What to Wear When the Invitation Says "Cocktail Attire"

Photo: Nathalie Triplett 

Wedding dress codes aren’t that complicated. But there are so many different ones that the more wedding invites you receive, the trickier it can be to keep up with them all!

One of the most popular dress codes couples choose for their wedding day is cocktail attire.

Not sure what that means?

Don’t worry. We’ve got you covered!

This guide will show you what to wear when a wedding invitation calls for cocktail attire: 

What Is Cocktail Attire?

Photo: Bella Bridesmaids Charleston | Sarah Hinckley Lane & Emmy Kienast 

The most formal events usually call for white tie or black tie (think tuxedos with bow ties and floor-length gowns).  

But many couples opt for the cocktail attire dress code instead:

Dressy, elegant, and chic without being too over the top.

The cocktail attire dress code can be confusing, partly because it’s so flexible. Cocktail attire means dressy but not too dressy.

Cocktail attire is dressier than business casual. It’s fancier than the dressy casual dress code and a step above semi-formal attire. Yet, it’s not as fancy as the black-tie optional or black-tie dress code. 

Here’s the bottom line:

If you receive a wedding invitation that says “cocktail attire,” you’ll want to look amazing. That also means looking well-put-together and presenting yourself with elegance and class.

Shop for bridesmaid dresses available online! Explore the entire Bella Bridesmaids collection, featuring hundreds of styles from top designers.

Cocktail Attire: No Need for a Long Dress or Tux

Photo: Bella Bridesmaids San Francisco | Corydec Photography 

The cocktail dress code gets its name from the cocktail dress, typically a knee-length dress that hits just above or below the knee. But by today’s standards, cocktail attire is open for many variations!

There’s no need to wear a red carpet-ready maxi dress when it comes to dresses.  

Instead, opt for a:

Not in the mood to wear a dress? Consider a:

If an invite says cocktail attire, leave your tuxedo in the closet. This is not the occasion to dress like James Bond. 

Instead, rock a button-down dress shirt with a:

Accessorizing is part of the fun, too, so be sure to complete your look with the right accessories.  

Here’s a chance to put on your best:

Cocktail attire isn’t defined by any one specific look. So it’s a great opportunity to show off your personal style and excellent fashion sense! 

Consider the Location

Some couples have massive receptions, and others choose more intimate celebrations. Either way, it’s always an honor to be invited as a wedding guest!  

So when the invite says cocktail wedding attire, you’ll want to look your absolute best.

The cocktail wedding attire dress code works for all sorts of different venues. That includes beach wedding venues and grand ballrooms. It’s also common for what you might think are more casual wedding venues, such as barns, gardens, or even someone’s backyard.  

When choosing a wedding outfit to wear, keep the location in mind.

Invited to a beach wedding?

Rock a cocktail dress in a bold floral print or layer a colorful printed button-down shirt beneath your suit jacket.

Heading to a cocktail party at a high-end hotel or a beautiful estate?

Shine in a brocade jacket or embrace embellishments like sequins and beading.

The fancier the venue, the dressier your look can be. But you’ll want to balance that with the time of the event.

Still deciding on your wedding dress code and theme? How about casual? Read 5 Casual Wedding Ideas for Easygoing Couples!

Consider the Time of the Event

The time of the event matters for one main reason: 

Evening events tend to be dressier than daytime events.

For an evening event, go ahead and get a little bit fancier! Bold accessories are the perfect way to add some glitz to your cocktail look. Wear your best diamonds, flashiest watch, favorite cufflinks, and strappy metallic heels! 

During the day, pare back on the jewelry and opt for a pair of classic pumps instead of sky-high stilettos. 

Wear a tie if you’re attending an evening event at a fancy hotel or ballroom. 

Are you heading to a reception at a vineyard or a garden party in the afternoon? 

Then, you can forgo the tie as long as you wear a well-fitting jacket and tailored pants.

Seasonality matters, too. A short cocktail dress with strappy heels is perfect for a summer wedding. Meanwhile, a midi dress with a peep toe pump is ideal for an outdoor wedding in the fall! 

Cocktail attire works for day or night and every season. Therefore, let the time of day, the venue, and the season guide your final fashion choices. 

Tips for Picking the Perfect Cocktail Dress

Photo: Bella Bridesmaids Scottsdale | Elyse Hall

Now, here are a few tips to keep in mind when choosing your outfit for a wedding calling for cocktail attire:

There Aren’t Any Fabric Rules

Cocktail dresses come in a wide variety of fabrics, and as long as the fabric has an elegant vibe, there’s no right or wrong fabric choice.  

