Cocktail party is an option for receiving guests, where a variety of cocktails, wines and soft drinks with light snacks are served. It can be carried out in a public place or at home. This type of event originated in the 20s of the last century in the United States. Thanks to the cinema, he gained popularity in other countries. In recent decades, corporate events, exhibitions and galleries, symposia, and presentations have been held in the style of a cocktail party. This holiday format can be used for meeting friends, celebrating a birthday, or other family gathering. Of course, a cocktail party for a seminar or symposium is significantly different from a fun youth option.

A characteristic feature of a cocktail party is the absence of a common table for seating guests. The main requirement is space, a lot of free space for dancing, free communication and holding competitions. Take care of a sufficient number of seats - chairs, armchairs, sofas. If possible, create a few quiet corners of relaxation at some distance, where guests can communicate in peace. If the party is informal, decorate the hall with serpentine, bright balloons, posters with witty congratulations, flowers.

Beverages

The main drinks of the evening are a variety of cocktails. If possible, organize a bar counter, set a table with snacks next to it. Pay special attention to the dishes. Find the same type of glasses with a capacity of 250-300 ml, suitable for most cocktails. There should be at least twice as many of them as those invited. You will also need decanters, cocktail straws, a shaker, ice tongs, and a mudler. For a youth holiday, stock up on bright disposable tableware.

To prepare cocktails for a large company, prepare all the products in advance:

1. Make compotes or juices from berries or fruits, refrigerate.
2. Prepare ice, you will need a lot for a party (ready-made ice can be ordered, drinks will look beautiful). Do not be lazy, freeze ice cubes with berries inside, they will perfectly decorate any cocktail. For the same purpose, cubes of multi-colored jelly with pieces of fruit inside are useful.
3. If there are a lot of guests, serve drinks in a large container. Ice and frozen fruits must be kept separately. Guests can prepare their own drink.
4. Cool alcohol down.

If you want to organize a party according to the rules, you can enlist support. A master of his craft, masterfully mixing drinks, will give the holiday a special flavor. It is interesting and convenient, since in any case someone will have to serve guests. If you want to do everything yourself, choose easy-to-prepare cocktails - such as "Mojito", "Daiquiri", "Cosmopolitan", "Margarita". Give your guests the chance to get creative and make their own drink.

Snacks

The appetizer served during the event must be designed in a certain way - be of such a size that it can be sent to the mouth as a whole. Usually they offer canapes, sandwiches, cut into small diamonds or squares, volovan, tartlets, crackers, cheese. It is possible to serve hot snacks - miniature cutlets, kebabs, kebabs.

For dessert, it is better to prepare small cupcakes, cakes, donuts. Fruit must be peeled and cut into wedges. Place a chocolate fondue next to the fruit.

Dress code

In the invitations sent out in advance, indicate in what outfits you would like to see your guests. If the event is informal, a cocktail dress for ladies is the best option. If the celebration is held in a club, girls can choose brighter outfits. Your guests will know which toilet to choose to feel comfortable. If the youth party is themed, be sure to mention it.

Entertainment

Choose dance music based on your tastes and the preferences of your guests. Pick up several contests that will interest all invitees.

Cocktail-related contests are very popular:

• preparation of the most unusual cocktail for a certain time;
• guessing the name of the cocktail or its ingredients;
• quiz, participants must guess interesting facts about drinks.

If the event is outdoors, develop a bad weather plan.

ATTENTION! ALEXANDER BAR - OUTDOOR MOBILE BAR IN MOSCOW AND SAINT-PETERSBURG TAKES ALL RESPONSIBILITY FOR DRINKS AND ORGANIZATION OF THE BAR AREA

Our team will bring with them to the event a bar counter, all the necessary equipment, ingredients for cocktails and dishes, organizing a full-fledged bar on any site!

By ordering a bar on a turnkey basis, you completely relieve yourself of all the worries about organizing the bar and the associated inconveniences - we will absolutely do everything ourselves.

Cocktail parties are usually scheduled between 4 and 5 pm. Such events are held in a less solemn format than, for example, social events. Therefore, the appearance of guests can be freer and more relaxed.

Most often, presentations, exhibitions, openings of cultural institutions are held in the format of cocktails. Invitations to such events usually indicate the form of clothing (dress code) - "cocktail". Some people prefer to write it in Latin: Coctail or Coctail Attire.

Historical reference

The concept of "dress code" originated in the UK. Dress-code literally translates to "dress code". The British have always respected traditions very much, for them the appearance of the guests of the event is very important.

