If co*cktail attire was the requested dress code for an upcoming wedding, that could leave a lot of room for interpretation as a wedding guest. According to wedding experts, co*cktail attire falls between formal and casual and often translates to midi and knee-length dresses. Yet depending on the venue, season, and even time of day of the wedding, you can get by with different lengths and fabrics. To help you find an outfit you love and feel confident showing up in, we researched the best co*cktail dresses available online. We ensured our list covers all wedding destinations, seasons, and themes. We also looked for styles in wide size ranges, various fabrics, silhouettes, and sleeve styles. Most importantly, we looked for versatile designs you can—and will want to—wear again. Our Top Picks Best Budget: Best Wrap Dress: Best Bodycon: Best Plus-Size: Best Floral: Best Two-Tone: Best for Petites: Most Comfortable: Best Jumpsuit: This floor-sweeping dress in a rich berry hue is striking for an early fall, evening wedding, complete with a tiered hemline and frilled detailing along the neckline and sleeves. Tonal accessories in red and tan will help maintain an autumnal feel. Size range: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester | Colors: Black floral, blue floral | Length: Ankle | Sleeve style: Off-the-shoulder For a late spring or early fall wedding, we love this copper-colored mini dress with a flouncy hemline. The color of the dress is practically made for transition seasons, and you’re guaranteed to make an impression in this on the dance floor.The shorter length and draping details make it a perfect co*cktail dress. It's also available in five other colors. Size range: XS-L | Materials: Silk | Colors: 6 | Length: Mini | Sleeve style: Long Despite being form-fitting, this dress is not too revealing thanks to expertly placed ruching. It is also designed to hit below the knee, making it an appropriate length for all kinds of ceremonies. Coming in a range of colors, there's a shade for all weddings year round. Size range: XXS-XL | Materials: Polyester, spandex | Colors: 8 | Length: Tea | Sleeve style: One-shoulder Channel your inner Princess Diana in this black, body-hugging dress. Even though it has an off-the-shoulder neckline, you still get the support of two straps. Plus, the ruched, knee-length skirt creates a flawless silhouette. With its black shade and timeless design, you can certainly wear it more than once. Size range: 12-26 | Materials: Polyester, elastane | Colors: Black | Length: Midi | Sleeve style: Off-the-shoulder We love the romantic feel of this floral print. The thin straps and leg-baring slit make this dress feel sweet yet bold for any wedding guest.Plus, its cornflower blue hue is equally appropriate for spring, summer, and fall weddings. Size range: 0-12 | Materials: Viscose | Colors: 7 | Length: Tea | Sleeve style: Spaghetti strap For the daring minimalist, this sleek and sexy dress is a lovely choice for an evening summer wedding. Style the skin-baring design and pastel hue with strappy metallic sandals and minimal jewels to make it an especially great look for a beach or destination wedding. The pale yet vibrant hues pop and flatter many different skin tones. Size range: XXS-XL | Materials: Polyester, elastane | Colors: Periwinkle blue, yellow | Length: Midi | Sleeve Style: Spaghetti strap For the fashion-forward wedding guest, this two-tone dress is gorgeous for a city wedding. With unique design details, we suggest clean and simple accessories so the dress can remain the focal point. Although it's tea length, the cotton and spandex blend makes it casual enough for a daytime or evening ceremony. Size range: 00-26, petite | Materials: Cotton, spandex | Colors: Blue, rust | Length: Tea | Sleeve style: Strapless The perfect dress for a spring, this ultra-feminine mini style is complete with a pretty floral print, flounced hemline, and tunic silhouette. It's an excellent option for petite sizes, thanks to its plunging neckline and short hemline, which creates the illusion of longer legs. Overall, you can't go wrong with such a whimsical style that hits above the knee for any co*cktail event. Size range: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester | Colors: Rose | Length: Mini | Sleeve style: Long 16 Beautiful Petite co*cktail Dresses for Wedding Guests If comfort is key, look no further than this black and white cutout dress. We love it for an afternoon wedding in the summer as it's casual enough for a daytime affair and has cutouts to help keep you cool. It looks beautiful on any body type, making it a universal winner.Accessorize with bright colors like neons or pastels for added oomph. Size range: XS-XL | Materials: Viscose, nylon | Colors: Black, navy, coral | Length: Ankle | Sleeve style: Sleeveless For those that really want to get down on the dance floor, a stylish jumpsuit is ideal. Though this style is quite simple, it's the fluttering bodice and plunging neckline that elevate it enough for a wedding. A high fitted waist and wide legs also elongate your legs. From classic black to bold magenta, Lulus has all the shades to suit your mood. Size range: XXS-XL | Materials: Polyester, spandex | Colors: 7 | Length: Floor | Sleeve style: Strapless The 16 Best Wedding Guest Jumpsuits for Every Dress Code You can't go wrong with a slip dress, especially when it comes in 14 colors to suit different seasons and locations. Not to mention, the dreamy satin fabric and body-skimming fit are ultra-flattering. Dress up this minimalist slip with a fun pair of wedding guest shoes or a statement clutch. Size range: 00-26 | Materials: Polyester | Colors: 14 | Length: Tea | Sleeve style: Spaghetti strap 26 Wedding Guest Slip Dresses That Are Sure to Impress Make a splash at a summer wedding in this vibrant midi dress by Brazilian brand FARM Rio. The print is playful and fresh on its own and made even better with colorful accessories.It also has a casual feel