With the spring social season in full swing, no dust is gathering in the dressy end of many closets.

Charity galas, weddings and other fancy occasions demand appropriate attire and are often the occasions when we want to look our very best.

As usual, the latest trends in cocktail wear are inspired by the outfits worn by actors and other celebrities to movie premieres, awards ceremonies and other special events.

"Full-length gowns and cocktail dresses are both in vogue," says Marg Smith, fashion buyer for Kingsmill's. "Feminine, bias-cut dresses in soft, flowing fabrics are very important. Cocktail dress and matching pants outfits offer additional options."

Cocktail-length dresses almost always include ruffles, shirring or special hemline treatment. Asymmetrical hemlines are prominent, as are dropped hemlines, fish tails and those with ruffled trim.

Deeply V'd and halter necklines are fashionable, with some styles featuring empire waistlines. Strapless and spaghetti-strapped gowns and dresses remain stylish. Bodices may be gathered or feature floral embroidery or soutache. Sparkling beads may be used as trim or to highlight floral patterns.

Soft and flowing gowns in silk and chiffon showcase the romantic, classically feminine looks recommended by many designers. Fine pleats and gathering add texture to some styles.

Stretch lace, net and crochet knit dresses offer slinky variations on the romantic theme. Plain, draped and sparkle-enhanced jersey knit gowns and dresses look clean-cut and modern. Some matte jersey gowns and dresses are reminiscent of the styles popularized by Halston during the 1970s.

Satin silk dresses and fancy brocade jackets may feature Eastern-inspired prints, mandarin collars and other elements of chinoiserie for an exotic look.

The traditional formal wear hues of black and white are among the season's favourites, along with red, pink, blue and green. Floral patterns are popular in black and white or soft colour combinations. Polka-dots are among other patterns being offered.

The growing trend to bolder jewelry continues. Ornate chandelier and long, shoulder-duster earrings draw the eye to bare shoulders. Multiple-strand necklaces fill in necklines with smooth beads, chunks of polished quartz and other minerals. Waterfall chokers with dangling beads are another way to add pizzazz to open neck lines.

Pointy-toed high-heeled mules and dressy sandals, with co-ordinated evening bags, remain the evening standard. Metallic gold and silver shoes and those with ankle straps are especially popular. Beaded bags strike a precious note.

A stylish evening wrap or shawl adds warmth on cool evenings and helps protect against icy blasts in air- conditioned settings. Chiffon and organza wraps take on texture with decorative gathering, twisted bits of material and floral decorations.

Pair plain wraps with patterned gowns and more ornate wraps with plain gowns.