and picking up hors d’oeuvres easier.
Accessorize wisely
Cocktail attire is all about elegance, so it’s important to be sparing with your accessories. You want to avoid anything that looks overly casual (like a bright-colored argyle knit sweater or sneakers) and overdo it on the jewelry front.
As a rule of thumb, a dashing pocket square and a dainty lapel pin are excellent ways to add flair to your look. Skipping the bow tie and a classic silk necktie is also great.
As for shoes, heels are ideal for bestowing your look with a sophisticated finish. Women’s flats can also work if you need to be more comfortable during canapes. As for bags, oversized totes and utility backpacks are a no-go. The perfect alternative is a cute clutch large enough for your phone, sunnies, cards, and lipstick touch-ups.
Add a twist
Taking your outfit beyond the basics is a surefire way to look glam for a cocktail party. But feel free to keep it toned down on the boldness front, as over-the-top elements can overwhelm a cocktail attire ensemble.
If your closet lacks a few statement pieces, try mixing prints and textures effortlessly. A striped blazer paired with solid pants looks polished and sophisticated, while pin-dot ties look effortlessly coordinated with gingham-plaid trousers.
A pair of statement shoes can take your footwear game to the next level. But remember that it’s crucial to balance elegance and creativity when incorporating unique shoes into your cocktail attire ensembles. Opt for a classic dark dress shoe or a more creative style like loafers or monk straps to achieve an inimitable look.
