First I would like to say that women, I believe, are treated with less interest and service than men by most FA.
Secondly, the mix in first is not a measure of today, as of yesterday. I spoke to the woman in charge of the mileage program with United, at the 1 k party, and she said that only 10% of the 1k's with UA are women...that probably accounts for the count issue in first, at least partially.
Finally, there is a big difference between two people equally dress (like kind, or appropriately dresses) and a young man well underdressed for the occasion...yes as measured by the attire of 400 other guests. You could do so much more going with the flow sometimes, especially on this issue, than fighting it. Tie is not a four letter word! PS, I did pass on the certificate as you suggested.