text: formal dinner and a boyfriend?? i've invited my sort-of boyfriend for a formal dinner at my home. what do i wear? also another thing -- shall i have the table set before or should i bring the pates and rest in front of him, and ask him to help. i know its a silly question -- so there! formal  ... wear some sort of dress; but make sure you can make it more casual looking, as an option, if he doesn't dress to match.     as for the table setting.... when in doubt go 50-50.  set the majority of it before (silverware, glassware, centre piece.)  then have him help with the plates ... unless you want to present your food.    it's up to you.