Don’t Be Shaken by the Meaning of Cocktail Attire!
Contrary to what you might think, no, cocktail attire isn’t any dress code in which you have a cocktail in your hand! Instead, it is an elevated style of dress typical of upscale social occasions that can be worn with friends or when out and about.
- Don’t Be Shaken by the Meaning of Cocktail Attire!
- The Concepts Behind the Cocktail Attire Dress Code
- Cocktail Attire FAQ
- The Essential Components of a Cocktail Attire Outfit
- The Dos & Don’ts of Cocktail Attire
- Seven Dos of Cocktail Attire
- Seven Don’ts of Cocktail Attire
- Cocktail Attire Events
- Two Cocktail Attire Looks
- Traditional Cocktail Attire from the Golden Age of Menswear
- Conclusion
- Outfit Rundown
Usually when you receive an invitation nowadays, you’ll likely recognize many of the dress codes, such as Business Casual or Black Tie, and have some idea of what kinds of clothing they entail. But what about Cocktail Attire? What are you supposed to wear for this dress code?
This guide will help explain precisely what Cocktail Attire is, so you are perfectly dressed and able to enjoy yourself. Whether you have a in your hand or not, you’ll make exactly the right impression at any event with the guidelines and tips available here.
The Concepts Behind the Cocktail Attire Dress Code
Cocktail Attire Is The Bridge Between Formal and Casual
“Cocktail Attire” refers to a very broad dress code traditionally worn in social settings in the afternoon or evening that were given over to leisure and conversation. In the present day, this dress code is employed in various locations and can be worn on multiple diverse occasions.
“Life is like a cocktail, made up for the most part of sweet things, and tinged with a dash of bitters. We must drain it to the dregs to get at the cherry, just as we must live a full and rounded life to know all of its pleasures.”
Edgar Guest
On the scale of dress codes, Cocktail Attire is the middle, a step up from Business Casual but less formal than Black Tie. It is considered on par with Business Attire, so in composition, it is very similar to an outfit you would wear to your office or an interview to create an excellent cocktail attire ensemble. Essentially, Cocktail Attire exists in the same liminal space as Semi-Formal, relative to Formal.
Do you fully understand the formality scale?
What The Cocktail Attire Dress Code is Not
Cocktail Attire often leads to confusion due to its position on the spectrum of dress codes. The term itself contributes to this uncertainty. For some, the word “cocktails” conjures up images of elegance and sophistication at a high-end venue, which might suggest that formal wear like a tuxedo is suitable. On the other hand, those who equate cocktails with casual, fun gatherings among friends may believe that a relaxed outfit is more appropriate.
In reality, Cocktail Attire is intended to fill the sartorial void that exists between these two spheres: it offers the refinement and cohesion of more formal ensembles mingled with the creativity and opportunities for self-expression of the more casual.
Clothing types to
Avoid
Any clothing that is more casual – jeans, polo shirts, and casual sneakers – should not be worn with Cocktail Attire, but neither should very formal elements like dinner jackets, formal waistcoats, and cummerbunds: both types represent extremes outside of this dress code.
Cocktail Attire Ensembles Exist on Both Ends of the Formality Spectrum
Occupying a central place in the spectrum of dress codes, Cocktail Attire can exhibit a wide range of formality. One set of Cocktail Attire might seem just a notch above Business Casual, whereas another could nearly be mistaken for formal wear at first glance.
The versatility in Cocktail Attire styles stems from its unique position, straddling the line between formal and casual dress codes. It has successfully incorporated aspects of both, allowing it to adapt to settings on either side of this divide. The specific nature of the event you’re attending should be the main factor determining if your Cocktail Attire should lean towards the more casual or the more formal end of the spectrum.
Cocktail Attire FAQ
What is the Cocktail Attire dress code?
The Cocktail Attire dress code is a semi-formal-to-formal dress code that is typically worn on evening occasions that can include professional events, retirement parties, cocktail parties, and weddings. It is typified by a dark suit, muted shirts, sedate accessories, and dark shoes.
