History

• The term "semiformal" originated in the mid-1800s when the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII) decided to wear more comfortable attire to dinner rather than a long swallowtail coat. Today, semiformal means a suit, button-up shirt, tie and either patent-leather or highly polished shoes. "Black tie" is another name for semiformal.
  
  

The Suit

• Suit color varies by season. When attending an event in fall or winter, a black or navy blue suit is preferred. For a spring or summer event, a white jacket with black slacks is acceptable.
  
  

Under the Suit Jacket

• On semiformal occasions, a white shirt with a bow tie or straight tie is proper. A black tie is the norm, with most brightly colored ties unwelcome. A cummerbund is acceptable as well.
  
  

Occasion

• Classically, weddings require black-tie attire. The dress code for formal dinners or banquets also is black tie. Wearing vibrant or extravagant colors would be a fashion faux pas for such occasions.
  
  

Shoes

• Patent-leather shoes are the norm, however highly polished Oxfords will suffice. Loafers or monk straps are not acceptable for semiformal occasions.