The Origins of The Cocktail Dresses

The Origins of The Cocktail Dresses

By Jesse Love

Designer Christian Dior is credited with coining the term cocktail dress during the late-1940's, using the term in reference to early evening wear. Yet the style had actually been around since the mid-1920's. Cocktail parties first emerged during Prohibition, and were held in private homes or speakeasies. Contraband liquor was expensive, so of course most of the attendees were wealthy individuals who viewed the gatherings as chic social events.

For the women attending, these drinking get-togethers were too formal for regular daywear, but too informal for true evening wear, so a new fashion evolved that was initially inspired by flapper dresses. Originally designed for younger women, the new cocktail dresses were short, and typically made from silk and layered chiffon. This allowed for the women to still look fashionable, without having to get too dressed up.

These new dresses then prompted the development of unique cocktail accessories such as small handbags, simple shoes that usually color matched the dress, short gloves, and a small hat. This accessory style remained the norm up through the mid-1960's. As you know you cannot be fashionable without a few accessories to go with your outfit.

After alcohol was again legalized in 1933 and cocktail parties became more and more common, dresses began to be designed for more mature women. Silk remained the preferred fabric, but the cut of the dresses became more refined and form-fitting, evolving into the classic "little black dress" that soon became a staple in every woman's wardrobe. You had to have the classic black dress for that particular party.

Today, cocktail dresses are suitable for both cocktail parties and semi-formal events. They come in a variety of color, print and cut, with the elaborateness of the dress, length, and amount of skin revealed varying according to the context for which the dress was designed. Even though hats and gloves are no longer in fashion, a classic, well-fitted, short black dress with a clutch purse and stylish shoes remains perfect for any informal occasion where cocktails will be served.

Staying true to form our woman have been able to take this outfit and keep it classic but still able to add modern style to the ensemble. One of the things that I like most about this outfit is the fact that not only are you able to it through various accessories such as jewelery and handbags but you can also wear the outfit with no accessories. Because it is so fabulous just by itself you do not have to put together a lot of pieces to go with it.

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Differences Between Cocktail Dresses and Formal Dresses

Differences Between Cocktail Dresses and Formal Dresses

By Ophelia Zhao

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.

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What accessories to wear with cocktail dresses

Author: zaarah

Women mostly donned cocktail dresses in the evenings to graceful events or special evening events. Although still regarded as formal-wear, several ladies have been using this dress in several ways. Late afternoon and early evening gatherings and events have become perfect venues to wear these dresses. You should choose a cocktail dress that appears stylish. You must make sure that it's stylish for your body type. When going to a formal dinner, there is no outfit more suitable than a cocktail dress for ladies. And with some adornment and additional accessories, the dress will look even good. These are some useful ideas which will show you the best way to dress up your dress, and look dazzling when you go out in it.

Earrings: A cocktail dress is the ice cream, and in order to complete the sundae, you want great jewelry. A pair of dazzling drop earrings goes well with a cocktail dress. Choose earrings which feature gemstones such as rubies and diamonds. If ever you want to justify purchasing such accessories, keep in mind that they are very stylish now and will still be in the future, and can be paired with almost anything - including that little black dress.
Necklace: A dress is best paired with suitable earrings and necklace as accessories. These two go well together! Your dress will draw more attention if only a necklace which is single stranded and has a diamond or stone is worn, rather than making yourself over dressed with heavy jeweler. To complement your cocktail dress, you can decide one with colored stones or beads.

Bracelet: Each and every person has their own style-bracelets might not be your thing. If you can wear them without discomfort, then they're a great complement to any cocktail dress. If you are already wearing some bold jewelry, decide simple bracelets to wear with your outfit. You may prefer to wear either the necklace or bracelet, but not both.

Purse: It's never proper to attend a cocktail affair without the suitable purse accessorizing your dress. Even a small one will be enough, with your lipstick, tissue and other just as small things will fit inside. Once more, stay with the overall ideas. If your outfit features beads, select a beaded clutch to complement your ensemble. The best match for your gemstone jewelry would be a shiny black clutch purse with a few rhinestones on it.

