Cocktail attire is a dress code that can be tricky to navigate. It is more formal than business casual but less formal than black-tie, and it can vary depending on the event and the location.
Men’s cocktail attire is often requested for events such as weddings, charity galas, and cocktail parties.
If you have been invited to one of those types of events and are not sure what to wear, in this guide, we will break down the key elements of men’s cocktail attire to help you make the right fashion choices.
Cocktail Dress Code History
The history of the cocktail dress code can be traced back to the 1920s and 1930s in the United States. During this time, the prohibition era was in full swing, and people began hosting parties in their homes instead of going out to bars and nightclubs.
These home parties were often called ‘cocktail parties’ and they quickly became a popular way to socialise with friends and colleagues. The dress code for these parties was generally less formal than other types of events, such as black-tie galas or weddings, but still required a certain level of sophistication and style.
Women’s cocktail attire during this time typically consisted of a knee-length dress or skirt paired with a blouse or sweater. The fabrics were often light and airy, such as silk or chiffon, and featured elegant details like beading or lace. Accessories such as gloves, hats, and pearls were also commonly worn.
For men, the cocktail dress code was less defined but generally required a suit and tie. This could include a three-piece suit with a vest or a more relaxed look with a blazer and trousers. Sometimes cufflinks and pocket squares were also worn.
As the years went on, the cocktail dress code continued to evolve. In the 1950s and 1960s, cocktail parties became even more popular, and women’s attire became more form-fitting and glamorous. This was the era of the ‘cocktail dress’ a term coined by Christian Dior to describe a dress that was both elegant and versatile and suitable for both formal and semi-formal occasions.
In the 1970s and 1980s, the cocktail dress code became more relaxed, with men often opting for a sport coat and trousers instead of a full suit. Women’s attire also became more casual, with pantsuits and jumpsuits becoming popular options.
Today, the cocktail dress code is still popular and can vary depending on the occasion and location. In general, men are expected to wear a suit or sport coat, while women can choose from a variety of dresses or separates, ranging from a classic little black dress to a more daring and trendy outfit.
The Basics of Men’s Cocktail Attire
So what should a guy wear for men’s cocktail attire in 2023?
Well, essentially, the goal of this dress code is to look sophisticated and stylish without being too formal or casual. Here are the key elements you should adopt:
Jacket
A jacket is an essential part of men’s cocktail attire. It should be tailored and made of high-quality fabric. Dark colours such as navy, charcoal, and black are always a safe choice. Avoid bright colours or patterns that may be too casual for a semi-formal event.
Blazers
A blazer is a type of jacket that is made of a solid colour fabric and has metal buttons. It is a versatile piece of clothing that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. A navy blazer is a classic choice that can be worn with dress pants or chinos.
Sports Coats
A sports coat is a type of jacket that is made of patterned fabric and has contrasting buttons. It is less formal than a blazer but can still be worn for semi-formal events. One of the classic choices to wear is a tweed sports coat as it can be worn with dress pants or chinos.
Shirt
When it comes to choosing the right shirt for men’s cocktail attire, there are a few things to keep in mind. The shirt should be made of high-quality fabric, such as cotton or linen, and should be well-fitted but not too tight. A white or light-coloured shirt is a safe choice, but you can also experiment with colours like light blue, pink, or lavender.
The collar is an important part of the shirt and should be chosen based on the style of the jacket. If you are wearing a blazer, a traditional point collar is a good choice. If you are wearing a sports coat, a button-down collar can add a touch of casual elegance to your outfit.
Similarly, the cuffs of the shirt should be simple and understated. French cuffs are too formal for men’s cocktail attire, so stick with simple button cuffs. Make sure that the cuffs are not too loose or too tight, and that they are long enough to peek out from the jacket sleeves.
Lastly, the fit of the shirt is very important. It should be well-fitted but not too tight, with enough room to move comfortably. Baggy shirts look unflattering and baggy, so give those a wide berth.
