How to Get Ready for a Semiformal Event

The term semi-formal, entails both long and short dresses are appropriate. For guys, semi-formal is a bit more confusing, as it doesn't define the required dress. The best approach is to dress up rather than down, and let exceptional grooming and taste serve as the foundation for your look.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

For Guys

1. Ask a trusted adult or an event organizer what dress is expected. Talk to friends attending the event and ask what they are wearing. Find out whether corsages are de rigeur.

2. Decide what to wear. Try on different outfits and make the necessary purchases. Borrow a sport coat from a same-sized friend. Choose a coordinating dress shirt with a color and a pair of trousers with or without cuffs.

3. Press the shirt and trousers, or ask for help ironing it. Take it to a professional dry cleaner for the best results.

4. Personalize the ensemble with a tie. Choose something appropriate but stylish that coordinates well with the outfit. Consider a bow tie. Ask for help tying a bow tie or necktie or look for instructions online.

5. Choose a leather belt in brown or black (to match the shoes) about 1 inch wide. Select one with a gold, silver or brushed metal buckle that is no wider than the belt itself.

6. Wear black or brown leather shoes in a slip-on or oxford style. Make sure that shoes are polished and buffed. Wear socks the same color as the trousers.

7. Get a good haircut or a trim a few days before the event. Shower, shave and style hair before dressing to go out. Brush teeth and use a mouthwash. Go easy on the cologne.

For Girls

8. Consider a knee-length or full-length dress, whichever is more comfortable. Talk to friends and find out what they're wearing. Shop for the dress at least four weeks before the event. Think about swapping previously worn dresses with friends.

9. Shop for shoes after the dress is selected. Find a style that combines great style with comfort in order to avoid sore feet.

10. Decide on a hairstyle. Call the salon several weeks ahead to assure an appointment. Try a new style the week before to make sure it's right, then repeat it the day of the event.

11. Think about forgoing the hairstylist by creating a simple ponytail or French braid. Dress it up with a beautiful barrette or the simple addition of ribbons.

12. Make appointments for manicures and pedicures at least two weeks ahead. Arrange the appointment early the day of the event.

13. Choose a bag to coordinate with the outfit. Select something small to hold lip gloss and a cell phone. Talk with friends about borrowing evening purses.

14. Select a wrap, shawl or topper for the evening, depending on the weather. Coordinate transportation to minimize the amount of time spent walking in cold weather.

Tips & Warnings

• If you plan to order a corsage, contact your date's mother. Ask if a wrist corsage or a pin-on is best. Get ideas for the best colors to coordinate with your date's dress.