Formal Vs. Semi Formal Algorithms

Evening gowns for formal and semi-formal occasions

When it comes to dress codes, formal and semi-formal seem the most confusing, because many people either don't distinguish the two or mix up semi-formal with business casual. It helps to learn what formal and semi-formal truly mean so you'll dress appropriately for all the dressy occasions.

The Definition of Formal

Formal dress code is also known as "white tie." It is used for state dinners, diplomatic receptions and balls, the opera opening night, Mardi Gras, charity and debutante balls. However, it is rarely seen in the United States. American men generally wear a black bow tie with their tuxedos. That blurs the line between formal and semi-formal, making them both acceptable at most of the fancy evening events.

Formal for Him

If a man strictly follows formal dress code, he should wear a white bow tie or hand tie, a white dress shirt, a white vest, a black swallow-tailed coat, black dress pants with satin seams on the outside legs, black socks and laced-up shoes.

Formal for Her

Ladies' formal dress code entails a ball gown in either ankle or floor length, fine jewelry, a white or color-coordinated pair of opera-length (longer than elbow length) gloves, which can only be removed during dining, pumps or high-heeled sandals, and a clutch style evening bag.

The Definition of Semi-formal

Semi-formal dress code is designed for weddings, Christmas parties, dances and theater performances. It used to equate "black tie," but now it's a lot more relaxed, with variations. If you receive an invitation that specifies "semi-formal," you may need to double-check with the event organizers about what to wear.

Semi-formal for Him

Men's semi-formal dress code used to indicate a black bow tie, a black cummerbund and a tailless tuxedo. But nowadays American men usually wear suits for semi-formal occasions. It is even widely accepted to go without either the suit jacket or the tie (just don't ditch both, and wear a colored shirt in case of no tie) on the West Coast.

Semi-formal for Her

The biggest difference between formal and semi-formal for a lady is that the latter means no gloves. For a semi-formal occasion, a lady can still wear an evening gown, but she can also opt for a lacy camisole or cashmere sweater with a ball skirt, a cocktail dress, or a dinner suit. A pants suit may work if worn with a sparkly shell. The shoes can be pumps or high-heeled sandals.

References

• Dress Code Guide: Fashions by Location