wrap dress maxi PRETTYGARDEN Women's Summer Casual Boho Floral V Neck Short Sleeve Ruffle Hem Split Beach Long Dresses (Black,X-Small) at Amazon Women's Clothing store Elegant velvet wrap maxi in rich Cinnamon Long Sleeve Linen Wrap Dress

Both are pared-back, but just as party-ready as the rest of our list

Best Whimsical Mother of the Bride Dress With Flutter Sleeves: This Sequin Embellished Navy Gown This whimsical gown checks off all the boxes for an elegant (and non-frumpy) mother of the bride dress

Color Recommendations by Event Type Charity gala cocktail: Deep jewel tones navy, emerald, burgundy Wedding cocktail hour: Blush, sage, dusty rose, champagne Corporate formal dinner: Black, navy, deep plum, forest green Arts or museum event: Bold single colors cobalt, red, deep teal Garden cocktail party: Lavender, powder blue, soft mauve Pink formal dresses in midi lengths are a particularly popular choice for spring and summer cocktail occasions elegant without being understated

Natural hips:open

No matter how many gatherings I attend, it seems like Im always second-guessing what the terms semi-formal, business casual and cocktail attire really meanand what, exactly, to wear to each type of event