Shiny shoes are the perfect male accessory for a cocktail party.
Sometimes resorts will host cocktail parties for their guests. Etiquette stipulates that both men and women pay careful attention to their attire at such an event. These parties can range in formality and some will even have a particular theme, such as a Hawaiian theme or a decade-inspired theme. Paying careful attention to this information will ensure you are properly addressed for every occasion. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Women
1. Consider wearing a dress. A simple, elegant dress is almost always appropriate for a cocktail party. If the party is themed in any way, you can choose a themed print or a festive color. For example, for a Christmas-themed party, red, green and gold are always appropriate. Classic black is never a risk. The cut and material can be chosen to fit whether the event is casual or formal.
2. Choose shoes that complement your ensemble, but are still comfortable enough to walk around the resort. Sneakers are almost never acceptable at a cocktail party. If comfort is a concern, wear dressy flats or wedged heels. Unless you can stand it, avoid too high of heels, as this might make it difficult for to properly work the room and socialize. If you are staying at the resort, you might want to keep a more comfortable pair of shoes in your room as a back-up.
3. Accessorize with simple and elegant pieces. If you are wearing a pair of earrings, couple them with a bracelet as opposed to a necklace. Too much jewelry will make your outfit look busy or detract from your clothing. If the cocktail party takes place during a cooler month, you may need to bring a light cardigan or scarf to keep warm.
Men
4. Choose your outfit based on the theme of the party or the level of formality. Generally speaking, short pants are never acceptable. Long pants are encouraged and can also be selected based on formality. For example, a khaki or light-colored pant is ideal for a more casual cocktail party, whereas black, brown or blue suit pants are appropriate for a formal event.
5. Do not wear sneakers unless the invitation indicates that the party is casual. Brown or black leather lace-ups are generally acceptable, so long as they match the colors in your wardrobe. If possible, polish your shoes before the event to show that you value the event, whether it is casual or formal.
6. Accessorize only with an elegant watch, cuff links or pin on your tie. If you are attending the party with a date, be sure your outfits are coordinated with one another. For example, you may choose a tie color that matches with your date's dress. If your date decides to wear black, avoid wearing brown or blue so that you don't clash.
Tags: cocktail party, always appropriate, brown blue, careful attention, casual formal