Think of formal dress in terms of "more": more shine, more length, more fullness and more complicated to wear. A formal dress is constructed along complex lines from more expensive textiles. Semi-formal dresses, however, are cheaper to buy, usually doesn't require a special bra or crinoline and is simpler to maintain. Optimally, a semi formal garment is a completely off-the-rack piece of apparel, requiring few alterations. Formal dresses, on the other hand, often needs tailoring to look the way it should.
Good styles for semi formal wear include short prom dresses, jumpsuits and special occasion suits. Clothing may be snug-fitting or short; in this category, a shopper may see mini-dresses and other lengths that end slightly above the knee. Commonly, full-length and ballroom-type skirts are formal. A good rule of thumb for semi formal is to keep the dress length above the floor–tea-length dresses are at the limit of semi formal.
A semi formal suit will usually have a closer fit than a formal or business suit, and may have more ornate buttons and trims. Semi-formal suits are more versatile in style, with cropped or long jackets and bottoms that veer away from the straight, boxy business cut.
Semi formal fabric types include satin, velvet, silk jersey, silk and georgette. There aren't a lot of sequins and beading in semi formal dress, but there might be small amounts. Lace is also a popular semi formal fabric. Stretch fabrics are commonplace. Some cotton weaves are appropriate, especially if the fabric has a pretty sheen or finish. Stay away from most other cottons, including denim and twill; they're not formal enough.
This is the time to leave the diamond-encrusted baubles behind. Semi formal dresses call for accessories that aren't intimidating and overpowering, but you still need to pay more attention to choose them, if you wear it to a beach wedding party, you can try to choose a pair of suitable and fashionable sunglasses, they may make your dress more shining. Cocktail rings are also the nice touch, and so are pieces that include feathers and a small amount of shine.
Shoes can be flat or heeled, but avoid wearing any styles that look like day shoes. A good rule of thumb is this: if they fit in at the office or school, they're not formal enough.