Is Cocktail Attire the same thing as Semi-Formal?
Technically, Cocktail Attire can be an example of semi-formal attire, but other dress codes can also be considered semi-formal. That being said, Semi-Formal is often used interchangeably with Cocktail Attire, although it can also sometimes be used to refer to Black Tie Optional.
What is Casual Cocktail Attire?
Casual Cocktail Attire is a subset of the Cocktail Attire dress codes in which the hosts want their guests to be more creative and casual in selecting their outfits. Therefore, you can feel free to experiment with more bold colors and patterns, wear combinationals, or even forego neckwear.
Do I have to wear Cocktail Attire to a cocktail party?
While the Cocktail Attire dress code may derive its name from the enjoyment of cocktails, cocktail parties will not necessarily require the Cocktail Attire dress code. If the hosts of the cocktail party have specified a dress code, follow it. If they have not, a Cocktail Attire ensemble, tuned to the relatively anticipated formality of the evening, will almost certainly be appropriate.
Do I have to wear a jacket as part of a Cocktail Attire ensemble?
Yes, certainly for any event taking place in the evening. Ideally, this jacket should always be part of a matching suit, although, for more casual Cocktail Attire events, a dark sports coat with coordinating trousers might be acceptable, although not in keeping with the conventions of Classic Style.
Do I have to wear a tie as part of a Cocktail Attire ensemble?
Yes, some kind of neckwear, whether a necktie or bow tie, will be expected for nearly every Cocktail Attire occasion. Unless you know for a fact that your hosts expect some guests to forgo them, wear a necktie or bow tie.
Can I wear a blazer or sport coat as Cocktail Attire?
Conventionally, your jacket should be a suit jacket cut from the same cloth as your trousers. As part of a more modern look, you can potentially wear a blazer or sports coat at a casual Cocktail Attire event, but this will not be in keeping with the traditional rules of the Classic Style. If you do opt to wear combinations, make sure that they are in dark, similar colors, especially for evening events.
Can I wear jeans as Cocktail Attire?
You cannot wear jeans as part of a Cocktail Attire ensemble, not even dark jeans, as they are simply too casual for the occasion.
Can I wear a sweater or similar knitwear as Cocktail Attire?
Muted knitwear such as a vest can be worn under a jacket at casual Cocktail Attire events, but a sweater or cardigan is not an acceptable substitute for a jacket.
Can I wear sneakers as Cocktail Attire?
Traditionally, no sneakers, not even dress sneakers, are appropriate for a Cocktail Attire affair. Similarly, you should also avoid any lace-less shoes, like loafers or moccasins. All of these shoes are too informal for this dress code.
The Essential Components of a Cocktail Attire Outfit
Dark to Mid-Colored Suit
Cocktail Attire may not be a strictly formal affair, but in keeping with the refined atmosphere of the occasion, you will be best served wearing a suit that is darker in tone. Navy, Charcoal, Dark Blue, and Mid-Gray are all common options that can also be worn as day or business suits and will, therefore, ensure good cost-per-wear.
Cocktail Attire is traditionally associated with single-breasted suit jackets, but a double-breasted jacket is perfectly acceptable. If desired, you may wear a three-piece suit with a waistcoat, but be aware that this look is considered more formal and might, at certain events, appear a little too stuffy.
Lighter Colors Can Be Worn At Day Events
If you are attending a daytime Cocktail Attire event, usually taking place anytime before five pm, it would be appropriate to introduce lighter colored suit if desired. Potential color choices include Medium Blues, Dark and Medium Greens, and most shades of Brown.
Combinational Are Acceptable For More Casual Cocktail Attire
Similar Color combinations?
Maybe!
While you should usually avoid combinations in the Cocktail Attire dress code, for more casual occasions, you can consider them. This Cocktail Attire look could be acceptable at a casual day event because the jacket and trousers are both dark, but won’t be entirely in keeping with the conventions of Classic Style.
