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Cocktail Attire For Men

Cocktail Attire For Men – Dress Code Guide For Weddings, Parties & Events

December 21, 2018/10 Comments/in Accessories, Apparel Arts, Clothing, Fall, Fashion Illustrations, Gentleman's Gazette, Media, Men's Fashion Book Guide, Miscellaneous, Our Best Articles, Outfits, Pocket Square, Shirts, Spring, Suits, Summer, Tie & Bow Tie, Videos, Waistcoats, Wardrobe, Wedding, Winter /by Sven Raphael Schneider

When you receive an invitation nowadays, it may add a dress code such as Cocktail Attire, Black Tie Optional, Semi-Formal Attire or Formal Attire, but what exactly does that mean? 

Back in the day, things were simpler: the dress code was either Black Tie for less formal evening occasions or White Tie for more formal ones. Women’s dresses were chosen accordingly. Today, for many men the tuxedo is the most formal garment they will ever wear, and it is often rented. In the following, I want to explain what Cocktail Attire For Men is all about and what options you have for weddings, parties or events when you receive an invitation that asks for it.

Video – Cocktail Attire For Men

Want to look the part at the next cocktail party? Get our cocktail attire pocket guide for men here.

cocktail attire_900x400_2
Want the FREE Cocktail Attire Pocket Guide? Click here

The Basics of the Cocktail Attire Dress Code

Dress Codes Formality Scale
Dress Codes Formality Scale

How Formal is Cocktail Attire and When Should You Wear It?

On the scale of dress codes, cocktail attire is the middle, a step up from business casual but less formal than black tie. It is considered on par with business attire, so it is easy to use an outfit you would wear to your office or an interview to create a great cocktail attire ensemble. This dress code is most commonly found on invitations for parties, weddings, and professional events, which are formal events.

Dark Flannel Suit with Silk Tie & TV Fold Pocket Square
A Dark Flannel Suit with Silk Tie & TV Fold Pocket Square is perfect for Cocktail Attire

Even though times have changed and style is becoming ever more casual, if a dress code is called for, you should do your best to stick with it because dressing appropriately is a sign of respect for the host and the event. Cocktail attire is likely to be one of the more frequent dress codes most men encounter because it falls in the middle of casual and formal, but it is also one of the most convenient because it is made up of garments and accessories that most men likely already own. 

Sven Raphael Schneider wearing a DB flannel suit

Cocktail attire is also versatile in that when in a pinch, you can wear a cocktail attire with a dark suit instead of a tuxedo when black tie is called for as the dress code. It’s also appropriate for funerals and other solemn occasions when formality is required. In this case, a solid dark navy or charcoal suit can be worn if you don’t own a black one, and your accessories should be muted, such as a black grenadine tie, black leather oxford dress shoes, and a solid white shirt. Even if you wear smart casual or jeans on a day to day basis, it pays to have at least one cocktail attire outfit ready in your closet for short notice events. 

What is Semi Formal and Formal Attire for Men?

Colin Firth in Kingsman wearing a classic British suit with padded shoulders that works for cocktail attire

If your invitation states a semi-formal or formal attire, these are vague and challenging dress codes to deal with today because they mean different things to different people. In the past, formal attire was a tuxedo, while semi-formal would be like cocktail attire. These days the ambiguity of these dress codes can make them frustrating for guests.

If the Invitation Asks for Cocktail Attire, Men Should Wear:

  1. A dark to mid-gray suit
  2. A button-down dress shirt in white or another muted color
  3. A necktie or bow tie in subtle patterns or plains
  4. A simple pocket square
  5. Black dress shoes with a leather sole, such as oxfords
  6. Over the calf socks that either match your trousers or pick up something in your outfit such as a color in your tie or bow tie
  7. Of course, make sure you are clean shaven and you have a recent haircut
cocktail attire outfit variation 1
Cocktail Attire Outfit Variation #1

Cocktail Attire Don’ts: 

