I arrived at IAD last October and my luggage had not made the connecting flight. I had to purchase a new suit including shoes, belt, shirt, tie, etc., as well as a few other things to last me until my luggage was delivered three business days later. Upon my return to Lagos, my local AF office reimbursed me the entire cost (~$700) in cash a few days later.

I was traveling on a full fare J ticket, so that might have had something to do with their willingness to reimburse me without any questions.