On an invitation, formal attire generally signifies a dress code requiring more elegant and sophisticated attire than cocktail attire, but less formal than black tie, often including options like formal dresses, suits, and dress shoes. 

What it means:
Formal attire is a dress code that falls between cocktail and black tie on the wedding dress code scale. 

For women:
This typically means floor-length gowns or elegant cocktail dresses, or dressy separates. 

For men:
Formal attire for men often means a dark suit paired with a white dress shirt, a conservative tie or bow tie, and dress shoes. A tuxedo is not required!


Flexibility:
While formal is more elevated than cocktail attire, it offers more flexibility than black tie, allowing for options like ankle-length dresses and dressy separates