  • DON’T wear your tuxedo or white tie, as that would be too formal for this dress code 
  • DON’T wear a black suit – these should be reserved only for funerals
  • DON’T wear your pinstripe suit, bright colored ties, a bold paisley shirt, or flashy accessories at home to a wedding – the couple should be the center of attention, not you
  • DON’T wear casual clothes such as khakis, chinos, jeans, polo shirts, or a sports jacket; if it would work well for business casual, don’t wear it!
  • DON’T wear casual shoes such as loafers (or any shoes without laces)
  • DON’T go sockless – this may be a trend now but it is inappropriate for cocktail attire
  • DON’T forget to wear a tie or a bow tie- it’s too casual without one
Cocktail attire outfit variation #2
Cocktail attire outfit variation #2

Cocktail Attire For Men at a Wedding

Even though the above guidelines for cocktail attire may seem a bit subdued, they will be appropriate for the majority of weddings. The result of the cocktail attire dress code is that you will be elegantly and respectfully attired for the occasion without being flashy or otherwise drawing attention away from the focus of the day – the bride and groom. Unless you have information suggesting otherwise, such as a beach or barn location, you can’t go wrong with traditional cocktail attire at a wedding. 

Navy suit with burgundy grenadine tie
Navy suit with burgundy grenadine tie

 If the bridegroom is a flamboyant artist or someone who wears shorts and t-shirt, no matter what, try to adjust your outfit so you will not be completely out of place: For an artist wedding, go with more colorful accessories and for a completely informal wedding, skip the tie and just wear a combination with a dark jacket and lighter colored slacks – again, it is their day so you should try not to catch much attention with your outfit.

What Should Men Wear to a Cocktail Party?

Single-breasted suit
Single-breasted suit with a bold shirt is a good choice for a cocktail party

Interestingly, most women understand the attire required for such an event due to the aptly named cocktail dress (often black), whereas it is not as clear for men what attire they should wear to a cocktail party. Unfortuntanely, the cocktail party and cocktail attire do not go hand in hand, and you will need to make a judgement about the nature of the event before you decide what to wear. 

If the event suggests a dress code, then go with it.  If not, consider that cocktail parties are supposed to be relaxed occasions, and although not wrong per se, a classic dark suit such as navy or charcoal is probably a tad too formal. During the winter, you can wear flannel, with patterns, and maybe a bow tie. Be more daring than with your business wardrobe and pay attention to accessories such as cuff links, tie bars, pocket squares, boutonnieres… but don’t overdo it and only use two accents at the most.

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Sven Raphael Schneider wearing a DB flannel suit
1

Madder Silk Bow Tie in Purple with Paisley

2

Cornflower Boutonniere

3

White Linen Pocket Square

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Sunglasses are a must for an event outside. Click to find out what shape suits you best.

During the warmer months of the year, you can go with lighter colors, such as the light blue linen sport coat below.

In case you shop at amazon and we refer you, prices are the same as normal, we just get a small commission.
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Pink Two Tone Knit Tie Fort Belvedere
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A knit tie in a two tone color is perfect because it is casual yet unusual.

Click to learn more about this tie.

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A lapel flower boutonniere makes your outfit special & fun.

For a selection of boutonnieres, click here.

Traditional Cocktail Attire in the 1930s

Cocktail Party Suits
 Cocktail Party Suits

Fashion illustrations are a window into a bygone era when every man seemed to be dressed to the nines. The following fashion illustration is from 1936, the golden age of men’s classic style,  and shows us a nice mix of cocktail attire for men that would still work today. This illustration clearly shows the evolution of women’s dress since the 30’s, since these women are wearing hats and suits that were then considered everyday attire rather than business wear. If the party is during the day or in the afternoon, you can add more color and patterns to your outfit, although the basics mentioned in the list above apply here as well. In the evening, you can wear darker suits, fewer patterns, and more muted colors. 

