A gal will have endless opportunities to get frocked up and fancy in her lifetime and it doesn’t hurt to have a few cocktail dresses at the ready. Just like shoes, you can never have too many cocktail dresses hanging in your wardrobe, as each style serves a purpose when dressing for different occasions.
Shopbop‘s range of cocktail wear caters for any event in your social calendar, from a glamourous night at the theatre, to an intimate dinner date, there’s a dress for any occasion. Inspired by Shopbop’s collection, I’m taking the stress out of last minute outfit prep with a guide to dressing up. Presenting…
5 Occasions To Wear A Cocktail Dress!
1. The Races
The races is certainly an occasion to flaunt impeccable style along with Kate Middleton inspired millenary. When it comes to dressing for the races, I prefer a style that’s classic and sophisticated, with feminine tailoring and shape. This Monique Lhuillier Dress reminds me of a new age Audrey Hepburn, with its intricate laced detailing and ladylike silhouette. Not to mention an A-line skirt is flattering to any figure, helping to create the visual illusion of a smaller waist….no need to feel guilty about indulging in some champagne!
2. A Wedding
If it’s a wedding, it has to be ladylike and formal in nature, unless it’s on a beach or specified in the dress code. I don’t know about you, but I don’t have many ball gowns hanging in my closet, so I’ll let you in on a little secret…longer hemlines always appear more dressy! Think about it, there’s a reason Cinderella didn’t run around in a mini!
There’s something so dreamy about this Monique Lhuillier Dress with its full volumed, pleated skirt and I’m guessing it would be incredible to dance in!
This soft shade of rose is definitely wedding friendly, capturing a delicate, feminine charm. Leave the bold colours to a weekend and think pastels, neutrals and above all circumstances…no white!
3. A High Tea
For a High Tea, I would recommend something bright, girly and playful, to go with the decadent desserts that will be served! This Giambattista Valli Dress has me dreaming of Lemon Meringue Tarts with its lively citrus shade!
A flourish of detail is seen with the textured floral pailettes, garnishing the bodice of this simple A-line dress. Add a little springspiration to your look with a blooming, flower wreath like this Summerblossom creation. Viola! Fit for tea with the queen!
4. A Girl’s Night Out!
A night out with the girls calls for some embellishment, think shiny interest materials, sequins or sheer! This Alberta Ferretti Mini Dress ticks all the right boxes and more, offering a little extra volume through the skirt for when things get a little saucy and the twerking begins.
As I always say… have fun and be fabulous!
5. A Dinner Date
For a fancy dinner date, you really can’t go past the iconic LBD with its sexy, sleek and understated appeal. Black Halo have added a little twist to the classic LBD with a contrasting white accent, seen in their Reese Dress.
This monochrome staple has a very flirty structure, seen in the swing skirt and squared V-neckline. Enhance the clean lines in this dress by teaming with a simple black stiletto, a bold red lip and a splash of Chanel Coco Noir, and you’ve styled yourself an effortlessly chic outfit.