The idiom “all dressed up“ describes someone who is wearing their finest or most formal clothes, often in preparation for a special occasion. It conveys an image of being well-groomed and ready for something significant.
Meaning of “All dressed up”
“All dressed up“ means that a person is wearing their best attire, typically for an event or a special outing. It implies an elevated level of dressing, often including formal, stylish, or elegant clothing.
Examples of “All dressed up” in sentences
We’re all dressed up to go out to dinner.
(We’re dressed in our nicest clothes for a special dinner outing.)
I really hate to get all dressed up just to go somewhere to eat.
(I don’t enjoy dressing formally only for a casual meal.)
She was all dressed up for the wedding and looked absolutely stunning.
(She wore her best clothes for the wedding, looking elegant.)
When to use “All dressed up”
- Use this idiom to emphasize when someone is in their finest attire, ready for a formal occasion, dinner, or event.
- It can also be used more informally or sarcastically when someone dresses up but doesn’t have any special place to go.
Equivalent expressions
Here are some expressions similar to “all dressed up“:
- Dressed to the nines: Wearing very stylish or formal clothes, ready for an event.
- Dolled up: Dressed up, especially with an emphasis on looking attractive.
- Dressed to kill: Wearing clothing intended to impress or attract.
- In one’s Sunday best: Wearing one’s best clothes, typically for a special occasion.
The idiom “all dressed up“ is a lively way to describe someone who has put effort into their appearance for an occasion. It’s versatile enough to express genuine admiration for someone’s look or mild frustration when dressing up feels unnecessary.
