Cocktail Attire For Men - A Complete Guide

Navigating the world of men's cocktail attire can be a minefield. This guide includes all the information you’ll need to master this dress code.

What is Cocktail Attire For Men?

Cocktail attire for men is a semi-formal outfit appropriate for occasions such as cocktail parties and weddings. It often includes a suit, dress shirt, tie and polished leather shoes. It’s a step down in formality from black-tie evening wear but it’s smarter than business casual. Men’s cocktail attire should make its wearer appear smart but not too formal. The event you are dressing for will dictate the specific outfit required.

This dress code emerged in the 1920s. It reflects the relaxed atmosphere of cocktail parties in contrast to formal evening dinners.

Men’s Cocktail Attire Outfits

For a Wedding Reception

• A dark grey suit
• A light blue shirt
• A dark navy silk tie
• Black Oxford shoes
• Silver cufflinks
• Dark grey socks

Why It Works: This combination conveys understated elegance. The dark grey suit, pale blue shirt and black Oxford shoes are timeless choices. The dark navy silk tie and silver cufflinks add a touch of formality to your wedding guest attire.

For Festive Drinks

• A velvet blazer (black, dark green, dark navy or dark burgundy)
• A fine grey rollneck jumper
• Black dress trousers
• Black Derby shoes
• Black socks

Why It Works: A velvet blazer is a festive choice with high formality. By wearing a fine gauge rollneck jumper, you can reduce the formality of the blazer. The rest of the outfit sticks to black formal classics. They will ensure that the velvet blazer remains the focal point of interest.

For a Summer Party

• A beige linen suit
• A light blue cutaway collar shirt
• A brown tie
• Brown suede loafers
• Beige socks

Why It Works: Warmer weather calls for lighter fabrics and a loosening up in formality. This outfit combines pale shades with accents of complementary brown. The accents of brown stop the look appearing too light and informal.

For a Business Event

• A navy pinstripe or check suit
• A white shirt
• A burgundy tie
• Dark brown Derby shoes
• Navy socks

Why It Works: A navy suit with a subtle pinstripe or check pattern adds subtle visual interest. A white shirt and dark brown Derby shoes are both elegant and professional. The burgundy tie meanwhile will add a dash of colour without being too loud.

Cocktail Attire Tailoring

The foundation of a successful cocktail attire outfit lies in the suit. While a tuxedo is best reserved for black-tie events. Cocktail attire calls for tailoring that feels less formal.

Colour

Generally speaking darker tailoring is safer. Black is the most formal choice. Navy and charcoal grey are elegant options which are almost always suitable. Deep browns, deep greens and mid-greys work well in autumn. Pale shades such as beige or light grey are best reserved for the warmer months.

Fabric Choice

Cotton is a good all-rounder suit fabric. Linen (or a linen blend) will work best in the warmer months. For colder days consider wool or wool blend fabrics. They drape well, resist wrinkles, and lend an air of luxury to outfits.

Style

A single-breasted, two-button suit is the classic choice for cocktail events. A double-breasted jacket can add a touch of vintage flair. A textured fabric, such as herringbone or houndstooth, can introduce visual interest. If your suit fabric is patterned, you’ll need to ensure you’re wearing a shirt and a tie which are not.

Fit

The easiest tailoring fit to pull off for cocktail attire is a classic fit which is neither slim nor loose. You’ll also need to make sure you haven’t overlooked the basics of how a suit should fit:

The Jacket:

• The jacket's shoulders stop at the same point your shoulders do.
• The sleeves should feel snug but not tight.
• The top button should fasten comfortably, with lapels lying flat against your chest. You should be able to slip a thumb between the fastening and your stomach without tightness.
• The hem should end around the mid-fly of your trousers, covering your seat at the back.
• A half-inch of shirt cuff should peek out from the sleeves when your arms are at your side.

The Trousers:

• The waistband shouldn't feel loose or tight.
• Hems should lightly touch the top of your shoes or create small fabric folds at your ankles.

Cocktail Attire Shirts

A well chosen shirt can anchor a cocktail look. A shirt also provides an opportunity for personal expression. Here are some things to consider:

Colour

A white or light blue shirt is a failsafe choice for cocktail events. These versatile colours complement a range of suit and tie colours. Consider pastel shades such as soft pink or lavender to add personality.

Fabric

A poplin cotton fabric is a shirt material that's suitable for many outfits and occasions. For cocktail attire in the cooler months try a twill weave which gives shirts a thicker finish. In the warmer months try a linen shirt. Or, try a cotton-linen fabric blend which is less likely to wrinkle.