that's perfect day or night. As a bonus, 100 percent cotton helps keep you cool during a sweltering evening spent on the dance floor. Size range: XXS-XL | Materials: Cotton | Colors: Blue | Length: Tea | Sleeve style: Spaghetti strap This sequin dress is how you do sequins when the dress code calls for co*cktail attire. We recommend this look for an evening wedding with minimal accessories.We love how the blouson sleeves and tie-waist balance the shorter hem. Size range: XXS-XXL | Materials: Viscose | Colors: 4 | Length: Mini | Sleeve style: Long The great thing about Fame and Partners is that you can customize their dresses, from the color to the length. We love this sophisticated look for the draping detail, tulip skirt, and blouson sleeves. The rich jewel tone makes it ideal for a late fall or winter wedding. Size range: Custom | Materials: Matte satin | Colors: 11 | Length: Tea | Sleeve style: Long Take your classic little black dress to the next level with this head-turning feathered number. We recommend this look for an evening wedding with minimal accessories to let the dress do all the talking! Size range: XXS-XL | Materials: Polyester, elastane | Colors: Black | Length: Midi | Sleeve style: Strapless The 9 Best Timeless Little Black Dresses for Wedding Guests in 2023 With a stretchy smocked bodice, this dress is perfect for those expecting. The adjustable straps offer a better fit for all chest sizes. Even those who aren't pregnant can't resist this vibrant floral design. Size range: XS-XXL | Materials: Polyester | Colors: Pink floral | Length: Tea | Sleeve style: Spaghetti strap This beaded dress has the right kind of sparkle for fall nuptials. The deep V-neckline, bishop sleeves, and side split hem give a classic LBD a fresh twist. It's only fitting that this universally flattering dress also comes in an inclusive size range. Size range: 0-20 | Materials: Polyester, Elastane | Colors: Black | Length: Midi | Sleeve style: Long 20 Fall co*cktail Attire Dresses for Wedding Guests This dress has plenty of glitz but in a modest cut. The hem hits just above the knee, and the lovely blouson-style overlay on the top keeps you covered and comfortable. Keep in mind the sizing runs a bit small, so order up if you're between sizes. Size range: 0-20 | Materials: Unlisted | Colors: Midnight | Length: Midi | Sleeve style: Short co*cktail attire is usually worn to semi-formal and formal weddings, so you’ll want to consider a few things. First, what season is the wedding? If it’s in the spring or summer, bright colors, playful prints, and pastel shades are idyllic. Not only does Farm Rio Midi Sundress come in a vivid print, but the cotton fabric will keep you cool during a summer wedding. For the fall and winter, you can gravitate towards heavier fabrics and jewel tones, like Fame & Partners Satin Shay Dress. Next, consider what type of venue it is. For an outdoor wedding, you can easily get away with light, floaty fabrics like cotton, eyelet lace, jersey, or chiffon. If the wedding is in a banquet hall or a historic building, elegant fabrics like satin, velvet, and taffeta are perfectly polished. A classic slip dress, like the BHLDN Cali Satin Cowl-Neck Midi Slip Dress, is ideal for these indoor weddings. Beading and sequins in a shorter length, like this Retrofete Gabrielle Robe Dress, can also work well for a classy co*cktail look. Lastly, think about the time of day the ceremony will be held. In the morning or early afternoon, a slightly more casual dress is entirely appropriate. We can totally see guests wearing the Reformation Kourtney Dress for a garden or beach wedding during the daytime. For an evening ceremony, you can step up your little black dress with feathered accents like in LPA Aurora Dress. FAQ What is a co*cktail dress? co*cktail attire is a delicate balance between formal and casual, as well as elegant and comfortable. For ladies, that typically equates to a midi, or knee-length style, or mini-length dress and heels. What is an appropriate dress length for a co*cktail dress? Knee-length is great, though it can vary. As a general rule, try to avoid wearing anything that's too short, tight, or low cut. While co*cktail attire offers more freedom to play with colors, prints, materials, and length, it's still nice to find something classy and elegant for a formal wedding. You can even wear a maxi, but in this case, it’s best to opt for a more casual fabric. Can I wear a co*cktail dress to a black-tie wedding? A black-tie dress code tends to be more formal than co*cktail attire, and therefore typically requires floor-length gowns. What's the best color for a co*cktail dress? While you can never go wrong with basic black, we also like deep, rich shades of navy or magenta for a co*cktail dress. Depending on what season the wedding takes place in, a pastel shade, like Camila Coelho Aaliyah Midi Dress, can also be nice. Contributing writerLaura Lajinesscovers fashion, accessories, and fine jewelry. Her work can be seen across various outlets, including ELLE, InStyle, Glamour, Refinery 29, The Zoe Report, Popsugar, Well+Good, and Barneys New York, among other titles and brands. She was the senior fashion editor at The Zoe Report and Popsugar with additional experience as a copywriter and fashion publicist. 25 Wedding Guest Mini Dresses for Every Season and BudgetBest Bodycon
Norma Kamali Diana Gown
Best Floral
Reformation Kourtney Dress
Best for a Destination Wedding
Farm Rio Midi Sundress
Best Mature
Adrianna Papell Short Sleeve Beaded co*cktail Dress with Popover
What to Look for in co*cktail Attire
Season
Venue
Time of Day
Why Trust Brides
FAQs
What is a simple co*cktail dress code? ›
A co*cktail dress code is a blend between casual and formal. It's a gray area, along with semi-formal attire, where your look should be elegant yet comfortable. In general, co*cktail dresses, suits, and ties are the stars of the moment. The best part about co*cktail attire dress codes is that they're flexible.