Contrast Combinational?
Too Casual!
Whether for day or night events, avoid high-contrast jacket and trousers combinations while following the Cocktail Attire dress code. This look is simply too casual for events of this formality.
For the majority of Cocktail Attire occasions, opting for a suit tailored from identical fabric for all pieces is your safest bet. In less formal settings, particularly daytime gatherings, you may find that a blazer or sports coat suffices.
On such instances, it’s advisable to select trousers that complement rather than contrast with your sports coat to maintain a formal appearance. For instance, pairing a navy blazer with gray trousers would be more appropriate than choosing stone-colored trousers.
Button-Up Dress Shirt in White or Muted Colors
For the most classic look, a white dress shirt is an ideal garment for any Cocktail Attire ensemble: its high-contrast color and simple elegance will help the other aspects of your outfit shine. If desired, light blue shirts will also achieve a similar effect while offering additional visual interest.
A shirt with French cuffs, provided that the accompanying cufflinks are sufficiently sedate, is perfectly acceptable, as are barrel cuffs.
For dress shirts avoid
Jewel Tones
In the past, jewel-tone dress shirts, in blues, greens, reds, and purples, were often worn as part of Cocktail Attire. This combination was meant to appear dynamic and refined, but unfortunately, the overall look is now somewhat dated and closely associated with the Lounge Lizard or Swinger ensembles of the late 1980s and early 1990s. It is possible to make this look work for you today, but it will require an impeccable color combination and an attentive eye for quality materials – in particular, you want to ensure that your shirt does not appear overly shiny.
Employ Tasteful Textures
To achieve the unique visual interest of a colorful shirt without the risk of appearing too bold, consider a subtle texture or weave that alters the appearance of your shirt without being overbearing.
Neckwear in Solids or Subtle Patterns
Neckwear is an ideal opportunity for injecting color and vibrancy into an outfit, but when selecting a necktie or bow tie for a Cocktail Attire affair, a more muted option will likely produce the best results. Subtle neckwear in classic and versatile colors, with perhaps a subdued pattern, will ensure that the outfit is interesting while remaining sufficiently formal.
Loud or colorful neckwear will generally be too casual for many Cocktail Attire occasions, especially those that take place in the evening. They could be worn more readily during a daytime event or an event that is known to be very casual in nature, but again, you will usually be best served being too formal rather than too casual.
Avoid neckwear in
Black
While you could wear a black necktie with a Cocktail Attire outfit, such a decision is tantamount to throwing away the perfect opportunity to employ a more stimulating color choice. You should explicitly avoid, however, wearing a black bow tie, as this article is closely associated with the Black Tie dress code, a distinct and very different dress code.
Formal yet Frolicsome
Bottle Green Silk Tie with Macclesfield Neats
Subtle Vibrancy
Dark Orange Bow Tie with Green Polka Dots
Dynamic Decadence
Gray Tie with Blue and White Diamonds
Simple Pocket Square
As with neckwear, less is often more with a pocket square. Rather than opting for a flashy selection, you will derive greater benefit from a relatively simple pocket square in either a pleasing solid color or a timeless pattern, such as paisley, medallions, or tasteful graphics.
The key to ensure elegance and versatility is to select a pocket square that features muted, classic colors that will enliven your ensemble without appearing too brash. In this way, your pocket square will heighten the other aspects of your look without distracting from them.
Refined Brilliance
Cerulean Scarab Pattern Pocket Square
A Timeless Pattern
Burgundy Pocket Square with Paisley Pattern
Artful Edging
White Pocket Square with Navy X Stitching
Dark Dress Shoes
As with most events taking place in the evening, Cocktail Attire occasions should be the exclusive domain of dark leather shoes. Such shoes convey the gravity of the occasion and will also prove far easier to pair with your larger ensemble.