But the concept of the dress code "cocktail" appeared in the States. During the heyday of Prohibition, non-alcoholic private parties became popular. The guests often lingered at the party until dawn. And so that the girls did not have problems with the police, it was decided to dress in elegant, but short dresses. Such an outfit could easily be hidden under a cloak or coat.

The history of the cocktail dress itself began in the 20s of the twentieth century. This was due to the growing popularity of the twist dance, during which a lady could get entangled in the fluttering hem of a dress. It was much more comfortable to dance in clothes with a shortened hem. The bodice remained the same.

The most iconic and popular variety of cocktail women's dress, both in those days and today, is considered a little black dress.

At first, the rules for the cocktail dress code were pretty strict. It was believed that the outfit must certainly be monochromatic and have a closed top. For men, only strict business suits, black and brown, were allowed.

Today's designers have deviated a bit from classic dogmas. A fairly wide space opens up for modern fashionistas.

What happens at such events?

A cocktail dress code is required for different occasions. Most often it is appropriate at formal events, when an expensive business suit can look strange, and a tuxedo is too pretentious. For example, an invitation marked Coctail Attire can be obtained for the following events:

• festive corporate banquet (including in the Swedish format);
• family celebration with a large number of guests;
• dinner party;
• presentation of the book;
• opening of an exhibition, gallery, new restaurant;
• celebration of the conclusion of a contract, a professional holiday, an important event in the life of the company.

In most cases, cocktail parties are held indoors. But during the warmer months, for example, the open terrace of a restaurant can be chosen as a place for celebration.

There are three types of cocktail parties, and the dress code varies somewhat. Let's consider in detail.

Business party

This category includes corporate parties or business negotiations with counterparties in a restaurant.

In such cases, there is a rather strict dress code "cocktail". Ladies are advised to choose a strict dress of simple cut without a neckline. Excessive decor such as lush folds on sleeves, ruffles and lace inserts is not suitable for such cases. But the current Basque is quite acceptable.

Massive jewelry is also not welcome; it is better to choose laconic earrings or a brooch. Shoes should be strict, classic pumps will be the best choice.

It is better for a man to dress in a strict black, brown or dark blue suit, classic shoes and a plain light shirt. A tie is a required attribute.

Classics of the genre

This category includes any cocktail event starting earlier than 9pm. Let's apply a casual dress code. You can wear a bright dress with bare shoulders and arms. It is desirable that the skirt is 10 cm below or above the knees. You can wear open-toed sandals or fancy heels.

As for the choice of jewelry, it is worth giving preference to expensive jewelry or not too massive jewelry with natural stones. But jewelry with diamonds or massive gold elements is best reserved for another occasion.

For a man, cufflinks and expensive watches are acceptable and even desirable. But you don't have to wear a tie.

Secular event

A more restrictive evening cocktail dress code applies to social events. Even long dresses are permissible here (this is the only cocktail format when you can choose an elongated outfit). Trails, draperies, cutouts are appropriate. You can complement the image with long gloves, a fur boa or a coat.

Stylists' advice will help everyone who has received an invitation to an event marked "dress code" cocktail ".

Photos of women dressed in cocktail party style help to make sure once again how wide a choice of outfits is.

When making a decision, consider the features of the figure. Today, a light retro is in fashion, reminiscent of the 20-30s of the last century. Lace and guipure inserts look very elegant, but there should be a lining under them.

If you are at a loss and cannot decide, make a win-win move - give preference to a little black dress. This advice will probably be relevant in many decades. The handbag is very important. A theater model with a thin strap or a clutch will do. The bag can be richly decorated with embroidery, beads, rhinestones. Bulky models for cocktail looks will not work at all.

What not to do

The cocktail dress code for women does not allow a combination of a white blouse with a black skirt. In this outfit, the guest will look more like a waitress.

Too short a skirt and a revealing neckline make the image cheaper. For ladies over forty, it is better to refuse dresses above the knee. Particular care should be taken with floor-length skirts, especially lush ones.

If the dress has open shoulders, there should not be deep cuts and mini lengths. Lingerie-style outfits are popular again, but at a cocktail party that takes place during the cold season, they are out of place, as well as overly sparkly clothes.

There should be no more than three decorations. A bracelet, a small pendant on a thin chain and laconic earrings are a great option. If you prefer a spectacular necklace, you should refuse other accessories (the only exception is the wedding ring). There is another unusual option - the so-called cocktail ring with a large stone. Additions to it are not needed.

