Semi Formal Dress Code

From black tie and cocktail to casual and beach formal (yes, it does exist!), there are so many different dress codes out there, it can make even the most fashionable guy’s head spin. For couples planning their wedding day dress code, the most popular one is semi formal. In fact, according to The Knot, approximately 60 percent of weddings in 2021 were semi formal occasions. It is also the dress code that is most likely to cause confusion among wedding guests. It’s no surprise because figuring out how to strike the perfect balance between formal and informal can be intimidating. Luckily, Generation Tux is here to explain all you need to know to dress for semi formal success.

What is a semi formal dress code?

While a formal dress code doesn’t leave a lot of room for interpretation, semi formal allows guys to incorporate their own personal style into their ensemble because it’s slightly more relaxed than formal.

For a black-tie or formal affair, you are limited to a black tuxedo with a traditional look (white shirts; black or white tie; etc.). But with semi formal events, you can opt for a suit and step up your fashion game with customized accessories in bold color and patterns (if that’s what you want). It gives you the freedom to be you while still adhering to the dress code. And from a hotel ballroom to a barn, the semi formal dress code can work at nearly any type of wedding locale.

Of course, if you’re at all unsure about what is expected of you, it’s best to reach out to the hosts to get their advice.

What should you wear?

A stylish and sophisticated suit works best for a semi formal event. And Generation Tux has a vast selection of suits that can fit any type of affair. So whether you need wedding party attire or are simply a guest at a special event, you’ll find the perfect look for the day.

Anything-but-Basic Black

A black suit doesn’t have to be boring—especially when attending a semi formal event, where you can add in some color and fun prints to liven up your look. Our classic two-button Black Notch Lapel Suit is the perfect base to customize a look that will help you stand out from the crowd.

Gorgeous Gray

Gray is fast replacing black as everyone’s go-to neutral, and for good reason. It manages to be sophisticated and modern all at the same time, making it a great choice for a semi formal event. Our Charcoal Gray Notch Lapel Suit is a slightly softer option for those who want to look more formal but not don black, while our single-button Iron Gray Peak Lapel Suit is a lighter hue that is still appropriate for the dress code.

If you’d prefer a lighter option, the Allure Light Gray Suit will keep you cool and comfortable with its Coolmax moisture wicking breathable fabric and Sorona stretch fiber construction. And the Cement Gray Notch Lapel Suit is perfect for a semi formal wedding held in the daytime.

Bold in Blue

An evening semi formal wedding calls for a darker suit. With that in mind, guys who choose blue can’t go wrong with our Navy Blue Notch Lapel Suit, which can be paired with a variety of accessories, both bright and soft. Our Slate Blue Notch Lapel Suit and Allure Dark Suit are also good options for guys that don’t want to go as dark as navy.

Guys can lighten it up at a daytime wedding, with our Bright Blue Notch Lapel Suit, which will definitely turn some heads when you walk into the venue. The Mystic Blue Peak Lapel Suit pairs modern color and traditional style, while our Indigo Blue Notch Lapel Suit is for the bolder man.

Trendy Tan

For a daytime wedding or other special occasion, guys might consider going with tan, which gives off a classic but modern look through the accessorizing. Our British Tan Notch Lapel Suit and Allure Beige Suit can come to life through adding some bold colors and lively prints.

Not So Boring Brown

While there was a time when people shied away from brown, it is becoming an increasingly popular neutral in the fashion world—especially for people that want to go beyond basic black without going over the top. Our Allure Dark Brown Suit takes a classic look and gives it a more modern feel—giving guys the confidence they want when attending a special event.

And don’t forget: Generation Tux’s innovative technology will help determine the best fit for you. All you need to do is answer a few simple questions!

Choosing Your Shirt

A crisp, white shirt is the perfect base if you want to have some fun with your accessories. Generation Tux offers a white Twill Spread Collar and Wingtip Collar shirt (the Twill Spread also comes in ivory), as well as our Ivory Microfiber Point Collar shirt, which pairs perfectly with every color suit.

Customizing the Ensemble

Ties

Unlike formal attire, which limits how creative you can get with your accessories, semi formal attire allows guys to customize their look through color and print. You can start with your tie, whether it’s a bowtie or necktie—the choice is up to you. However, since a bowtie is seen by many as being ultra-formal, you might want to opt for a necktie.

Since most of Generation Tux’s formal attire options are neutral in color, you can feel free to get a bit adventurous with your tie, choosing a bold color or even a fun print, including striped, zig zag, paisley or plaid. This is the time to let your unique style and personality shine through!

Not sure what color to choose? Generation Tux will send free color swatches to your home so you can select the right hue for you.

Vests

All of Generation Tux’s suits come with a matching vest—whether or not you opt to wear one is up to you. But it is often a good way to still look dashing on the dance floor if you decide to take your jacket off during the event.

Pocket Squares

A pocket square can also add some pizzazz to your ensemble, but don’t make the fashion faux pas of matching your tie and pocket square. Instead, the pocket square should complement your overall look.

Socks

Socks used to be an afterthought, but now guys know how a cool pair can up your style game. Generation Tux offers pairs in a variety of colors and fun designs.

Shoes

While you can get creative with your look—and many men are stepping out of the box with their footwear by wearing sneakers and boots to special events—a semi-formal dress code calls for dress shoes. Luckily, we have both brown and black options.

Cufflinks

Cufflinks are most commonly worn for formal events, but since rules are more flexible with a semi formal look, you can do whatever makes you comfortable. If you opt to wear them, check out our gold and silver designs.

Ready to start putting together your semi formal look? Start browsing through our selection of suits, shirts, ties and other accessories for an ensemble that will have you looking and feeling your best.