Cocktail parties are about elegant show stopping outfits that turn heads period, the end. A cocktail dress is the obvious wardrobe choice. But exactly what is a cocktail dress ? The definition is fairly broad: In years past, it was a semi formal frock with a hem falling anywhere just above the knee to just above the ankle. These days the hem can be as high as you dare.
As a rule , a cocktail party is a pre- dinner affair. However, it can also take place after the dinner hour or even instead of dinner.
The cocktail hour allows us to feature our best accessories and our favorite fragrances. This is the time to also showcase those triceps and biceps that we have spent an extra ten minutes in the gym achieving.
I take the opportunity to indulge in luxurious fabrics and a bit of exotic embellishment. Ruffles, feathers, or sequins are all welcome at a cocktail party- though, generally, not all on the same dress. Silk jersey, velvet brocade, chiffon, tulle even vinyl- the sky is the limit when it comes to fabric. This is the one time indulgence and addiction is good for you.
Spectacular heels showing some skin are great with cocktail attire. Metallics add glam to a simple dress gold or silver. And booties or creepers? They’re modern and chic especially paired with a whimsy cocktail dress. Invest in a good pair of heels: you’ve got to be ready to mix and mingle ,and the cocktail party is the quintessential moment for height and presence.
Your jewelry must be proportional to your frame. Always make sure your jewelry isn’t taking over you or your ensemble. Don’t weigh down your dainty wrist with a heavy cuff and don’t let your athletic physique dwarf your delicate bangles. Balance is key in dressing and in life in general.
The house of Versace makes cocktail dresses for the runway every season and is a good designer to go to for innovation and experimentation of materials. The house delivers every time on the wow factor with spectacular concepts and design. Here I wear a Versace cocktail dress embellished with leather and silver chain details amongst the silk dress. The six inch leather Versace boots give the entire ensemble presence and a chic modern edge.