Cocktail dress code for men

What should a gentleman wear? Today, in the cocktail fashion, along with the classic monophonic, pinstriped suits are acceptable. The shirt in that case should be monochromatic. But if we are talking about admission in high society, such liberty is unacceptable.

The choice of accessories is also regulated by the “cocktail” dress code for men. Photos of elegant gentlemen in the illustrations show that although the choice is not too wide, it is the details that make the image. The main requirement is that they must be of very high quality.

In order not to experience difficulties, you can pay attention to ready-made solutions. Today, many brands offer sets of cufflinks, watches and tie pins that fit together perfectly.

Cocktail dress code shoes

The photos clearly demonstrate that a heel is required for ladies. According to the rules, it must be at least eight centimeters. You can go to a wedding, presentation and anniversary in sandals or open-toed shoes. Ankle boots and boots are not suitable for such events. If a contract is to be signed or negotiated with partners at a cocktail event, the toe and heel should be covered. Stockings or tights are a must for any cocktail look. If you are going to party during the hot season, choose very thin stockings, but under no circumstances go there with bare legs.

Particular attention should be paid to shoes and accessories. Shoes just have to be in perfect condition. Black is considered a universal color, it is appropriate in most cases. When choosing a model, you should pay attention to derby or oxford shoes.

Did you receive an invitation to an event in which it says “dress code cocktail” in black and white, and were immediately at a loss? The party is great, but what to wear remains a mystery for you? Don't worry, we'll try to help you.

Cocktail dress code for women

The cocktail style is usually assumed for a cocktail party, but they, as a rule, take place in the form of free communication and are often arranged according to the principle - "buffet". This kind of event is usually held from 4 pm to 8 pm, which allows it to have a freer character than a business lunch, but not as festive as an evening reception. So what do you still need to wear if the invitation says “dress code cocktail”?

Requirements for "dress code cocktail":

• the sleeve can be either short or long;
• neckline - you can, but the main thing is not to overdo it, everything should be in moderation;
• the dress should not be too short, ideally if it is slightly above or slightly below the knee. A small decor in the form of a moderate flounce or frill is welcome;
• the fabric for the dress can be varied, but since the cocktail event is held between the day and the evening, then very bright colors should be used only as decoration;
• the best handbag is a small clutch;
• there are no restrictions in shoes, it all depends on the season, but still, nothing looks better than stilettos;
• jewelry: beads in several strands, large pendants, huge earrings, rings or many bracelets - all this is possible, but not all at once, focus on one thing, you should not turn into a magpie;
• hair on the head should be neatly styled, you can decorate them with decorative ones.

You will look unique and chic at such a party if in your outfit you use colors such as lilac with green or mustard with brown, you can also blue with lemon. These complex combinations in your outfit will not leave you without the attention of fans.

What not to wear:

• in no case at such a party do not wear a dress or skirt to the floor - this will prevent you from moving freely;
• it is not customary for cocktail events to wear dresses or blouses with extravagant decorative elements, such as puff sleeves or oversized collars;
• in winter, you should not wear dresses with thin straps or without them at all;
• a transparent dress will look very inappropriate and ridiculous;
• it is also worth giving up dresses with an open cut on the back;
• do not even think about wearing a white blouse and black skirt, so you will be 100% mistaken for a waitress.

For a more realistic idea of \u200b\u200bwhat a "cocktail" dress code is, look at the photos that we have selected for you.

Dress code Cocktail - basic rules for men and women

Events that require participants to wear a strict White or Black Tie style are gradually fading into oblivion.

They are being replaced by less formal parties. in Coctail style, which allow you to show some imagination and add brightness to the style, as in the photo.

Consider in this article in which cases such a style will be appropriate, what it means by itself, what are the features of the choice of wardrobe items and accessories for men and women and how the types of this dress code differ.

When is it needed?

COCTAIL ATTIRE is an event that is usually scheduled for 4-5 pm with an average duration of 3-4 hours.

Such events include:

• opening of exhibitions;
• banquets in honor of the anniversary of the organization;
• presentations;
• business buffets;
• film premieres;
• corporate banquets;
• dinner parties;
• some family celebrations.

During the meeting, its participants can freely move around the room, communicate with each other, taste drinks and snacks that are served by the waiters. In the invitations to such events, the dress code "Cocktail" will be indicated, but even in its absence, you can be sure that this is meant.

The basic rules of the men's dress code are described in the video:

Cocktail style clothing selection

When choosing clothes, they are guided by the following rules:

1. men's suit must be made of high-quality natural materials, the shirt is carefully ironed before the event, and the color scheme is selected depending on the type of cocktail indicated in the invitation;
2. women's dresses and pantsuits can be made of any fabrics, they are usually called “cocktail dresses”, the length and style of the dress are regulated by the degree of solemnity of the event and the age of the lady. Also, at most events, girls cannot appear without stockings or tights.

