How to Dress for a Cocktail Party (Overig)

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When it comes to dressing for a cocktail party, no one should have to break out into a mad scientist raid-the-closet frenzy. (We know the feeling well–staring at our closet full of anxiety. The kind of anxiety that’s on par with Kathryn having bad dreams about walking into a store only to discover they got rid of the shoe department—forever. THAT kind of anxiety. Heavy stuff).

Seriously, we think the biggest problem, if you want to call it that, should be between a Cosmo or a raspberry mojito, not tearing our hair out over what to wear.

So, here’s how to look gorgeous and party on.

See everyone at 8?

Pretty, Sophisticated

Writing about a cocktail party and not mentioning the LBD is like going to a pizza joint and being served grits and bacon. Not a chance in the world I could leave out the LBD, but this time, I’m not talking about any ol’ number. We don’t think “little” has to mean teeny-tiny; we love to rock a high-low side style that shows our bodies without getting all taut and bothered in skin-tight craziness.

Stand Out, Girl

At the risk of sounding like we should have our picture taken with Mickey Mouse, this is a time for fun and happiness. It’s a cocktail party for crying out loud, so get your happy on and match the dress with the mood. I’m all about out slipping into a sexy but playful colored dress. Yeah, black works just fine, but stand out with something dressier that takes the party up a notch.

Be True Blue

Feeling like the LBD is too been-there-done-that? Is the chiffon dress too frou-frou for your taste? Well, Goldilocks, a sheath is just right. It’s simple, flattering AND this sheath comes with a bonus: a bold blue color that amps up the “let’s get this party started” factor. Coupled with a barely-noticeable high-low hem and long back zipper, heads will be turning in no time.

I’ll Pencil it In

Break away from the dresses and wear a skirt—but not just ANY skirt. Step out in style with a shimmery pencil skirt. Time for some Chardonnay-sipping and Triscuit-chomping.

Panting with Cocktail Party Excitement

Pants at a cocktail party? We say, why not? It’s not like you’re walking into the room in Capris and grass-stained sneakers. Truth is, we’re not ALL dress and skirt gals. So when it’s time to break out the bubbly and carrot sticks, we think a great sequined top, blazer and flared pants with a sheer overlay are cocktail-perfect and comfy.

Nothing says “cocktail party” (in addition to the outfit, of course) like a great accessory. Gotta love a chunky ring, statement necklace or funky bracelet. It’s all about bold simplicity (no, that’s not an oxymoron). We’re fans of sparkling rings (just ask Kathryn, Lover of All Things that Sparkle), colorful necklaces and cuffs.

Don’t Do the Pit-Tuck

There’s so much talk about going hands-free these days, but I’m talking about hands-free as in “left hand holding a stuffed mushroom, right hand holding a vodka cranberry.” This is no time for pit-tucking a clutch or lugging a humongous hobo bag. Keep food, drinks AND pocketbook in control; we like to bring along a simple wristlet or pocketbook with a thin shoulder strap that doesn’t get in the way, but stays neatly at our side.

What are some of your favorite ways to dress for a cocktail party?

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