Formal wear, formal apparel or evening dress is usually the standard Western dress code category typically applicable for all the more formal occasions, including church ceremonies, weddings, Christenings, anniversaries, confirmation, funerals, festive parties, balls, and athletic events. The term formal wear is used in regards to any outfit that’s suitable for or worn in a setting that is formal, often for a formal occasion. It may not be accompanied by a tie or other form of conservative dress. For example, you would have a formal dinner dress if you’re attending a black-tie affair or a black cocktail party with a group of your friends. You would also have a formal wear for a job interview if you’re applying for a position at your company and it requires a suit and a blouse and necktie and so on.
Formal attire is also applicable for women who are in the professional arena in the forms of evening gowns or black tie suits, prom dresses, corporate attire, business casual attire, or any other type of work outfit. Men who attend black tie occasions sometimes don’t feel comfortable in full formal attire; in this case, they either wear semi-formal attire like a tuxedo, which is appropriate for less formal settings and events, or a white-tie tuxedo that’s perfect for more formal occasions and settings. A semi-formal attire for men can be a tuxedo, a simple two-piece suit, or even a sports jacket with trousers. There are also full formal wear outfits, which include three-piece sets that consist of a jacket, pants, and shirt in one.
A black-tie event would usually require a more elaborate wardrobe than other less formal attire. Therefore, it would include a full formal attire with a tuxedo for men, along with accessories like shoes and socks. Formal attire is always appropriate to wear to a black-tie event. When attending a less formal gathering, the basic things that you need to have would be your normal suit or a business suit. Other items may be less formal, but still considered formal depending on the occasion and the type of occasion that you’re going to attend. For example, if you’re going to a wedding reception as a guest of honor, you might consider bringing along a nice pair of slacks and a dress shirt, whereas for guests at a birthday party you might want to bring along your favorite dress.