Formal Wear Vocabulary

noun a small bouquet of flowers worn pinned to a woman's clothing, typically on the lapel or shoulder

• She wore a beautiful corsage on her wrist to the formal event.
• I picked out a colorful corsage for my date to wear to prom.
• I love how that corsage adds a pop of color to her outfit.
• The corsage of flowers symbolized the beginning of their relationship.

noun a long dress, typically worn on formal occasions

adverb to dress formally or elegantly

• She wore a beautiful gown to the formal event.
• She dressed up in a fancy gown for the party.
• She rocked that gown at the prom.
• Her words were like a gown, wrapping everyone in comfort and warmth.

noun a matching jacket and trousers or a jacket and skirt made from the same fabric, typically worn by men for formal occasions

• The businessman arrived at the gala wearing a monkey suit.
• I can't believe he actually wore a monkey suit to the party!
• He looked ridiculous in that monkey suit.
• Wearing a monkey suit to work every day makes me feel like I'm just a cog in the machine.

noun a small flower or bouquet worn on the lapel of a suit jacket

• The groomsmen each wore a boutonniere on their lapels.
• I need to remember to pick up a boutonniere for prom.
• Check out the cool boutonniere on that dude's suit!
• The boutonniere of success for her was when she landed her dream job.

verb To dress up or put on fancy or formal clothing, typically a dress or gown.

• She decided to frock up for the gala event, opting for a floor-length gown and diamond jewelry.
• I'm going to frock up for the party tonight, I've got the perfect little black dress ready to go.
• Let's frock up and hit the town tonight, I'm feeling like dressing up and having a good time.
• He really knows how to frock up a simple outfit with the right accessories, always looking stylish and put together.