What does "formal" attire mean?

[swquilts]

I might have to go to a dinner/blahblah thing next month and the attire is formal.

What constitutes "formal", male or female?





Can you tell I have no clue? :cool: I ain't a formal kinda gal! :D

[BucknellAlum]

Well, I am under the impression that "formal" means a tux and long dress (well, tuxes for the men, and dresses for ladies!). Kind of like black-tie. And About.com concurred with that definition.

Is it a wedding or a business function? That might clue us in some more. And what was the invitation like, sometimes you can get clues from the invite and how "formal" it is.

[Beth]

I would think it would be cocktail dresses at a minimum and long gowns likely. Tux or formal dark suit for men. Black tie would definitely indicate tux/long gown sort of expectation.

[swquilts]

It's baslically a fundraising type dinner for peace officers. Our local congressman will be there and maybe, BIG maybe good old Gov Arnold. :eek:

[foodfiend]

If it's "black tie", then a full-length gown. If it's "cocktail", then a dress that ends at the knees. (I just looked this up)
My rule of thumb is: if men wear a tux, then wear a full-length gown. If it's a suit, then wear a dress.

[Cinnamon Crazy]

Susan,

Where is it being held? That might give an indication of what's appropriate?

Anna

[swquilts]

Visalia Convention Center.....

[SusanMac]

I'd still wear a cocktail dress to events where men were wearing tuxes. Women can get away with a pretty wide array of dresses at this type of gala event.

[Cinnamon Crazy]

Visalia Convention Center.....


I think "formal" in this case is a nice cocktail dress for you and a suit & tie for your husband. The Central Valley tends to be pretty relaxed with regards to dress. I work for a very conservative company and every year their formal Christmas party is held at the Fresno Exhibit Hall. I see more suits and dresses there than I do tuxes and gowns.