Cocktail Attire: Defined

I mentioned last week in this post that I love bows (yes, please!), but I also mentioned that I was waiting for a pretty mint green dress to arrive on my doorstep. Sadly, the most perfect cocktail attire dress does not fit. The search continues…

Because cocktail attire is slightly awkward – it lies in between casual and semi-formal – I thought it only appropriate to share what I know and what I have learned. The top four things to consider: time and location of your event and the style and fabric of the garment you’re planning to wear. What you might choose for an evening wedding (a classic satin dress paired with a bold statement necklace and heels) may not be appropriate for a daytime fete (flowing chiffon paired with a cardigan and wedges).  One thing is clear though: a shorter dress – preferably one I can dress up now and pair with sandals later – is my favorite choice. A quick roundup of some of my favorite finds:

1. Louisville Floral Shift Dress via Francesca’s ($48)
2. Junior’s Mesh Back Pleated Chiffon Dress by Lush via Nordstrom ($52)
3. Hole in One Dress by Kate Spade New York via Rent The Runway ($75 rental)
4. Scalloped Dress via J. Crew (completely obsessed) ($168)
5. Jersey One-Shoulder Bridesmaid Dress via Ann Taylor ($150)
6. Arabelle Polka-Dot Dress via J. Crew ($275)
7. Tiered Ruffle Shift Dress by Lush via Nordstrom (love this color) ($52)
8. LC Lauren Conrad Bow Fit & Flare Ponte dress via Kohl’s (bows!) ($39 on sale)

A quick tip: whether I’m attending a wedding or not, if a site has it, I always make sure to browse through their picks for wedding guests and bridesmaids. The styles and dresses featured are often exactly what I’ve been hoping to find.

Tell me: what are your cocktail attire experiences?