The Stroller With Striped Trousers for Formal Day Event

Let’s start on the very left with the gentleman in the stroller. He leans by the fireplace, talking to the lady in red. Of course, this is an illustration, but note how neatly his coat fits around the collar, shoulders  and cuffs. There are neither gaps nor excess shirt cuff fabric to be seen. His stroller jacket is the typical single-breasted, peaked lapel style with two buttons and jetted pockets in a charcoal gray (this jacket is also found in black). Instead of a pocket square, he opted for a red carnation that goes well with his buff waistcoat, white shirt, and light blue tie. His trousers are striped but instead of the more common cashmere stripe, a special stripe for morning wear that does not really have anything to do with cashmere, he chose a wide stripe in black and white. Even though his shoes aren’t visible, they are probably black oxfords to match the colors in his outfit and the formality of this look. This cocktail outfit used to be particularly popular for wear on Sunday afternoons and was often seen at the smartest cocktail bars. Today, the stroller is definitely the most formal of all the cocktail suits yet different than another flannel blazer combination or a navy suit.

Windowpane Overplaid Sharkskin Suit – Great For Most Cocktail Parties

One of the highlights in this illustration is certainly the suit in the middle, featuring a large rust brown subdued windowpane overplaid on a grey sharkskin suit. Worn as a 3-piece suit with an ivory colored shirt and navy-red club tie,  the proportions of this suit are very moderate. It has a normal lapel width and gorge, round quarters and a fairly long jacket. In my opinion, windowpane suits are one of the most underrated outfits in menswear and hence, they are an ideal chance for you to differentiate yourself without being overly loud. As a general rule, you should keep in mind that the more patterns and colors (other than navy and grey) you have in your outfit, the less formal it will be. All of the suits shown here would be appropriate attire for 95% of cocktail parties.

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Silk Boutonnieres that look like real flowers - they just never wilt & travel well
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Blue Cornflower Boutonniere Buttonhole Flower Silk Fort Belvedere

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Orange Golden Fritillaria Silk Boutonniere Buttonhole Flower Fort Belvedere

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Edelweiss Boutonniere Buttonhole Flower Fort Belvedere

Wide Stripe Worsted Flannel Suit – An Option for Evening Events

On the very right, we have a gentleman in a suit with yet another large pattern: the wide-spaced colored stripe. The red stripes inspired the rest of his dress, choosing a red boutonniere and Bordeaux tie. This three-piece flannel suit with stripes benefits from the peaked lapels, which provide a little more formality. If the lady in blue were to step aside, you would see that the trousers of this suit are without cuffs, which raises the formality bar by another notch.

Striped Worsted Flannel
 Striped Worsted Flannel

In combination with a white crisp shirt collar, this outfit would be almost bank appropriate, expect for the wide colored stripes.

Nevertheless, I think it is a fantastic stripe and hence I wanted to provide you with a picture of an authentic cloth sample. As you can see, the stripe is more subdued than in the illustration, which makes it even more appropriate for a cocktail suit that is different yet elegant.

Want the FREE Cocktail Attire Pocket Guide? Click here

Conclusion

When cocktail attire is called for as the dress code at your next event, now you know what you need to wear to look and feel great. At a wedding, try to be properly dressed without being too flashy and always keep the bride and groom in mind. For cocktail parties and receptions, leave your business navies and grays in the closet and add a splash of color. If you have a vest – even a contrasting one – wear it if it pairs well with the suit. I hope I provided you with some food for thought for cocktail attire for your next reception – have fun and enjoy company and drinks!

Summary
Cocktail Attire For Men - Dress Code Guide For Weddings, Parties & Events
Article Name
Cocktail Attire For Men - Dress Code Guide For Weddings, Parties & Events
Description
Your invitation reads: Cocktail Attire but you don't know what to wear? This guide to cocktail attire for men provides the answers for you.
Author
Sven Raphael Schneider
Publisher
Gentleman's Gazette
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Tags: Black Tie Guide, Cocktail Party, Etiquette, guide, How To, shoeprimer, suits, wedding
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10 replies
  1. Divya says:
    October 15, 2015 at 1:34 AM

    Hi Raphael,

    Hope you are doing great! Absolutely amazing videos, so much to learn. I would like to know what should be the attire for the groom on a cocktail party ? It would be great if you could write back to me. I am the bride and I am planning to make a surprise suit for me on that day.

