The Origins of The Cocktail Dresses
By Jesse Love
Designer Christian Dior is credited with coining the term cocktail dress during the late-1940's, using the term in reference to early evening wear. Yet the style had actually been around since the mid-1920's. Cocktail parties first emerged during Prohibition, and were held in private homes or speakeasies. Contraband liquor was expensive, so of course most of the attendees were wealthy individuals who viewed the gatherings as chic social events.
For the women attending, these drinking get-togethers were too formal for regular daywear, but too informal for true evening wear, so a new fashion evolved that was initially inspired by flapper dresses. Originally designed for younger women, the new cocktail dresses were short, and typically made from silk and layered chiffon. This allowed for the women to still look fashionable, without having to get too dressed up.
These new dresses then prompted the development of unique cocktail accessories such as small handbags, simple shoes that usually color matched the dress, short gloves, and a small hat. This accessory style remained the norm up through the mid-1960's. As you know you cannot be fashionable without a few accessories to go with your outfit.
After alcohol was again legalized in 1933 and cocktail parties became more and more common, dresses began to be designed for more mature women. Silk remained the preferred fabric, but the cut of the dresses became more refined and form-fitting, evolving into the classic "little black dress" that soon became a staple in every woman's wardrobe. You had to have the classic black dress for that particular party.
Today, cocktail dresses are suitable for both cocktail parties and semi-formal events. They come in a variety of color, print and cut, with the elaborateness of the dress, length, and amount of skin revealed varying according to the context for which the dress was designed. Even though hats and gloves are no longer in fashion, a classic, well-fitted, short black dress with a clutch purse and stylish shoes remains perfect for any informal occasion where cocktails will be served.
Staying true to form our woman have been able to take this outfit and keep it classic but still able to add modern style to the ensemble. One of the things that I like most about this outfit is the fact that not only are you able to it through various accessories such as jewelery and handbags but you can also wear the outfit with no accessories. Because it is so fabulous just by itself you do not have to put together a lot of pieces to go with it.
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