Let's cut to the chase: Dress codes are hard. After all, there are so many of them! From black tie and white tie to whatever smart-casual means, it's kinda impossible to keep all of them straight. Thankfully, some are more common than others—meaning more people know the rules behind them. One definitely worth remembering? Cocktail attire.
Whether you're headed to a wedding (which has its own set of rules, ICYMI) or have plans to attend a swanky party, the cocktail attire dress code comes up pretty dang often. Essentially, when you see this written on an invitation, it means you should dress in relatively formal clothing—but not too formal. It's kind of an in-between place. Think: mini and midi dresses (and even jumpsuits!) that are chic and polished, suiting that's a bit more tailored, and footwear that feels elevated (literally, if you're wearing heels). It's the perfect combination of elegant and comfortable.
To give you a better idea of what this entails, keep scrolling for the dos and don'ts of cocktail attire for women, along with ways to shop 'fits that are totally appropriate for this particular dress code. BTW, we also have lists to help you get ready for spring, winter and fall weddings. You can thank us later.
Skip the floor-length ballgown.
Instead, save those for a black-tie event and opt for a dress that has a mini or midi length. This allows you to be a little bit more casual without skimping on style. Word to the wise: sometimes, when you add a sky-high pair of heels, a dress can appear even shorter. For your own comfort (and the sake of the dress code), peek in the mirror to double-check the look of the length. We love micro mini dresses around here, but for weddings or more formal events, it's usually better to stick to mid-thigh hemlines and down. A good rule to go by: if your middle finger is way longer than your hemline, it's prob a little too short.
Amanda Uprichard Briggs Mini Dress
& Other Stories Contrast-Panel Maxi Dress
Good American Scuba Modern Tank Maxi Dress
Jeans are a no-go.
Chic trousers, on the other hand, make for a great 'fit. You can pair them with a simple, sleek blouse, a flirty top, or a classic button-down and blazer (if you want to go full suit). Wide-leg trousers can work just as well as ultra-tailored ones here, it all depends on your styling.
Suit vest with buttons
Re Ona Joey Suit Trousers
REBDOLLS Mika Textured Bell Bottom Pants
Avoid sweats and athleisure.
We get it—you wanna be comfy. But there are plenty of non-sweatpant ways to ensure you're feeling great while also adhering to a cocktail attire dress code. Meet your new BFF: the jumpsuit. A dressier jumpsuit gives you the comfort you want (hi, pants) without making you look too casual.
Club L London Burgundy One Shoulder Ruched Wide Leg Jumpsuit
Dress the Population Andy Sequin Strapless Jumpsuit in Port
Boohoo Plus Crepe Self Fabric Belted Wide Leg Jumpsuit
Sneakers? Let's not.
Of course, slipping into a pair of sneakers is a great feeling. When the dress code is cocktail attire, though, it's best to swap them out for something a little more formal. A go-to is a classic pair of heels or a dressy flat (for those who want extra comfort). Whether you keep it simple or opt for something trendy and statement-making, your footwear should complement whatever you're wearing—and make your 'fit look even more fab.
Brother Vellies Ribbon Pump in Gold Metallic Leather
Naturalizer Joy Ankle Strap Sandal in Barely Nude Leather
Leave the graphic tees at home.
Casual tops are likely not gonna fly at a cocktail party. Sure, a T-shirt tucked into trousers might look formal enough for some offices, but this particular dress code is a bit stricter on that front. Instead of a tee, try a cool one-shoulder blouse or a flowy button-down paired with trousers or a cute skirt.
Zara Tied Dotted Mesh Blouse
Nookie Dasha Bodysuit
Don't be afraid to make a statement.
How many opportunities do you have to wear sequins, statement-making floral appliques, or big bows? Cocktail attire kinda gives you license to go super trendy or a bit bolder than you would for everyday. Go for bright colors or fun cut-outs—live your best cocktail party dreams. Remember though that cocktail attire is, in a word, chic. So don't pack all the trends on at once. The art of turning heads without making people double-take is practically a science. When in doubt, silky fabrics paired with bold accents will be your best bet.
Pink and Red Bowie Mesh Dress
ASOS LUXE Curve tulle baby doll dress with pearl embellishment in pink
MAC DUGGAL Bow Front Crepe Gown
Maggie Griswold (she/her) is a contributing fashion editor for Cosmopolitan and freelance writer and editor based in Los Angeles, covering everything from the latest wardrobe must-haves to interior design trends. Along with Cosmopolitan, you can find her work on Oprah Daily, StyleCaster, Women's Health, and House Digest, among others. She's a big (read: ridiculously huge) fan of the '90s sitcom Frasier, all things Shakespeare, and a good romance-filled YA novel. Follow her on Instagram.
Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien is the fashion editor at Cosmopolitan, writing weighty and witty stories that run the gamut of gushing over Zendaya to convincing you of everything you need in your closet! She began her journey in the industry with a fashion and faith blog and an internship at Elle.com almost 10 years ago. Since then, she's also served as the style editor at The Haitian Times. The Haitian-American pageant queen is a Syracuse Masters graduate and the author of two books, including: Claim Your Crown. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter: @iamtarahlynn.