    Look forward to hear back from you soon.
    Thanks
    Divya

    Reply
  2. Eduardo Aguirre says:
    December 16, 2015 at 12:16 PM

    Dear Raphael I need your advice.

    I live in Venezuela, in this country wearing suits or jackets (even the sport ones) it is not very common, I’ll get to the point, this weekend is my brother’s wedding, it’s not going to be a huge fancy wedding but we were told to go formal, for us here, formal means suit, the tux is only for the groom, the thing is, I have a dark gray jacket that I’d like to use with a back vest, black pants and a white dress shirt with back tie (I don’t have a black suit and to be honest neither have the money to get one right now) the thing is, my friends keep telling me to not to use a white shirt with back tie because that’s what waiters use here. So would it be ok to use it anyway? or what other color shirt would you advice me to use?

    Waiting for your reply.
    Thanks.

    Reply
    • Gianni says:
      December 21, 2018 at 12:51 PM

      The essential elements for a wedding dress: dark suit, white shirt, micro-pattern tie, black lace-up shoes (better oxford).
      People who do not know the traditions confuse elegance with a waiter’s uniform? Patience, we can not follow them and fail to respect the sacredness of the ceremony.
      Best wishes for the wedding.

      Reply
  3. Joe Dobbs says:
    December 21, 2018 at 2:33 PM

    Would a blue blazer with dark gray trousers be acceptable

    Reply
  4. Alan Overton says:
    December 21, 2018 at 3:59 PM

    I thoroughly enjoy your site, but must today take exception with one of your comments. Traditionally, formal attire would mean white tie. Semi-formal would mean blacktie. Cocktail and business attire would mean a business suit. Informal would mean dressier casual, and “Come as you are” would mean anything daily casual or above. In recent years in the U.S., true formal attire has gone away as a standard dress in pretty much all classes, so what would earlier have been called semi-formal has been promoted to formal, while semi-formal is frequently used as a synonym for cocktail or business attire.

    Reply
  5. James de Saxton says:
    December 21, 2018 at 4:49 PM

    Blue blazer, grey slacks, white shirt and moderate tie are a bit of a Friday uniform in more than a few US cities. Indeed it once was paired with a Derby hat in London–though that is very much less the case now. Consequently, it remains quite common for Friday afternoon/evening events. Be sure to keep an electric razor at the office to spruce up a bit.

    Reply
  6. James de Saxton says:
    December 21, 2018 at 5:38 PM

    I will add that picking up a freshly cut bouquet at the florist or grocer will give somewhere between one and two weeks of fresh boutonnieres in non-extreme weather. Probably won’t work in Minnesota and other terribly cold climates during the winter, as the flower is quite likely to freeze when out and about.

    Reply
  7. CBSE board schools in Amravati says:
    December 26, 2018 at 5:43 AM

    The ideas for cocktail attire were great for the students of CBSE schools in Amravati. They were confused with their searches on this cocktail attires, they needed in their annual function.
    This article give them hopes and fun to choose their attires.

    Reply
  8. DNN says:
    January 6, 2019 at 10:00 PM

    honestly, I never knew what cocktail attire was. Nowadays, I’m into wearing a casual gentleman attire consisting of a sporty sportcoat, a dress shoe, a pair of jeans, and always smelling good with a sophisticated smelling cologne.

    Reply

Trackbacks & Pingbacks

  1. Barware: Tools, Cocktail Glasses & Shakers For Gentlemen — Gentleman's Gazette says:
    December 9, 2015 at 7:35 PM

    […] Superior craftsmanship is marriage of skill, proper tools, and quality materials.  Well-made cocktails are no exception.  Although the caliber of your ingredients may be the most important factor in a fine drink, bar equipment is essential for giving the drink the proper temperature, proportion, consistency, and appearance.  Beyond substance, cocktail tools also impart essential style to the mixing experience.  A cocktail, after all, is more than simply a beverage.  It is also a performance, a gift uniquely created for an individual.  By making drinks for your guests, you are practicing one of the highest forms of hospitality and it’s even more fun if you put on cocktail attire. […]

    Reply

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