[Alex1977]

Hi. I've been invited to a wedding of a close friend. The ceremony is at 4pm, to be followed by a dinner at a fancy venue. The invite says "semi-formal." I'm wearing a fairly standard, somewhat colourful cocktail dress. The problem is what my long-term partner should wear. Unlike most of my social set, he's a tradesman and has no need for a suit, so he doesn't own one. He doesn't even own a sports jacket, nice pants or, for that matter, a tie! We looked at buying a suit, or maybe a sports jacket and tailored pants, but (a) they were pretty expensive for something he will hardly ever wear (and we can't really afford to get him a new outfit on top of the wedding present and the travel!) and (B) he didn't feel comfortable in it anyway. So, I'm wondering can we get away with his usual "formal" look - a good black shirt and his classic leather jacket. What do you think? We don't want to be offensive or rude or anything, but the alternative may be that I go alone...

This post has been edited by TWQadmin: 25 January 2026 - 06:51 PM

[Etiquette Now]

Dear No Suit,

A suit is a standard in every man's closet. He would have use for it as weddings and more formal events do occur. It is expected that he wear one. There is no polite substitution I can think of.

Many times a good suit can be found at a thrift shop.

Please do not wear a dress that is too colorful. Red is an absolute no-no.

Best wishes,