How men should dress for a cocktail party

Dressing for a cocktail party is one of the trickiest codes to master. It’s the unique style you’ll lean on for weddings, celebrations, business functions and high-end parties.

Cocktail attire for men is about hitting the sweet spot between relaxed and refined for occasions when you want to look sharp without being fully formal.

If you’re looking to perfect this specific style of modern menswear, read our blog.

What is Men’s Cocktail Attire?

Cocktail attire for men sits comfortably between business casual and black-tie dress codes.

This usually means a well-tailored suit, but can also point to a stylish blazer paired with a crisp dress shirt, classic chinos and polished shoes.

Men’s cocktail attire should always leave room for personal flair through your choice of colours, fabrics and accessories while maintaining a cohesive appearance. Ultimately, men’s cocktail attire is a mixture of different dress codes combined with individual expression. Here’s how to go about it.

What is the Men’s Cocktail Attire Dress Code?

Generally, men’s cocktail attire calls for a suit, because the dress code is usually reserved for weddings, celebrations, and, naturally, cocktail parties.

A cocktail attire dress code is less formal than black tie, more refined than smart casual and dressier than a business suit. There’s also room to be creative and let your personality shine.

Start with the jacket (no cocktail look is complete without one), either worn as part of a matching suit or as a standalone blazer in a different fabric from your trousers.

If your options are limited to a standard business suit, shake things up by removing the tie and swapping the shirt for a rollneck jumper or long-sleeve polo.

Basically, don’t think of it as a restrictive dress code but an opportunity to express yourself with different shapes and colours.

Cocktail Attire for Men: The Essentials

We’ve broken down the essential elements of men’s cocktail attire to help you create a cohesive look.

1. A Smart Suit or Blazer

Traditional men’s cocktail attire typically starts with a smart suit. This is the cornerstone of your look and sets the tone for the rest of your outfit.

Classic shades like a reliable navy suit are ideal choices along with other solid colours such as mid-grey or brown that offer timeless elegance, but allow room for personal touches or shirt choices that elevate your appearance. However, black suits should be avoided unless the dress code is strictly formal or requires evening wear.

While neutral shades and classic colours are a reliable foundation for a cocktail party suit, don’t be afraid to add pops of colour. Jewel tones like emerald green or burgundy add warmth and richness and are ideal for evening celebrations.

If the event is more relaxed, you could swap the full suit for a versatile blazer paired with complementary trousers. Single-breasted blazers with modern tailoring are a great option, and subtle patterns such as plaid or faint pinstripes add interest without becoming overly casual. Alternatively, choose something bolder like a velvet blazer or dinner jacket that will make you stand out from the crowd.

2. A Dependable Dress Shirt

A crisp dress shirt is your best friend when it comes to men’s cocktail attire. By keeping things simple, you’ll let the rest of your ensemble do the heavy lifting.

White, blue, pink and other soft pastels are winning shades for any occasion. Or you could mix things up with subtle patterns like tiny checks, gentle pinstripes, or light textures. Just steer clear of loud prints that might clash with your suit or tie.

Stick to this rule and you’ll find an array of eye-catching combos. For example, a thin-striped lilac shirt paired with a deep green tie looks fantastic beneath a tailored jacket. And always opt for good-quality cotton for comfort and polish.

Finally, make sure your shirt is freshly ironed and fits well around the collar and cuffs before stepping out, as this can make all the difference.

3.  Bold Ties and Pocket Squares

A statement tie usually steals the spotlight when it comes to cocktail attire for men. Use it to set the vibe and pull the rest of your outfit together.

Choose silk ties or bow ties in subtle patterns, or go for solid shades, gentle prints, soft paisleys or geometric designs that always hit the mark. But if your look is more laid-back, you could skip the tie altogether – as long as the rest of your ensemble is sharp and put-together. Remember, a well-matched shirt and tie set can really launch your outfit to another level, so always pay close attention.

