10 Irresistible Cocktail Attire Ideas for Women in 2020

Despite the occasion, one party cannot pass without a cocktail dress. Such dresses can vary from simple to elegant, and they’re always the right choice when it comes to events that require a specific outfit or particular dress code.

Cocktail dresses come in different colors, sizes, and designs, and they fit virtually any lady, regardless of her age and style. Cocktail attire for women can also include elegant jumpsuits, skirts, and sets, which can be a perfect choice for both birthday parties, office events, or weddings.

This post will provide you with a cocktail dress definition and 10 great examples that will make you look elegant, sexy, and confident in 2020!

What is a Cocktail Dress?

A cocktail dress is a dress that’s worn for semi-formal occasions, such as evening parties. They are usually short or midi, and they are mostly combined with accessories such as bracelets, necklaces, earrings, or brooches. Cocktail dresses are typically knee-length, while some more formal events may require even a longer piece, but not the floor-length ones.

Cocktail attire may also include an evergreen little black dress or a set of blouse and skirt/pants. The choice will depend on you and the nature of the event itself, but it’s generally not recommended to select too casual materials such as denim, jersey, or chino.

The following styles are convenient when the cocktail dress code is required:

Little black dress is always the right choice since it is timeless and trendy. You’ll make no mistake by choosing some of the best little black dress models.
The embellished cocktail dress is more trend-forward than some other models, but it’s exceptionally suitable for festive events such as Christmas parties or New Year’s Eve.
The lace cocktail dressis feminine and elegant, which is why it represents an excellent choice for weddings and even a date night.
The A-line cocktail dress is cute and flirty, and it often makes women look gorgeous in them. It can be strapless, cap-sleeved, spaghetti-strapped, and more. Overall, it is a great cocktail attire solution.
The long-sleeve cocktail dress is trendy and suitable for formal events, especially when it’s in a longer, midi length.
The strapless cocktail dress is great for women that want to show their shoulders off and look elegant and sexy at the same time.

10 Ultimate Cocktail Attire Women Will Love in 2020

Instead of explaining how a good cocktail attire should look, we are going to show you the best women’s cocktail dresses that will look perfect on you. Let's start!

1. Black Lace Hem Slip Dress ($78.00) – For Women Who Love Black

We have already mentioned the fact that a little black dress never goes out of style. That said, Black Lace Hem Slip Dress represents quite a sexy and sophisticated solution for a woman that wants to make an impression at the cocktail party.

It goes perfectly with silver jewelry and high heels, and it's suitable attire for hot summer nights. The lace finishing makes it look delicate and chic at the same time, and it’s a detail that makes this dress special and unique.

2. HeyYou Basic Black Midi Bodycon Dress ($78.00) – For Women Who Love Simplicity

To achieve the look that’s both attractive and elegant, consider this marvelous Midi Bodycon Dress that’s created for women that love the power of simplicity.

Although it carries basic in its name, this dress is everything but it. The fact that it accentuates your body shape and provides you with a dose of elegance proves its potent design that's capable of making you look as if you were on the red carpet.

This cocktail dress comes in two colors – black and mocha, and it can be completed either small or large earrings and elegant heeled sandals. A clutch with metal details can also be a perfect accessory.

3. Emerald Cowl Neck Satin Slip Dress ($78.00) – For Women Who Love Magic

The emerald color reminds us of the mythical world of fairies and jewels, which means that this Cowl Neck Satin Slip Dress brings a dose of magic to any woman that wears it.

It's made of satin fabric, and it's convenient for semi-formal cocktail parties with your friends. It comes in different colors – crème, emerald green, purple, silver, and slate gray. Each of the colors is alluring, and you won't go unnoticed no matter which one you choose.

A small clutch, earrings, heels, and ponytail will make a powerful combination with this dress, and you shouldn’t miss it!

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4. Straight Neck Jumpsuit ($68.00) – For Office Events with Your Colleagues

Not every woman is a fan of dresses, and that's OK. A gorgeous cocktail outfit can also include jumpsuits, which are an elegant and sophisticated choice for semi-formal parties.

Straight Neck Jumpsuit comes in red and black color, and it’s quite suitable for office parties. It can be paired with a blazer and nice jewelry to get a more attractive look your co-workers will definitely remember. Worn with high heels, it can be an ideal outfit for a night out, as well.

5. Light Pink Mini Dress with Pleated Sleeves ($148.00) – For Weddings and Family Occasions

A simple baby pink dress enhanced with prominent pleated sleeves is a perfect choice for weddings or events hosted by your family.

This Light Pink Mini Dress is a convenient solution for all the ladies that want to express their youth and free spirit subtly and pleasantly.

Small earrings and silver bracelets will boost this dress and make you look girly and sophisticated overall.