In general, black shoes are best suited to a Cocktail Attire event, although very dark brown or dark oxblood are also acceptable. The shoe should be relatively simple, without excessive detailing, like brogueing. An oxford will, therefore, be your best choice, although sedate derbies will also work.
Can you wear
Dress Sneakers?
Finally, many modern gentlemen, including those interested in the Classic Style, have embraced the dress sneaker on an increasing number of occasions. Such a shoe is not in keeping with the formality of most Cocktail Attire events, but could, perhaps, be worn at a very casual, daytime Cocktail Attire affair. Ultimately, the choice is yours, although in these situations dress sneakers are not typical of the Classic Style.
Add Personality with Coordinating Shoe Laces
Shop for Sensational Shoelaces!
To add personality to leather shoes without reverting to unusual styles or colors, consider adding a pair of unique shoelaces that pick out another color in your outfit. For more formal occasions, you will want to select colors that coordinate with your shoes, trousers, and socks, while on more casual occasions, you can be more creative and opt for shades with more contrast.
Muted Magnificence
Dark Green Shoelaces
Foundational Fantasy
Dark Brown Shoelaces
Captivating Color
Light Blue Shoelaces
Coordinate Your Leathers
As a unique finishing touch to your entire ensemble, it is always beneficial, but especially upon more formal occasions, to make an effort to match all of the leather components of your outfit, such as your belt or suspenders, shoes, and watchband. Doing so will contribute to the overall elegance of the outfit and make it clear that you are an attentive and well-coordinated dresser.
Coordinated Dress Socks
Socks are an often overlooked component of menswear, but the Cocktail Attire dress code affords many opportunities for visually exciting socks that are still refined enough for the occasion. Solids or subtle patterns are both equally acceptable, provided that they are rendered in sedate colors. Two-tone or striped socks are also an excellent choice.
In general, you should endeavor to match your socks to your trousers or to pick up the coloration of another article in your outfit, such as your neckwear or pocket square.
Universal Appeal
Navy and Royal Blue Shadow Stripe Socks
Picture-Perfect Pizzazz
Two Two Burgundy and Light Gray Socks
Delightful Detailing
Navy Socks with Blue and White Clocks
The unexpected elegance of
Jewel-Toned Socks
Bottle green, burgundy, and light and dark navy jewel-toned socks from Fort Belvedere can be yours!
Impeccable Personal Grooming
It is unlikely that you will find yourself invited to a Cocktail Attire event on the spur of the moment, and therefore you will have ample opportunity to ensure that both you and your clothes are in perfect order. To that end, ensure that your garments are neatly pressed and recently cleaned, if needed. You, in turn, should see that your hair has been recently trimmed and your facial hair either neatly coifed or cleanly shaved.
The Dos & Don’ts of Cocktail Attire
Seven Dos of Cocktail Attire
DO abide by the stated dress code – a Cocktail Attire invitation has certain specifications that should be followed and is not an opportunity to wear whatever you please.
DO wear your best-fitting dark suit, even if you usually reserve it for work – it will be appropriate for the occasion and the superb fit will make you look all the better.
DO employ elegant color combinations that are visually pleasing without being flashy – this usually means pairing different shades of warm and cool colors, rather than contrasting colors.
DO proactively determine how formal or informal your outfit should be based on the time of day, location of the event, and what you know about the hosts.
DO utilize unique accessories to add personality to your Cocktail Attire look, but remember that less is often more, so employ a quality-over-quantity approach.
DO wear interesting textures and materials to create visual interest.
DO remember that the Cocktail Attire dress codes affords opportunities for tasteful and elegant personalization, so do not be afraid to add your personal touch to your outfit.
Seven Don’ts of
Cocktail Attire
DON'T wear a tuxedo or a White Tie ensemble, as they are too formal and constitutes their own respective dress codes.
DON'T wear a black suit, because it could be mistaken for a Black Tie dinner jacket and is generally too austere for this dress code, being better suited to funerals.
