Ideal Cocktail Dresses

Cocktail dresses are an essential part of any woman's wardrobe.  These versatile pieces can be dressed up with shoes and accessories for a fancy occasion or dressed down for a casual date or night out with friends.  They are comfortable to wear, and inexpensive cocktail dresses are not difficult to find.  Classic, short cocktail dresses are a staple of many different types of events and can work with many an occasion.

Short cocktail dresses are far more common than long ones. They usually fall at around tea length, just above the knee. Some are slightly longer and others fall closer to mid-thigh. The length of cocktail dress you should choose depends largely on your body type and how comfortable you are with showing skin. Shorter women can give an appearance of greater height with a shorter skirt. Women who would prefer to de-emphasize their height should go with something a little longer, although there is nothing wrong with taller girls showing off their long legs.

Much as with makeup you should choose either eyes or lips to emphasize to avoid appearing less classy, you should usually choose one main feature you want to draw attention to with your outfit. Cocktail dresses that have short skirts and plunging necklines are in danger of looking trashy, while a dress with one of these features can be quite sexy.

The fabric your dress is made from will have an impact on it's feel and appearance.  Jersey fabric is soft and form fitting, but more casual than some of the other options.  Cotton is breathable and lightweight, but a cocktail dress made from this fabric will be more casual as well.  Silk will hug your curves and feel soft against your skin (and anyone elses), creating a sexy and more formal look.  Satin is a little bit warmer but also evokes a more formal feel.  Remember that it will be easier to find cheap cocktail dresses if they are made out of a less expensive material.

The style of your dress should depend heavily on what works best with your figure.  The rules to this are similar to with any dress.  Closer fitting cocktail dresses are better for women who are comfortable with their shape and want to emphasize the waist.  Plus size cocktail dresses might do better with an empire waist, which shows off the bust area and conceals the middle while taking its form from the hips.  Try to get a good idea of what looks best on you and don't get caught up in trends.  The hot new fashion may well be gone next week, but a classic dress that flatters your figure will be in style for years to come.

The color and pattern of your outfit is largely a matter of preference, although the formality of the event does come into play.  Solid deep or pastel colors have a far more formal feel than bright, neon, sequenced, or boldly patterned dresses.  Simple black or white cocktail dresses have a classically beautiful feel and are great for any occasion.  At the same time, don't be afraid to have a little fun with color.  This can set you apart from other party guests and draw attention to the areas of your body you find most flattering.

Perfect cocktail dresses for your style and body type are easier to find than you might think. Using the internet search sites, like Nordstrom dresses, can help you examine your options and decide what you are looking for.  Spending a little time considering how formal you want to be, what kind of fabric suits your needs, what styles flatter your body, and how much you want to spend will all help you find that dress that brings the party to a halt.