Fall Cocktail Dress Code

Would you please tell me what the cocktail dress code attire would be for a six o’clock birthday party cocktail party? There will be heavy heavy hors-d’oeuvres. I’m forty-one-years old and want to dress appropriately, but also for fun.

–Kim, NC

For a cocktail party starting at six o’clock, the dress code would be a knee-length cocktail dress. If slacks are flattering on you, wear a well-made pair of slacks with a beautiful blouse or top. A party such as this — a cocktail party with the twist of being a birthday party — is more about the quality of the clothing than the dressiness of the outfit. A cozy fringe shawl, beautiful shoes and a small evening bag would add to the look.

Above is the perfect fall look from oliviapalermo.com, where you can see more sophisticated styles.

This is a fun fall pant-look from renttherunway.com — Derek Lam’a Pendulum Button Rop that gives a bit of festive flare. We like Rent the Runway where you can rent, buy or just browse the latest fashions from the most popular designers.