Style Guide: What to Wear to a Cocktail Party

Have been ever been in a situation where you have to leave for a cocktail party in less than 30, and you have no idea what to wear?! The struggle becomes real for all of us from time to time so here is some inspiration from my favorite bloggers showcasing looks that will light up even the dullest of cocktail parties. 

 

LACE

You can never go wrong with a lace dress. For work events, black lace brings some fun and feminity to an otherwise boring LBD. To complete your look, accessorize with a pair of chic heels, a statement necklace, and a structured clutch. Lisa's pretty dress is perfect for a post-work party or an evening out with the in-laws! 

Dress Code: What to Wear to a Cocktail Party | Mel Boteri Style Guide | See Want Shop
PHOTO CREDIT: SEE WANT SHOP
@SEE WANT SHOP

Dress Code: What to Wear to a Cocktail Party | Lace Dress | Mel Boteri Style Guide

1. ZIMMERMANN Kimono Dress 2. EYEKO + DAVID Downton Set 3. ORIBE Nail Polish 4. GORJANA Ring Set 5. MEL BOTERI The Audrey Cocktail Clutch in Black Croc-Effect Glazed Leather 6. SENSO Heels

 

RED

I firmly believe every woman can pull off a red dress, and this is a staple you should always have in your closet! With this bold color let the dress do the talking and don't overload your look with opulent accessories or a statement bag. Jessie's details work perfectly with the brightness of her gown and complement rather than try to steal the show. 

Dress Code: What to Wear to a Cocktail Party | Mel Boteri Style Guide | Seams for a Desire
PHOTO CREDIT: SEAMS FOR A DESIRE
@JESSIE KASS

Dress Code: What to Wear to a Cocktail Party | Red Dress | Mel Boteri Style Guide

1. PREEN BY THORNTON Midi Dress 2. MARIA BLACK Gold-plated Necklace 3. OSCAR DE LA RENTA Gold-plated Earrings 4. YVES SAINT LAURENT Mascara 5. YVES SAINT LAURENT Couture Palette Eyeshadow 6. MEL BOTERI Black Croc-Embossed Emmy Convertible Clutch 7. JENNIFER FISHER Ring 8. GIANVITO ROSSI Metallic Sandals

 

MIDI

A midi dress favors any silhouette, so this is another piece worth investing in. This classic design will always be in style and is sure to give you a gorgeous shape and slim waistline. This is my go-to whenever I am feeling a bit bloated yet still want to look polished and put together. Complete the dress with some fun jewelry and a cool pair of shoes, like Christina's cute bow heels. 

Dress Code: What to Wear to a Cocktail Party | Mel Boteri Style Guide | Fashion and Frills
PHOTO CREDIT: FASHION AND FRILLS
@FASHION AND FRILLS

Dress Code: What to Wear to a Cocktail Party | Midi Dress | Mel Boteri Style Guide

1. CUSHNIE ET OCHS One-shoulder Dress 2. BAUBLEBAR Drop Earrings 3. HENRY LONDON Watch 4. TOM FORD Lipstick 5. MEL BOTERI Matte Gold Python Leather Aarti Cocktail Clutch 6. YVES SAINT LAURENT Mascara 7. ANZIE Ring 8. GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI Metallic Sandals

 

CHIFFON

This is one of my favorite fabrics. Nothing compares to the movement a gorgeous chiffon dress can give you. Opt for nude shoes to really allow your jewelry and accessories to shine. Jenny looks absolutely elegant in her dress and delicate jewels, but the simplicity of her dress could support some statement jewelry equally as well. 

Dress Code: What to Wear to a Cocktail Party | Mel Boteri Style Guide | Margo and Me
PHOTO CREDIT: MARGO AND ME
@MARGO AND ME

Dress Code: What to Wear to a Cocktail Party | Pastel Dress | Mel Boteri Style Guide

1. HALSTON HERITAGE Gown 2. LANA JEWELRY Ear Cuffs 3. EYEKO Liquid Eyeliner 4. ALEXANDER WANG Wrist Cuff 5. EYEKO + ALEXA CHUNG Mascara  6. DIOR Miss Dior 7. DIANE KORDAS Ring 8. CHRISTIAN DIOR Pointed-toe Pumps 9. MEL BOTERI Matte Gold Python Leather Aarti Cocktail Clutch

 

After a long day of meetings and projects, it can be challenging to get dressed for an evening cocktail party. Hopefully, these four looks will be helpful whether you are planning your outfits ahead or only have 10 minutes for a quick wardrobe change. 

Be sure to check back in with me next week. With the changing weather, it's time to discuss ways to style the classic trench!

 

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