DRESSING FOR THE COCKTAIL WEDDING
Want a smaller wedding, but City Hall doesn't quite cut it for you? How about an after-five soiree? The cocktail wedding is another option to a briefer, more intimate event than the traditional all-day bash planned months ahead. Cocktail hour weddings offer an elegant, affordable alternative. Think about it: fewer guests, a shorter hemline and less cake and champagne can sometimes be more. Small weddings are on the rise, especially for couples with limited time and/or money. Some couples feel more at ease celebrating their nuptials as the evening approaches with a few close friends and family. The dresses featured here are cocktail length and beyond. With some imaginative head chic and accessorizing we (you with me helping) can put together a knock 'em dead cocktail look.
If you love 1940s fashion, you're already tuned into what it takes to get 'The Cocktail Look'. If you haven't caught Joan Crawford on Netflix, take note of all the accessories here, such as the opera-length gloves, which are perfect for evening wear. Check out our model above. She's carrying a beaded vintage purse (maybe in lieu of a bouquet) and her head chic is a pancake cocktail hat with a shot of tulle.
Above: The MARILYN Dress. A halter neckline of all over Chantilly lace. Below: The ROCHELLE Dress. A sweetheart bodice atop a wide and full tulle skirt.
Vintage jewelry is another way of creating that elegance reminiscent of 1940s cocktail looks. Some of the pieces here are original Miriam Haskell from the 30s-40s. Model Lauren directly above is wearing The FLEUR Cocktail Hat and evening gown--a combination of liquid silk satin and Chantilly lace. Gown price on request/// Header Photo: The GWYNETH pancake pouf//Photos 1 and 2: The MOCHA pancake pouf and MADELYN Dress with a wide tulle skirt//Below The YOLANDA Dress of tea-dyed tulle and shirrring over Chantilly laces.
A FEW GREAT PLACES FOR A COCKTAIL WEDDING
AN ART GALLERY. If you're an avid art lover, you probably know what kind of gallery you'll end up in. Passing interest? Pick any kind of art you like, from traditional to contemporary. These spots have wonderful lighting and tons of space that's already decorated for you. In addition, they're used to throwing parties and openings, so if you keep the list on the lighter side, they'll love you for it.
A REALLY NICE COCKTAIL LOUNGE OR RESTAURANT
This is probably the first option you'll consider, as most eateries and bars offer on-site catering. They also have themes, such as nautical and seaside, a roof garden with city panoramas, and fusion cooking and decor.
A PRIVATE CLUB
If you're lucky enough to belong to some organization with a great venue, go for it! These clubs can range from plush and old-moneyed to concrete and modern.
A LOFT
This could be your best friend's apartment in the Meatpacking District or something you rent by the night or hour. If you're looking to save time and money, this may not be the best option. Open spaces like this usually require staging, which takes a lot of planning with florists, event designers, etc. If, on the other hand, the space has some essentials, it's worth a shot . . . .
A PRIVATE HOME
If it's the right house or apartment, there can't be a better or more intimate place for a cocktail wedding.
CREDITS
Photos by Lirette Photography
John Truong Photo
All dresses and head chic by Amy-Jo Tatum
Make up by Prettyologie
Hair by Intertwine Hair Design
Jewelry: Denise Hazelton
Miriam Haskell
