I am going to a masquara ball/ birthday party in February.  The dress code is dressy, cocktail dresses for the ladies, suits for the men.  I haven't seen any dresses that I like out there, although I like the one that Esquiress bought a few months ago (that unbelievable grecian creation).  The party is at a banquet hall. Any ideas?

Also, what do I buy for a guy who is turning 40 and I don't know very well? And how much do I spend?  I don't want to be cheap, but I also don't want to spend a lot on someone I barely know.