A Guide to Cocktail Wedding Dress Code
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Let’s be real, formal weddings are nice and luxurious, but they sometimes get stuffy, boring, and tiring. With all the traditional etiquette and strict guidelines, the energizing and laidback part of the wedding gets easily ignored and, worse, forgotten. Good thing there are couples who just want to have a genuinely good time for their big day, letting their guests’ hair down and inner fashionista out, even just for a little bit. That’s where a cocktail wedding dress code comes in, the perfect celebration of style and comfort.
Fun and flexible, cocktail weddings are the go-to event for engaged couples who want a stylish yet versatile affair. It is the perfect sweet spot between ultra-formal black or white-tie weddings and casual nuptials, where dancing, mingling, and an overall lively ambiance are present.
Cocktail Wedding Dress Code Explained
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A cocktail wedding dress code is not big on traditions and is not restricted by old-school wardrobe requirements. With a modern and relaxed vibe, dressing appropriately is still required, but not as rigid and elaborate as its formal counterparts. This means cocktail dresses for the ladies and suits for the gents.
Since cocktail weddings are usually held at more unconventional venues like a chic rooftop or an artsy hall, it is essential to choose an outfit that fits the setting. This includes the wedding party wardrobe, like the mother of the bride dress. Knee-length numbers would be perfect for the female attendees and a well-tailored suit for the men.
For an evening wedding, one should opt for rich-colored cocktail dresses while a daytime shindig calls for softer and pastel-toned pieces. Too casual fabrics like denim and cotton, polo shirts, and rubber shoes must be avoided at all costs. Even though personal expression is welcome at a cocktail wedding, one must not overdress and underdress and should steer clear from wearing revealing and disheveled clothing. Following this maintains the air of sophistication the bride and groom expect from their big day.
Regarding the bridal party’s ensemble, it is expected that their outfits would be a notch elevated versus the general wedding guest dress code. Bridesmaids and mothers of the bride and groom dresses can be cocktail length but must be embellished and color coordinated to set them apart from the crowd. This also applies to the groomsmen whose suits must match the groom’s attire.
Cocktail Wedding Dress Code for Women
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The great thing about a cocktail wedding dress code is the wide range of outfit choices. For the dress length, you may go for something that falls just below or above the knee, depending on your preferred level of modesty. There are a variety of flattering designs and silhouettes to choose from, like A-line, sheath, empire, or princess. As for material, fabrics like satin, silk, chiffon, velvet, or lace complement the theme. If you don’t feel like wearing a dress, a chic jumpsuit with minimal pattern is also a good alternative.
You can complement a gorgeous cocktail dress with a pair of sexy strappy heels, closed-toe stilettos, or dressy flats along with a cute handbag and some simple jewelry like a pair of earrings and a tennis bracelet. A flawless and polished look is the goal.
Cocktail Wedding Dress Code for Men
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For the male guests, a suit and dress shirt combo will always be a classic. To feature your creativity in the look, you may choose a printed or patterned tie for a touch of color and personality. If you want to go a little more casual, a blazer and a matching pair of trousers is an acceptable option. You may also go with or without a tie. A pair of brogues, a dress watch, and a splash of your signature cologne will complete the overall look.
Cocktail Wedding Dress Code Attire Ideas for Women
When choosing a cocktail wedding dress, pick one that is not just beautiful but also one that reflects your personal style. We’ve selected some pretty and feminine samples to give you an idea.
Trendy Mother of the Bride Cocktail Wedding Dress
This flowy and dreamy tea-length dusty blue mother of the bride dress is perfect for a romantic cocktail wedding. Made with light chiffon fabric ideal for a daytime ceremony and features and chic jewel neck design for a fashionable touch.
Shop for amazing cocktail wedding mother of the bride dresses at Mondressy.
Bridesmaid Dress
You can never go wrong with a corset. Young, sexy, and flattering, this floral off-the-shoulder mini dress will take romance to a whole new level. With eye-catching and unique bow sleeves that will surely catch everyone’s eye.
Female Guest Dress
Simple yet sophisticated, this A-line chiffon dress is proof that simplicity is sexy. Turn heads with its flattering halter bodice embellished with a pleated design and a flowy skirt that sweetly sways every time you move.
Cocktail Wedding Dress Code Attire Ideas for Men
Groomsmen Suit
This champagne-colored two-piece linen suit is the perfect mix of classic and comfy. Pair with a white dress shirt and a tie for a dapper overall look. Tailored to fit a dashing gentleman.
Shop for a wide selection of suit and vest for men at Mondressy.
Male Guest Blazer
Formal suit and vest for men out, comfy blazer in. Enjoy the whole celebration wearing a light and stylish cotton blazer paired with a good pair of trousers. Include a pop of color by adding a pocket square.
Even though a cocktail wedding dress code gives more fashion freedom to attendees, it is empirical that everyone still presents themselves as polished and sophisticated as possible. The secret is finding wardrobe pieces that possess the right balance of timeless elegance and easygoing comfort. And once you’ve done that, confidence and appeal will follow.