How to choose a shade and fabric for an evening dress?

Exist general rules:

• bright floral prints are inappropriate in autumn and winter, fur details - in spring and summer;
• summer outfits should be several tones lighter than winter ones;
• you should be careful with open shoes and transparent fabrics: they often look great only on stars walking along the red carpet;

Oversized and babydoll dresses are inappropriate for all types of cocktails: more strict lines are welcomed, and not emphasized negligence.

What should be the shoes?

• Men's shoes for a cocktail should be made of leather, have a classic shape (only non-standard elongated or other toe shapes are allowed at social events). The color is matched to the suit and should be in tune with it or go well.
• Womens cocktail shoes have a high heel (8 cm or more), a thin stiletto heel and a pointed toe for most events. On a secular and classic cocktail, sandals and open shoes made of different materials are acceptable, but at the same time they should not have a "beach" look.

Accessories

There is only one rule regarding accessories: they should not be in excess. Men can choose from a tie, a scarf in their pocket or a boutonniere, as well as an exquisite classic watch.

As for girls, the number of jewelry should not exceed 2-3 pieces, but it doesn't have to be a set of jewelry. With the right combination, high-quality jewelry is allowed.

Important! Bulky jewelry containing precious stones is inappropriate for business events.

Watch a video that shows what kind of clothes you can choose for men and women in the style of Cocktail:

Varieties

Business

The format of events that imply this style is more strict and a limited number of invitees. Invitations to such a meeting rarely include the opportunity to bring a companion with you.

Communication takes place on business topics between colleagues and partners of one or more companies.

For men at this event, the most appropriate will be a classic suit in black or gray and a white plain shirt. Business style does not tolerate bright ties and unbuttoned shirts. A strict butterfly is also possible. Shoes should be leather (oxford or derby), black or gray, and socks - a tone darker than the trousers or to match them.

Important! Men's socks should be long enough so as not to expose the skin when the man sits down and the edges of his trousers are lifted.

Women for a business cocktail, sheath dresses are put on, covering the shoulders, knee-length, dark shades; high-quality pair jewelry will be appropriate: bracelet and earrings, earrings and pendant, ring and earrings. Shoes must have a closed heel and toe and have a heel of at least 8 cm.

Important! Even in the warm season, girls should be in stockings or thin tights, the appearance at such events with bare legs is unacceptable. The handbag should have a strict shape and be made of leather or plain fabric.

In addition to the dress, the girl can choose a classic trouser suit in dark shades in combination with the same closed high-heeled shoes.

Classic (Smart)

A classic cocktail is the style of the event, which takes place in an informal atmosphere until 9 pm.

Men can show their individuality through light shades of a suit in the warm season and a bright tie. Opened collars and replacement of a jacket with a vest are also allowed.

The color of the shoes is selected according to the chosen shade of the suit. The image can be complemented with a bright handkerchief in a jacket pocket, which can be combined with a tie. A classic cocktail allows men to add status to their image with a watch on a leather strap.

Girls can choose any color of the dress that opens the arms and shoulders, and regarding the length, they can orient themselves according to age standards:

• up to 25 years - the dress may end 20 cm below the knee;
• from 25 to 35 years old - any length is appropriate: from a long tickling ankle hem to ending in the middle of the thigh;
• after 35 the optimal dress length is considered to be 10-20 cm down from the knee.

It is appropriate to come to an event in this style in shoes with an open toe or heel, or beautiful platform sandals. The clutch can be of any color and be decorated with beads or metal elements.

The girl can complement the outfit with interesting wrist-length or elbow-length gloves.

Secular (Attire)

An evening event of a secular nature implies solemnity and sophistication in the style of clothing and especially accessories. Usually these are film premieres, openings of exhibitions of famous artists, and solemn awards.

For men original colors and bold combinations of a shirt and a suit are appropriate, a tie or bow tie is optional, you can also fasten a boutonniere of fresh flowers in the buttonhole.

Cufflinks made of precious metals will be relevant for such an outfit. Shoes can be either dark or light shades, or to match the suit.

