I honestly cannot afford to buy a new formal outfit, but have plenty of dressy clothes in my closet. Not sure what to do. If I show up in a dress that’s not “black tie,” will I be told to leave?

The "sandwich" outfit trick from TikTok helped me get dressed quickly and look polished. It was mostly pretty easy to follow and I'd try it again.

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I have a close friend who loves to dress up in crazy outfits. They are almost costumelike: very garish and tacky (to me, anyway), with sequins, feathers, fringe, loud colors ...