Cocktail Dresses for Women

Cocktail dresses

Cocktail dresses are considered a compromise between ostentatious evening fashion and simple everyday dresses. They originated in the 1920s, when Coco Chanel made the Little Black Dress popular. They have been an indispensable part of formal evening wear for women for a long time and are considered true classics.

The name “cocktail dress” literally says it all - the short or knee-length dresses were worn to cocktail parties, which started in the late afternoon and ended in the early evening. The wide range of styles ensures that you will find the perfect cocktail dress for you. Find the dress that suits you and that you feel comfortable in, from the classic sheath dress to the modern wrap dress.

Dress code cocktail - How to find the right dress

If dress code cocktail is written on the invitation, a cocktail dress is obligatory for women. This dress code is often used for exhibition previews, fashion events, openings, parties and weddings. Every year, well-known brands launch new cocktail dresses - the variety is great and so there is a suitable dress for every figure, every style and every woman.

The classic among cocktail dresses is the little black dress. The length of can range from above the knee to the calf. It shouldn’t be any longer because this is what makes it different to an elegant evening dress.

Many different shapes characterize the wide range of cocktail dresses nowadays. A-line dresses and sheath dresses are particularly popular. These designs are tight on the top and the skirt flares out from the waist, which creates a very feminine look.

Figure-hugging dresses are also popular as cocktail dresses. For an extravagant look, designers use asymmetric cuts such as those which are longer at the back than the front. Besides the silhouette, the shape of the neckline is also important. For example, there are cocktail dresses with halter neck, bandeau or spaghetti straps. The neckline also comes in different designs. From the modern cowl neck to the classic scoop neck, there is the right model for every occasion.

Knee-length cocktail dresses with glittery appliqués, sequins, rhinestones, bows or feminine details look particularly glamorous. A high waist belt can also turn the dress into an eye-catcher. From ruffles to embellishments and lace to frills, everything is possible in the detailing of these exciting dresses.

Also a chic variant, are dresses in which the skirt and chest section are set off from each other - for example, the skirt can have a floral pattern, while the top is kept subtle and solid-colored.

Style guide: How to combine cocktail dresses

Cocktail dresses for women are best combined with a high-quality clutch or evening bag and matching high heels. The latter visually lengthen your legs. For a long evening, elegant sandals are also a great choice. Simple jewelry - such as fine a fine necklace - complements the overall look and gives the outfit an elegant touch.

Important: Make sure that shoes, bags and accessories are part of the same color family. This gives your outfit that 'put-together' look to make a fashion statement.

The dress for every occasion

Of course, you can wear these dresses even when they are not required by the dress code. Today, cocktail dresses are suitable for many occasions - as an eye-catcher for your New Year’s Eve outfit or a prom dress. The knee-length dresses are a must-have in every woman’s wardrobe. Whether for a relaxed dinner with friends or as a chic outfit for a special celebration - cocktail dresses are nearly always a good choice.

Always choose the dress according to the occasion. For example, a cocktail dress made of shimmering silk in pastel with a loosely falling neckline for a beautiful décolleté suits a wedding reception, while a simple dress with sleeves is suitable for a business dinner.

Exclusive cocktail dresses for a glamorous looks

Cocktail dresses elegantly highlight the female silhouette. With a perfectly fitting dress, you will create an extravagant and expressive look. Whether classic, modern or playful - cocktail dresses can be worn on many occasions and highlight the personality of every woman.

Discover your dream dress now in the BREUNINGER online shop and be enchanted by the variety. From dresses in subtle and simple colors to models made of particularly fine fabrics such as silk or satin to exciting designs with trims made of sequins or even beads - find THE dress with which you will turn heads on the next occasion. In addition to the latest collections and the trendiest variations, you can also expect attractive offers in the cocktail dresses for women on special offer. Don’t miss the women’s dresses on special offer - besides cocktail dresses you can also find other popular styles like knit dresses, lace dresses or shirt dresses.

Frequently asked questions about cocktail dresses

What exactly is a cocktail dress?

A cocktail dress is considered a less formal evening dress, but is still a chic option for special occasions. It ends just above or below the knee and has a figure-hugging cut. The party dress comes in different styles, colors and materials like satin, lace or chiffon.

When should you wear a cocktail dress?

You can rarely go wrong with a cocktail dress. It is always a good choice for formal occasions such as weddings, birthday parties, christenings or a reception. The knee-length dress is not too elegant, but still stands out. It particularly emphasizes your legs.

Who invented the cocktail dress?

The Little Black Dress, which Coco Chanel made world famous in the late 1920s, is considered the precursor of the cocktail dress. In the late 40s, designer Christian Dior named it the robe de cocktail (cocktail dress in French). It is worn in the early evening – when it is time for a cocktail or an aperitif.

Which shoes go well with a cocktail dress?

Since the cocktail dress is chic but not quite long, open shoes like sandals, high heels, wedges or kitten heels go very well with the outfit. Depending on the type and cut of the dress, you can also opt for pumps or mules. Always choose the shoes to match the dress and also match other accessories like jewelry and bag.

Which jackets go well with a cocktail dress?

Which jacket you choose to go with your cocktail dress depends on various factors such as the sleeves, the occasion, the style of the dress as well as your personal taste. In addition to the classic bolero jacket, blazers - from oversized cut to figure-hugging models - and light cardigans can also be combined with the cocktail dress. The jacket should complement the dress and should not be the focus of the outfit with too bright colors or eye-catching appliqués.