Cocktail parties are usually scheduled for 16-17 hours. Such events are held in a less formal format than, for example, social receptions. Therefore, the appearance of guests can be more free and relaxed.
Most often, presentations, exhibitions, and openings of cultural institutions are held in the cocktail format. Invitations to such events usually indicate the dress code - “cocktail”. Some prefer to write it in Latin: Coctail or Coctail Attire.
Historical reference
The concept of “dress code” originated in Great Britain. The word dress-code literally translates as “clothing code.” The British have always highly respected traditions; for them, the appearance of event guests is very important.
But the concept of a “cocktail” dress code appeared in the States. During the heyday of Prohibition, non-alcoholic private parties became popular. Guests often stayed at the holiday until dawn. And so that the girls would not have problems with the police, it was decided to dress in elegant, but short dresses. An outfit like this could easily be hidden under a cloak or coat.
The history of the cocktail dress itself began in the 20s of the twentieth century. This was due to the growing popularity of the twist dance, during which a lady could become entangled in the fluttering hem of her dress. It was much more convenient to dance in clothes with a shortened hem. The bodice remained the same.
The most iconic and popular type of women's cocktail attire, both in those days and today, is considered the little black dress.
At first, the rules of the cocktail dress code were quite strict. It was believed that the outfit must certainly be plain and have a closed top. For men, only formal business suits, black and brown, were allowed.
Today's designers have moved a little away from classical dogmas. Quite a wide scope opens up for modern fashionistas.
What happens at such events?
A cocktail dress code is required for various occasions. Most often, it is appropriate for formal events, when an expensive business suit may look strange, and a tuxedo may be too pretentious. For example, an invitation marked Coctail Attire can be received for the following events:
- festive corporate banquet (including in Swedish format);
- family celebration with a large number of guests;
- dinner party;
- book presentation;
- opening of an exhibition, gallery, new restaurant;
- celebration of the conclusion of a contract, professional holiday, important event in the life of the company.
In most cases, cocktail parties are held indoors. But in the warm season, for example, the outdoor terrace of a restaurant can be chosen as a celebration place.
There are three formats of cocktail parties, and the dress code for them varies slightly. Let's look at it in detail.
Business party
This category includes corporate parties or business negotiations with counterparties in a restaurant.
In such cases, there is a rather strict “cocktail” dress code. Ladies are advised to choose a simple, simple cut dress without a neckline. Excessive decor such as puffy coattails on the sleeves, frills and lace inserts is not suitable for such cases. But the basque that is relevant today is quite acceptable.
Massive jewelry is also not welcome; it is better to choose simple earrings or a brooch. Shoes should be formal; classic pumps are the best choice.
It is better for a man to dress in a strict black, brown or dark blue suit, classic shoes and a plain light shirt. A tie is a must.
Classics of the genre
This category includes any cocktail event starting before 9 pm. We apply a relaxed dress code. You can wear a bright dress with bare shoulders and open arms. It is advisable that the skirt be 10 cm below or above the knees. You can wear open-toe sandals or unusual heels.
As for the choice of jewelry, you should give preference to expensive jewelry or not too massive jewelry with natural stones. But it’s better to save jewelry with diamonds or massive gold elements for another occasion.
For a man, cufflinks and expensive watches are acceptable and even desirable. But you don’t have to wear a tie.
Social event
A more strict "cocktail evening" dress code applies to social events. Even long dresses are acceptable here (this is the only cocktail format where you can choose a long dress). Trains, draperies, and cutouts are appropriate. You can complement the look with long gloves, a fur boa or a coat.
Stylists' advice will help anyone who has received an invitation to an event marked “cocktail dress code.”
Photos of women dressed in cocktail party style help to once again see how wide the choice of outfit is.
When making a decision, consider your body shape. Today, light retro is in fashion, reminiscent of the 20-30s of the last century. Lace and guipure inserts look very elegant, but there should be a lining underneath them.
If you are lost and cannot decide, make a win-win move - give preference to a little black dress. This advice will probably remain relevant many decades from now. The handbag is very important. A theatrical model with a thin strap or a clutch will do. The bag can be richly decorated with embroidery, beads, and rhinestones. Bulky models are completely unsuitable for cocktail looks.
What not to do
The cocktail dress code for women does not allow a combination of a white blouse with a black skirt. In this outfit, the guest will look more like a waitress.
