What Is Semiformal Dress?
Semiformal dress is a murky fashion category that can include cocktail parties, church services and weddings. It can be hard to know what's too informal or too dressy, especially because there are so many new rules for evening chic. Having a precise idea of semiformal dress can keep you looking appropriate for the occasion. Does this Spark an idea?
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Formal Versus Semiformal Dress
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Think of formal dress in terms of "more": more shine, more length, more fullness and more complicated to wear. A formal dress is constructed along complex lines from more expensive textiles. Semiformal dress, however, is cheaper to buy, usually doesn't require a special bra or crinoline and is simpler to maintain. Optimally, a semiformal garment is a completely off-the-rack piece of apparel, requiring few alterations. Formal dress, on the other hand, often needs tailoring to look the way it should.
Semiformal Styles
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Good styles for semiformal wear include cocktail dresses, jumpsuits and special occasion suits. Clothing may be snug-fitting or short; in this category, a shopper may see mini-dresses and other lengths that end slightly above the knee. Commonly, full-length and ballroom-type skirts are formal. A good rule of thumb for semiformal is to keep the dress length above the floor--tea-length dresses are at the limit of semiformal.
A semiformal suit will usually have a closer fit than a formal or business suit, and may have more ornate buttons and trims. Semiformal suits are more versatile in style, with cropped or long jackets and bottoms that veer away from the straight, boxy business cut.
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Semiformal Fabrics
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Semiformal fabric types include satin, velvet, silk jersey, silk and georgette. There aren't a lot of sequins and beading in semiformal dress, but there might be small amounts. Lace is also a popular semiformal fabric. Stretch fabrics are commonplace. Some cotton weaves are appropriate, especially if the fabric has a pretty sheen or finish. Stay away from most other cottons, including denim and twill; they're not formal enough.
Semiformal Accessories
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This is the time to leave the diamond-encrusted baubles behind. Semiformal events call for accessories that aren't intimidating and overpowering. These occasions are a good time to wear semiprecious stones and metal pieces. Cocktail rings are a nice touch, and so are pieces that include feathers and a small amount of shine.
Shoes can be flat or heeled, but avoid wearing any styles that look like day shoes. A good rule of thumb is this: if they fit in at the office or school, they're not formal enough.
Where to Purchase Semiformal Wear
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Most popular malls have a shop or two that specialize in semiformal clothing. Well-known brands that have semiformal dresses in their lines include bebe, Jessica McClintock and Betsey Johnson. Department stores also sell semiformal dresses and suits.
For lower-priced semiformal wear, shop near prom season in the junior's department. Early spring is excellent for finding new semiformal clothing, because people are starting to purchase garments for special occasion events throughout the year.
Be certain to check the return policy on any dress or garment that is purchased, because semiformal and formal wear are often nonreturnable.
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Resources
- Photo Credit 2007 Alla_G / Creative Commons
