Cocktail events are amazingly fun, the perfect mix between a bit of casual breeziness and formal glam – dressing for them on the other hand? Not so fun. There are so many options and in-betweens it is so easy to get in a muddle when you’re trying to style a cocktail outfit. Well, if you’ve found yourself struggling a little, you’ve come to the right place! Read on for a few gorgeously inspiring outfits to get you ready for your next cocktail party…
All black everything
The little black dress is the queen of sophisticated style, it’s been a wardrobe staple for one hundred years and there’s a reason for it! It always looks chic, especially if you lean into the color and opt for matching black accessories. Channel the flawless style of Ms Coco Chanel and go for a cropped black shift dress and pointed black pumps. A small leather clutch (extra points if it’s tweed!) will complete the toned-down elegance of the dress. Add a little excitement with layered chunky gold jewelry. Grab a chain necklace, thick gold hoops and a couple of statement rings to contemporaries the look.
Colour blocking
Colour blocking will forever be cool! Choose two complementary yet clashing tones to play with, a trend favourite that looks beautiful is baby pink and bold red. Choose a soft pink mermaid dress and accessorise with a bold red clutch, matching strappy red sandals and nail polish. Keep your jewellery and makeup relatively simple, some gold studs and a red lip will do perfectly. If you fancy adding a cute element go ahead and twist a red velvet ribbon into a messy low ponytail, you’ll be the most fashion-forward one in the room!
Boho babe
Formal boho looks are so beautiful, and they’re great when you want to feel comfortable and relaxed whilst still looking stunning. Start with a flowing white dress cut from a gorgeous high-quality lace fabric. Enhance the pared-back beauty of your dress with woven platform sandals, a mini basket bag and layered dainty necklaces. Add a few resin and metal rings and throw your hair up into a whimsical messy bun for an ethereal cocktail look that’s sure to turn more than a few heads at your next event.
Monochromatic
Monochrome outfits are back in a big way which is something for everyone to be happy about! Pick your favourite colour and find variants of tones to put together a gorgeously creative cocktail ensemble. Let’s say you love all things emerald (why wouldn’t you?). Start with a striking jersey strapless gown, add forest green heels, a mint toned clutch and grab silver jewellery studded with turquoise gemstones. This is a bold choice so stick with a natural gloss, a swipe of neutral shimmer shadow and loose mermaid waves for your hair and makeup.
90s chic
90s style is just the epitome of cool-girl glam, perfect for literally any cocktail event! Slink into a strappy silky slip dress, add some neutral mules and a small silver clutch bag. If you really want to lean into the 90s vibe then you absolutely need a choker, no negotiations! Slick your hair into a low pony, add a thin flick of eyeliner and finish with a sophisticated nude-brown lip.
By now you should be itching to get hunting for cocktail wear! Get exploring to find your most flawless fit.