A skirt that is too short and a revealing neckline cheapens the look. Ladies over forty should avoid dresses above the knee. Particular care should be taken with floor-length skirts, especially full ones.
If the dress has open shoulders, there should not be deep necklines or mini lengths. Lingerie-style outfits are popular again, but at a cocktail party that takes place in the cold season, they have no place, as well as overly sparkling clothes.
There should be no more than three decorations. A bracelet, a small pendant on a thin chain and simple earrings are a great option. If you prefer a statement necklace, you should avoid other accessories (the only exception is a wedding ring). There is another unusual option - the so-called cocktail ring with a large stone. No additions are needed to it.
Cocktail dress code for men
What should a gentleman wear? Today, in cocktail fashion, along with classic plain ones, pinstripe suits are acceptable. In this case, the shirt should be plain. But if we are talking about a reception in high society, such freedom is unacceptable.
The choice of accessories is also regulated by the rules of the “cocktail” dress code for men. The photographs of elegant gentlemen in the illustrations show that although the choice is not too wide, it is the details that make the image. The main requirement is that they must be of very high quality.
In order not to experience difficulties, you can pay attention to ready-made solutions. Today, many brands offer sets of cufflinks, watches and tie pins that perfectly match each other.
Shoes that comply with the cocktail dress code
The photos clearly demonstrate that heels are a must for ladies. According to the rules, it must be at least eight centimeters. You can go to a wedding, presentation or anniversary in sandals or open-toed shoes. Ankle boots and boots are not suitable for such events. If there is a contract signing or negotiations with partners at a cocktail event, the toe and heel should be closed. An essential part of any cocktail look are stockings or tights. If you have to have fun at a party during the hot season, choose very thin stockings, but under no circumstances go there with bare legs.
Particular attention should be paid to shoes and accessories. Shoes simply must be in perfect condition. Black is considered a universal color; it is appropriate in most cases. When choosing a model, you should pay attention to Derby or Oxford shoes.
Kino 20.07.2018The dress code was first regulated in our country in 1834 in the documents “Description of ladies’ attire for arriving at the Highest Court on special occasions” and “Regulations on civil uniforms.” Literally everything was regulated, from the color and sewing pattern to pocket flaps.
The modern dress code for men is much simpler than what our ancestors followed. But if you are not a professional stylist or a public person, the nuances of the dress code will raise hundreds of questions!
Studio "KinoModa" offers classic and evening ceremonial suits for all options of the men's dress code. Impeccable cut and size range 44-60 suits, tailcoats and tuxedos from European brands Cavalieri and Oscar Jacobsonallows you to create a stylish look for an event of any format.
Modern dress code for men
The dress code for men today is a set of formalized rules for clothing depending on the formality of the event:
- White tie for government receptions and top-level ceremonies;
- Black Tie for special events and weddings;
- Cocktail Attire for evening events, dinner parties, family and corporate celebrations;
- Semi-formal - semi-formal style for parties and dinners;
- A5 and A5c dress code for casual evening meetings;
- Casual for sporting events and intimate events;
- Btr and Bb for business meetings and negotiations.
The dress code is indicated in the lower right corner of the invitation. And if the invitation specifies the formats white and black tie, coctail (“cocktail”) or Btr and Bb, the guest is expected to wear a special outfit.
The dress code for white tie men requires a tails pair with a set of certain accessories: a white vest, a shirt with a rigid insert on the chest, a bow tie, patent leather shoes and a white silk scarf. For black tie events, a tuxedo, trousers with stripes, a white shirt with a stand-up collar, a vest or cummerbund, a bow tie and black Oxford shoes are required. Variations of “black tie” (invited, optional and creative) allow for some relaxation of the strict regulations, but, like white tie, they do not tolerate neglect of little things!
At business format events (Btr and Bb) a suit is required. For Business Best, only a plain dark suit; for Business Traditional, a striped suit is allowed. A strict Bb requires a white shirt and cufflinks. The looser Btr allows solid shirts in natural colors.
Dress code cocktail
Dress code Cocktail Attire or simply “cocktail” is a unique variation of black tie. Along with Semi-formal and A5/A5c, “cocktail” is the most common dress code for social events. A much more relaxed version of the formal dress code, cocktail party requires a dark suit. The color of the shirt is determined by the degree of formality of the event, but white will be appropriate in any case.
