Presumably, it has been a long time since your idea of hosting a party involved kegs and Doritos. There's nothing inherently wrong with beer and chips, of course. But if you're proud of your home and hope folks come back the next time you invite them over, you'd be well-served by paying some attention to detail, design, and delicacy. We're talking about food and drinks that taste like they were custom-made for the event (even if they weren't). You'll want to think about lighting and seating (maybe it's time to upgrade the lamps and chairs?). And you should greet your guests in threads that set the tone for the evening: casually elegant, strictly formal, or somewhere in between. Follow the advice below and you'll actually have fun at your own party—as will your guests. Perhaps you'll even convince others that you deserve an invitation to their swanky upcoming soirees, too.

What to Drink

Best Alternative White Wines
Impress your guests by uncorking these new summer whites from unexpected regions and grapes.



Four Beer Trends
Everything you need to know about Japanese craft beer, barrel-aged beer, wine-beer hybrids, and gypsy-brewed beer.



International Artisanal Vodkas
The much-maligned clear spirit makes a comeback. These bottles come from Sweden, France, Australia, Poland and New York.



Drinks to Keep On Hand
Tonics, bitters, aperitifs, nightcaps, and more.



Tequila Cocktails
Conventional wisdom says that tequila works with sugar, salt, and lime juice, and that's about it. Fortunately, the bartenders at some of the country's top watering holes are challenging this notion.



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Gear and Décor

Entertaining Secrets from America's Greatest Chefs
Everything you need to set your table in style, as selected by 10 of the country's most celebrated chefs—Thomas Keller, Jean-Georges Vongerichten, and Daniel Boulud included.



The Accessories Checklist
Here's a look at some of the better knives, napkins, corkscrews, decanters, and other kitchen gadgets.



Upgrade Your Oscar Night Party Décor
Check out our picks for a properly pulled together fête with a touch of old Hollywood glamour.



Build A Better Home Bar
Upgrade your living-room cocktail service by stocking the best new arrivals from around the globe, then adding clever mixing tools and serving accessories.



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What to Cook and Eat

10 Snacks For Cocktail Parties
Sweet and savory dishes to impress even the most hard-core foodies.



Dips and Small-Plate Dishes
You don't need tons of ingredients to whip up these treats.



A Purist's Guide to Pizza Making
All you need to craft a classic Neapolitan pie are the right ingredients. And these expert tips.



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What to Wear

5 Ways to Loosen Up Black Tie
Dressing up doesn't have to mean donning a penguin suit. If you have a unique sense of style, don't lose it when you go formal.



The Complete Guide to Suits: 57 Rules of Style
Everything you need to know about suits, including what to look for when buying them, how to get them tailored, and the coats, shirts, ties, shoes, and watches to wear with them.



Standout Scents
Whether you prefer your fragrances bright and zesty or warm and spicy, there's a new arrival with your name on it. Plus, expert tips on how to rock your cologne.