Dress Codes - Cocktail and Lounge suit
This week we’re talking -
Cocktail and Lounge suit
I’ve heard plenty of people talk about cocktail dresses before and how their appropriate attire for certain events but what exactly is a cocktail dress and when should we wear them?
Basically it bridges the gap between Smart Casual and Formal wear. Think weddings for example. Most of the time when a wedding invite says “smart casual” you don’t think the usual smart trousers and shirt combo. Instead you think cute dress and heels. So most weddings (in the UK at least) actually have a cocktail dress code even if the invite says otherwise. Of course it depends on the bride and groom, as some prefer for a more relaxed feel so do opt for smart casual.
For women think party dress. The picture of me laughing with a beautiful bride is a throw back to one of my best friends weddings; that is a cocktail dress. I like clean cut dresses but I also love comfort for it was the perfect combination. I was able to enjoy her amazing day without compromising my comfort or style. Cocktail dresses come in a wide range of shapes, colours and lengths. Traditionally it’s a knee length shift or aline dress but as styles have changed the options have multiplied so there really is someone for everyone now. Check out the pictures below and my instagram over the next few days for more inspiration.
For men think dark toned suit with a tie. That is the main differentiation to notice here. Ties. As soon as you add one to a suit it elevates the whole look. This is what takes it from smart casual to Cocktail. The basic principal for cocktail attire for men is a dark suit (preferably charcoal or navy) with a white shirt, coloured tie and dark shoes. If you know there is more flexibility you can add prints and colour into the mix but only if you’re sure it’s appropriate for the event. See the pictures below for more inspiration.
Some great Cocktail Wear brands include (ranging in price):
LK Bennett
Hugo Boss
Coast
Warehouse
Click on the photos to see them better. The happy Chap in the 2nd photo is Chris Suitor of Suitor Bros in Belfast. If you’re looking for the perfect suit for any occasion go see him and I guarantee that even if you hate shopping you’ll really enjoy the banter.
Lounge suit is pretty similar but there are a few tweaks. Although it is seen as a mostly male dress code whereas as cocktail is seen as more female lead, they are both equally appropriate for everyone. The main difference is when they’re appropriate. Cocktail tends to suit evening events where as lounge suit works best for day time engagements. Think garden parties and luncheons. For ladies the fabrics get floatier, fits are relaxed and prints get lighter. Some women also choose a relaxed fit suit like Michelle Obama (below). For men think more colour and lighter toned suits and shoes and in some cases you can ditch the tie but check the fine print first. Garden parties are definitely my favourite example of this. Think florals, soft corals and ice cream blue. Everything is lighter and airier.
Some great Lounge Suit brands include (ranging in price):
Ted Baker
Topshop Boutique
Monsoon
Banana Republic