For shoes, we recommend oxfords or derbies, but also in dark shades. The trouser belt should match the color of the shoes, and the color of the cufflinks should be in harmony with the watch. A tie is a desirable, but optional element of the image. In an ensemble with a tie, the excessive formality of the dress code is compensated by a plain scarf in the breast pocket.
Are you invited to an exhibition opening, presentation or dinner party? Make an appointment at the KinoModa studio showroom - and we will help you choose a suit and accessories in strict accordance with the dress code of the celebration!
Tomorrow is summer, which means it’s time for parties, long-awaited special events and all kinds of festivals. Jazz on the roof, a corporate party, a reception with the Queen (how lucky!), a trip to the theater with your parents... And if you can go on a date in the park in anything, then you can’t show up comme il faut to the ballet in just anything. And when you have the treasured invitation in your hands indicating the desired dress code for the guests, there is no way to get away: you will have to comply.
Well, let's find out! And today we’ll talk about three codes that are appropriate for a celebration: Cocktail, Black tie and White tie.
White tie
This dress code literally translates as “White Tie”. This is the most formal style, which is used extremely rarely nowadays. And this is exactly the case when you have a royal reception. Literally.
It is especially important for the wives of “diplomats of newly joined countries” to study the details. Typically, white tie is announced at evening receptions with the presence of presidents, monarchs, or at official special events: the presentation of the Nobel Prize, for example.
If you are lucky and your invitation says “White Tie,” then you should choose a long, floor-length dress with open shoulders. Expensive ornate fabrics are allowed and even encouraged: velvet, brocade, satin, lace with a minimum of decor. Be sure to wear long gloves that cover the elbow and high-heeled shoes with the dress. Shoes must have closed toes and heels. Accessories include jewelry. No totes, just tiny clutches or chain bags.
Hair should be neatly styled, and lips and eyes should be painted. It is best to resort to the advice of certified etiquette consultants: if you are lucky enough to be invited to an event of this level, then it is better to be one hundred percent sure of how you look.
Black tie
Another dress code for evening formal events, but less formal. Most often, this form of clothing involves an invitation to a theater premiere, a large corporate event, weddings or official receptions.
Here you can take some liberties in the interpretation of style: loose hair is allowed, jewelry can be safely replaced with expensive jewelry, and the clutch can be absolutely anything. You can also afford shoes with open toes.
A “Black tie” dress should be long, high slits, transparency, bold and rich decor are possible. Another key difference between this code is the permissibility of bright, even neon, fabric colors, as well as print.
Cocktail
The most common dress code for festive occasions, it is also called “semi-formal”. Most often used at corporate banquets and celebrations in restaurants. The cocktail dress code marked formal means for women a plain cocktail dress knee-length or slightly higher.
If there is no formal mark, then you can afford a dress with a pattern or a dress with an open back, but the length of the outfit no higher than 5–10 centimeters from the knee is considered a prerequisite. In summer, lighter and brighter colors are welcome than in winter. Heels are still required, but open sandals are allowed for a cocktail event. As for the style, for a corporate event choose a sheath dress, and for an entertaining occasion - A-shaped silhouettes, flowing flared silk dresses, pleated dresses. It is better for girls over 16 to replace tutu skirts with a more discreet model. If you don’t wear dresses, then the cocktail allows a girl to appear in a trouser suit or a top plus trousers set. Complete the outfit with a clutch, stilettos and large quality jewelry.
The “Cocktail” dress code is one of men’s favorites because it does not impose strict requirements on the image. The key task is to correctly combine things in color and texture. Knowing the basic tenets of style will allow you to make a good impression on others and feel comfortable.
You cannot ignore the dress code requirements to avoid getting into an unpleasant situation. The ability to dress stylishly and tastefully and choose an image for a specific occasion is largely the key to a person’s success in his career and personal life.
All events with a “Cocktail” dress code imply freedom of movement for guests. Guests can freely move around the premises, give interviews, chat, take pictures, try treats and much more. This is evening and elegant clothing, but you need to look free, easy and relaxed.
Cocktail is appropriate in the following cases:
- at a family banquet when many guests are invited;
- at a corporate event;
- at the opening of an exhibition or restaurant;
- when visiting a museum;
- at a book presentation or film premiere;
- at a dinner party surrounded by influential people.
Types of dress code
When selecting things, a lot determined by the specificity of the event and its thematic focus.
