what formal events do you attend, and...

[fshguy]

I don black tie several times per year. My wife and I both work in the nonprofit world so there is the occasional fundraiser. However, we create many of our own opportunities.

What interests me, though, is that people DO like to get really dressed up.

This is exactly why my wife and I enjoy quasi-quarterly formal dinners together, either out or hosted at our humble abode.

We are decidedly in the lower end of the middle class, so it isn't a socioeconomic trapping. We just like to step out of the rat race, enjoy a long conversation, some good food and experience life as it was prior to laptops, blackberries, PTA, cub scouts, etc. Doing so in a formal manner helps make it a bit more special for us. I enjoy showing her that I'm still concerned with my appearance and I'm willing to take the extra time for her. Plus walking out in our best with her on my arm makes me feel like a million bucks.

It may not be everyone's cuppa, but it works for us. And let me tell you, the effort does pay off...