I am starting a Special Occasions retail store with two of my
long-time friends.  We plan on carrying attire for formal events, such
as tuxedos, gowns, cocktail dresses, prom/homecoming/dance dresses,
bridal attire (wedding gown, brides-maids dresses, etc.), items along
those lines.  We are currently researching this group of attire and
are looking for some market research regarding this group of apparel. 
Basically, we need to find out how much money this particular industry
pulls in every year.  Is it a billion dollar industry or just a
million dollar industry.  Plus we need to know who our major
competitors are, for example I know that David's Bridal is one,
Jessica McClintock is another.  And how big the market for special
occasion wear is.  And lastly, the major distributors of special
occasion wear.  And don't get confused between formal wear and evening
wear.  Formal wear just applies to men and evening wear just applies
to women.  We plan on selling for all genders and ages, so the proper
industry term is "special occasion."  Thanks so much!