Every week, I post a cocktail dress and a cocktail as a precursor to your weekend celebrations. But some of you don’t need 52 cocktail attire suggestions per year.  As one reader pointed out:

I wish I lived the glamorous, SATC life that required a new cocktail dress every week, but I don’t.  What I do need is suggestions for what to wear on dinner dates and to informal cocktail parties. Please consider those of us who also wear pants more than dresses. Thx.

If you’re looking for a fun top to wear out on Friday nights, my go to is a racer-back sequin blouse.  It accentuates the shoulders, drapes beautifully, and you can pair it with denim, trousers or a skirt. 

Sequined Silk Georgette Tank by Ashish (Net-a-Porter, $335)

I would pair this top with a kidskin-colored leather jacket or worn underneath a belted,  light-colored button-up and cardigan.  It’s really a versatile choice for evening or casual wear.

Champagne and Chambord Recipe

Chambord is a delicate black raspberry liqueur that can perk up any cocktail.  It’s especially delicious when added to a glass of champagne.  Here’s how to add just the right amount of this sweet spirit:

Fill a chilled champagne flute 3/4 of the way to the top with decent quality champagne (but not too good, since it’s going to be mixed).  Add a splash of Chambord (I used 1 teaspoon), and allow to settle for just a moment before serving.

You could also serve this cocktail with a raspberry garnish, if you want to get all Martha Stewart with it.