Cocktail is more formal than smart casual and less formal than black tie. For women that means a dress, a knee-length skirt or elegant trousers with a refined top, for men a dark suit or blazer with trousers, a shirt and possibly a tie. The look is festive and polished, without the formal level of black tie. Below we translate it item by item.
What exactly does cocktail mean?
A cocktail reception usually begins at the end of the afternoon or in the early evening. You get a drink, snacks are served and you stand more than you sit. The accompanying dress code leaves room for personality, but does expect effort. Casual clothing such as jeans and sneakers is usually too informal. A gala outfit with a long dress or tuxedo is too formal. Above all choose something festive that suits the location and the invitation. If it is a business reception, choose something more understated. At a private party or wedding you may add a little more shine.
Comparison with other dress codes
| Dress code | Level | Women | Men |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smart casual | Light | Trousers with blouse | Chinos with shirt |
| Cocktail | Medium | Short to knee-length, or trousers with a smart top | Dark suit or blazer, tie optional |
| Black tie | Formal | Long dress | Tuxedo |
For women: skirt, dress or trousers
Classic for cocktail is a dress or knee-length skirt, but trousers with a refined top are just as suitable. The Rosa in black is an elegant knee-length skirt of 95% polyester and 5% elastane. Combine it with the Cordelia in white, a blouse with V-neck and matte satin look of 96% polyester and 4% elastane. That combination is crisp and graphic and works in the early evening. For a trouser look the Daphni in black suits, trousers with pleats and flared leg of 95% polyester and 5% elastane. Add a heel, a small bag and some lovely jewellery. You will find more festive looks in the Dinner & Dates collection and in the Signature Occasions for Women.
For men: suit or blazer
A dark suit in navy or anthracite is a simple choice. If you want it less severe, a blazer with separate trousers works. The Vincent in black is slim-fit trousers with mid-rise of 33.5% viscose, 31.6% polyamide, 29.1% polyester and 6.8% elastane. Wear them with the Hamilton shirt in white, made of 100% cotton and with an Italian collar. That shirt looks neat with and without a tie. If you want it a little softer, the Trenton in black suits, an open polo of 100% merino wool, under a dark blazer. You can read more about this fibre on our page about merino wool, and you will find more looks at Signature Occasions for Men.
Colours and fabrics
Dark shades such as black, navy, anthracite, deep green and burgundy are common at cocktail events. In late spring and summer it may be lighter, for example with soft blue or cream, but avoid white for women if it is a wedding. Choose fabrics with a slight shine or a beautiful drape, such as satin, crepe or fine-knit fabrics. Avoid heavy, coarse fabrics and materials that feel too sporty. One shiny detail is often enough.
Shoes, bag and accessories
- Women: a pump, an elegant sandal or an ankle boot with a heel. You stand a lot, so choose a heel you can walk in.
- Men: polished leather shoes in black or dark brown, with a belt in the same colour.
- Bag: a small clutch or shoulder bag, so your hands are free for the glass.
- Jewellery: a few statement pieces, not a complete set.
- Tie or pocket square: for men a way to show personality without losing style.
Common mistakes
Above all avoid clothing that is clearly too casual or much more formal than the dress code. Also choose shoes and clothing in which you can stand and move comfortably.
End of May: lighter and airier
At the end of spring it is often already warm during the day, while the evening can still be cool. For a cocktail in this period choose lighter fabrics and do not choose heavy, dark wool. A thin blouse or an airy shirt fabric keeps you cool, and a light coat or cardigan covers the cool evening. Do stick to dark bottoms such as trousers or a skirt, so the look keeps its formal character. A light top with a dark bottom works well in this season.
Business or private?
A business cocktail reception, for example after a conference or at an opening, calls for something more understated than a private party. Stick to dark colours, limited jewellery and classic shoes. At a private party or wedding you can show more personality with a colour, a shiny fabric or a striking accessory. If you are not sure, choose the understated level and add one festive detail, such as a lovely brooch or a silk pocket square.
Three quick formulas
- Women, classic: black knee-length skirt, white blouse, pumps and a small bag.
- Women, more modern: black trousers with a flared leg, satin-like top, high heel.
- Men: black or dark trousers, white shirt, navy blazer and polished shoes.
With a few good basics you can combine the same cocktail outfit again later.
Shop the look
Rosa: knee-length skirt, black
Cordelia: blouse with V-neck, white
Daphni: trousers with flared leg, black
Vincent: slim-fit trousers, black
Hamilton: shirt with Italian collar, white
Trenton: open merino wool polo, black
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between cocktail and black tie?
Black tie is more formal: a long dress and a tuxedo. Cocktail is a level lower and leaves room for a dress or knee-length skirt, a trouser look and a dark suit or blazer.
May I wear trousers with the cocktail dress code?
Yes. Well-cut trousers with a refined top can fit perfectly well within the cocktail dress code.
Does a man have to wear a tie?
Not necessarily, but a tie or pocket square makes the look more festive. A good shirt with a blazer is also suitable.
Which colours suit cocktail?
Black, navy, anthracite, deep green and burgundy are classic choices. At a wedding you check white and very light shades with the couple.