Classical
This option is intended for an event scheduled in the evening, after 21.00. Should be selected traditional strict, but at the same time solemn version of clothing. It is allowed to complement the image with expensive jewelry that emphasizes the social status of their owner.
Social Event (Attire)
Some invitations may be marked Coctail Attire. In this case, prepare classic suit, dress shirt, tie and cufflinks.
Social event implies solemnity and sophistication in style.
Advice! Instead of a tie, you canplaceV buttonhole with a fresh flower, matching the color of the companion’s dress.
Add the finishing touch with a statement pair of shoes in the same color scheme as your main pieces.
Attention! Coctail Attire parties traditionally start from 16-17 hours.
Business party (Smart)
Dress code is chosen for business negotiations with partners and colleagues. They usually take place in restaurants and nightlife establishments. A formal dark suit is ideal for these purposes. A tie and classic shoes are required. But the shirt can be one color or with thin vertical stripes. Shoes must be leather. There is a special requirement for socks - they must be a shade darker than the trousers or match them.
Advice! Choose long socks to avoid showing your skin when you need to sit down.
Basic elements of the “Cocktail” dress code for men
Components of a cocktail dress code should be present in every man's wardrobe. Next, let's take a closer look at the main components of the dress code.
Costume
Particular attention should be paid pay attention to the suit. It should fit perfectly and be made from high-quality natural textiles. The color scheme is selected taking into account the direction of the event, specified in advance in the invitation card.
Black and dark blue color suitable for more formal occasions, and light gray for daytime celebrations. Trousers should have creases and be well ironed. And here You can skip the vest. Concerning jacket, it is customary to keep the bottom button undone, and expose the white cuffs of the shirt from the sleeves no more than two centimeters.
Shirts
Indispensable an attribute of a good cocktail look is a black or white shirt. Yes, a black shirt looks perfect with a light gray suit.
At corporate meetings “for your own” you are allowed to wear a different color scheme. The main thing is that it does not stand out too much from the general background. Bright colors can give the appearance a special chic and style. Don't be afraid of patterned models. The shirt must be carefully ironed and tucked in correctly.
To get it right When tucking your shirt into your trousers, follow these instructions:
- Pull the front of the shirt over the bottom edges of the hem so that the back of your torso is snug.
- Hold the edges of your shirt with one hand and pull up your pants with the other.
- Do not fasten the belt too tightly so that your thumb fits through.
- Place your fingers under the belt and, using movements from the center of your abdomen, straighten out any wrinkles.
Important! It is considered bad taste to take off your jacket, but if you have to do this, your shirt should be long sleeved.
Tie
As for the tie, it is not always relevant. For example, at a corporate event it is better to refuse it, and for visiting for a wedding celebration it is more than appropriate. Its design should be discreet and preferably with a pattern of regular, clear shapes. One of the drawings must be present somewhere else in the clothing.
To ensure that the tie fits well and does not twist, you need to buy a special clip for it.. His placed between the third and fourthfrom belowbutton perpendicular to the line of the shirt fastener. Grab the shelf and tie together. The tie must touch the button on the trousers.
Reference! Expensive clip models are usually equipped with a chain. It is hidden under the front of the shirt, rather than left hanging freely.
Bow tie can also be worn, but this accessory is used for more formal events. However, young people choose butterflies in colorful, rich colors, which helps compensate for the excessive formality of this item. Those who wants to stand out, it is better to choose a pocket square. Designers do not recommend wearing a tie and pocket square at the same time.
Shoes
Shoes of a strictly classic style are selected. Only at social events, extended and other toe configuration.
The color should go well with the suit. Black is a universal option, but in some cases brown is suitable. The main condition is that the shoes must be leather and thoroughly polished.
Accessories
There shouldn't be a lot of accessories. Usually this is a tie, a pocket square and a watch. The latter should be on a leather strap or with a metal bracelet. The belt is chosen to be a classic model with a neutral-colored buckle.
Hats
The “Cocktail” dress code is standard for indoor venues. However, if the event takes place outdoors, a man can wear a hat. It should be harmoniously combined with other elements of clothing.
Thanks to its versatility and the ability to show imagination, the Cocktail style (evening dressy) has become widespread throughout the world. This is the most relaxed version of the dress code for official events, social events and business meetings.
