What is the difference between semi-formal and formal ?

Question

My sister just asked me this question, she is invited to the wedding next month and not sure that to recomend to wear for her boy friend. The invitation says "Semi-formal".

Answer 1

Semi-Formal Evening Wear for Men: Black full dress/jacket (tailcoat), white, or other color tailcoat acceptable. Neck wear and vest match tailcoat in color, except if wearing black full-dress, then a white, wing-collar pique shirt with white pique vest and bow tie.Formal Shoes: Patent finish.

Answer 2

Formal is usually jacket and tie/tuxes. Semi-formal is button down shirt and dress slacks.

Answer 3

Formal usually means long gowns for women. Semi-formal means that dresses/skirts to the knee or calf are appropriate.

For men, a suit and tie is ALWAYS in good taste for weddings, unless they are super-casual or very formal ("black tie" means tuxedos).

Answer 4

Semi-formal would entail a suit (or blazer/dress pants).  Formal would be tuxedo.

Answer 5

He should wear a dark suit with a white shirt and tie. If he doesn't wear a jacket and tie, he is going to be very out of place.

Answer 6

semi- suit and tie with jacket

formal- tux

Answer 7

It basically means no need for a tux, but don't come in jeans and a button down.

he should be just fine with a suit and tie or some really nice khakis and a blazer.

Anything more casual than that would probably not be good.