If you’re looking for a luxurious shirt you have plenty of options. Weaves such as Royal Twill and Royal Oxford are extremely fine and smooth. Materials such as Giza 45, Supima cotton and Sea Island cotton all offer a luxurious wear.

Pattern

While a solid-coloured shirt is always a safe bet, subtle patterns can add visual interest. A fine stripe or a small-scale check can complement your suit without feeling too bold.

Fit

When checking how your shirt should fit, start with the shoulders. The seam should sit at the point where the top of your arm meets your shoulder. Next, ensure the collar allows you to comfortably fit one finger between it and your neck. The sleeves should extend just beyond your wrist bone (about 2cm) when buttoned at the cuff. For a good fit in the body, you should be able to pinch 2-3 inches of fabric at your sides. This ensures it's neither too tight nor too loose. Finally, check the length by leaving the shirt untucked. The back hem should reach the bottom of your buttocks.

Style Details

A spread collar is a traditional choice, while a point collar looks more modern. French cuffs show sophistication and allow you to add individuality to your look. Consider convertible cuffs too which can be worn either with or without cufflinks.

Cocktail Attire Shoes

For cocktail attire footwear classic black or brown leather dress shoes are reliable. If you prefer a softer texture and a touch of casual elegance, suede shoes are an excellent choice. Here are specific styles for you to consider:

Oxford Shoes

A timeless choice, Oxford shoes offer a sophisticated foundation for your attire. The most formal dress shoe option.

Derby Shoes

Slightly less formal than Oxfords, Derby shoes are a versatile choice.

Monk Strap Shoes

For a touch of individual flair, consider monk strap shoes with a single or double buckle. They are less formal than styles with laces.

Cocktail Attire Ties

The right tie adds personality to your cocktail attire. Here's what to consider when choosing a tie:

Fabric

• Silk is a classic option which offers a luxurious sheen and drapes effortlessly.
• Wool is perfect for colder weather, wool ties add texture.
• A knitted tie is a more casual choice.

Colour and Pattern

• A solid colour tie such as burgundy or emerald green will add a touch of sophistication.
• Small-scale patterns on ties, such as dots or geometric prints, add subtle interest.
• Bold patterns and bright colours will stand out, but make sure the rest of your outfit is subdued.

Styling

• Your tie should just touch your belt buckle when tied.
• Choose a width that's in proportion to your lapels. Slimmer ties suit narrow lapels, while wider ties work better with wider lapels.

Cocktail Attire Accessories

The right accessories can elevate your cocktail outfit from good to great. Here are some accessories to consider:

Pocket Squares

A pocket square is a simple way to add a touch of personality and sophistication to your suit jacket. Choose a colour or pattern that complements your tie without being an exact match. Silk is the classic fabric choice for pocket squares thanks to its luxurious sheen.

Watches

A classic dress watch with a leather strap is the ideal timepiece for cocktail attire. Opt for a sleek and understated design with a silver or gold case that matches other accessories. Avoid sporty or casual watches.

Belts

Choose a belt in leather colour that matches your shoes. Make sure the metal of your buckle coordinates with any cufflinks and your watch.

Cufflinks

For more formal cocktail events, you can wear a French cuff shirt with cufflinks. Consider classic designs in silver or gold. Make sure the metal of your cufflinks coordinates with your belt buckle and your watch.

Socks

While often overlooked, socks are an important part of your cocktail attire. Choose socks that are a similar colour to your trousers or a shade darker. Avoid novelty socks or bright colours. Opt for fine-gauge socks in cotton or wool blends.

Cocktail Attire: The Dos and Don'ts

Do:

• Invest in tailored garments: A suit and shirt which fit your own body are important to help you look your best.
• Choose quality fabrics: Opt for natural fabrics such as cotton, wool, cashmere or silk. These fabrics drape well and elevate your look.
• Pay attention to details: Small details matter. Ensure your shirt collar is crisp, your tie knot is neat, and your shoes are polished.

Don't:

• Wear a tuxedo: Tuxedos are reserved for black-tie events. A suit is the appropriate choice for cocktail attire.
• Wear a T-shirt or polo shirt: Avoid casualwear and opt for a dress shirt that complements your blazer or suit.
• Choose overly casual footwear: Sneakers and sandals are not appropriate for cocktail attire. Opt for leather dress shoes such as Oxfords or loafers.
• Overdo the accessories: Keep your accessories understated and refined. Avoid excessive jewellery or overly flashy items.