Full length evening dress for Oxford college formal dinner or midi ?

[WellWoman]

DH and I will be at a dinner in Balliol College, Oxford on a Friday evening very soon. We've been told the dress code is black tie. I'm erring towards a knee/calf length evening dress rather than full length. Anyone been to one of these college formal dinners recently? Would other women be wearing this length, or should I go full length?

I think knee length would be fine. And probably more usual.

Either is fine. Wear a dress you've already got that needs an outing!

Definitely midi, unless it is a much more full-on occasion like a college ball. The last big college dinner I went to was also black tie, and I would say that 95% of the women were wearing cocktail dress style things, and some were in smart trousers. A full-length gown would have felt rather over-the-top.

Either is fine. But do choose an evening dress not a day dress. Cocktail or evening dress, knee length, midi or maxi all acceptable.

I have to attend formal dinners at the uni occasionally and this year a full range of dresses were on display, from floor length to mid-thigh minis (on the much younger diners) but all were formal in cut and design.

A full-length gown would have felt rather over-the-top.

A ballgown would, but an elegant maxi dress is fine.

Thank you all - sorry I've been away from the thread so long. Your answers are exactly what I was hoping for - endorsement of my plan to wear an old favourite.

It's a nice cocktail-ish dress by Winser of London, a nice brand that sadly didn't survive covid as it was a good source of smart work clothes and party dresses for me. (Some of you may remember their Miracle dresses). It's a deep blue dress, not as dark as navy, is quite fitted and has organza sleeves so I won't be cold if it is chilly.

I very much appreciate you all helping me stand firm on not needing a new garment for this.

That sounds perfect.

@FringedAnd Thank you!

I need to go to a black tie event soon too and it’s a dinner and I’m doing the same - silk dress to the knee with sleeves.

i don’t know where I would start if I had to buy something new now

Just confirming what everyone else has said - knee length absolutely fine. And makes it easier to get on and off the benches in hall...

Assuming you are eating in hall, that is!