Black Cocktail Dresses

Black Cocktail Dresses

Black cocktail dresses are timeless and ultra-chic. The right black cocktail dress can stay in your wardrobe season after season and still exude sophistication, so finding the perfect one is a worthy investment. 

No matter what your skin or hair undertones are, a black dress will be flattering. There’s a reason why black is fashion’s most popular neutral! 

Below, we’ll get into all the things to consider when you’re shopping for your perfect black cocktail dress. 

Black Cocktail Dress Details to Look for 

When you’re shopping for a black cocktail dress, there are several things that you’re going to want to keep in mind. One of the most important things will be what type of fabric you’d like your dress to be made of. Heavier fabrics like velvet will be warmer and suitable for outdoor events, whereas flowier fabrics will be great for keeping you cool, which is great for events with dancing. 

Details like sleeves, beading, and the dress’s neckline are great ways to show your personality while still maintaining the versatility of a little black dress. For a classic, ultra-versatile look, go for spaghetti straps or a strapless dress. For a little more drama, try puff sleeves or subtle beading in a contrasting color. 

If you’re hoping to find a black cocktail dress that has a slightly more elevated, semi-formal vibe, look for dresses with lots of sparkling beading, elaborate embellishments, or even long sleeves. For a more playful take on the little black dress look, try a one-shoulder dress or a bodice with a corset – especially paired with see-through fabric that shows a bit of skin. 

Short Black Cocktail Dresses

Typically, cocktail dresses hit above the knee, so generally, short options are what you think of when you think of a cocktail dress. There isn’t a set length for what makes a cocktail dress, so you can go a little shorter than above the knee and still have it be considered appropriate cocktail attire. 

Because they’re a touch more revealing, an ultra-short cocktail dress may be a little less versatile than cocktail dresses that hit the knee or a little above it. Keep this in mind when you’re cocktail dress shopping. To tone the shortness down a bit, you can pair your dress with black tights or tights in a color that matches your jewelry for a more whimsical look. 

If you’re looking for a dress for nights out or more playful functions, a shorter hemline is totally fine. However, if you’re hoping for a super versatile piece you can wear to weddings or graduation parties, you may want to consider a classic cocktail hemline. 

Accessorizing Black Cocktail Dresses

Since black is a neutral, it’ll pair nicely with just about any other color. This is part of what makes the black cocktail dress such a versatile piece – it’s like a canvas that you get to paint with your styling choices.

If it’s chilly outside, consider accessories to keep you warm. Black tights are a classic pairing with a black cocktail dress – try tights with a subtle print or lace design to add a pop of texture. You can also add chic opera gloves, a glamorous hat, or a jacket to keep you warm. 

To glam up your cocktail dress, consider luxurious jewelry choices, a demure clutch, and minimal makeup. To go a little less formal, try statement jewelry in a color of your choice. The brighter the color, the less formal your look will seem, especially paired with shoes in a similar hue. 

Events to Wear Your Black Cocktail Dress

A black cocktail dress is one of the most versatile pieces you can have in your wardrobe. When styled, a black cocktail dress can take you from a girls' night out to a wedding with a cocktail dress code. Here are just a few events to consider a black cocktail dress for: 

• Gallery openings

• Evening events 

• Events with a cocktail dress code 

• Work events (when styled appropriately) 

• Date nights 

Fitted black cocktail dresses will give a sophisticated, mature vibe and will blend seamlessly in just about any event with a cocktail dress code. A cocktail dress with an A-line or fuller skirt can be elevated a little more easily, but may come off as a little formal for a regular night out (though this can add a layer of whimsy to a regular night!) 

Timeless and Sophisticated in a Black Cocktail Dress 

Black cocktail dresses are a classic for a reason – you can dress them up or down to suit just about any event, and they never go out of style. For more on how to style a black dress, check out our guide!