Elevate Your Look: What to Wear with a Cocktail Dress
Elevate Your Look: What to Wear with a Cocktail Dress
You’ve been invited to a special gathering and you finally get to wear that cocktail party dress that’s been giving you the side-eye every time you look in your closet. You put it on, and it looks fantastic . . . but it’s just missing a little something. No need to stress! You can elevate your look with ease by following these simple tips to accessorizing your cocktail dress.
Shoes
A pair of shoes can change your entire look! Wearing a cocktail dress means you’re attending an event that is fancy enough to pull out those special shoes that you never get to wear.
Go for: Strappy heels, peep toes, or pumps
Avoid: Boots, flats, and informal sandals, as they are meant for less formal affairs.
Remember: Nylons are a no-no if you are wearing open-toe or peep-toe shoes. If you are looking for an easy way to make a simple cocktail dress pop, choose shoes with sparkling embellishments or bright colors that are different from the main hue of your dress. You’ll know it when you find the perfect shoes for your outfit.
Jewelry
A little frosting is the perfect topping to any cocktail dress.
Go for: A statement piece like a necklace, watch, ring, or hair accessory that will draw attention from across the room. Earrings are always eye-catching accessories. Stacking several bracelets is a fun and trendy way to complement your party dress.
Avoid: Mis-matching metals. If your dress has a silver belt buckle, don’t wear gold earrings. If you are wearing a gold ring, don’t wear silver bracelets.
Remember: Keep it simple. One statement piece with a few other smaller adornments will show that you are stylish and classy.
Handbag
Your purse is not just a fashion accessory, it’s a lifeline! If you usually take it everywhere you go, a cocktail party is no exception.
Go For: A small and simple handheld clutch. Your clutch should complement your cocktail dress by matching your other accessories. If you are wearing black glitter shoes, bring a black glitter clutch. If you are wearing silver hoop earrings, don a silver metallic clutch.
Avoid: Large handbags. Although big purses are convenient, when attending a cocktail party, leave the colossal bag at home. Purse straps should never touch your body while you are wearing a cocktail dress.
Remember: You don’t want to have to carry things around all night and worry about losing them, or bog your date’s pockets down with your party-attending necessities, so always bring a clutch.
Makeup & Nail Polish
Makeup and nail polish can add the finishing touches to your cocktail party attire.
Go for: Simple and subtle tones. For a more refined look, wear neutral hues that blend well with your cocktail dress.
Avoid: Mixing several dominant shades that compete with each other. Red lipstick or nail polish is a great way to add a little pop of color to a black cocktail dress, but try to avoid bright colors like red if you are already wearing a lot of color.
Remember: If you need a supplemental sparkle, try adding a little glitter to your manicure, lipstick, or eyeshadow. Don’t like wearing makeup or nail polish? No problem! Just make sure your nails are neat and clean, and your lips are glossy and smiling.
Accessorizing your cocktail dress is your chance to express yourself, so feel free to get creative. Enjoy your party, have fun, and always remember that a smile is the most attractive accessory a woman can wear.
