Whether it’s an orgy or a cocktail party, I know how to do it.

So you’ve received an invitation to an event stating ‘Cocktail Attire’ as the dress code. Like many men, you’ve probably begun delving into the seldom seen depths of your wardrobe in a confused state with the hope of finding some magical solution to this rather ambiguous form of dress. What exactly is ‘Cocktail Wear’ and how do you effectively execute this look?
Firstly, let’s start by examining the occasions at which cocktail dress may be required. These occasions most commonly include (but are not limited to): weddings, anniversaries, christenings, certain sporting events, cocktail parties and formal birthday gatherings. In short, they’re events that require a little more refinement than the usual jeans and t-shirt combination. Too formal for day wear, yet too relaxed and too early for a full black tie, cocktail attire emerged from the necessity for a semi-formal ‘between the hours’ dress code.

How to dress for a Cocktail Attire event? Please enjoy three of the suits that I wore along the time.

The Blue Two-Piece

Although the blue suit often gets a bad rap, a well-tailored version will always look sophisticated and chic, not to mention slimming. However, when it comes to styling, keep it simple – too much colour or pattern can cheapen the aesthetic. A classic white dress shirt and blue silk tie is a winning combination, especially when finished with a smart pair of brown monk shoes. This should be considered your go-to evening option; a full blue suit is often too stark to wear in the daytime (it looks its best under artificial light), but you can take the edge off by splitting it into separates and pairing the jacket with slim grey trousers

The White Gatsby

Subtle yet highly effective, the white blazer has, over recent years, developed into modern must-have. Oozing style and sophistication, it will add a Gatsby-esque twist to any warm-weather ensemble. Although white-on-white outfits are on trend this season, don’t get it twisted – a white blazer makes a versatile and timeless addition to any wardrobe and will continue to get good use each spring/summer for many more years to come. Able to be dressed up or down while anchoring any colour under the sun, this contemporary essential will give your work-to-weekend attire a whole new outlook.

Beige Suit

With modern gents finally realising the importance of seasonal dressing, the beige suit has quickly developed into a contemporary classic. Your default option for any warm-weather event, it effortlessly bridges the gap between smart and casual, meaning it can be dressed up with a shirt and tie for work as easily as it can down with a simple grey tee for a summer wedding. With this design only really suitable during spring/summer, prioritise breathable cotton or linen blend versions to ensure comfort in the heat and opt for a slim but not skinny cut so as not to restrict air circulation.

What other coktail suit do you think that a man should wear at a Gatsby-like paty?

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