6. Red Leopard Satin Slip Midi Skirt ($58.00) – For Formal Events and Fundraisers

Skirts can also be convenient solutions for both office events and less formal parties and night outs. If you want a skirt that’s both elegant and delicate, have a look at Red Leopard Satin Slip Mini Skirt, which is created for the women that want to be seen.

Paired with a black turtleneck or elegant top, this skirt represents a gorgeous cocktail attire that will fit right on every woman. Stylish heels, updo, and big earrings will complete this outfit and make it even more prominent.

7. Apron Mini Dress ($68.00) – For Hot Summer Cocktail Parties

Open back is always a convenient choice when you want to add a dose of sexiness to your elegant style. Apron Mini Dress is an excellent example of such an idea – it comes in black, white, yellow, and light blue color, which means that it’s perfectly designed for summer cocktail parties hosted outdoors.

It goes perfectly with various hairstyles, but if you want to emphasize the open back, you should go for a bun or low or high ponytail. Earrings and other accessories will complete this dress and provide you with a stylish and attractive appearance.

8. Front Slit Bustier Dress ($88.00) – For Women Who Love Comfort

If you want to wear a sexy and supportive dress that slightly emphasizes your bust, this Front Slit Dress may be the proper model for you. It comes in black and champagne color, and both of them are convenient for cocktail parties and weddings.

It has underwire cups, which means that you might not need a bra. Such a design will make you feel comfortable, and a slit leg opening will make you feel confident and sexy.

9. Burgundy Open Back Ruffle Dress ($118.00) – For Spring Garden Events

Spring garden events include cute, colorful, and floral cocktail attire for a woman. Burgundy Open Back Ruffle Dress is a convenient choice for such an occasion – its design involves floral print, open back, sheer sleeves with elastic cuffs, and asymmetrical shape that makes this dress unique and special.

Apart from burgundy, it comes in snake and coral print. All designs can be perfectly paired with heeled sandals and jewelry, and curly hair is definitely something that will complete the outfit.

10. Off White Off the Shoulder Midi Pencil Dress ($118.00) – For Festive Cocktail Parties

Pencil cocktail dresses are always a remarkable choice for different formal or semi-formal events. No matter if it’s about a wedding or festive occasion, Off the Shoulder Midi Pencil Dress will make you stand out from the rest of the guests.

It comes in both black and white colors, and both of them will give you a so-called “effortless but sexy look.” The details that make it unique are the sheer balloon sleeves with button closure and off the shoulder design that bring a dose of delicacy to the overall look.It's perfectly combined with high heels, jewelry, and updo.

What Is Cocktail Attire for Women You Should Avoid?

Not all the dresses and outfits are suitable for cocktail parties, no matter how elegant they might look. Dress code is usually not something people talk too much about, which is why they’re often some misconceptions regarding the entire idea.

Here are some things you should avoid at cocktail occasions:

Cocktail Dresses that are Too Revealing

Since cocktail parties are more formal than typical night outs, you should avoid the dresses that reveal too much. This is particularly important for office parties or fundraisers that require elegant and formal styles.

If you still want to emphasize your sexiness, check out HeyYou Basic Black Ribbed Crew Neck Midi Dress, convenient for both office parties and casual night outs.

Jeans

Denim is evergreen, but it’s not welcome at cocktail parties. If you still prefer pants over dresses, you can always go for sleek trousers that can be quite an elegant solution. Check out Black High Waisted Relaxed Side Zip Trouser that will emphasize your feminine side and bring a dose of sophistication to your look.

Oversize Bags

Although they're convenient for carrying a lot of stuff, oversized bags are not something that should complete your cocktail attire. Instead, choose a mini bag or clutch that would enhance your elegance.

Wrinkled Garments

Wrinkled clothes seem messy and unprofessional, which is why it shouldn’t be your final choice. Use a steamer to remove the wrinkles before the party, but if the fabric keeps wrinkling, it’s better to find something else to wear.

Too Many Accessories

Shining earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and other jewelry can be too much for a cocktail party. That said, it’s recommended to choose one standout accessory that will make you look chic and fabulous.

Floor-Length Cocktail Dress Attire

Floor-length cocktail dresses are elegant and appropriate, but it can be too formal for a cocktail party. Go for mini or midi dresses instead, and pair it with nice shoes, jewelry, and clutch.

Sneakers

Heels are a must when it comes to cocktail parties, which is why you shouldn’t consider other options, such as sneakers. A pair of flats can be convenient as well if you don’t feel comfortable in high heels.

Visible Undergarments

Bra straps or shapewear shouldn’t be visible, which is why it’s critical to find appropriate undergarments that won’t mess up your fabulous cocktail outfit.

Hair Ties on Your Wrist

Women tend to carry hair ties on their wrists, and they often forget to take them off before heading to an important event. So, swap your hair tie for a lovely bracelet and get ready to shine at the party.