Pants
When it comes to choosing the right pants for men’s cocktail attire, dress pants or chinos in navy, charcoal, or black is always a safe choice.
Dress pants are typically made of wool or cotton and have a flat front and a straight leg. They should give you enough room to move around comfortably and not be too tight.
Chinos are a more casual option that are made of cotton. They have a tapered leg and a flat front and can be worn with a blazer or a sports coat for a more casual look.
Shoes
Shoes are a critical part of men’s cocktail attire and are often the first thing people look at.
Wear dress shoes that are polished and made of high-quality leather. Black or dark brown Oxfords or loafers are both acceptable choices. But sneakers, sandals, or any other casual shoes are a no-no.
Accessories
Accessories can add a touch of personality to your outfit, but it is important to keep them simple and understated.
A tie is optional but can add a touch of formality to your outfit. If you choose to wear a tie, make sure that it is made of high-quality silk or wool and that it matches the colour of your jacket and shirt.
For a semi-formal event, a simple pattern or solid colour is the best choice.
Pocket Square
A pocket square is a small piece of fabric that is folded and placed in the breast pocket of a jacket. It can be made of silk, cotton, or linen, and comes in a variety of colours and patterns. A pocket square is an optional accessory for men’s cocktail attire, but it can add a touch of elegance and personality to your outfit.
When choosing a pocket square for men’s cocktail attire, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure that the pocket square complements the colour and pattern of your shirt and tie. If your shirt and tie are solid colours, a patterned pocket square can add a pop of colour to your outfit. If your shirt and tie already have a pattern, a solid-coloured pocket square can balance out the look.
Second, consider the fabric of the pocket square. Silk is a classic choice for men’s cocktail attire, as it is elegant and luxurious. However, cotton and linen pocket squares can be a more casual option that works well for daytime events or summer weddings.
Third, think about the fold of the pocket square. There are many ways to fold a pocket square, but the most common are the straight fold, the puff fold, and the three-point fold. The straight fold is the most formal, while the puff fold and three-point fold are more casual.
Men’s Cocktail Dress Style Do’s and Don’ts
When it comes to dressing for a cocktail event, men have a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind. Here are some guidelines to help you navigate the cocktail dress code:
DO wear a suit or sport coat: A suit is always a safe bet for a cocktail event, but a sport coat and dress pants can also work, especially if the event is less formal. Make sure your suit or sport coat fits
well and is tailored to your body.
DON’T wear a tuxedo: While a tuxedo is appropriate for a black-tie event, it is too formal for a cocktail party. Stick to a suit or sport coat instead.
DO choose a classic colour: When choosing a suit or sport coat, opt for a classic colour like navy, grey, or black. These colours are timeless and versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
DON’T go too bright or bold: While it’s okay to add a pop of colour to your outfit, don’t go overboard with bright or bold colours. Stick to more subdued shades for a more sophisticated look.
DO wear a dress shirt: A dress shirt is a must for a cocktail event. Choose a classic white or light-coloured shirt, and make sure it’s clean and pressed.
DON’T wear a short-sleeved shirt: Short-sleeved shirts are too casual for a cocktail event. Stick to long-sleeved dress shirts instead.
DO wear a tie: A tie is optional for a cocktail event, but it can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your outfit. Choose a tie that complements your suit or sport coat, and make sure it’s tied properly.
DON’T wear a bow tie: Bow ties are too formal for a cocktail event. Stick to a classic necktie instead.
DO wear dress shoes: Dress shoes are a must for a cocktail event. Choose a pair that is clean and polished, and make sure they match your suit or sport coat.
DON’T wear sneakers or sandals: Sneakers and sandals are too casual for a cocktail event. Stick to dress shoes instead.
By following these do’s and don’ts, you can ensure that you’re dressed appropriately for a cocktail event.
Remember, the key is to look stylish and sophisticated without going overboard on formality or colour.