dress cocktail

[portugeezer]

What are men supposed to wear if the invitation says 'Dress: cocktail'?

[dorisday]

I am only guessing at this, but I would have said suit and collar and tie, maybe even bow tie.

[Tony Monero]

Put a pineapple on their head....sorry I could not resist that.

[smudge]

I would say dinner jacket & bow tie. Oh & trousers of course!

[Clanad]

Business dress for men is always appropriate. A jacket and tie should be worn for the duration of the function.The mood is generally light-hearted unless the invitation states "formal-cocktail reception" where "formal" refers to dress and "cocktail" refers to the food and beverage service. . .

[Ouisch]

"Cocktail Attire" usually means short, elegant dresses for women and dark suits for men.

[Peter Pedant]

Because the English are so hung up by this, and get so embarassed by turning up in the wrong outfit - you can always ring up and ask!

I frequently do. Perhaps you should ask more formally that I do: 'Do I have to wear a monkey suit?'

Cocktail - the men would either be in lounge suits or black tie. telephone and check