About Cocktail Party Attire for Men
Whether you're a man mingling at a cocktail hour for business, pleasure or a combination of both, dressing in cocktail-appropriate clothing is a must. For women it's fairly simple, but men may struggle with what to wear. While clothing requirements vary, some basic rules apply. Does this Spark an idea?
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Definition
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The cocktail party is an event that began in the early 1900s. Its primary purpose was, and still is, to allow guests to mingle with friends, associates or coworkers and to ultimately have a good time doing so. Cocktail parties are common rituals for businesses, weddings, music events and other social gatherings.
Clothing Basics
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Keep your attire simple, but suave. A sharp-looking suit or tuxedo with a crisp dress shirt and matching tie will take you far. If you want to add a little pizazz, add a colorful boutonniere or handkerchief. Shoes should match your clothing and be polished. Details count at cocktail events and will make or break your overall look. Iron your shirt, crease your pants and groom yourself from head to toe.
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Types of Cocktail Parties
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Some cocktail parties require more formal apparel, while others lend themselves to a more laidback look. For example, a high school or fraternity reunion cocktail hour may be more casual, so a sports jacket, slacks and dress shirt should suffice. Cocktail hours for weddings or business events, on the other hand, usually require a more polished look. A suit and tie is recommended. If you're uncertain, refer to your invitation, ask other invited guests or contact the host directly.
Day Vs. Night
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Cocktail parties in the evenings tend to be slightly more formal than cocktail hours on a weekend afternoon. Bring your jacket, but don't be surprised if you notice other men with jackets across their arms. If you're uncertain, look around and follow the lead of others.
When in Doubt
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If you still feel uncertain about what to wear to your particular cocktail event, ask the host. A straightforward answer from the source should put an end to your worries. If you don't have a go-to person, keep this in mind: Overdressing is better than under dressing. You can always make an outfit appear more casual, but it's not as easy to make your attire look more formal.
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Resources
- Photo Credit Gregd | Dreamstime.com
