Fashion tips: Difference between cocktail dress and formal gown

The party season of this year is about to come. Different party occasion requires different dress code. Do you know the difference between a formal dress and a cocktail dress? Do you know when to wear a cocktail dress and when to wear a formal gown exactly? In case you wear the wrong dress, read on for some tips.

Traditionally formal or black-tie events require the wearing of a long gown; for a cocktail event, shorter frocks or pant or jumpsuit outfits are the go. The length of a cocktail dress can be either down to the knee or all the way to somewhere around the ankles. Formal dresses tend to be down to the ankles or lower, though they can be tea length or shorter with the right design. Cocktail dresses tend to be made in lots of subdued colors while the formal dresses tend to be in more commanding colors, such as jewel tones or bright colors.

A dress code sets the tone of the event and dressing to meet it goes some way to ensure that you fit or blend in with the crowd. The best way to figure out what to wear is to dress according to what you expect the host to wear. If you are attending a black tie party, you can wear anything from a long dress, to dressy separates, to even a more formal cocktail dress. For a cocktail party, short dresses that are party ready. When in doubt ladies, wear a little black dress, and dress it up with fun jewelry. A dress code that tends to pop up on invitations around the holidays, festive attire is similar to cocktail attire, but with a holiday bent, say a sparkly sequin dress or a red satin skirt. The dress code suggestion at many daytime semi-formal events calls for a tailored dress or a pantsuit for women.

The beauty about the cocktail dress is that it comes in a vast variety of different materials and a huge selection of different colors. People are extremely fond of the satin, chiffon and silk which offer a wide variety in different choice and personal preference as well and cater to everyone’s taste and requirements. The type of material you choose generally sends a message. Usually, formal gowns are made of luxury fabrics like silk, charmeuse, brocade and lace. Formal gowns enable you to look glamorous and luxurious.

No matter what event you are attending, never forget to accessorize your dress with matching jewelry. The same set works for both cocktail dress and formal dress. Chic clutches or designer handbags add a classy touch to your gown. Stilettos work well with your cocktail dress as they elongate your legs. A pair of shining high heels with crystals will accent your floor length formal dress and produce a red carpet look. Remember to put on your favorite earrings and necklace for a complete ensemble.

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