What is Summer Cocktail Attire?

Dear Polite One,

My husband and I are attending a business function tonight. The expected attire is "Summer Cocktail Attire". What exactly does that mean? We live in a casual region, and it is very warm here now. Are shorts appropriate?

Sincerely,

Summer Cocktails

Dear Summer Cocktails,

Unfortunately, shorts are not appropriate for a business event unless this was a pool party. Cocktail attire means dressy, in the same formality as a warm-weather cocktail dress.

"Summer Cocktail Attire" is not a common or proper dress code. But we can extrapolate that since it is warmer climate, we would choose attire in the cocktail attire formality, quality material, but lighter weight.

So, choose a dress, like the little black dress (any color is fine) in lightweight material. Your husband's attire could be country club evening attire. Jackets are typically worn.

Sincerely,

The Polite One

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