What is the proper dress code if an invitation says formal?

I am going to a work event. The invitation says formal. I asked one of the ladies who put the even on, "how formal is formal, for this even". She stated that the guys wears suits and the ladies cocktail dresses. She said that tuxedos weren't at all necessary.





I am wondering if the dress I will be wearing is appropriate. It is sleevless. It is also long, probably 2 inches above my ankle. It is a scoop neck and not at all low cut (will NOT show cleavage). The dress is black with cream embroidered flowers down the front. The dress is lined in cream and has some leaves cut out showing the satiny lining.

What is the proper dress code if an invitation says formal?
For men, Formal means tuxedo. If they are saying no tux, then the event is really Semi-Formal. Guys in suits and ladies in cocktail dresses. You are right on track.
Reply:you'll be the prettiest girl at the party! the dress sounds prefect!
Reply:Your dress is perfectly appropriate.


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Just a note: a tuxedo is formal dinner or theater attire. Otherwise, men wear, typically, a dark navy suit, white shirt and tie (look at how the President or Governor dress)
Reply:Your dress sounds lovely. I would think it would be formal enough especially since tuxedos aren't necessary. Merry Christmas, enjoy the party!
Reply:The dress sounds fine. I always considered formal to be anything nice,and dressy. No jeans, or trampy looking dresses so short that nothing is left to the imagination. I always think a black coctail dress, with a little excessories, and dark stocking to be very elegant and smart.(No matter what age you are)
Reply:Your dress sounds very nice. Have a good time.
Reply:Sounds like a nice dress. i believe it is appropriate for your work event. As long as it's not to revealing it's ok, so that you look professional
Reply:Well, this is clear as mud. Once upon a time, formal evening events would have been delineated as white tie for the more formal occasion or black tie for the less formal one (with tails). The tuxedo is a semi-formal dinner jacket. I'm guessing that if these folks don't know any better than you state, then they won't notice if you're off a bit in your choice, either.