Semi-Formal Ideas for Women

• Women have many choices when it comes to semi-formal attire. Keep in mind that outfits should still be formal. For example, cotton dresses and jean skirts are inappropriate. Instead, cocktail dresses, dress suits or pantsuits are suitable for semi-formal occasions.
  
  For weddings or parties, a feminine cocktail dress is perfect. A cocktail dress should be no shorter than one inch above the knee. For a wedding, wear a cocktail dress in a bright color to celebrate the joyous occasion. For other social events such as a company party, wear a little black dress with tasteful jewelry such as small diamond studs. If you work at a conservative company or are attending an event with a conservative audience, a dress suit or pantsuit may be more appropriate.
  
  

Semi-Formal Ideas for Men

• A suit is a convenient semi-formal outfit. Suits are very appropriate for business events. Dark colored suits in black, navy or charcoal are more formal than light colored suits. Your suit should be pressed and cleaned. The accompanying shirt should be a collared, button down shirt in solid or patterned fabric. Solid colored shirts are preferable to patterned shirts because it is easier to match ties to a solid colored shirt. Choose a tie that fits the occasion, such as solid colored or conservative patterned tie.
  
  For social gatherings like weddings or parties, you can choose to wear a nice shirt and dark slacks instead of a full suit. Dark slacks are not jeans. Instead, they should be made of wool or wool-blend fabric. Pair it with a nice button down shirt. Depending on the occasion, you can choose to be more expressive with the shirt color. For example, it would be suitable to wear a shiny burgundy or dark silver shirt to a Christmas party. Similarly, ties can be less conservative in a non-business setting.
  
  

Semi-Formal Shoes

• Semi-formal shoes for women should have heels. Ideally, heels should match your suit or dress. However, if you work in a creative setting or are attending a party rather than business function, it is appropriate to wear shoes in bold colors or prints. If you dislike wearing heels, wear dressy flats such as patent leather ballet flats.
  
  For men, black leather shoes are most appropriate for semi-formal occasions. Make sure your shoes are clean. Moreover, your belt should be a matching black leather belt.