What To Wear Over a Cocktail Dress

There is nothing like a cocktail dress to make just the right statement at a party. With such a wide array of choices available for every occasion, pairing outfits is no small struggle. When it comes to the simple elegance of a great cocktail dress, subtlety is key. The best complementary pieces are simple tops that do not cover or reveal too much.

But when the weather is less than ideal, you have the added difficulty of deciding what to wear over a cocktail dress. Learn more about your options for staying warm while looking great. 

Dress Coats

While it may seem counterintuitive to wear a coat over a dress, the winter months are nothing to mess with. An attractive and sleek coat is an essential item for any wardrobe. When dressing for winter, a coat is an appropriate selection for wearing over an evening gown or any formal dress. A mid-thigh wool option in a matching or neutral color will ensure you stay warm all night. They also have the bonus of being an interesting piece themselves. Coats are an extra fun option because, once you put them away in the cloakroom, you will be able to dramatically reveal your cocktail dress, especially if you choose a striking color. 

Jackets

Depending on the material, a jacket can be a nice alternative to a full coat. Many varieties feature various sleeve lengths and warmer layering for added comfort. Ideally, a jacket made specifically for a cocktail dress is best, as their look is designed to accentuate the shoulders and upper torso. For a more casual look, any nice jacket that is not too loose or too gaudy will do. Lastly, depending on the party, a well fitted and fashionable leather jacket can draw a lot of admiring eyes and can be a great choice for a party with a casual dress code. 

Shawls

You can easily solve the problem of what to wear over a cocktail dress with a simple shawl. This variety of shoulder drape fits somewhere between a coat and a jacket. Shawls are very cozy, and it is has been a common item throughout history to stave off weather of all manners. Many shawls are available in an array of materials, colors, and designs, which makes them very easy to pair with an outfit and literally throw over the shoulders. For those that must have their hands free, a cloak or cloak pin are wonderful alternatives. The cloaks commonly found on the market today often feature a built-in cloak pin or have another fastening mechanism that allows the wearer to move about without the cloth shifting or fluttering away.

Wraps

Like shawls, wraps are also a variety of open shoulder drapes. As the truly luxurious choice on the list, wraps are our favorite accessories to pair with our wide selection of boutique-style cocktail dresses. Wraps vary from pieces akin to infinity scarfs to more traditional scarf-like drapes. Wraps are often very dramatic statement pieces made of rich furs or faux. This type of adornment is very reminiscent of the high glamour and ritzy party scenes of the Roaring 20s. They neatly bundle cutting edge fashion with traditional beauty, making them an excellent choice for leaving a strong impression.

Shrugs

The final option for pieces to pair with a cocktail dress is a shrug. Never worry about what to wear over a cocktail or homecoming dress when a shrug is an option, as these beautiful garments are specially made to accentuate the form. Typically, they do not close at the front and instead just cover the arms and shoulders and sweep around the ribs. The effect is a stunning emphasis on form that underlines and complements a cocktail dress. If you need something that’s just a bit warmer, this is a great option. 

If you’re still deciding on what to wear over a cocktail dress or what dress to choose, read our tips for choosing a short cocktail dress. If you’re in New York, make an appointment with us by calling (718) 946-0736. It’s our job to make you feel beautiful and confident, so treat yourself!