Shoes: The finishing touch for your dress is a great pair of shoes. The shoes with open-toe and straps should be selected. For most occasions this type of shoe or sandal will work. Avoid anything that goes too high up your leg or has several embellishments on it. You should not wear nylon stockings if you are wearing an open toe heel. If you find nylons essential, wear closed-toe shoes. Either way, dazzling silver or gold heels goes with just about any cocktail dress or they easily tie into all of your accessories.

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Looking Stylish in White Evening Gowns

Author: Zaarah S

There is indeed style in simplicity, especially when in to comes to formal evening wears. White evening gowns, because of its subtle sexiness and unique appeal, are becoming the new black and the more admired favorite of women when it comes to formal dressing. Donning a white gown could translate lots of message. It could be ease, innocence, clarity, or sexiness and romance, but in entirety, any white gown exudes a lot of sophistication. How it flatters a woman of any skin tone and the hugeness of options the trend comes in makes white a unique staple in your closet for your evening engagements.

Calvin Klein is one brand that totally understands the extent of how trendy, graceful, beautiful and unique white can be. The name known for being among the leading fashion designers and manufacturers in the world, the entire line of CK's collection, from men and women's clothing, belts, scents, bath, bags, footwear, hosiery, swimwear, eyewear, watches, coats and suits among others, is a clear expression how the name lives up to its reputable name and place in the fashion industry, and is a brand one can never go wrong with.

From its large selection of beautiful white gowns for women, two styles stood out. Calvin Klein's 'Bead Trim Ruched Chiffon Gown' is an empire-waist inspires strapless gown with a lovely twisted band below the bust to define the complete silhouette and create minimal pleats from the gathered waist which adds a lot of character to the whole look. The clear bead details that lines its neckline is a subtle yet stylish way to translate the elegance of white. Made of polyester, it drapes the body elegantly while its padded cups, interior corset and rubber gripper on the top maintains an eye-catching bodice.The princess attires are flowing dresses starting from the top to bottom, as the vertical panes follow the natural shape of the body. This creates an illusion of a long, lean look. It makes the hips look more rounded and disguise tummy. On the whole, it gives a smooth and graceful look.

A mermaid-shaped dress is a straight, slim fit shaped closely to the body up to the knee, and just below, the skirt flares out. This kind of dress makes a woman looks tall and thin. It helps disguise the tummy and hips. This kind of dresses are however, not for a flabby type of body, while it makes a well-toned body look attractive.

It is best to decide the style of the dress that is suitable for your body shape rather than those which look good at the showroom. Look into the mirror and be truthful with yourself. Try to objectively find the parts of the body that you look excellent at and those which you would not want to show off. The colors may not make difference, but go in for a single color from top to bottom. Different colors at a variety of points may make the body appear shorter, and give a "stumpy" look. Select the accessories that complement your gown and use them to distract attention from the unshapely spots.

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How to Pick the Perfect Party Dresses

