Here's what it usually entails:
* Formal attire with a twist: Think tuxedo jackets with jeans, bowties with plaid shirts, or evening gowns paired with cowboy boots.
* Embracing rural aesthetics: Elements like bandanas, bolo ties, or even straw hats can be incorporated into the outfit.
* A sense of humor: The key to hillbilly formal is a playful approach that embraces the clashing elements and creates a sense of absurdity.
Examples of hillbilly formal outfits:
* A tuxedo jacket with a pair of worn-in jeans and a plaid shirt
* A floor-length gown paired with cowboy boots and a bolo tie
* A bowtie with a flannel shirt and a straw hat
The origins of the term are unclear, but it likely emerged as a way to describe the quirky fashion choices of people living in rural areas who wanted to dress up for special occasions. Regardless of its origins, "hillbilly formal" is a fun and lighthearted way to describe a unique and often unexpected style of dress.