Accessorizing Cocktail Dresses
So you finally pulled that little cocktail dress out of your closet, and it looks fantastic! However, you still need a few accessories to complete the look.
Jewelry is the perfect topping for any dress, especially an eye-catching piece of tanzanite earrings and a unique bracelet. These stunning gemstones add a noteworthy pop of color and sophistication. Shoes are another essential accessory. Sneakers or flip-flops are too casual for cocktail attire, so try heels instead.
Dos
Cocktail dresses are a step up from your everyday streetwear or work dress, so they are usually made of more luxurious fabrics and can be detailed with tasteful embellishments like embroidery and sequins. They are also more form-fitting than most casual dresses and often feature a plunging neckline or a sexy slit. It is, therefore, essential to remember that these types of dresses require a certain level of sophistication when it comes to accessorizing.
It is best to avoid pairing these dresses with any pieces that are too loud, flashy, or gaudy. Instead, opt for jewelry in a tone that matches your dress or in a classic color like gold, silver, or black. A bright lip can complement your look and make it pop if you choose a solid dark color. However, do your makeup sparingly; it could end up drowning or cheapening your look.
The hemline of cocktail dresses should always be short, and it is a good idea to keep it above your shins. This will help maintain your figure’s silhouette and prevent your innerwear from peeking out. It is also not a good idea to wear a see-through dress as this will draw unnecessary attention. A simple way to test whether you should be wearing a transparent or sexy dress is to ask yourself would I appreciate someone else wearing this to my cocktail party?
Choosing the proper footwear to match your cocktail dress is also essential. Sneakers and flats are inappropriate for semi-formal events, so wear heels. Wedges or kitten heels are ideal if you don’t have foot problems, as they will help add height and length to your frame.
Don’ts
The cocktail dress is one of the most versatile pieces in a woman’s wardrobe. It can be worn for various occasions, from formal dinners to class reunions. Whether you want to elevate an elegant black cocktail dress or add sparkle to a floral-printed dress, the right accessories can help you shine.
A good rule of thumb is to keep the number of accessories to a minimum and try to match the colors of your accessories to those in your dress. For instance, a classic black cocktail dress pairs well with silver or gold jewelry, such as hoop earrings or a bold collar necklace. Luxe block heels or peep-toe pumps are also a great choice, as they’ll provide comfort and height. And don’t forget to pick up an eye-catching handbag—but be sure to avoid anything too bulky or flashy, which will detract from the elegance of your look.
Another important thing is to avoid flat footwear and flip-flops, usually reserved for less formal events. Likewise, sneakers, boots, and gladiators aren’t considered appropriate shoes for a cocktail dress. Instead, choose high heels to help you stand tall and strut your stuff with style. The heels should be above the knee or a bit above your calf.
While the cocktail dress is a staple in many women’s closets, it can be challenging to know what to wear when given a cocktail dress code. With fashion trends changing lightning and post-COVID social engagements picking up speed, it can easily get confused about what is considered appropriate cocktail attire.
Final Words
Whether planning a swanky cocktail party at a restaurant or a formal night out with friends, a stunning plus-size cocktail dress will make you stand out. With a cocktail dress, you can effortlessly show off your feminine beauty points while camouflaging those areas of the body that are not so flattering. Many dress designs and color options suit any taste, style, and body type. For example, a lace design might look pretty on petite women, while an abstract print can flatter plus-size ladies with curves.
Another essential factor to remember when selecting a cocktail dress is its length and fabric. The length should be such that it will look elegant on you, and the fabric should be soft and lustrous to reflect light. The cocktail dress should also be less formal than the average black-tie gown. A mini may work well for a casual cocktail party, while something that skims the floor suits a more formal event such as a friend’s bachelorette party.
The accessories you wear with your cocktail dress should not overpower it or compete for attention. Less is always more when it comes to accessorizing, and you should highlight only one or two pieces that complement the dress’s beautiful lines. A dainty pair of long dangling earrings and a delicate bracelet or necklace will do the trick. When you attend more formal occasions, you could also opt for a smaller bag instead of a roomy tote.
As fashion trends move at lightning speed and post-COVID social engagements pick up, keeping up with the ever-changing rules of cocktail attire can be challenging. However, with some know-how and the right dress, you can effortlessly transform any semi-formal outfit into a cocktail-party-ready ensemble.