DON'T wear pinstripes, bright colored ties, a bold paisley shirt, or flashy accessories at a Cocktail Attire event that is honoring someone else, such as a retirement party, reception, or wedding – the person being honored should be the center of attention and not you.
DON'T wear casual clothes such as khakis, chinos, jeans, polo shirts, or a casual sports jacket – essentially, avoid any article associated with the Business Casual dress code.
DON'T wear causal shoes that are lace-less, like loafers or moccasins.
DON'T go sockless – this summery look is just too casual for the Cocktail Attire dress code.
DON'T forget a tie or bow tie – some kind of neckwear will be expected at any Cocktail Attire event you are likely to attend.
Cocktail Attire Events
Common Occasions for Wearing Cocktail Attire
Parties
Receptions
Weddings
Because of its position in the middle of the dress code spectrum, Cocktail Attire has become an extremely popular dress code for a variety of events. You will often see it as the suggested dress code for many weddings, private parties, galas, and even professional occasions, ranging from networking events to retirement parties.
Examples of More Formal Cocktail Attire Events
Understanding the nature of these events will guide you as to whether or not to craft a Cocktail Attire outfit that is more casual or more formal. For instance, a wedding that takes place in a church with a reception at a historic hotel hints at a more dignified occasion that requires a more formal look. Similarly, any Cocktail Attire event associated with your place of work or professional contacts will likely be a more formal affair.
Examples of More Casual Cocktail Attire Events
Understanding the nature of these events will guide you as to whether or not to craft a Cocktail Attire outfit that is more casual or more formal. For instance, a wedding that takes place in a church with a reception at a historic hotel hints at a more dignified occasion that requires a more formal look. Similarly, any Cocktail Attire event associated with your place of work or professional contacts will likely be a more formal affair.
How to Utilize the Versatility of Cocktail Attire for Multiple Events
A significant benefit of the range of looks within the Cocktail Attire dress code is its versatility. Assuming that you own a suit that is appropriate for Business Attire, you already own the basic elements needed to craft an excellent Cocktail Attire ensemble. It will be worth your time and effort to invest in garments within this dress code range because they can be similarly employed in other situations.
Employing Cocktail Attire Elements in Other Situations
In a pinch, you can wear cocktail attire with a dark suit instead of a tuxedo when Black Tie Optional is called for as the dress code. It is also appropriate for funerals and other solemn occasions when formality is required. In this case, a solid dark navy or charcoal suit can be worn if you don’t own a black one, and your accessories should be muted, such as a black grenadine tie, black leather oxford dress shoes, and a solid white shirt. Even if you wear smart casual or jeans on a day-to-day basis, it pays to have at least one Cocktail Attire outfit ready in your closet for short notice events.
Learn more about Black Tie Optional
Alternative Dress Codes: Decoding “Cocktail Casual,” “Semi-Formal” and “Formal Attire”
Adding to the confusion that already surrounds the Cocktail Attire dress code, you will occasionally encounter dress codes with similar names or meanings.
What the "Cocktail Casual" Dress Code Means
“Cocktail Casual” refers to a dress code similar to Cocktail Attire but noticeably less formal, usually allowing for bright colors, unusual patterns, and combinational outfits. You can also dress down certain elements of the ensemble, such as by swapping out a dress shirt and instead wearing a turtleneck sweater.
What the "Semi-Formal" Dress Code Means
“Semi-Formal” literally means “Half” or “Nearly Formal” and refers broadly to any style of dress that is not formal but also is not casual. It often entails a look akin to Cocktail Attire or Black Tie Optional, and in many cases, when hosts use the phrasing “Semi-Formal,” what they have in mind is basically a Cocktail Attire look. If you are a host yourself, we suggest avoiding this terminology precisely because it is confusing and instead employ a more precise dress code.
