A Stylist’s Guide To Modern Cocktail Attire

Cocktail attire is a vague term. You don’t want to show up over or under-dressed, and it’s hard to know the vibe of an event before you are actually there. So when invited to an occasion that calls for this dress code, the best way to think about it is finding an outfit that’s in between black tie and business casual. As to what these outfits look like? We called in an expert to advise.

Consider the venue location and formality of your host. “It really depends on who is throwing the event and what kind of a crowd we are mingling with,” Anny Choi, stylist and creative brand consultant, tells Harper’s BAZAAR. “If we are amongst an adventurous fashion crowd, I’d say anything goes—even denim can be dressed up for a cocktail dress code, in my opinion. In a more traditional sense, though, I would probably forget jeans if the event calls for cocktail attire.”

If you’re off to a more traditional soirée, take modern wardrobe essentials for a spin. “From suiting options to two-piece separates and LBDs, there are so many more sleek options to choose from and you can accessorise differently for different cocktail events,” Choi says. “Less is more when the dress code calls for cocktail attire. I think it’s better to go minimal and dress up the look with fun accessories versus being the most overdressed person at the event.” Adding a metallic shoe or sparkly clutch are ways to achieve this.

Keep scrolling for more tips and tricks to nailing cocktail attire, every single time.

The LBD

Little black dresses are a go-to. They’ll never go out of style. “Dresses that are mini to midi length will work best,” Choi says.

Related article: In Paris, Street Style Centered Around Dressing Down The Party Dress

Evening Outerwear

“Switch it up depending on the season,” Choi says. Satin, velvet and brocades are all fair game when thinking about outerwear.

Silky Suiting

Silky fabric is a sure-fire way to ace cocktail dressing. Opt for the slight sheen of satin, charmeuse and other similar textures.

Two-Piece Sets

“I like two-piece sets that you can wear again as separates,” Choi says. Just remember, don’t be afraid to mix and match!

Fancy Flats

“My go-to for cocktail events are what I call fancy flats,” Choi says. Be sure to choose something with a bit of bling.

Related article: The 15 Best Designer Flats Epitomise Nonchalant Luxury

Finishing Touches

Keep things classic with minimalist shapes and clean finishes. Look for tried and true options that pair well with everything.

This article originally appeared in Harper’s BAZAAR US.