Formalwear
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Sell with us →About formalwear
Formalwear is clothing for occasions: weddings, galas, proms, black-tie and cocktail events, ceremonies and interviews. It includes evening gowns and cocktail dresses, jumpsuits, two-piece suits, tuxedos and dinner jackets, waistcoats, dress shirts, and accessories like ties, bow ties and pocket squares. Independent designers and tailors often offer made-to-measure work, while pre-owned formalwear is a practical option for pieces worn only once or twice.
Construction is what separates good formalwear. Gowns may be fully lined, boned or corseted, with fabrics such as satin, crepe, chiffon, tulle, velvet and lace. Suits differ in cloth weight, wool quality and canvassing: fully canvassed and half-canvassed jackets shape to the body over time, while fused construction is lighter and lower maintenance. Look for details like working sleeve buttons, hand-finished hems and generous seam allowances that make tailoring possible.
Plan for fit and timing. Most formalwear benefits from alterations, so check how much seam allowance a garment has and allow time for shipping and tailoring before your event. Dress codes guide choices: black tie usually means a tuxedo or floor-length gown, while cocktail allows shorter dresses and dark suits.
Choosing formalwear for your event
- Order well ahead of your event so there is time for shipping, try-on and alterations.
- Compare bust, waist, hip and length for gowns, and chest, shoulder, sleeve and jacket length for suits.
- Ask how much seam allowance there is if you expect to have the piece altered.
- Check fabric, lining and construction details like boning, canvassing and hand finishing.
- For pre-owned pieces, ask about alterations already made, cleaning and any marks on delicate fabrics.
Questions about formalwear
How far ahead should I buy formalwear?
Allow enough time for shipping, a try-on and alterations, plus extra if the piece is made to order. Check the seller's production and shipping times and plan backward from your event date.
What is the difference between black tie and cocktail attire?
Black tie usually means a tuxedo or dinner jacket and floor-length gowns or very formal dresses. Cocktail is a step less formal, with knee or midi-length dresses and dark suits.
What does a canvassed suit jacket mean?
A canvassed jacket has an inner layer of canvas stitched between the cloth and lining that shapes the chest and molds to you over time. Fused jackets bond the layers with adhesive instead.
Is buying a pre-owned gown or suit a good idea?
Often, since many formal pieces are worn only a few times. Ask for measurements, cleaning history and details of any previous alterations.