What the "Formal Attire" Dress Code Means
“Formal Attire” refers to any of the Formal dress codes, and can include Morning Wear for daytime occasions, and Black Tie Optional, Black Tie, or White Tie for evening occasions. Again, this dress code is confusing because it is relatively broad, but in most cases today, any invitation asking guests to wear Formal Attire likely indicates that Black Tie is desired.
What to Wear to a Cocktail Attire Wedding
Even though the above guidelines for Cocktail Attire may seem a bit subdued, they will be appropriate for most weddings. The result of the Cocktail Attire dress code is that you will be elegantly and respectfully attired for the occasion without being flashy or otherwise drawing attention away from the focus of the day – the bride and groom. Unless you have information suggesting otherwise, such as a beach or barn location, you can’t go wrong with traditional cocktail attire at a wedding.
What to Wear to a Cocktail Party
Ironically, a cocktail party does not necessarily call for Cocktail Attire. While the ladies may have an easy out for a cocktail party look, taking advantage of the appropriately-named cocktail dress, it is not as clear for men what attire they should wear to a cocktail party. You will need to judge the nature of the event before you decide what to wear.
“The bar is in full swing, and floating rounds of cocktails permeate the garden outside, until the air is alive with chatter and laughter, and casual innuendo and introductions forgotten on the spot, and enthusiastic meetings between women who never knew each other’s names.”
from The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
If the event suggests a dress code, wear whatever the hosts have suggested. If not, consider that cocktail parties are supposed to be relaxed occasions, and although not wrong per se, a classic dark suit such as navy or charcoal is probably a tad too formal. During the winter, you can wear flannel, with patterns, and maybe a bow tie. Be more daring than with your business wardrobe and pay attention to accessories such as cuff links, tie bars, pocket squares, and boutonnieres, but don’t overdo it. We suggest using only two accents at a time to appear sedate and dignified.
An Example of a Cocktail Party Ensemble
Two Cocktail Attire Looks
Because Cocktail Attire events can run the gamut from relatively casual to relatively formal, it is essential to craft your outfit around the anticipated level of formality. To give you a sense of what this spectrum can entail, we’ve put together two variations on Cocktail Attire suited for two different levels of formality. Use these examples to inspire your creativity and achieve a benchmark for how formal and informal different ensembles should be.
Outfit Variation #1: Formal and Fun with Unexpected Colors
This version of Cocktail Attire strikes a balance that is generally apt for such events, yet leans towards a more informal stance through its striking color contrasts. Anchored by a navy blue double-breasted suit — a garment that commands formality — this ensemble invites a touch of lightheartedness with a contrasting buff tie, which serves to soften the suit’s deep blue and injects an element of surprise into the visual mix. The choice of whole-cut shoes in an unconventional oxblood hue also reinvents formality, while the burgundy striped socks provide a pop of assertive color, tempered by the overarching midnight blue theme. Completing the look is an ivory dress shirt paired with a subtle pale yellow pocket square, offering a playful twist on traditional expectations.
Outfit Variation #2: Dignified Elegance with Timeless Style
This ensemble radiates a classic allure with its significant vintage flair, marrying timeless hues and antique nuances with a consistent thread of red shades. The mid-gray single-breasted suit is revitalized by an understated houndstooth design, made more striking by the formal, evening-ready peaked lapels. Adding depth through texture, two-tone black Oxford boots featuring suede accents anchor and distinguish the outfit, complemented by muted gray socks adorned with eye-catching burgundy clocks. A subdued burgundy tie, elevated by polka dots and a sleek silver collar clip, avoids looking monotonous against the gray. Completing the look with effortless sophistication, a crisp white shirt and pocket square harmoniously bind the elements, thanks to the pocket square’s subtle red accents.
Traditional Cocktail Attire from the Golden Age of Menswear
The Historical Origins of Cocktail Attire
Cocktail Attire arose in the early 20th century with the development of Cocktail Culture in Europe and North America. Traditionally, ladies and gentlemen would have distinct garments worn during the day – usually day suits or similar apparel – that they would change out of in the evening in favor of dinner clothes – either Black or White Tie.
