Cambridge formal wear

My offer to study at cambridge (sidney sussex college) has been confirmed now So I’ve started thinking about the kind of outfits that I’ll have to buy/wear at things like formal dinners, May balls etc. I’ve heard that it’s mostly black tie, but I was wondering just how strict this is for things like formal dinners, particularly at sidney. I’m quite experimental with clothing (for prom and things i’ll find ways to avoid wearing just a basic suit and tie, e.g i wore a lace poets (sort of) blouse + trousers for my last prom) and honestly hate bow ties (though i’d wear one if i had to). i know that sort of thing is probably not acceptable at cambridge formals etc but i was wondering if anyone knows the extent to which you can be slightly more unique with the formal wear, or whether a full dinner suit and bow tie is a must, which is also fine. thanks

Don't need black tie outside of May Balls tbh unless you join some socs who want that (but you could just hire if really need for a one off).
What you describe sounds fine for formal tbh - they aren't as strict as you think and you'll be wearing a gown on top of it anyway. A basic suit and tie would also be absolutely sufficient for formal.

I'm a student at Sidney - firstly, welcome, great choice - for formals it's not that strict. I would say that if you have a fairly smart outfit, maybe a shirt and trousers or a nice dress with suitable shoes, you'll be fine. I'd say a generally good rule of thumb is that if it would work in an office with a smart dress code, it'll be fine. You do have to wear your gowns though. Also, there is no obligation to go to that many formals. I went to quite a few in first term but only a couple in my whole third year. I would just get a couple of smart~ish outfits that you're happy with and go with those.