5 Differences Between a Cocktail Dress and Formal Gown

When it comes to a cocktail party, the most popular vision is nothing but a hot girl in a sexy cocktail dress with nice legs. It rocks, doesn’t it? While we’re talking about a formal event, it’s another story. The invitation tells “A Black Tie Party” which means we must wear formal dresses. How can we tell the difference between cocktail dresses and formal dresses? What do we need to pay attention? The following tips may help you decide what to wear once you’re invited.

Formality

A cocktail dress usually means what we wear to a cocktail party. Drinks and appetizers are generally served there. Moreover, guests have freedom to decide the skirt length since a cocktail party is less formal than most events. Formal dresses are what we wear to special occasions such as formal weddings, balls, charity events, etc. Choosing what to wear depends on the event formality. If you wear a cocktail dress in a formal event, you might not be thought as a cultivated woman as formal events require proper solemnities.

Skirt length

The length of cocktail dresses can be ranged from mid-thigh to knee length. You can decide the skirt length according to your body shape. A mid-thigh length dress is fabulous for a woman with nice legs, while a knee length dress suits for all-figures. However, the lengths of formal dresses are generally from knee length to floor length. Floor length is absolutely the most popular one when you’re attending some formal events like a cathedral wedding. It is not appropriate to wear an above-knee length dress in a formal occasion.

Color

Cocktail dresses are available in a wide range of colors and patterns. Bold colors like pink or tiger brindles are sure to turn heads in a cocktail party. Don’t worry about that you might be more attractive than the bride in a wedding or you might not look graceful in a bright shiny colored dress in a white tie occasion. On the contrary, you need to pay attention when choosing color of formal gowns. As usual, monotone or uncomplicated color combinations are appropriate for formal dresses. Stay away from the bright hues like red or pink at funeral.

Accessories

No matter what event you are attending, never forget to accessorize your dress with matching jewelry. The same set works for both cocktail dress and formal dress. Chic clutches or designer handbags add a classy touch to your gown. Stilettos work well with your cocktail dress as they elongate your legs. A pair of shining high heels with crystals will accent your floor length formal dress and produce a red carpet look. Remember to put on your favorite earrings and necklace for a complete ensemble.

Fabric

As for the fabrics, cocktail dresses and formal dresses are basically the same. Satin, taffeta and organza goes well with any gowns.

Ask Ophelia Zhao, who is from DressesShop.com, for advice in areas of Formal Dresses and Cocktail Dresses. We write numerous articles providing information for the customers. We carry a fabulous collection of Custom Made Dresses designed to complement your special moment. Visit today and receive discount shipping on any dresses.

Dave and Johnny Dress 4549
Offer by: TJ Formal
Price: USD 150.00
READY FOR IMMEDIATE SHIPPING. ONE ONLY. SIZE 3/4 IN SILVER. NO RE-ORDER AVAIALBLE. IN STOCK AND READY TO SHIP. Dave and Johnny brings us some of our most affordable prom and party dresses. They will fit your style as well as your budget. And, don't forget, we can offer you an unparalleled selection of accessories to make your prom outfit complete. From shoes and jewelry to handbags and foundation wear, we have everything you need for your own unique look. Make us you one stop shop for all your party dress needs. Stunning dress with pleated sweetheart neckline and thick straps, empire waistline embellished with jewels and beading. Just above the knee, the skirt has godets for a flared short skirt. This is a short version of style 4547. Shown in Silver.

Fitted Gray Strapless Formal Gown by Atria

You’re sure to be noticed as soon as you walk into the room in this gorgeous strapless design by Atria. Beautiful detail in the criss cross ruching on the bodice will ensure you spend more time mingling and dancing and less time pulling and tugging at your dress.

  • Beautiful crisscross ruching on bodice for a flattering fit
  • Gorgeous train
  • Strapless bra friendly
  • Floor length evening dress
  • 90% spandex, 10% lycra; dry clean only
  • [Read more...]

    Liquid Lame Formal Gowns

    silver-liquid-lame-gown-silver-metallic-gown1

    A stunning fit and flare liquid lamé softly accented with ruching throughout the bodice. The bodice is lightly adorned with asymmetrical beadwork for an eye-catching effect. This dress truly has a “red carpet” appeal. Flirt is the fabulous  line of dresses from famed design house Maggie Sottero. Sexy, fashion forward, and always perfect for any special night out, these gowns never disappoint.

    [Read more...]

    Formal Wear for Cruises: What should you wear?

    strapless-purple-dress-cruise-dresses

    Click here to purchase:

    Strapless Purple Dress
    icon

    Formal night on the cruise – The agony and the ecstasy! How better to describe the romantic night when cruise passengers don their best formal cruise wear and strut their stuff?

    For some men, it’s the agony of picking out your finest formal cruise wear, carefully packing them in your suitcase, unpacking and un-wrinkling them, and then, worst of all….. having to put the threads on. For other men, it’s the romantic ecstasy of seeing your dazzling beauty dressed in her finest, and walking arm-in-arm through the elegant dining room.

    shirred-black-dress-lotta-stensson

    Click here to purchase:


    Lotta Stensson Shirred Dress in Black

    For some women, it’s the agony of deciding what to pack for the formal cruise wear night. Should it be black or brightly colored? Long or short? Or should it be slacks or a gown? For other women it’s the ecstasy of a wonderful romantic night of elegance.

    black-dress-a-line-skirt-cruise-night-event

    Click here to purchase:


    Moonlight Val Stefani Bridesmaid Dress VS8732

    For many women the task of preparing formal cruise wear can be much more exciting or much more daunting. Formal evening gowns are elegant and can be show-stoppers. But pant suits and slacks or skirts and tops can be glamorous as well! In fact a very practical article for any woman to pack is a pair of black silky “cocktail” type slacks. They take up very little room in the luggage and resist wrinkling! Matched them with a couple of tops, and you have formal cruise wear ensembles with very little fuss. And, most have stretchy waistbands so you can enjoy the wonderful culinary masterpieces in comfort! Flat or low heeled shoes make navigating onboard much easier and more comfortable.

    silver-evening-gown-cruise-gown

    Click here to purchase:


    Flirt 2009 Prom Dress P4313