Learn the ins and outs of semi-formal attire for men. Our guide offers outfit ideas and tips to perfect your look for any sophisticated occasion.
Last updated February 5, 2024
Most guys know what formal attire is, but a semi-formal dress code is a whole different ball game. And when you consider that "semi" can mean a tractor-trailer or the game before the final game, and there’s a whole new level of confusion. Rest assured that neither of these definitions has anything to do with semi-formal wedding attire for men! Here, we'll clarify what a men's semi-formal look is when it comes to wedding dress codes.
In short, the word “semi” means half, so a semi-formal dress code lies somewhere in between casual and formal. A better way to define the prefix, in this case, is “sort of” or “somewhat” formal. So, for a semi-formal look, save the tuxedo for a black-tie or formal event. It’s not appropriate for a semi-formal event where suiting is more fitting.
Keep your tuxedo and white tie best in the closet. Whether you prefer a navy suit or light blue suit, or a pair of khakis with a lighter suit jacket, three piece suits, blazers, and chinos are all en vogue for semi-formal events.
However, pay special attention to how you accessorize, as it doesn’t merely come down to a button-down, jacket and trousers. Shoes should be in pristine condition—dress shoes, loafers and oxfords are all great options.
The shirt—long-sleeved, preferably—should be neatly pressed. A belt and socks are also necessities, and cufflinks add a nice touch.
If you’re unsure of the formality when going to a wedding that suggests semi-formal attire for men, adding a pocket square, suspenders and neckwear to a classic black suit will help your look fit the bill. You can toss these aside once you arrive at the event, if they make your look too formal. It’s better to be a bit overdressed. You can always dress your look down, rather than forgo the tie and wish you had worn it instead.
Weddings, of course, are our top answer, but there are other occasions where semi-formal wear is appropriate. You will have the perfect opportunity if you are heading to the theatre or an upscale restaurant. Guys may wear a blazer and trousers, along with loafers and cufflinks, to a holiday party or office event, which is a normal semi-formal event. In short, you’ll most likely wear your semi-formal wedding attire again, so making it an investment is a wise choice.
Another thing to consider is when the event is happening. Darker colors are appropriate for evening weddings, and lighter tones are more fitting for the day. However, don’t feel limited by that rule. Pale tones can complement an outdoor summer wedding as daylight lingers into the evening hours.
Several cues can be on the invitation itself, and here are a few suggestions on how to interpret those subtleties. Although these aren’t hard and fast rules, they can help guide your choices on how to dress as a guest.
However, if you still have questions about the dress code, reach out to the couple to clarify. They would much rather have you ask than risk having you wear a tuxedo or denim to their semi-formal wedding.
Often, classically designed invitations—such as plain and embossed with script font—are reserved for more formal events.
Traditional stationery that “requests the honor of your presence” generally denotes a more upscale event.
Customarily, a daytime wedding will range from a casual to semi-formal dress code. At the same time, evening events tend to be ritzier.
A barn wedding can call for a less formal look. However, an urban hotel reception will require something a bit more posh.
Couples utilize their wedding website to answer a whole host of questions that can’t be addressed on the invitation alone. Head to their online invitation or FAQ section for clarification on their requested dress code.
Hopefully, if you’re getting married or are serving as a wedding attendant, you already grasp what semi-formal attire is. It’s appropriate for the groom and the wedding party to wear less-than-formal clothing. However, there are a few things to keep in mind.
A classic black suit is always in style, and it's a perfect option for semi-formal affairs that are happening in the evening.
Modern Fit Wool Blend Suit, $199.99, Saks Off Fifth
If you want something that's as sleek as black but a little bit different, navy is a great color choice for any cocktail dress code.
1905 Collection Tailored Fit Suit, $159.99, Jos A. Bank
If you're looking for semi-formal wedding attire for a Southern or daytime wedding, go for a men's suit in a lighter color.
Kenneth Cole Reaction Men's Slim-Fit Stretch Linen Suit, $395, Macy's
Choose a fabric like linen for a lightweight suit jacket option, and wear it with your go-to pair of chinos or dressy khakis.
JOE Joseph Abboud Linen Slim Fit Suit Jacket, $199.99, Men's Wearhouse
If you're going to a daytime wedding with a semi-formal dress code, chino pants are a comfortable, easy option.
Clark Straight-Fit Stretch Advantage Chino, $118, Brooks Brothers
Are khakis more your thing? Pair these light-colored pants with your favorite navy suit jacket for a high-contrast, semi-formal outfit.
Stretch Weekday Warrior Dress Pants in Khaki, $119, Bonobos
A great pair of men's dress shoes are a must-have in any semi-formal wardrobe arsenal. A color like brown is so versatile - wear them with navy, gray or khaki suit separates.
Vince Camuto Lamson Cap Toe Oxford, $79.99, DSW
For a slightly more elevated dress shoe option, try a pair of loafers.
Johnston & Murphy Everett Suede Loafers, $149.99, Men's Wearhouse
When it comes to semi-formal wedding attire, you can never have too many button-down shirts. A patterned one is an easy way to show off your personality under your suit jacket.
Button-Down Collar Stripe Shirt, $39.95, Charles Tyrwhitt
Cufflinks are one of the easiest ways to make any semi-formal wedding attire just a little more elevated.
Gold Round Cufflinks, $119, SuitSupply
For some guys, date night consists of a jacket and dress shoes. Others grab their favorite t-shirt and best-loved jeans to head out on the town. Depending on the circumstances, either outfit can be appropriate, yet only one qualifies as semi-formal attire. Suiting isn’t the norm for some, but a wedding is the absolute best reason to kick it up a notch.
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