In the simplest of terms, it's a semi-formal style of dress typically worn on early evening and late afternoon occasions. "Cocktail attire was first popularized in the 1920s as women in the U.S. moved ...

Understanding the Context

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy. A black-tie dress code is pretty self-explanatory, but cocktail attire? Harper's Bazaar: Mastering the cocktail dress code: a guide to perfecting the look Navigating a cocktail dress code can be challenging.

Key Insights

You need to rise to the occasion without going over the top, aiming for elegance without being too formal. Whether attending a Christmas party, a ... Los Angeles Times: Black-Tie, Cocktail, or Casual? Your Guide to Decoding Any Wedding Dress Code Black-Tie, Cocktail, or Casual? Your Guide to Decoding Any Wedding Dress Code