Any dressy fabric can work, whether you love the texture of lace, the shimmer and shine of beads and sequins, or the soft and sumptuous feel of satin or silk.

Avoid Casual Fabrics 

Avoid casual fabrics, such as cotton jersey and sweater knits. If you'd wear them to brunch or the office, they are inappropriate for a cocktail-dress wedding. 

Choose a Silhouette That Suits Your Style

There is no right or wrong choice regarding silhouette, either — any neckline and shape can work! Just find a silhouette you love that flatters your body, be it a full A-line skirt, a midi slip dress, or a short shift.   

Match the Sleeve Length to the Time of Year

All sleeve lengths work as well, but in the interest of comfort, it’s best to choose a sleeve length that fits the season and time of year. Go sleeveless for summer and long-sleeve in winter, and you’ll look perfectly appropriate for the moment. 

Select Season-Appropriate Colors

Keep the season in mind when choosing colors, too. Autumnal tones are ideal for fall, and jewel tones are perfect for winter. Pastels and bright colors are perfect choices for spring and summer celebrations.  

Neutrals work all year round! 

Related: What To Wear to a Black Tie Wedding [6 Dos & 6 Don'ts!]

Here Are Some Dresses That Are Perfect for a Cocktail Attire Wedding

From smooth satin slip dresses to timeless tea-length looks, these cocktail dresses are gorgeous options for a cocktail attire wedding:

Jenny Yoo Bellini Dress 

The Jenny Yoo Bellini Dress is timeless, in a slip silhouette with spaghetti straps, a V-neckline, a scoop back, and a bias-cut midi skirt. This luxe satin design is appropriate for wearing in any season and is available in over two dozen colors.

Sachin & Babi Naomi Dress 

The Sachin & Babi Naomi Dress wows with its sleeveless design and crossover halter neckline. It features a stunning midi silhouette with distinctive design details. An O-ring sash cinches in the waist for an ultra-flattering fit, while the asymmetrical hem adds a sophisticated touch.

Amsale P355P Evening Dress 

Available in classic black and vibrant fuchsia, the Amsale P355P Evening Dress is oh-so-chic. This midi dress is made from soft stretch crepe and features a V-neckline, bias-cut skirt, and back tails, making it stunning from every angle. 

Jenny Yoo Carrie Dress 

The Jenny Yoo Carrie Dress strikes the balance between vintage and modern. In luxe-faille fabric with boning and built-in cups, this midi dress features a structured silhouette. Whether sitting, standing, or dancing the night away, you'll look perfectly poised. 

Amsale P533 Evening Dress 

Available in vibrant shades of coral and fuchsia, the Amsale P533 Evening Dress boasts an elegant sheath silhouette. This strapless design is made from luxurious duchess satin and features an elegant, oversized two-tone bow at the waist. 

After Six 6886FP Dress

The After Six 6886FP dress offers a chic, polished look. It boasts a pretty allover floral print, strapless bodice, and slim column silhouette. This midi dress features a unique corset detail with an unexpected drape of fabric in back. 

Sachin & Babi Sylvie Dress 

The Sachin & Babi Sylvie Dress, in Mikado fabric with an above-the-knee hemline, features crystal embellishments that add shimmer and shine. This classic look also features a flattering V-neckline with a cutout detail, a low V-back, and vertical darts that nip in the waist. 

Jenny Yoo Adley Little White Dress 

If you’ve been invited to a wedding that specifically asks you to wear white, the Jenny Yoo Adley Little White Dress is a great choice. It’s perfect if you prefer a shorter hemline. This design features a one-shoulder bodice with a romantic puffed sleeve. Its floral jacquard pattern adds a rich, luxurious texture. 

Lovely LB001 Dress 

The Lovely LB001 Dress is both timeless and modern in a convertible slip silhouette crafted in luxe charmeuse. It features a draped cowl neckline and midi length. This dress also has convertible straps that can be tied at the back of the neck like a halter or criss-crossed against the open back. 

Amsale P387T Evening Dress 

The Amsale P387T Evening Dress is a showstopper in a voluminous trapeze silhouette with a high-low hem. Available in bold primary colors, this distinctive design features a portrait collar, gathered tiers, and a beautiful bow detail in back.

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The cocktail attire dress code is flexible. So you’ll want a look that meets the formality of the venue, works for the season, and makes sense for the time of the event. Get online or hit some stores and have fun shopping for different silhouettes, colors, and accessories.  

And when in doubt, remember this: 

With the right shoes and accessories, a little black dress and a gray suit never fail!  

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