what is considered a cocktail dress
The modern definition of a cocktail dress is commonly taken to mean a shorter dress around knee length. It must be smart, such as the little black dress, and may have sequins or lace as a feature. At semi-formal occasions, a less elaborate, shorter-length cocktail dress may be worn. Prior to the mid 20th century this type of dress was known as 'late afternoon'. When gentlemen are in business suits, ladies also wear dress suits or good afternoon skirt and dresses. In the mid-20th century, some couturiers began describing full-skirted cocktail gowns as dancing costumes.