Blue Cocktail Dresses

Lighter blues offer a sense of playfulness, whereas dark blues invoke an elevated vibe. Vibrant and saturated shades like royal blue can help you stand out from the crowd. However, more classic shades of blue can be perfect for an event honoring someone else, like a wedding. 

When you’re choosing a cocktail dress for an event, you’ll want to keep the dress code in mind; this will help inform you how detailed or simple your dress should be. If you’re just looking for a versatile cocktail dress to take you through the seasons, though, you can’t go wrong with blue! 

Light Blue Cocktail Dresses

Light shades like powder blue or French blue offer more of a whimsical take on a blue cocktail dress. These blues can add a romantic, playful vibe, especially when paired with ultra-feminine details like ruffles, corsetry, or bows. 

Even though blue is a cool color, light blue is a surprisingly flattering choice for a wide range of skin and hair undertones. When in doubt, try taking a few pictures when you try on your dress to see if it makes your skin pop. 

Light blue tends to pair well with demure accessories in silver or pearl. A pop of black can be a nod to Cinderella, and when used appropriately, the dynamic contrast between the dark color and the light blue can add lots of intrigue. Lighter colors like white, pink, or green can also be really flattering with light blue.

Dark Blue Cocktail Dresses

A dark blue cocktail dress brings an air of elevation and slight formality to a shorter hemline. Deep shades of navy exude sophistication, and like a black cocktail dress, it can be one of the most versatile pieces in your wardrobe. Rich, royal blues make a statement, especially paired with an eye-catching neckline. 

Dark blue, like navy, is another one that’s generally universally flattering, but be sure to try your dress on before going to your event. Saturated shades of blue, like royal blue, tend to be most complementary to cool skin and hair undertones. 

Pearls create a stunning contrast with a dark blue cocktail dress. Cool-toned metallics like silver are a natural pairing, but dark blue can also be paired with greens, purples, and sometimes even pink for an extra pop of color. For a streamlined look, choose delicate shoes or pumps that match your skin tone. 

Short Blue Cocktail Dress

While a cocktail dress traditionally hits around the knee, it’s okay to wear a shorter dress if the event calls for it. This will typically be appropriate for a less-elevated dress code, like the aptly named cocktail dress code, or for an event at a more casual venue like a bar. 

Pair your look with tights that complement the dress if you’re looking for more leg coverage. Elevated accessories like opera gloves or something glamorous for your hair can take a shorter look to the next level.

If you’re not sure about a shorter dress for an event, it’s usually best to go a little longer with your hemline. 

Events to Wear a Blue Cocktail Dress 

Blue cocktail dresses are extremely versatile because of the range of hues that blue covers. From more formal events to themed parties, it’s not hard to find a blue dress that will fit right in. 

Light blue is great for daytime or afternoon events, like a garden party calling for cocktail attire, a birthday brunch with your friends, or a midday gallery opening. Try a print if you’re hoping to add a dose of whimsy to a more structured silhouette. 

Light blue, or more saturated shades of blue, can also be great for a theme party like “Under the Sea” or “Winter Wonderland,” because of blue’s associations with both. A blue cocktail dress can also turn heads at a “Vintage Glamour” party; just look for details like a Bardot neckline, fringe, or an A-line dress with a full skirt to embody whichever era you’re going for. 

A dark blue cocktail dress is the perfect choice for an evening wedding with a cocktail dress code, as it brings a sense of elevation in the color and a bit of playfulness with the hemline. For a wedding taking place earlier in the day, light blue can be appropriate, just make sure not to go too light, as you don’t want it to look white. 

Blue Cocktail Dresses for a Range of Party Looks

A blue cocktail dress can be a go-to piece for just about any event during any time of year, no matter the theme. If you’re looking for another extremely versatile color for your cocktail dress, try green.