Wondering What Wedding Cocktail Attire Entails? Here's a Full Breakdown

So you mosey over to a couple's wedding website and you see that the dress code is wedding cocktail attire. But what does that even mean? And how does it differ from other wedding dress codes? We tapped fashion experts to explain exactly what to wear to a cocktail wedding, including dos and don'ts, and standout wedding cocktail attire options you can shop on the spot. Keep scrolling to put together the perfect wedding guest 'fit.

In this article:

• What's Cocktail Attire?
• Cocktail Dress Code Etiquette
• Women's Cocktail Attire for a Wedding
• Men's Cocktail Attire for a Wedding

What's Cocktail Attire?

Cocktail attire is a dress code with a formality level that falls between semi-formal attire and formal attire. Cocktail attire for a wedding usually entails a suit and tie or well-tailored blazer and dress pants for men, and jumpsuits or mini, knee-length and midi cocktail dresses for women. If you're confused about what to wear as a guest to a cocktail-dress-code wedding, consult the invite.

FEATURED VIDEO FROM THE KNOT

"Start with the location, time of day and time of year," says Greg Shugar, co-founder of The Tie Bar. "All three should give you clues right away." For example, it'd be perfectly appropriate to lean into bright colors and lightweight fabrics like linen for a seaside ceremony, but an evening wedding at a five-star hotel would likely call for deeper hues and richer textures.

Photos: Ralph Lauren, Tadashi Shoji, Mary Katrantzou, L'IDEE, Yumi Kim, Badgley Mischka, Marchesa Notte,Design: Ashley Detmering for The Knot

Cocktail Wedding Attire Variations

We're breaking down some of the most common variations of cocktail dress codes for weddings that you might encounter. Find the couple's wedding website to see if they've specified anything specific beyond cocktail attire.

• Formal/elevated cocktail attire: The fanciest version of cocktail wedding attire, formal or elevated wedding cocktail attire could call for a midi-length dress as opposed to a mini, or a suit and tie in a classic color like black, navy blue or burgundy. An evening gown or tuxedo is not necessary for a cocktail-formal event.
• Colorful cocktail attire: Feel free to embrace a festive pattern such as floral or plaid. Likewise, a patterned pocket square can be a great way to add a pop-of-color to your suit.
• Evening cocktail attire: Evening cocktail attire implies a more-formal dress code, so steer clear of patterns and opt for solid-colored pieces in darker shades. Pro tip: Satin and velvet are great fabrics for keeping comfortable while achieving a more elevated evening look.
• Casual cocktail attire: Cocktail-casual wedding attire is the time to reach for those slightly more adventurous colors, patterns and fabrics—just be sure to strike a balance between polished and relaxed. If you're itching to wear a tan linen suit or breezy floral sundress, now's the time.

Cocktail Dress Code Etiquette

What to wear to a cocktail-attire wedding relies heavily on the location and vibe of the event. That said, there are a few guidelines you'll want to keep in mind as rules for a cocktail dress code.

What to Wear

• Mini, knee-length or midi dresses: "A cocktail wedding guest dress typically means a mini, knee-length or midi dress," says bridal fashion stylist Gabrielle Hurwitz. So while a cocktail dress doesn't have to be short, it absolutely can be. Steer clear of floor-length dresses, as those would be more appropriate for a formal or black-tie wedding.
• Jumpsuits and pantsuits: Jumpsuits and pantsuits for wedding guests should follow the formality required of a cocktail dress code. "Avoid more casual fabrics like cotton and instead opt for more evening-appropriate fabrics like silk satin, silk chiffon, jacquard or even something beaded and embellished," says Hurwitz.
• Suit, or tailored blazer and dress pants: A cocktail men's wedding guest outfit calls for a suit and tie, or a tailored blazer and dress pants with a potential tie depending on the wedding's vibe. "There's a little more flexibility with the tie these days—like when wearing a turtleneck underneath a sports coat or blazer, or if it's the summertime—but traditionally, cocktail attire means a tie," says Hurwitz. You can't go wrong with a suit for a wedding in a classic color like navy, gray or black.
• Colors that match the wedding mood: With a cocktail-attire dress code, you've got options when it comes to colors to wear as a wedding guest. "Cocktail attire challenges you to be creative," Shugar says. "No color is off limits." While solid, dark suit colors and classic LBDs will always be safe bets for cocktail attire, you have the freedom to lean into the location and vibe of the wedding. At a daytime ceremony, for example, try lighter hues and patterns. Stick with deeper shades for more formal venues and evening affairs. "There's no color you can't build around," Sugar says. "But the bolder the color, the less of it you should have." If you opt for a printed bow tie, your pocket square should be a solid color that matches the print—or vice versa."
• Heels or dressy flats: "Heels aren't a requirement for a cocktail-attire dress code," Hurwitz says of wedding guest shoes that fall into cocktail attire. "However, if you're forgoing the heel, make sure your choice of shoe is still dressy—like a satin or patent ballet flat."
• Elegant fabrics: "The fabric is often the deciding factor on whether a dress is cocktail attire appropriate or not," Hurwitz says. "For example, an above-the-knee dress in a silk georgette is totally appropriate for a cocktail dress code, but a cotton-blend maxi dress would probably be too casual unless it's on the beach somewhere."

