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If you're considering wearing a conservative, floor-length skirt to a cocktail party, you should probably rethink it. But that doesn't mean you can't wear a black skirt, and there are ways you can play with a longer length that makes the skirt appropriate for a dressed-up cocktail affair.
Cocktail Attire
OK, so a cocktail event definitely has a dress code. If you're a devil-may-care trailblazer, wear whatever you like -- it's not like you'll get arrested for it. But if you want to feel appropriately dressed for the occasion, you should know what cocktail attire means. It calls for a dressy look, and heels are standard. The cocktail dress is famously knee length and classy. You have to keep the look a little on the upscale side, so tons of cleavage or a skintight look is out of the question.
Hem It
You've got this long black skirt that you want to wear, but it definitely isn't cocktail length. If you don't mind a little alteration, you have a couple of options. You can have the skirt hemmed to your knees or just a little bit below them. If the skirt is a clinging jersey-knit affair, you can have a tailor make the hem asymmetrical. Party in the front, business in the back. The front of your hem should be in the shape of an upside-down U and expose the bottom of your legs.
Contrast
If you're going to wear a black skirt, you have free range to wear a contrasting top. Try a tucked-in button-up made of chiffon or silk. As long as your skirt isn't embellished with bells and whistles, go for a sequin top. The point is to keep the look dressy, but playful and not super serious.
Play With Accessories
Sometimes you're having a moment and the only thing that will do is black from head-to-toe. It's OK -- every woman has been there. Maybe a little extra water weight is the culprit, maybe you just feel dramatic. You can make an ultra-simple outfit super chic by playing with accessories and shoes. Go for a shoe in a bright, unexpected color. Or take out your favorite costume baubles and put them on. Black is the perfect backdrop for splashes of color.
