COLLECTIONS

Dress codes for partywear

Discover a collection of magnetic partywear textures to mark your next event.

The COS partywear collection is designed to transcend event season. Consisting of sparkly knitwear, sharp tailoring and perfect cocktail dresses, the edit channels a quiet sophistication for after-dark style.

This season, understated pieces are made memorable in magnetic textures, exquisite adornments and subtle sheer elements. In timeless black mixed with rich chocolate brown and midnight-blue hues, the refined palette speaks to versatility, where co-ord sets and separates create an effortless day-to-evening wardrobe suited to any occasion.

DRESS CODES EXPLAINED

A dress code is a rare opportunity to elevate your style. They can be broken down into five main areas: smart casual, business, party, formal and black or white tie. The former is the least strict, while the latter requires more polish. Smart casual is a high-low combination of laid back and elevated pieces: think a day dress, with heels or a crisp shirt contrasted with trainers. Trust in tailoring for business events but show some personality through statement accessories. Party is dressier without being overstated, and the perfect way to incorporate sparkle. If you’ve RSVP’d to a wedding or more formal occasion, consider a knee-length or long dress in a lustrous fabric. Finally, black or white tie events are opportunities to showcase a ball gown, maxi or understated evening dress in rich tones, velvet and silk fabrics with intricate embellishment.

MODERN COCKTAIL STYLE

The term ‘cocktail dress’ arrived in the 1940s as a hyper-feminine silhouette, alongside the perennial little black dress, which has been in favour since the turn of the early 20th Century. Today, what is appropriate for a cocktail dress code varies on the occasion, the season and location. Opt for tuxedo trousers over denim and pair with a silky blouse instead of a T-shirt. Consider tailoring a modern statement instead of a dress; layer a beautifully cut vest together with this season’s fluid wool suits for a high-low contrast. Introduce subtle prints, shine and lustrous textures for a modern take on event dressing.

THE SPARKLING SET

A lesson in refined coordination; sparkling details elevate set dressing to eveningwear heights. Crafted from double-faced merino wool flecked with metallic fibres that beautifully catch the light, this pairing is a sophisticated choice for festive parties and smart-casual gatherings. Style the chocolate-brown cardigan and matching midi skirt with heeled leather boots for even richer texture.

SHEER TAILORING

Fluid lengths and generous proportions in an elegant all-black palette channel a quiet sophistication for tailoring. Softly structured from pure Responsible Wool Standard wool, the blazer is designed with a detachable scarf to style elegantly draped, while the coordinating trousers bring an element of subtle sheerness to the look. Layer a contrasting white ribbed tank top beneath for a minimal spin on tuxedo style.

RICH TEXTURES

A return to sophistication, rich textures and refined lines enhance signature COS silhouettes. In a lustrous midnight blue perfect for cocktail hour, this A-line mini dress features an elegant boat neckline with wide sleeves that split at the cuffs and discreet pockets that add a touch of practicality. Style with pointed leather mules.

BEADED EMBELLISHMENT

A marriage of athleisure elements and illuminating embellishment, this racer-back top proposes a modern elegance. It’s minimally cut from black cotton and adorned with tonal beads in an intricate houndstooth pattern. Create a contrast with this season’s wide-leg trousers in a lustrous wool-blend and finish the look with refined kitten heels. An absence of jewellery allows the detail to shine.