Building a Bridge Between Day Clothing and Evening Clothing
In the early 20th century, a liminal period developed between the end of the day and the start of supper that became known as the Cocktail Hour, usually beginning around five PM. At this time, after a hard day of work or an afternoon spent out-and-about, the ladies and gentlemen of the house, and their guests, would enjoy a quick cocktail before making their preparations for dinner.
As this Cocktail Hour usually took place at the end of the day, the Cocktail Attire dress code developed out of the same types of clothes that would have been worn during the day. Hence, relatively formal dark suits, shoes, and neckwear were the norm for gentlemen.
Modern Cocktail Attire Develops
Eventually, Cocktail Attire assumed social occasions of its own, usually consisting of private parties or other more informal affairs that did not merit the full formal ensembles of a dinner party or gala event. As the 20th century progressed, Cocktail Attire began to eclipse Black Tie, the former favorite for evenings out, in all but the most formal situations.
Soon, Cocktail Attire, sometimes under the guise of “Semi-Formal” nomenclature, was preferred for even more formal events, such as dinner parties and even weddings. By the late 20th century, this segue from day to evening dress had become a form of evening wear in its own right.
Three Cocktail Attire Looks from the 1930s
Fashion illustrations are a window into a bygone era when every man seemed to be dressed to the nines. The following fashion illustration is from 1936, the Golden Age of Men’s Classic Style, and shows us a nice mix of cocktail attire for men that would still work today. If the party is during the day or in the afternoon, you can add more color and patterns to your outfit, although the basics mentioned above apply here as well. In the evening, you can wear darker suits, fewer patterns, and more muted colors.
Stroller with Striped Trousers
Ideal for Day Events
Vintage Class
This jacket is a typical single-breasted stroller, peaked lapel style with two buttons and jetted pockets in a charcoal gray. Note the red carnation that goes well with the buff waistcoat, white shirt, and light blue tie. The trousers are striped with a wide stripe in black and white. Even though the shoes aren’t visible, they are probably black oxfords to match the colors in the outfit and the formality of this look. This cocktail outfit used to be particularly popular for wear on Sunday afternoons and was often seen at the smartest cocktail bars. Today, the stroller is definitely the most formal of all the cocktail suits.
Windowpane Overplaid Sharkskin Suit
The Ultimate Cocktail Party Ensemble
Plaid Panache
This rust-brown subdued windowpane over-plaid on a gray-brown sharkskin suit is worn as a 3-piece suit with an ivory-colored shirt and navy-red club tie. The proportions of this suit are very moderate. It has an average lapel width and gorge, round quarters, and a reasonably long jacket. Windowpane suits are one of the most underrated outfits in menswear, and hence, they are an ideal chance for you to differentiate yourself without being overly loud. As a general rule, you should keep in mind that the more patterns and colors, other than navy and gray, you have in your outfit, the less formal it will be.
Wide Strip Worsted Flannel Suit
Exceptional Evening Alternative
Striped Style
The red stripes are reflected in the rest of the outfit, such as the red boutonniere and Bordeaux tie. This three-piece flannel suit with stripes benefits from the peaked lapels, which provide a little more formality. If the lady in blue were to step aside, you would see that the trousers of this suit are without cuffs, which raises the formality bar by another notch. Note that in this illustration, the red stripe appears very vibrant, but as seen in the fabric swatch below, it appears much more sedate in real life.
Conclusion
When Cocktail Attire is called for as the dress code at your next event, now you know what you need to wear to look and feel great. Keep in mind that the standards of Cocktail Attire are often dictated by the nature of the event attended, so keep some commonsense rules in mind while crafting your ensemble.
At a wedding, try to be properly dressed without being too flashy and always keep the bride and groom in mind. For cocktail parties and receptions, leave your business navies and grays in the closet and add a splash of color. If you have a waistcoat – even a contrasting one – wear it if it pairs well with the suit. And most important of all – have fun and enjoy the company and the drinks!
