Cocktail Party Attire

[SirGrotius]

Hi all - I did a search, but oddly did not see this question asked before.

What is the current state of the cocktail party attire? I'm unsure if I should do a suit, and if so, what color is best for an evening cocktail party, or more blazer and nice jeans, leather shoes, etc.

The couple who are hosting are rather fancy, but I could imagine anything from a tux to a Christmas sweater at such an event, so would appreciate any pointers.

 

[breakaway01]

more context maybe? It is hard because there is no 'current state' anymore. I think you have to read the hosts, expected participants, setting. For example is this work-related (if so leaning more suit or sportcoat, not tux) or something among close friends or a larger mix of friends/acquaintances/strangers (to you)? At someone's home or in a different space? Is there a more formal sit-down meal vs buffet/hors d'oeuvres vs potluck?

 

[SirGrotius]

more context maybe? It is hard because there is no 'current state' anymore. I think you have to read the hosts, expected participants, setting. For example is this work-related (if so leaning more suit or sportcoat, not tux) or something among close friends or a larger mix of friends/acquaintances/strangers (to you)? At someone's home or in a different space? Is there a more formal sit-down meal vs buffet/hors d'oeuvres vs potluck?

Great points.
Someone's home, or more so, their mansion.
Mostly friends, some work colleagues of the owners, but a lot of it is we all have kids that go to school together in the elementary age. It's at 6 pm, so was assuming hors d'oeuvres.
I know the little kids tend to eat earlier, so I'm not expecting a feast and it's definitely more formal than a potluck.

 

[breakaway01]

IME (since I also have good friends whom we met through our kids) there will be a whole range of formality here. I personally would wear something around the formality of a knit tie/tweed or faux-tweed sportcoat. I don't usually wear jeans with sportcoats but you certainly wouldn't stand out if you did. Wouldn't wear a business-y suit (e.g. striped, solid navy or grey) but a casual suit could work if you have one.

 

[classicalthunde]

I would just ask the hosts or someone else who is going to be there what people typically wear (i.e. is it a dressy or casual attire) and then go from there. I agree that tweed is a solid in between if you want to hedge your bets

 

[Gus]

Even if the host says it will be a mix of casual to smart, everyone looks great at Christmas parties with a bit of color. So add a colorful sweater, scarf or socks for a little fun.

 

[DapperPhilly]

Do not wear a tux. Aside from that "cocktail attire" runs the gambit these days depending also on the city in which you live.

I still usually wear a blue suit but SC and slacks are fine. Dress shirt with some color. Tie is optional.
I personally wouldn't wear jeans but thats me.