What is the difference between semi-formal and semi-casual?

Question

I am planning my wedding and we don't want it all up tight and stuffy but we dont want people showing up in shorts either.

Answer 1

i would say semi-formal then.

Semi-formal means that you want it formal, but not too formal. Semi- casual means that you can wear something casual, just make it look nicer and dress it up a little.

hope this helped

:)

Answer 2

Semi-formal would mean sport jackets and ties. Semi-casual would mean jackets and ties not required, with polo shirts and corduroy being acceptable.

Answer 3

I'd say semi formal then.  I don't think there is a semi-casual, but if there is it sounds weird...

Answer 4

Perhaps "business casual"? It's casual, no jeans or shorts. Sometimes includes T-shirts but not always.  

Answer 5

I would suggest that what you are aiming at what in the UK is called 'smart casual' which, means people don't have to wear suits but they don't wear shorts, jeans or T shirts.

Answer 6

I had the same issue.

Semi-formal and semi-casual are essentially the same.  If you want to make sure they are dressed nice enough, I would say semi-formal.  I would rather people err on the side of too dressy than not enough and the word formal makes people think dressier.

Answer 7

Semi casual is polo shirts and khakis

Semi formal is dresses but not floor length

it all depends how casual you want it to be, you have to word it so people understand.  Or get a wdding website and skip formality and just say "dresses and dress pants but nothign voer the top dressy!"  

Answer 8

You shouldn't be giving directions on dress, unless it is for Black tie.

Otherwise, people know what to wear to weddings - suits and dresses.

However, to answer your question - semi-formal is a dress for a woman, on the fancier side in fabric and style; suit and tie for man - semi-casual (which I've never heard of as a wedding designation) would be for woman - casual dress, skirt and top, pants and nice top; for men, casual pants (not jeans) and open neck dress shirt or polo.