What to Avoid

• Casual fabrics: Unless the wedding will be outdoors or take place during the day, it's best to steer clear of laid-back materials like seersucker and cotton blends.
• Jeans: While it's certainly possible to polish up a pair of jeans with a dress shirt and blazer, a cocktail wedding isn't the appropriate time to do so.
• Shorts: As with jeans, shorts aren't an appropriate choice for a cocktail attire wedding. Stick with dress pants, jumpsuits and dresses.
• Sneakers: For shoes, you'll want to stick with formal options—think oxfords, loafers or derbies for men and flats or heels for women.
• Flip-flops: Open-toed shoes are okay, but flip-flops and casual sandals aren't cocktail appropriate.

Women's Cocktail Attire for a Wedding

From formal jumpsuits to relaxed floral frocks, we've gathered the trendiest cocktail wedding outfits for women. Best of all, you can rewear any of these picks after the celebration concludes, so it's a win-win.

High-Neck Satin, Asymmetrical Midi Dress

Photo: Lulus

Silky fabric and a midi length make for a foolproof cocktail wedding guest dress. Use code THEKNOT30 for 30% off (new customers only; select categories; terms apply; US only).

Asymmetric, Scarf-Neck Midi Dress

Photo: Meshki

The asymmetrical neckline and hem of this dress add just enough interest, while the silky fabric brings elegance. The ice-blue tone is ideal for a spring or summer cocktail-attire wedding.

Strapless Navy Cocktail Dress With Subtle Ruffle Hem

Photo: Reformation

Sleek and sophisticated in a classic navy blue hue, this is a dress you'll turn to again and again. Plus, you can wear it with or without the spaghetti straps.

Pastel Mini Dress With Puff Sleeves and Floral Details

Photo: REVOLVE

If you prefer a shorter style, opt for one with added interest, like this one showing off bold floral appliques and puff sleeves.

90s Minimalist Silk Halter Dress

Photo: Reformation

This sleek, chic frock has clean lines and a slightly swishy silhouette that skims your body in all the right places. The spaghetti-width halter ties add a sexy touch.

Yellow Floral, Tiered Ruffle Midi Dress

Photo: ASTR the Label

This tiered-ruffle number is a summer garden encapsulated in a dress. The floral pattern feels like a pretty watercolor painting, while the slightly gathered bust detail adds texture and depth to the look.

Silky Long-Sleeve Wrap Dress

Photo: Eloquii

With its wrap silhouette and silky material, this dress will look fabulous at an elevated cocktail event. Pair it with solid pumps for a classic look you're sure to love.

Cape-Sleeve, Boat-Neck Cocktail Midi Dress

Photo: Nordstrom

Cape sleeves give this classic black sheath dress extra flair and a little arm coverage.

Puff-Sleeve, V-Neck Satin Slip Midi Dress

Photo: Anthropologie

The sunny yellow shade, silky fabric and puff sleeves make this cocktail wedding outfit a no-brainer for summer affairs.

Sleek Square-Neck Jumpsuit

Photo: Lulus

Wedding guest jumpsuits are a perfect alternative to dresses. With its square neckline and figure-skimming fit, you'll wear this black Lulus option again and again. Use code THEKNOT30 for 30% off (new customers only; select categories; terms apply; US only).

