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How to Dress for a Cocktail Party

By Paula Darnell, About.com

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Select a Short, Dressy Dress

Petite 'Dancing with the Stars' two-time winner Juliana Hough at the Country Music Awards at the MGM in Las Vegas, Mary 18, 2008

Charley Gallay/Getty Images
Cocktail party wear is all about the dress. Although an alternative might be a dressy top and slacks, I vote for the dress every time. Attending a cocktail party or event that calls for the cocktail party attire gives you a great opportunity to show your femininity and put together a fabulous look.

Look for:

  • a short dress

    Wear your dress above the knee if you have great, slender legs. If your thighs are big, but your calves are shapely, wear your dress at the knee. If your knees are a problem, wear your dress just below the knee.

  • a dressy style

    A party deserves a party dress. Don't wear a dress that you could wear every day.

  • great fabric that feels good next to your skin

    Silk in satin, crepe de chine, taffeta, or chiffon works nicely for a cocktail party dress. For budget selections, look for polyester or rayon, both of which mimic silk well at more affordable prices.

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