The fashion term "semi-formal" sounds pretty vague, as though a wide range of attire might fit the description. ModernMom.com, the advice website that focuses on fashion, health and parenting, reminds you that "semi-formal" still includes the word "formal." ModernMom notes, "When choosing semi-formal attire, think of weddings where guests do not necessarily have to wear tuxedos and ball gowns, which is formal attire, but also should not wear denim and sundresses, which is casual attire. Semi-formal attire is a step down from formal attire, but is more formal than casual attire."
For Men
Semi-formal for men is very simple, according to the Emily Post Institute: "Dark, business suit (usually worsted wool); matching vest (optional); white shirt; conservative tie; dressy leather shoes and dress (dark) socks." If the event is still considered "semi-formal" but is more casual in nature (a summer wedding, for example), you may be able to get away with a jacket, tie and slacks, rather than suit.
Little Black Dress
While "semi-formal" has a fairly straightforward definition for guys (dark suit), it poses a greater dilemma (and likewise more opportunities) for women. Of course, the great fallback for events considered semi-formal is "the little black dress." A cocktail dress can be part of a more formal look when accompanied by dressier shoes and jewelry, or be made more casual by simpler accessories and more casual shoes.
Type of Event
The nature of the event, including the time of day, may also help steer your interpretation of "semi-formal." An evening wedding, for example, or a gala fundraiser are still rather formal events, so semi-formal attire typically involves darker colors and and more formal fabrics. A daytime wedding or event can include lighter colors and fabrics. It's also important to note the season when choosing colors and fabrics: winter demands suits and dresses of appropriate weight and darker colors, while summer can bring out the opposite.
Dressy Casual
Semi-formal attire can often bleed over into what's known as "dressy casual," which typically describes the dress code for an event where men are still expected to where a jacket and tie (or at least a jacket and a nice shirt, as opposed to a suit) and women can get away with a cocktail dress. Be aware, however, that "dressy casual" may be interpreted by some as time for a sports jacket and jeans, all of which make "semi-formal" and "dressy casual" the trickiest dress codes to interpret.
Ask If Unsure
So if you're not clear exactly what degree of formality is expected, feel free to ask around. Check to see what friends are wearing. See if there are photos from last year's event. Your hosts or event organizers would rather everyone be comfortable about their clothing choices than have a guest guess wrong. And in the end, it's better to err on the side of more formal, than less. Women can always bring along less casual jewelry and shoes to slip into, and guys can always remove a tie.
The Long Skirt
While Emily Post explains that for women, "formal" means floor-length gowns, "semi-formal" can include both the cocktail dress (mentioned above) and a "long dressy skirt and top." The types of fabrics should still be considered "dressy," however.
Member Comments