— Dressing guide · Updated June 2026
Semi-formal attire
Semi-formal sits just below cocktail: dressier than business, but not formal evening wear. For men that's a suit; for women, a cocktail dress or dressy separates. Time of day matters — daytime semi-formal is lighter and softer, evening semi-formal is darker and richer.
The rule
A step below cocktail — a suit (men) or cocktail dress (women), pitched to time of day.
For men
- ·A well-fitted suit (lighter tones for daytime, darker for evening).
- ·Shirt with or without a tie; smart leather shoes.
- ·Keep it sharp but not black-tie formal.
For women
- ·A cocktail dress or dressy separates; midi length is safe.
- ·Lighter tones for daytime, richer for evening.
- ·Heels and refined accessories.
Do
- Pitch the formality to the time of day.
- Default to a suit or a cocktail dress.
- Keep it polished.
Don't
- Don't wear a tuxedo or gown (that's black tie/formal).
- Don't go casual.
- Don't ignore daytime vs evening cues.
Put the outfit together
Build a capsule you can pull this look from, or try a piece on your own photo first.
Frequently asked questions
Semi-formal attire?
Semi-formal sits just below cocktail: dressier than business, but not formal evening wear. For men that's a suit; for women, a cocktail dress or dressy separates. Time of day matters — daytime semi-formal is lighter and softer, evening semi-formal is darker and richer. The rule of thumb: A step below cocktail — a suit (men) or cocktail dress (women), pitched to time of day.
What should men wear?
A well-fitted suit (lighter tones for daytime, darker for evening). Shirt with or without a tie; smart leather shoes. Keep it sharp but not black-tie formal.
What should women wear?
A cocktail dress or dressy separates; midi length is safe. Lighter tones for daytime, richer for evening. Heels and refined accessories.
What should you avoid?
Don't wear a tuxedo or gown (that's black tie/formal). Don't go casual. Don't ignore daytime vs evening cues.