Cocktail Dresses

What is a Cocktail Dress?

Cocktail dresses are the perfect balance between casual and formal dresses. Polished enough for an evening out yet relaxed enough to feel comfortable all night long, they're the go to dress to keep in your wardrobe for any special occasion. Typically sitting at the knee or mid-calf, women’s cocktail dresses are designed for specially those in-between occasions where style and sophistication blend seamlessly with comfort and confidence.

Whether it’s a wedding, dinner date, or anything in between, a cocktail dress delivers the versatility you need to suit every setting. From classic black cocktail dresses to beautifully bold prints and patterns that scream elegance and class, Blue Bungalow’s curated range of cocktail dresses was designed to add a touch of sophistication to every occasion. Explore the range to find your go-to cocktail dress today.

Types of Cocktail Dresses

No two occasions are the same, which is why having a series of go-to cocktail dresses is essential for any woman’s wardrobe to make sure you’re ready for any last-minute event her routine throws at you.

Classic cocktail dresses

A classic cocktail dress is the epitome of elegance and class. Most often sitting around the knee or mid-calf, these dresses are designed to flatter your figure whilst keeping you comfortable from day through to night. Whether you’re going to a wedding, work function or simply just some evening drinks with your friends, classic women’s cocktail dresses are made for the occasion. At Blue Bungalow, every detail of our classic cocktail dresses is designed with intention and care. From soft wrap designs to belted waists, pleats and more, you can find a style that feels completely timeless yet uniquely you. Paired with heels and minimal jewellery for a polished yet sophisticated look, these dresses will never go out of style.

Long cocktail dresses

Another popular style of cocktail dress is our range of long cocktail dresses. Similar in style to the classic cocktail dress, these designs are the epitome of sophistication and style, delivering beautiful patterns and colours that stand out across any occasion. The main difference is the dress length. Our beautiful long cocktail dresses sit around the ankles instead, delivering a feeling of a gown-like style with the comfort and wearability of a classic cocktail dress. Perfect for evening events, milestone celebrations or formal dinners, long cocktail dresses can be easily styled for any occasion.

How to Style a Cocktail Dress

Cocktail dresses are a wardrobe staple, delivering all the class and style in just one look. But, with the right styling and accessories, you can take your one cocktail dress and transform it into a series of looks that will last for many occasions to come. If you’re dressing up for a daytime event, popular cocktail dress styles often involve flowy floral or pastel women’s cocktail dresses paired with sandals and some light jewellery for a soft day look.

When the evening comes, simply switch up your look with your favourite pair of heels, a sophisticated clutch handbag and some statement earrings and create a refined evening look that will be the standout outfit for any occasion. Even when the seasons start to cool, simply layer up your cocktail dress with a cropped jacket or tailored blazer and add some classic women’s boots or closed toe heels to keep warm in style. However you style it, a Blue Bungalow cocktail dress ensures you look effortlessly elegant wherever the night takes you.

Discover Cocktail Dresses for Every Occasion

Every woman deserves a cocktail dress that makes her feel confident, comfortable, and effortlessly stylish, no matter the occasion. That’s why at Blue Bungalow, we’ve curated a collection of women’s cocktail dresses that were designed to move with you throughout every celebration. From elegant evenings to mid-day outdoor events, you can find the perfect cocktail dress to look polished and feel your best all day or night long.

Wedding guest dresses

Finding the perfect wedding guest dress can always feel like a challenge. Whether you’re shopping for a mother of the bride dress, mother of the groom dress, or are just a life-long best friend of the beautiful couple, our range of women’s cocktail dresses has something for everyone. Often the best wedding guest dresses feature soft and flowy silhouettes, floral prints, or soft colours that complement the theme or environment of the celebration. So, whether the cocktail dress code calls for formal dresses or relaxed coastal charm, you’ll find a design that lets you enjoy the beautiful day in comfort and confidence.

Evening dresses

Step out into your evening event in style with our collection of evening cocktail dresses! The perfect choice for elevated dinners, cocktail parties or any special evening event, our range of evening cocktail dresses are the go-to dresses for any special occasion. Popular styles include black cocktail dresses paired with classic minimalist jewellery and heels, or classic colours that blend seamlessly into the elegance of the evening. With a few bold accessories, a practical clutch and your favourite heels, our cocktail dresses take on every evening occasion with ease.

Work party cocktail dresses

When you’re looking to dress up for your next work function; whether it’s your EOFY party, Christmas party, or you’re celebrating a recent win, balancing a flattering dress with sophistication and class can often feel like a challenge. At Blue Bungalow, our beautiful range of women’s work cocktail dresses are designed come in both midi length and maxi dress lengths, with tailored fits that meet the work-event dress code requirements. Popular styles include adding a structured blazer, or a light wrap cardigan to easily transition from those office hours to the after-hours occasions.

Summer cocktail dresses

Light and effortlessly feminine, Blue Bungalow’s summer cocktail dresses range is designed for those warmer weather celebrations. Whether it’s a mid-day garden party, or a fancy evening on a humid evening, we offer a beautiful range of cocktail dresses that keep you cool and confident through the entire summer celebration season. With sleeveless designs and breathable fabrics to vibrant prints and patterns that capture the essence of the season, you’ll find the perfect summer dress at Blue Bungalow! Popular styling options include pairing your cocktail dress with wedges, heeled sandals and slides as well as a lightweight clutch and jewellery for an extra touch of glam.

Shop the Cocktail Dresses Australia Loves

Ready to find the best cocktail dress for your next occasion? Explore the full range of beautiful cocktail dresses at Blue Bungalow; where effortless style meets all-day comfort. From formal cocktail dresses to relaxed summer styles, every dress is designed to flatter your figure whilst elevating your formal occasion.

Enjoy free shipping on orders over $150, easy returns, and an Australian based team who are dedicated to helping you to find the perfect fit for the dress you’ve been dreaming of. Shop the cocktail dresses Australia loves at Blue Bungalow today and step into your next event with confidence and style that you’ll enjoy for many seasons to come.

Cocktail Dress FAQs

What is women’s cocktail attire in Australia?

In Australia, women’s cocktail attire is a popular choice for a range of different types of occasions. It strikes the perfect balance between elegant and relaxed, being able to dress up or down as needed. Think midi or knee-length dresses in beautiful fabrics paired with heels or stylish flats and simple accessories for a polished yet comfortable look.

Are cocktail dresses long or short?

Traditionally, cocktail dresses are knee-length or midi in style, offering a luxury, semi-formal look. However, popular cocktail dress styles are becoming more flexible, with long cocktail dresses becoming a popular option for those who want to enjoy ankle length cocktail dresses.

What is the difference between a party dress and cocktail dress?

A party dress can range from casual to formal, depending on the event, while a cocktail dress sits firmly in the semi-formal category. Cocktail dresses are often more structured or refined, making them perfect for those evening events, weddings, or special celebrations.

What is acceptable as a cocktail dress?

An acceptable cocktail dress is one that feels polished, elegant, and event appropriate. When the dress code is cocktail, opt for a knee-length or midi dress in elevated fabrics, with flattering cuts and minimal embellishment. Paired with dressy shoes and accessories to complete the look.

Can I wear flats with a cocktail dress?

Yes, you can absolutely wear flats with a cocktail dress. There are a wide range of dressy show options to choose from like embellished sandals, flats, or pointed loafers which allow you to maintain a refined, occasion-ready look while staying comfortable on your feet throughout the event.