Wedding goers: Here’s what 'cocktail attire' really means

Don't get us wrong: We love weddings. But even as the guest, they can be a bit tricky. First, there are all the events leading up the wedding (so...many...showers), then the gifts, flights, hotels, car rentals and, finally, the outfit. With so many weddings requesting "cocktail attire," we couldn't help but wonder, What constitutes a cocktail dress, anyway? And is there a definitive explanation? Well, the answer is yes, and here's the final verdict.

So, what exactly is cocktail attire? Just like it sounds—something that feels festive and fancy and worthy around a stiff drink. The most forgiving of the dress codes, cocktail attire means you have options. You can wear whatever length and style dress you'd like, but you're also allowed to branch out from the traditional dress-and-pumps idea.

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Give me specific outfits. An embellished shift, a minimal maxi, a dressy jumpsuit, a flowy midi skirt, polished trousers. As long as the ensemble appears party-appropriate, you'll fit right in. You definitely must wear dress shoes, usually with a heel (although fancy flats work, too). And we recommend a clutch or mini bag, just so it's easier to hold if you need to bust out some signature dance moves on the fly.

And how does that differ from a formal or black-tie dress code? Formal wear indicates a longer dress hem (aka a gown) for women, and literally means a black tie with a suit jacket for men.

The bottom line? Be you, be comfortable and be ready to shake what your momma gave you (in that ridiculous culotte jumpsuit, of course).