Although things have drastically changed since this writer attended prom, the dress ... Amazon for $14 Whoever said black was basic didn’t see this beauty of a dress coming.

Others might argue it's a step away from black tie, requiring more sophisticated dresses and accessories. True cocktail attire strikes a balance between these two extremes– it’s an ensemble ...

The 39-year-old actress donned a tiny black cocktail dress with straps encircling her slender neck. Her dark brunette locks were tied tightly behind her head, and she stood on black high heels.