The term "semiformal" remains a source of confusion and frustration for many when navigating modern dress codes, according to fashion industry experts. Despite its frequent appearance on invitations, the descriptor offers little concrete guidance, leaving guests uncertain about how to balance effort with appropriateness.
Semiformal is often seen as an ambiguous middle ground—more elevated than everyday wear but less rigid than formal attire. Stylist Dana Asher Levine, who has worked with notable figures including Shonda Rhimes, describes it as “the most misunderstood dress code.” Confusion is compounded when hosts themselves provide vague instructions, sometimes encouraging guests simply to “wear what makes you feel celebratory,” which can be unhelpfully open-ended.
For men, the expectations of semiformal tend to be clearer: a suit is the standard choice, typically excluding tuxedos but allowing for some flexibility with ties and accessories, as long as the overall look remains restrained. Wild patterns or novelty vests are generally discouraged.
Women, however, face a more nuanced challenge. The traditional guideline of avoiding long gowns is increasingly outdated due to evolving fashion norms. Online advice ranges widely, and the Emily Post Institute attempts to define semiformal as “more formal than office wear but less than formal event attire”—an explanation many find insufficient given the vast spectrum of contemporary workplace dress and the blending of casual and formal styles at major events.
Levine suggests focusing on fabric and finish as key indicators. Pieces made from richer materials such as velvet, taffeta, or heavy crepe can elevate simple silhouettes to a semiformal level. She also recommends altering previously worn gowns to midi or tea-length hemlines to increase versatility while meeting the dress code’s intent.
Author and nightlife chronicler Derek Blasberg concurs that the ideal approach involves making considered choices from existing wardrobes rather than purchasing entirely new ensembles. He advises guests to "turn up the notch" on favorite items, such as incorporating a pocket square with a suit for men or accentuating women’s outfits with jewelry and dressier shoes. Footwear, he notes, should avoid casual styles like loafers with white soles or flats designed for daytime, favoring traditional dress shoes for men and heeled options for women.
When in doubt, experts uniformly recommend erring on the side of slightly overdressing rather than underdressing. According to Blasberg, “Looking like you cared is never the wrong answer,” underscoring the importance of intentional presentation in interpreting semiformal attire.