Formal attire is a dress code category applicable for the most formal occasions, such as weddings, christenings, confirmations, funerals, Easter and Christmas traditions, in addition to certain state dinners, audiences, and balls. Here are some key features of formal attire:
For Men:
- Dark colored suit (tuxedo) and bow tie
- Dress shoes, dress boots or pumps
- Top hat (traditional formal headgear)
- White or gray gloves
For Women:
- Full-length ball or evening gown with evening gloves
- Evening dresses
- Picture hats
- Heeled dress pumps
Formal attire is the most formal dress code, followed by semi-formal wear, which is equivalently based around daytime black lounge suit, and evening black tie (dinner suit/tuxedo), and evening gown for women. The male lounge suit and female cocktail dress in turn only comes after this level, traditionally associated with informal attire.
When shopping for formal wedding outfits, it is important to consider the venue and season. For example, for summer events, lighter fabrics, brighter colors, and shorter hems are common for formal attire. Formal wedding attire (synonymous with black-tie optional attire) offers more flexibility than black tie, so dressy separates and dresses that hit above the ankle are acceptable, as well as fitted, darker-hued suits paired with a crisp white button-down and tie.
In general, if an event calls for formal attire, it’s going to be fancy, and you don’t want to stick out as a slob in a crowd of well-dressed people. If youre unsure what to wear to a formal or semi-formal event, try contacting the host or event organizer to ask for guidance.