Damn those who put “cocktail dress code” in the announcement of winter events. I’m not talking about white tie at all: events to which you are supposed to arrive in a grand dress and evening shoes (and preferably also in family, or at least rented, pearls and diamonds) are attended only by artists and the powers that be - in cars , and if necessary, accompanied by assistants who will serve everything, smooth it out, and when necessary, clean it urgently. (However, even despite all this, stars sometimes can’t stand it and, cursing, pull off their uncomfortable high-heeled shoes and generally send to hell with everyone.)
But I’m not talking about black tie and white tie now, but about more mundane formats: a corporate party, some serious opening, a wedding, if you really want - a theater, a professional award, finally. The trick of the so-called cocktail dress code is that we are accustomed to the presence of evening dresses in our wardrobe - most often they are particular and very traditional, and they, alas, do not imply the proximity of boots or shoes. And even more so down jackets or cheerful fur coats in pastel shades. Even a fashion editor with five years of experience, who can easily find in his wardrobe a dress to celebrate a wedding, designed in two of the most unimaginable colors, it is difficult to understand what to wear to one of the above-mentioned events, and most importantly, what to do with shoes.
Taking a shift is inconvenient and stupid. Driving in shoes in a taxi is unreliable: if it’s snowing outside, then the taxi’s carpet could very well turn into a real puddle, and if you have to run along the street to the premises, then you can ruin your evening shoes with reagents.
Popular
What can be done
Option 1
There are not many exits. The first one is universal. Suitable for those who are not so attached to feminine wardrobe items in general and dresses in particular and, among other things, value mobility. Walks or uses public transport, rather than being stuck in a long traffic jam of taxis and personal cars on the way to evening activities. As you understand, the solution is this: change your favorite dresses (and we always stock up on at least a few models with sequins, velvet draperies or bouclé inserts, which are absolutely impossible to wear in the summer - in this case you need to start fighting the habit) for laconic trouser suits.
And, of course, wear boots. Among what is presented in modern stores, it is quite possible to find models with thick soles and even with a wool or fur insole, so that you can use the set even when the mercury drops below zero. Tested from my own experience. Such a set will also accept an insulated parka or a khaki-colored down jacket similar to it as a companion - with their help representatives of the British subculture protected polished Italian suits in the 60s, and you can too.
Cate Blanchett
No. 21 autumn-winter - 18/19
Sacai autumn-winter – 18/19
Kristen Stewart
Rochas autumn-winter – 18/19
Option 2
It is for those who want to save dresses. Still wear boots. But not with dresses in the spirit of Chanel, not with sheaths and not with the boring short models that Instagram is full of. We are talking about bohemian dresses. Alas, there are also pitfalls: such models require that their owner be at least a little bohemian. You yourself can guess that flowing fabrics, combinations of several prints or materials and unexpected cuts look unconvincing against the backdrop of neat styling, from which a strong hold varnish will not allow a single curl to escape, and the stern look of the director of the enterprise. It will not go well with classic boots with a rounded toe and neat heel. Here, give us something more intricate: a geometric heel (transparent, spherical, stylized as wood, and even with through holes), high cowboy boots, suede models with a massive sole and a hint of the 70s. In general, it’s quite a cocktail, but for a very specific audience. If there are no other clarifications on the dress code, you can safely choose this strategy. A sheepskin coat, an insulated coat, and the same parka will go upstairs. Even a knitted hat will not spoil the picture (unlike a set with a sheath dress, for example).
Rochas autumn-winter – 18/19
Keira Knightley
Valentino autumn-winter - 18/19
Chloé fall-winter – 18/19
Guest of Paris Fashion Week
Kate Moss
Coach 1941 autumn-winter - 18/19
Anaïs Jourden fall-winter – 18/19
Option 3
What else can you do? Well, for example, put on clothes of the same color scheme and pretend that you didn’t care about the rules. In fact, the cocktail dress code today increasingly implies that you will not be surrounded by men in suits (albeit without a tie) and ladies in dresses with trains, but something almost daytime. Jeans, skirts, blouses. For weddings or events where the colors that guests are expected to wear are clearly indicated, a black dress paired with black tights and black ankle boots will do just fine. In order not to get lost, rely on avant-garde forms or play neo-romanticism - the choice depends on your appearance and character (or you can try to combine both: futuristic ankle boots and avant-garde gloves to help).
Clara Lucani
Dries Van Noten fall-winter – 18/19
Nina Dobrev
