Best Cocktail Dresses for Weddings

Wedding season is here! If you’re wondering what to wear, cocktail dresses are always a great choice. They’re stylish, comfy, and perfect for dancing the night away. Whether you’re heading to a fancy evening wedding or a casual outdoor party, the right dress helps you look and feel amazing. 

At Jerry’s Apparel, we love helping you find the perfect outfit. In this post, we’ll show you the best cocktail dresses for weddings — and how to style them for any event!

What Is a Cocktail Dress?

A cocktail dress is a dress you wear to parties, weddings, and other fun events. These dresses are often shorter than floor-length gowns, usually ending above the knee or at the mid-calf.

They can be simple and elegant or sparkly and bold. Popular fabrics include lace, chiffon, satin, velvet, and sequins. Cocktail dresses let you look polished while still having fun on the dance floor!

How to Choose Cocktail Dresses for Different Types of Weddings

Daytime Weddings

For a daytime wedding, choose light fabrics like chiffon or lace. Soft colors and floral prints look great in natural light. Shorter dresses work well, too — they feel easy and relaxed for outdoor garden weddings or brunch receptions.

Evening Weddings

At night, it’s fun to wear darker colors or bold styles. Navy, emerald green, black, and deep red are all great choices. For extra sparkle, try sequin or velvet cocktail dresses. Fitted styles give you a dressier, polished look.

Outdoor Weddings

Outdoor weddings call for dresses that move with you. Choose flowy styles in breathable fabrics. Comfort is key, especially if you’ll be walking on grass or sand.

Formal Weddings

For more formal weddings, pick structured dresses or midi styles. Pair your look with heels and beautiful pieces from our Jewelry & Accessories collection to complete your outfit.

Best Colors for Cocktail Dresses for Weddings

Classic Black

You can never go wrong with a black cocktail dress. It’s flattering, timeless, and works for any type of wedding.

Navy & Jewel Tones

Navy, emerald, burgundy, and plum look beautiful for fall and winter weddings.

Pastels

Light pink, baby blue, lavender, and mint green are perfect for spring and summer weddings.

Red

Red is bold and fun — great for parties, just be sure to check if the couple is okay with it.

Colors to Avoid

It’s best to avoid white (which is for the bride) and very bright neon shades unless the dress code says otherwise.

Flattering Fits for Every Body

Plus Size Cocktail Dresses

Look for wrap dresses, empire waists, and dresses with ruching. These styles flatter curves and provide great comfort.

Petite Cocktail Dresses

Shorter hemlines, fitted bodices, and V-necks help create length and shape.

Tall Figures

Midi dresses and asymmetrical hems are great for showing off long legs.

Curvy Figures

Stretchy bodycon styles and A-line dresses hug curves in all the right places.

Accessorizing Your Cocktail Dress for a Wedding

No outfit is complete without the right accessories! After you choose your dress, visit our Jewelry & Accessories collection.

Here’s what to add:

• Statement earrings for sparkle

• Delicate necklaces for a touch of shine

• Clutches or small bags to hold your essentials

• Heels or dressy sandals to match your dress

Trends for Wedding Guest Cocktail Dresses

Want to stay on trend? Here are some of the hottest styles this year:

• Sequin cocktail dresses

• Velvet cocktail dresses for winter weddings

• Bold floral prints

• Cut-out details

• One-shoulder styles

• High-low hems 

• Final Tips & Summary

  Before buying your dress, always check the wedding invitation for dress code info. If it says "cocktail attire," you’re good to go with any of the styles we’ve mentioned!

  Pick a dress that makes you feel comfortable, confident, and ready to dance. Add fun jewelry and a cute clutch to finish the look.

  At Jerry’s Apparel, we have tons of options to help you shine.
  Shop now and find your perfect cocktail dress for the next wedding on your calendar!