Along with the mod style, it was acceptable to wear a dressy suit to cocktail parties, and for women going directly from cocktails to dinner, a matching jacket could be worn over a dinner dress.

Cocktail attire is generally a bit more modest than ... So, like, if you're going to a dinner party hosted by your mother-in-law, it's probably best to just wear an LBD.

From traditional black-tie weddings to whimsical garden parties, we asked experts to help us break down what to wear.

She adds, "My dinner won't taste any better or worse ... ties or tuxedos. Women choose dresses (party or cocktail), pantsuits and elegant skirts with blouses, while some may wear evening gowns.

Along with the mod style, it was acceptable to wear a dressy suit to cocktail parties, and for women going directly from cocktails to dinner, a matching jacket could be worn over a dinner dress.