What Is Coctail Attire?

Depending on what part of the country you live in, I would say definitely a suit and tie, or a pair of dress slacks and sports jacket. As for you, if you don't have a basic black dress, there are a lot of two piece, very pretty slacks and top outfits, something rather frilly or flared perhaps?

What you described sounds like you are on the mark... "Black tie optional" is usually more formal... Have you tried a "wrap" dress? They are usually pretty forgiving in fit, and look fairly dressy. I have had good luck at Kohl's finding dresses that fit post-pregnancy...

Hi A.,

I agree with Lindsey. That type of dress would be perfect. And it's so diverse, like she said you could wear it anywhere and it's affordable. Also, there are Old Navy stores everywhere. Thanks! Lindsy I'm going to try one on myself.

Good luck! R..

Lindsey is right on for 99% of events! The Old Navy dress is a great choice and should flatter any figure (even ones like our - post partum!) A cocktail dress should always hit at or just above the knee - never below. (Cocktail wear is less formal than evening wear but more formal than "business casual" or the like). The only time that great black wrap dress may not be suitable is if the cocktail event is very high end. Then you may need an actual cocktail dress (from a department or specialty store). But, as I said, in today's world that is rare - only for very significant or exclusive events.

If you're unsure about what level the event you're attending is, I would say to go with the Old Navy dress that is so wonderfully affordable and then dress it up with a great bangle bracelet, some drop/dangle earrings and maybe a great chunky necklace (Target has great affordable jewelry). Don't forget the heels if you can tolerate them! You'll look amazing!!

I am not sure what really constitutes Coctail attire. I think the definition is a bit over-rated. It is between casual and dressy. I would suggest, a nice pair of black pants and a white button down shirt. That is always a safe outfit to wear for any occasion. You can dress it up with heels or boots and jewelry. Or dress it down with a pair of flats or sandles. You cant go wrong with black pants and a white button down. Have fun. Katie

I say it's somewhere between buisness dress and formal like in the middle of those two but with more attitude, spice, flirtyness to the dress.

You don't have to do the stereo-typical little black dress for a cocktail party. You can do a dressy pants suit or jump suit too. Long skirts, and tailored dresses in wools are great too. I think tailored jackets like a bolero design is a great way to minimize flaws if you choose a strappy dress. The more tailored the outfit, the more pulled together you'll look. Seems counter intuitive since tailored means it'll fit close, but it's the structure that helps with shape issues. Also invest in good undergarments that offer support and control. A body shaper is very helpful in redefining your figure if you're wearing thinner, flowy fabrics.

Raw silk, shantung (sp?), cashmere, and georgette fabrics are popular fabrics. And rich jewel tones and colors are appropriate in Fall and Winter. Rhinestone or jewel accents on your clothing such as a cashmere sweater, are fine as long as they're tastefully done. You can never go wrong with pearls. But always remember, less is more.

You can get away with a sassy/dressy pair of black pants and a top that is a bit shiny, sparkly, naked...Ya know? Like a strappy tank top. Finish off with jewelry and strappy heels and it works because it is both social and work appropriate

I would say you are right about suit for husband and a nice coctail length dress for you. You can never go wrong with black. To bad your regular dress doesn't fit quite yet. Do you have a friend that is your current size you could borrow from. If not you might find something nice and less pricey at a conseignment shop. Call ahead to see if they have cocktail dresses.

Congratulations on having a baby.

Cocktail attire would mostly mean a cocktail dress for you. Check out BCBG at the Galleria--they are having a huge sale on lots of dresses and I mean great prices. Otherwise I would check out Bloomingdales for dresses. You could get something simple that you could spruce up with jewelry.

Remember to have fun at the event!

Cocktail attire is generally a suit and tie for him and a cocktail length dress for you - you're right. The little black dress is a good choice. I know how difficult it can be to go through that transition time with clothing. A dressy pantsuit though not a career suit, might work, but it depends on what part of the country you live in as to whether its appropriate. If you have a skirt (not a long skirt) that fits paired with an elegant tunic top or two piece dress that might work.
Hope this helps and whatever you wear have a good time!
G.

What a great excuse to buy a new outfit! But, since you probably won't stay your exact current size, go for a dress that isn't form fitted. That way, even if you lose a few pounds or change shape in the future, it will still fit. Something fancier than a sundress, but less fancy than "formal wear". If you can pull it off, go for heels and a just above the knee dress. If that feels too short, go for one just below your knee. Probably something that isn't printed, but maybe more all one color. You can dress it up with some of your jewlery that you already own. Have fun!

You can never go wrong with a little black dress!

I think you've got the cocktail portion of the question answered but I also wanted to recommend getting a pair of Spanx. They are amazing! I like the kind that go from above the knee to just under your bra. They suck everything in (I don't know where it goes), flatten your tummy, hold in any jiggling, and you might even be able to wear some of your old clothes. They are a little pricy, but worth every penny and hold up quite well. They also do a line for Target called Assets, but those don't suck in quite as much.

A., you are right on your husband's attire, and you can "dress up" your basic black dress with some strappy heels, a cocktail ring, showy earrings and a bracelet or something. Bring a cute, small, evening handbag, and I think you will be good to go. Don't buy a new dress that you won't fit in later, since you will be losing more and more weight in the coming months.

Hi A. --Suit and tie for your husband sounds just right. Men have it so easy! A plain skirt and dressy top with simple jewelry would be good for you. Do you have anything dressy from your pregnancy days that could be modified?

I think there are two main things to remember. One is that as long as it's freshly cleaned and NOT TIGHT anything on the festive side should be fine. The other is that the purpose of the party is not to stand around judging what you're wearing. I tend to agonize over what to wear to events, and then when I get there and see what everyone else is wearing, I wonder what I was worried about. The most important thing is to enjoy yourself.

Have fun and be sure to give us a follow-up report! L.

Transititon times can be so tough! After I had my daughter, I bought a black wrap dress like this one from Old Navy (It is hard to spend money on clothing for between-sizes, but this one is on sale for $15!!!):

http://www.oldnavy.com/browse/product.do?cid=15292&pi...

I have worn it so many times since then to all types of occastions and it has been perfect for each dress code. From cocktail parties to baptisms to weddings. It is perfect to dress up or down and it is understated but still a nice option. I have actually gotten a lot of compliments on this very inexpensive dress.

Then, treat yourself to a pedicure or manicure. You will look great!

Sounds like fun!
You might be able to find a cute dress (knee to below knee length for "cocktail") that is styled in such a way that you can wear it now AND down the road. My favorite fit is the empire or A-line that fits a little closer to the shoulders and chest but drapes or hangs nicely with a little "give" through the tummy and hips.
Store ideas: Herberger's, Marshalls (look for BCBG brand), TJ Maxx.
Even if you get a simple one or two-color dress, it's the accessories that will put it all together! Necklace, earrings, bracelets (the in-style is layering), cute shoes and maybe even a new fun purse (check TJ Maxx, Marshalls, H&M).

Hope you have a great time!
J.
www.mysilpada.com/J..mogck - fun and hip-classic sterling silver jewelry