A black-tie dress code is pretty self-explanatory, but cocktail attire? That's where things start to get a bit tricky. Not quite formal but no where near casual, the best way to describe the dress code is somewhere in the middle. What's considered appropriate is up to interpretation and the event you're attending, but as a rule of thumb: stick to midis or tea-length dresses that hit just about knee-length. Mini need not be ruled out either, but just make sure the silhouette you wear is suitable for the occasion. As for prints? Florals, polka-dots, and stripes are totally acceptable as long as they have a dressy look to them.

Since cocktail dress shopping is confusing, I scoured the internet, read online reviews, and consulted well-dressed ladies in my life for the top brands with age-appropriate styles. Whether you're attending a wedding this summer that calls for a semi-formal dress code or have been invited to a garden party, here are the best cocktail dresses for older women.