The dreaded black tie optional doesn't have to be so anxiety inducing ... A tuxedo is preferred for this but a dark suit or a tie instead of a bowtie does work as well. Using color also works for this ...

If “black tie optional” is printed on your invite, assume the wedding is slightly less formal than a traditional black tie. As it suggests, the happy couple is giving you the sartorial power ...

From cocktail attire and black tie optional to strict black tie events ... complete with mandatory color schemes and themes ...