Similarly, adding a traditional pocket square will also give your suit jacket or blazer an instant lift. Ideally, pick a colour or pattern that complements your tie, but they don’t need to be an exact match. In fact, a little contrast here will make the look your own.

4. Cocktail Party Trousers

Smart trousers are an integral part of your men’s cocktail attire. Traditionally, they should match the overall theme of your outfit and pair seamlessly with your suit jacket or blazer.

Classic shades like charcoal, navy or dark grey create a sharp, cohesive look and pair well with just about any type of suit jacket or blazer. Just make sure your trousers are properly tailored and follow your body shape cleanly with a slight break so they don’t bunch up over your shoes.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can play with features like pleats, cropped hems or textured fabrics to provide a modern edge. Just balance them out with timeless pieces that align with the dress code. Also, flat-fronted trousers with a slim or straight cut flatter pretty much everyone and deliver a contemporary edge.

5. Dress Shoes and Classic Footwear

Shoes complete a cocktail outfit, so give them plenty of thought. It’s better to stay away from trainers and other casual options that don’t follow the dress code. Popular footwear choices include:

• Classic Oxfords: You can’t go wrong with a pair of black or dark brown Oxfords to complete your cocktail outfit. They’re simple, sharp and always appropriate for this type of event.
• Derby Shoes: Adjustable, open lacing makes these perfect for those with wide or narrow feet. Black or brown are traditional colours, although Derby shoes also come in vivid colours if you’re feeling bold.
• Elegant Loafers: Loafers are a polished but laid-back option that keep things classic and on-theme.
• Traditional Brogues: With their distinct patterns and holes, traditional brogues come in a range of styles and colours to complement any men’s cocktail outfit.
• Chelsea Boots and Dress Boots: Chelsea boots are a stylish choice for evening celebrations, especially during colder winter months. Chelsea boots and dress boots come in a variety of shades, providing plenty of options. You could even play with materials and go for suede boots to complete your look.
  Always keep your shoes or boots clean and polished, and you can even match your belt to your shoe colour for a put-together finish.
  

6. Statement Socks

Bring personality to your cocktail attire for men by having fun with your socks. Whether patterned, striped, polka dot or argyle, they should complement your outfit without stealing the show.

Remember, socks are a fantastic way to introduce colour and texture to your ensemble. But they should also offer complete comfort for those late nights on the dance floor.

7. Men’s Cocktail Attire Accessories

Another way to stamp your individual mark is with cocktail party accessories:

Cufflinks: Choose simple, elegant designs for your cufflinks for a sleek, timeless touch.

Watches: A classic timepiece with a leather or metal strap adds a touch of sophistication.

Avoid bulky or digital watches, which can clash with the sophisticated vibe.

Dress Belts: The slimmer the better when it comes to men’s belts. A thin leather belt that matches your footwear ties everything together.

Finishing touches: Tie bars, lapel pins and simple jewellery can add warmth and charm without overwhelming your look. But don’t go overboard with your accessories – choose one or two standout pieces and keep the rest subtle.

Cocktail Attire for Men: Things to Avoid

Even the sharpest dressers can slip up with men’s cocktail attire, so here are some tips to help you avoid those fashion pitfalls.

Skip anything too casual such as jeans, trainers, and polos, which can instantly pull the outfit down.

Be mindful of loud patterns or vibrant colours. You’ll want to impress your fellow guests without standing out like a sore thumb.

Make sure everything fits properly and avoid baggy items and poor tailoring. Just one ill-fitting piece can ruin your overall look.

Finally, don’t neglect grooming. A fresh haircut or beard trim is just as important as the clothes on your back.

Ultimately, mastering cocktail attire involves more than following rules – it’s about using them as a foundation to show off your own style. When you start with a sharp, well-fitted suit or blazer, add the right shirt, tie and accessories, you’ll put together a unique look that follows the dress code and occasion.

Browse our Collection of Cocktail Attire for Men

From classic men’s suits to mix-and-match outfits, we’ve got a huge selection of men’s cocktail attire to choose from. Read our men’s style blog or contact us today for more information.