Okay! Here we go again... Advice??

[plaid preacher]

Wow Fr. Bill, you've had your wheaties this week, haven't you.

This side of the Atlantic in the 21st Century, I have never even seen white tie - although I don't run in the pish-posh crowd; if there is one. The tuxedo is pretty out there, reserved for weddings and special events. Myself I have never had my "Mr Bates" pull out the tail-coat when I dress for dinner. I echo OC Richard's comments, although around here the "hollywood" excuse does not hold, but you would be surprised what you see at weddings sometimes.

Sem-formal, thinking back to my high school days when we had a semi-formal, meant a suit and tie or at least a dress shirt and tie.

Semi-dressed on the other hand means you forgot your pants.

Ta

Robert

[Really a McQueen]

Given that this is Oregon, (and not Portland) I would suggest at least a nice sweater with necktie. And your camouflage rain coat.

[Phil]

I would imagine that anything containing the word "formal" involves the use of a shirt and tie but, like others, semi-formal is an alien concept. Invitations usually stipulate "dress formal" or "white tie" but otherwise the choice is up to you.
If it is any help, a Burns supper here would normally find a lounge suit is expected.

[Father Bill]

Good grief, I appreciate my clerical shirt! Nobody ever questions whether it's "correct." I get up in the morning and look at my closet and say "Hmm. What shall I wear today? Perhaps black!"

...and that's all she wrote!