OK it's so long since I've been out - what does "formal"on an invitation suggest to you these days?

[Notquitegrownup]

Apart from being a good excuse to spend some money

It's a big do . . . in early September.

Any thoughts much appreciated.

[TheDailyMailHatesWomenAndLemon]

Time of day?

"Formal" is a bit rubbish, TBH. "Lounge suits" or "Black tie" or "White tie" is far more useful.

I'd probably assume at least the glammer end of cocktail-type dresses, shading into evening dresses depending on exactly what it is and what time of day.

Daytime wedding described as "formal", I'd be thinking Royal Ascot-type dresses.

Late-afternoon or early-evening event, cocktail dress.

Evening event, evening dress.

[KristinaM]

i agree, i woudl think glam cocktail or evening dress

what were you thinking of wearing?

[Notquitegrownup]

Ooh, lovely, that sounds just right! It's a late afternoon reception followed by dinner and dancing until late. I've got a really nice cocktail dress that I haven't had the opportunity to wear, and didn't want to have to march around in evening dress.

Now I can splash out on a new evening bag to go with my shoes and not feel too extravagant!

Thank u