Let us know how you style your Cocktail Attire ensembles!
Outfit Rundown
The medium gray of this suit fits perfectly into the middle strata of Cocktail Attire. Tasteful blue elements are grounded by the light blue dress shirt, highlighted by a darker blue pocket square and boutonniere. The dark blue tie offers appealing visual contrast that still harmonizes with all of the other elements, elegantly introducing a new shade: red.
Subtle jewelry creates visual interest, including silver-toned cufflinks with blue lapis lazuli accents at the wrists and a platinum-plated collar bar at the neck.
Black derbies worn with lighter socks for a bit of contrast, ground the ensemble.
Hi Raphael,
Hope you are doing great! Absolutely amazing videos, so much to learn. I would like to know what should be the attire for the groom on a cocktail party ? It would be great if you could write back to me. I am the bride and I am planning to make a surprise suit for me on that day.
Look forward to hear back from you soon.
Thanks
Divya
Dear Raphael I need your advice.
I live in Venezuela, in this country wearing suits or jackets (even the sport ones) it is not very common, I’ll get to the point, this weekend is my brother’s wedding, it’s not going to be a huge fancy wedding but we were told to go formal, for us here, formal means suit, the tux is only for the groom, the thing is, I have a dark gray jacket that I’d like to use with a back vest, black pants and a white dress shirt with back tie (I don’t have a black suit and to be honest neither have the money to get one right now) the thing is, my friends keep telling me to not to use a white shirt with back tie because that’s what waiters use here. So would it be ok to use it anyway? or what other color shirt would you advice me to use?
Waiting for your reply.
Thanks.
The essential elements for a wedding dress: dark suit, white shirt, micro-pattern tie, black lace-up shoes (better oxford).
People who do not know the traditions confuse elegance with a waiter’s uniform? Patience, we can not follow them and fail to respect the sacredness of the ceremony.
Best wishes for the wedding.
Would a blue blazer with dark gray trousers be acceptable
I thoroughly enjoy your site, but must today take exception with one of your comments. Traditionally, formal attire would mean white tie. Semi-formal would mean blacktie. Cocktail and business attire would mean a business suit. Informal would mean dressier casual, and “Come as you are” would mean anything daily casual or above. In recent years in the U.S., true formal attire has gone away as a standard dress in pretty much all classes, so what would earlier have been called semi-formal has been promoted to formal, while semi-formal is frequently used as a synonym for cocktail or business attire.
Blue blazer, grey slacks, white shirt and moderate tie are a bit of a Friday uniform in more than a few US cities. Indeed it once was paired with a Derby hat in London–though that is very much less the case now. Consequently, it remains quite common for Friday afternoon/evening events. Be sure to keep an electric razor at the office to spruce up a bit.
I will add that picking up a freshly cut bouquet at the florist or grocer will give somewhere between one and two weeks of fresh boutonnieres in non-extreme weather. Probably won’t work in Minnesota and other terribly cold climates during the winter, as the flower is quite likely to freeze when out and about.
The ideas for cocktail attire were great for the students of CBSE schools in Amravati. They were confused with their searches on this cocktail attires, they needed in their annual function.
This article give them hopes and fun to choose their attires.
honestly, I never knew what cocktail attire was. Nowadays, I’m into wearing a casual gentleman attire consisting of a sporty sportcoat, a dress shoe, a pair of jeans, and always smelling good with a sophisticated smelling cologne.
I have never been to cocktail parties but as I will grow I am sure I will need to follow this attire. Thanks for the amazing tips.
Thanks for another great article. Am I correct in guessing that some of the photos of the gentlemen came from the fabled Belvedere Bash? It would be really great to see more photos, videos and comments from attendees as to how it all went down. I couldn’t attend but it would be nice to pump us up for the next one!