a line prom dress Blue Tulle A-line Off Shoulder Lace Dress, MP908 Lavender Color Length A-Line Spaghetti Straps Floor Length

This summer, were seeing more of that, but in a much more polished way

With thoughtful styling, polished accessories, and the right silhouette, a black cocktail dress can be one of the most versatile and wedding-ready pieces in your wardrobe.

The sultry rendition for President Kennedy's 45th birthday at a 1962 Democratic fundraiser at New York's Madison Square was one of her last public appearances

For a softer look, choose minimal jewelry and sleek hair

A structured satin A-line is perfect for a formal ballroom or historic church, while a soft lace or chiffon A-line gown would be stunning in an outdoor garden, a rustic barn, or for a romantic destination wedding

Phil Cook has his own solo career these days and is also a go-to producer and sideman