I recently attended an event where Cocktail Attire was requested. You can imagine my surprise when I saw many ladies dressed like they were going to pick up men at the club or like they were having a beer with friends at the local pub.

Ladies, Ladies, Ladies…..there is nothing about daisy dukes, flip flops, or hoochie-mama clothes that even come close to fitting into the category of Cocktail Attire. Ladies, you can be sexy without showing everything you have. Especially when the invitation specifically calls for you to dress in your finest. Now, not everyone can afford Chanel, Christian Dior, or Oscar de la Renta. We must work with what we have or what we can afford. After seeing such fashion nightmares recently, I wanted to offer just a few suggestions of Cocktail Dresses. I have made sure to include dresses for various sizes AND budgets.

 These two dresses are from White House/Black Market and are priced at $168 a piece

 I found these at Macy’s. They are all priced between $70-$170

If you are not comfortable wearing a dress, that’s ok.  Something similar to this would also work

I found this dress at Cache for $148. Don’t be afraid to use color!

These final three are from Belk and are priced between $70-$178

If you are working with a really tight budget, you still have options!! Check out your local upscale consignment shops, ebay, and even Goodwill. Other chain stores such as Burlington Coat Factory, Ross, and Target may also have something more in your budget. A little black dress is a MUST HAVE in the closets of all women. You can always dress up or dress down a black dress by changing up the style of accessories and shoes you use. 

 Dressing up for a Charity Event, a Red Carpet Event, or any other Cocktail party can be fun! Enjoy it BUT please for the love of all things pretty, leave your Club Wear at home.