How do I find the perfect co*cktail dress? ›- Step 1: Choose Your Budget. ...
- Step 2: Think About What Makes You Feel Confident. ...
- Step 3: Consider Material. ...
- Step 4: Consider Color and Pattern. ...
- Step 5: Start Shortlisting. ...
- Step 6: Select Your Accessories Carefully.
Dresses: for co*cktail dresses, opt for well-fitted styles that hit anywhere from mid-thigh to ankle. Some classic co*cktail-dress silhouettes include A-line, sheath, wrap, empire and slip, but you can of course step outside of these bounds—as long as the dress reads as stylish and elegant.
Can you wear a short co*cktail dress to a formal wedding? ›Women are more than welcome to wear a floor-length dress, but if you prefer a dressy, knee-length co*cktail dress, then feel free. Just make sure the dress isn't too revealing.
What is not acceptable for co*cktail attire? ›What is not acceptable for co*cktail attire? Best to avoid anything too casual or too formal. Leave the jeans, T-shirts, and casual sandals at home, and save the full-length gowns for a black-tie affair. It's all about striking that perfect balance.
What is the co*cktail dress code for ladies? ›It's kind of an in-between place. Think: mini and midi dresses (and even jumpsuits!) that are chic and polished, suiting that's a bit more tailored, and footwear that feels elevated (literally, if you're wearing heels). It's the perfect combination of elegant and comfortable.
Can I wear a maxi dress to a co*cktail wedding? ›A floral maxi dress, a pastel midi or knee-length dress, as well as a jumpsuit, are all great options. Elevate your look with simple accessories and a pair of wedges or block heels.
What does a 60 year old woman wear to a co*cktail party? ›Wear a simple dress in black or navy with jewelry that makes your eye color pop," she says. Likewise, "If you can't wear heels, but don't love the look of flats with your dresses, find a long dress so the shoes are hidden," suggests Jodie Filogomo, founder of Jodie's Touch of Style.
Can I wear a maxi dress to a co*cktail party? ›Because you're picking a slightly more formal silhouette by going full-length, you can go a little more casual with your color and print choices. If it's a spring or summer event, maxi dresses in terra cotta or mustard tones are great options, as are dainty florals in vibrant colors.
What is the attire for a 4pm wedding? ›The staff suggests that if a wedding is taking place at 4 p.m. or 5 p.m., you should wear something that easily transitions from day to night; any ceremony after 6 p.m. should be strictly co*cktail.
Can I have bare legs at a wedding? ›
I have advised readers that while bare legs are fine even at the most formal events, hosiery also is perfectly acceptable as long as it's skin tone and sheer. I've just returned from a wedding where I wore my new bargain ($10!) black sequined mini and consignment store jeweled black shoes (also $10).
What is summer co*cktail attire for a wedding? ›Fabric: Airy and thin fabrics are best for summer co*cktail wedding attire. Think chiffon, silk, satin, or even linen. 3. Length: You can wear short, midi, or long dresses to a semi-casual summer wedding.
Are jeans ok for co*cktail attire? ›Usually, co*cktail attire includes formal wear, nothing casual like jeans or sneakers. You can wear a blazer or suit jacket, tailored pants or chinos, a dress shirt and shiny shoes.
Can you wear jeans for co*cktail dress code? ›Denim is definitely not in the glossary book of co*cktail attire. Whilst denim is a forever classic & stylish choice it's for sure not appropriate for a co*cktail event! If you're wanting to reach for your favourite pair of denim - swap them out for some tailored trousers.
What is co*cktail wear for a man? ›co*cktail Attire is traditionally associated with single-breasted suit jackets, but a double-breasted jacket is perfectly acceptable. If desired, you may wear a three-piece suit with a waistcoat, but be aware that this look is considered more formal and might, at certain events, appear a little too stuffy.
Can a woman wear pants for co*cktail attire? ›co*cktail Separates
Soft tailoring looks effortlessly chic for evening and co*cktail attire, too. Keep the look opulent with luxurious jackets in fabrics like Velour and the Black Velour smoking jacket pictured. Are trousers acceptable co*cktail attire? Absolutely!