For women, the format of a secular cocktail opens up wide opportunities for appearing in a unique outfit - really everything is allowed:

• The length of a dress or a suit consisting of a trouser or skirt bottom and a top in the form of a top or a blouse is not regulated. If you follow the fashion trends that are presented on the world red carpet, it is obvious that both styles and types of fabrics allow more and more liberties to those invited to this kind of event.
• Shoes can be either closed or have the form of a high platform with a fabric top in the face of a single strip.
• Clutches have a purely decorative function and are often made in the form of any objects.
• Expensive and luxurious jewelry is appropriate: necklaces with precious stones, rings and bracelets, as well as long chandelier earrings.

For "business cocktail" and "classic cocktail" the presence of stockings or tights is a must. The format of parties and business meetings "coctail attire" is the most popular format of events today

reference! There is another kind of this dress code - Creative Cocktail. This concept means that men can add bright colors, unusual details and accessories to their image, while not deviating from the basic concept of the Cocktail dress code.

Following the general guidelines for dressing, shoes and accessories provided in this article will help you avoid many awkward situations in which you can unknowingly look like a "white crow" among employees.

Enjoy your event and be confident in your own style!

Dress code for men: Cocktail - what it means and how to dress a man, if specified in the invitation. Dress code etiquette for men on the website portal - in the new publications of the project of the Kiev fashionista Yulia Dobrovolskaya "Ideal wardrobe".

Cocktail dress code. Men

on the picture: Julia Dobrovolskaya

Dress code requirements and may seem incompatible with real life: tailcoats, tuxedos, bow ties, boutonnieres with live gardenias ...

"The only man who really needs a tailcoat is a man with a hole in his trousers." [John Taylor.]

Cocktail dress code (from English - cocktail) of the official solemn group of dress codes brings dressing and accessory solutions closer to the familiar, familiar, familiar suits, and ideally integrates into the everyday realities of every person. Events such as a wedding, an anniversary banquet, a presentation, an exhibition, an evening on the occasion of the premiere of the performance perfectly cooperate with the dress codeCocktail ... Components of a cocktail dress code must be present in every men's wardrobe base.

Cocktail dress code - the concept is quite flexible. The place and time of the event, the degree of formality, humility and the theme of the setting, the participants in the cocktail are important touches in the drawing of the graphic image of the dress codeCocktail ... For a visual comparison: an event dedicated to the opening of a charity fund at the embassy and a party in a restaurantfor men only (men only) dedicated to a friend's imminent wedding. Both the first and second actions are fundamentally opposite in design, but, despite this, both actions take place under the headingCocktail.

All Cocktail events , regardless of the above-mentioned polarity characteristics, is united by the freedom of movement of the participants. Whether you're carrying a plate of aperitifs at a buffet table, dancing, or just cleverly discussing business details over a glass of alcoholic beverage with a potential partner, you need to look light, relaxed and at ease.

Dress code for menCocktail. Costume

Suit in black or medium gray. If the event takes place during the daytime during the warm season, the costume can be made in lighter colors. The vest is an optional addition to the suit.

Dress code for menCocktail. Shirt

A monochrome shirt without patterns - white or light, bleached to match the suit. If the shirt is worn without a tie, then a couple of buttons must be unbuttoned. This will give the image a touch of deliberate negligence, smooth out unnecessary and unwanted formality.

Stylistic idea: For an event with a low formality factor, try experimenting with a black shirt and a navy (or dark gray) suit.

Dress code for menCocktail . Accessories

Belt

A classic suit, classic trousers with straps - a classic belt - a logical series of a classic look. Read more about how to choose a men's belt on portal 2queens. ru.

Clock

Prohibited in dress codes for menWhite Tie and Black Tie move - a wristwatch as a demonstration of status is allowed in the dress codeCocktail ... In order for the movement to be correct, the watch case must be flat, the model must be classic, the bracelet must be leather. The skin color of the bracelet must match the skin color of the accessory group of the image (belt and shoes).

Footwear

Elegant shoes with a neat toe and thin leather soles.

Pocket square or boutonniere

A scarf for a breast pocket is such a piquant and simple at the same time detail, subject to and permissible if desired by everyone, can in a matter of seconds turn an ordinary classic dark jacket into a cocktail look of a real dandy. The presence of a tie in the wardrobe group does not affect the presence of a scarf in the breast pocket.

For special occasions, a buttonhole buttonhole. Only from fresh flowers! When pinning a boutonniere, always remember that due to the established stereotypes, with a boutonniere, you run the risk of looking like a witness at a wedding.

Tie

Tie - solid color or with elegant and sophisticated patterns. In a semi-formal setting, a tie is optional. A bow tie is a valid option.

photos from sites: ahfashion. com, delukt. com, replwatch. com, vmclothing. co. uk, blog. eluxl. com