So you’ve nailed the ‘smart casual’ and feel times ‘black tie’ dress codes. What about a cocktail? This is trickier, largely since it can vary a lot more than other dress codes, concerning the time of the big event, the place or venue, and also the season.

Traditionally, a cocktail dress code bridged the gap between night and day. Where evening events warranted a full-length gown and daytime events required shorter dresses, the issue these days would be that the gap between night and day is pretty big, and also the rules happen to be all but trashed.

That said, a secure way to approach cocktail attire would be to think of it as dressy, although not overdressed. A floor-sweeping gown isn’t necessary, however, you should also think hard before wearing anything too ‘daytime’, just like a dress you’d wear to the office. The goal would be to look elegant, sophisticated, and set together.

Choosing a vintage cocktail dresses outfit depends upon the duration of the event you’ve been invited to, as well as the place or venue and also the season. For daytime events or less formal venues, neutral colors along with a tea- or knee-length dress are great options, while for evening and much more swanky locations, darker hues and pieces embellished with sequins, feathers, or carried out with embroidery are fantastic cocktail styles.