How to pick the perfect party dresses


Author: zaarah

It has to be conceded that picking the perfect party dress is a daunting task as you will come across an amazing array of dresses – one as appealing as the other. For choosing the perfect party dress, you will have to consider a variety of factors such as the nature of the party, the style statement you wish to convey, the design that will highlight your body shape and how provocative or sober you wish to appear.
Please ascertain how formal or informal will the party you are attending is going to be. For instance, if you are attending an upscale dinner party, it is advisable that you opt for a more conventional cut and a dress that does not reveal too much of your skin. For informal parties, fashionable cuts and dresses that cover less and reveal more are perfectly acceptable but you should not appear distasteful or pronouncedly vulgar.
Bestow enough attention for choosing the perfect color and you should try to select the color that will prominently bring out your best features. There are many online sites and fashion magazines that give color recommendations based on your skin tone and provide suggestions for your hair and eye coloring.
You can also enquire from your friends which color suits you best. Black is considered to be the color of all season and all types of parties, but if you wish to look more gorgeous than the rest, than the rest then experiment with colors.
Next, you must consider the fabric. Please remember that a party dress, however appealing and well-tailored, can be marred if the fabric is wrong. Please bear in mind that a low-quality fabric is always noticed by the guests present. Spend a little more liberally to buy quality fabrics, and your party dress will surely look fabulous on your body as also to the discerning eye.
Make it a point to select a fabric that will accentuate your body curves. For instance, Jersey and knit fabrics will cling to your body and make you appear larger than you are.
Shop leisurely to hit up on some amazing party dresses that are uncommon and will make you conspicuous in a crowd. Looking trendy is no doubt important but if you intend to only buy a single party dress, then choose a party dress that will be versatile and will be an acceptable wear for both formal and informal parties.
Needless to say, there are specific dresses that, if chosen rightly, will definitely set you apart in a social meet. For example, a lengthy mermaid drop dress will make you look mature and aristocratic as a frilly and short dress will make you look somewhat frivolous and girlish and even a little wild. Learning about the dress styles that will add charm and grace to you body shape is very necessary. For instance, tall girls can wear long formal ball gowns as party dresses and a girl with a small build may choose a dress with many layers. A perfect party dress is one that has the creative cut, elegant style, rich fabric and a matching color to fully complement your body shape, features and - skin tone.

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Wear Cocktail Dress for Stylish Look

Wear cocktail dress for stylish look

Author: zaarah

Cocktail parties need you to appear stylish and stylish at the same time. Dresses possess their own allure and every girl must exhibit her womanly appeal in the best manner. A usual cocktail dress is perfect for both formal and casual gatherings. It can be knee length or even a slight longer or shorter than that. In case you are specific regarding necklines, you can always go for strapless, spaghetti straps, sleeveless, one shoulder or off the shoulder dresses according to your body form.

Cocktail gown styles in which you can try to impart that stylish look to your appearance:

1. You can try a gorgeous cowl necked sequined dress. This neckline has a very shapeless and hanging pattern. This kind of dress would be appropriate for grand cocktail shindig.

2. A knee length spaghetti strapped cocktail gowns would completely make you appear like a million bucks. Beautiful adornments on the bodice would appear definitely superb.

3. Red is definitely the perfect color of virtually any party. A fabulous red thin spaghetti strapped mini dress covered with beautiful sequins is certain to make you resemble a star.

4. Strapless necklines have certain glamour about them and yellow will certainly convey. The happy brightness to your look. This design is absolutely splurging for your most anticipated cocktail party.

5. A black shirt dresses is a must in your cabinet. It comes handy for all type of functions. It's a very admired style and is completely proper for a normal cocktail soiree.

A woman has to work on every part of her body to appear appealing. Nonetheless, at the end it is the dress, that when worn suitably, completes the perfect picture. Of the different aspects of a lady like the hair, or the make-up, or fashion accessories, it's the lady's collection that lures and helps obtain interest in the crowd. Stylish beaded chiffon with ruffle back detail and rhinestone straps. This soft flowing dress is superb from the front or even the back highlighted by the perfect amount of rhinestone and crystal detail. It's available in ivory, plum, and cerise, black/silver and navy.

Nonetheless, usually ladies get mixed up between the dress and the night time cocktail dress, hence, why don't we first identify the 2 and clarify this bafflement. A cocktail dress is really intended to be used to social formal occasions, like receptions, office meetings, or social gatherings. Usually, the dresses must not have collars and they come with or without sleeves. The dress is considered to be fancier and also more stylish compared to the regular dress but it is also a lot less stylish and formal than the usual evening dress.

You must give less importance to the accessories; simply a string of pearls will surely work and add more to the attractiveness. Nowadays, the cocktail dress is addressed for the unforgettable events and gatherings that use the dress code just like a family get together, an office event, reception, and so on.



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Sample Sale - Vera Wang Lavender

Sample Sale: March 31 - April 3

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Womens: tops, blouses, sweaters shorts, skirts, pants
day, cocktail and evening dresses and more.....


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2008 Fall dresses by Sari Gueron are up to 90% off

When: 3/24 - 3/27

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