Where to Buy Women's Cocktail Attire

Now that you're familiar with all the dos and don'ts of this dress code, scroll through a few of our top destinations for women's cocktail attire.

Lulus: Whether you're heading to a low-key vineyard wedding or an evening ceremony at a hip hotel, Lulus has all your cocktail attire bases covered. Best of all, many of the dresses ring up under $100, and you'll totally be able to wear them again. Use code: THEKNOT30 for 30% off your first purchase in select categories.

ASTR the Label: ASTR is known for their flirty frocks that still maintain a tasteful elegance (all available at accessible price points). Ruffles, pleats and delicate florals abound here—perfect details suitable for cocktails attire for a wedding—as do quality fabrics.

Reformation: Reformation is practically synonymous with cute, on-trend cocktail dresses. You'll find lots of pretty prints and solid colors alike, plus many options in petite and plus sizes.

Meshki: Meshki has the most jaw-dropping styles that are of the moment, yet unique enough you won't accidentally match another guest. Sleek, sexy and stunning, their dress selection is unmatched in terms of cocktail attire for wedding guests.

Men's Cocktail Attire for a Wedding

Suits come into play with nearly every dress code for guys, but cocktail attire for weddings offers the flexibility to experiment with colors, textures and prints. Read on for our go-to men's wedding guest cocktail attire, from fun and colorful suits to versatile black and navy looks.

Classic Black Suit

Photo: SuitShop

A classic black suit as beautiful as this one rarely comes at a price point this good, and it's a foolproof choice for practically any cocktail wedding.

Trim Wool Suit

Photo: Bonobos

If you're looking to purchase a versatile outfit that will work for a variety of cocktail weddings, this classic navy suit is an excellent option.

Classic Black Dress Pants

Photo: Men's Wearhouse

Already have a sleek jacket you love? Complete your look with a pair of polished black dress pants.

Tailored Summer Wool Fitted Suit

Photo: Suitsupply

Give your cocktail-attire look a little personality and opt for a suit in a fun color—perfect for spring and summer affairs.

Crisp White Dress Shirt

Photo: Jos. A. Bank

A crisp white button-down provides the foundation for a variety of cocktail wedding attire looks. This one's made with no-wrinkle performance fabric that will keep you looking sharp throughout the event.

Cool Gray Suit

Photo: Men's Wearhouse

A light gray suit is a great in-between option if you feel unsure about the formality of an event—it's not too dressy but not too casual.

Polished Knit Blazer

Photo: Bonobos

This genius knit blazer has the look of cocktail attire and the feel of pajamas. Pair it with your favorite dress pants, and you're ready to go.

Linen-Blend Suit

Photo: DXL

This linen-blend suit was practically made for outdoor spring and summer weddings, and it comes in sizes up to 6XL.

Eye-Catching Burgundy Suit

Photo: Indochino

If you're looking for fall cocktail wedding attire, then this rich burgundy suit is a real winner. Crafted from 100% wool, this made-to-measure suit is crafted to your unique measurements.

Blue and Olive Floral Tie

Photo: Tie Bar

Play up your look with a fun tie, like this stunning green and blue floral pick. Use code TIEBARxKNOT15 at checkout to get it for 15% off.

Where to Buy Men's Cocktail Attire

Now that you know what to wear for a cocktail attire wedding, it's time to get shopping. We've put together a list of some go-to spots for nailing the dress code.

• SuitShop: High-quality suits without a high price can be hard to come by. Thankfully, SuitShop has a selection of classic and fun options alike, and prices start under $200.
• Bonobos: The cocktail attire offerings at Bonobos are just as plentiful as their casual ones. Here, you'll find a variety of stylish suits in a wide range of colors, fabrics and fits.
• Men's Wearhouse: For a large selection of brands and price points, you can't go wrong with Men's Wearhouse. Whether you're looking for a full suit or a pair of sleek shoes to top off your look, they've got you covered.
• DXL Big + Tall: No need to search the web for the best big and tall brands—DXL has them all in one place. Whether you're looking to splurge or save, you'll have plenty of options to choose from in your size range.

Additional reporting by Cathryn Haight.