Coco's Cocktail Advice

Reader Aurelia sent me the following e-mail:

Dear Coco,

I cannot tell you how many times I have been to a reception, and saw women dressed to the nines in cocktail party/evening wear…..chugging on a beer bottle. What advice can you offer as far as drink selections at fancy parties?

Best,
Aurelia


Oh honey....I have seen this too, and am so glad that you brought this up. Coco is fine with beer, but not at a fancy party or reception. First of all, chugging on a beer bottle makes you look like an easy sorority girl that just turned 21. Trés gauche.

So what looks classier to you?



or




I'm not telling, but I hope you know what the answer is by the end of this post. Coco has the following recommendations.

1. If you are a beer lover, and do not like liquor, try a glass of wine. A wine glass will look elegant in your hand....much more elegant than a beer bottle wrapped in a cocktail napkin. For the calorie conscious out there, remember that a glass of white wine has FAR less carbs than a glass of red, and white wine won't stain your teeth.

2. Mixed drinks are also very classy...as long as you order something simple. Do not ask the bartender to make you a Vulcan Mind Meld or a Sex on the Beach. This rule also goes for any drink that requires whipped cream. Daquiris are not classy folks. If you are new to mixed drinks....try a vodka tonic. It is Coco's drink of choice. Scotch is an acquired taste. If you do indeed aquire a taste for it, that would be a nice alternative too. Martinis are also a good option, but don't ask for anything foofy or girly. Chocolate martinis might be tasty, but the original martini is far more classy.

3. Being able to hold your liquor is also important. I don't care what sort of dress you are wearing...if you are bombed out of your mind people will remember your state of inebriation and antics rather than your couture. Be sure to have some appetizers whilst imbibing. Your head and sense of dignity will thank you later.