Cocktail attire is a dress code that is suitable for semi-formal occasions, such as cocktail parties, usually in the late afternoon or early evening. It is a blend between casual and formal, and it is a gray area, along with semi-formal attire, where your look should be elegant and polished. Cocktail attire is meant to bridge the gap between day and night, and it is still an occasion to dress up. Cocktail dresses for women are usually knee-length or slightly above the knee, and they can be made of a variety of fabrics, such as velvet, lace, or silk. Men can wear a dark suit with a white shirt and a solid-colored tie, or they can opt for a sport coat with dress pants. Shoes for both men and women should be dressy, such as pumps or dress shoes. When in doubt, it is always better to err on the side of being overdressed rather than underdressed.