(ThyBlackMan.com) Dressing appropriately for a wedding can be a difficult feat to pull off, and not just for the ladies. The only real iron-clad rule in wedding attire is that guests should avoid wearing white, as these colors are reserved for the bride and groom. But outside of that, there are rules and customs to observe, just as with dressing for any other special event. So, while you may have been looking for an opportunity to wear your new plaid suit, this is probably a no-go. The aim in choosing appropriate wedding attire is not to stand out with your fashion choice. Your fashion choice should serve to make everyone feel comfortable. Keep extreme style choices for a later date.
The first step toward picking the right attire lies in deciphering what the wedding invitation says. Here are the three main types of weddings and how to go about dressing for each.
The Black Tie Wedding 
The invite says that it will be a black tie wedding. So does that mean you need to wear a black tie? In this case the label, Black Tie, is a bit misleading. A black tie event means guests should wear a tuxedo. Typically, you don’t even wear a black tie with your tux. Instead, wear a bow tie. If you’re wondering what the difference is between a tux and a suit, it lies in the presence of satin on a tux. Black tie evens also commonly call for wearing a cummerbund, a black sash around the waist that takes the place of a belt. Also wear dark leather shoes.
If the invite says black tie, then adhere to this dress code. There is little wiggle room when it comes to dressing down at a black tie event. Everyone else will be dressed sharply, and you will want to do the same. Tux rentals go from $150 upwards. Accessories should be limited to cuff links.
The Formal Wedding
The invite says the dress code is formal. This is a less restrictive dress code as compared to the blacktie event. While you can wear a tux to a formal wedding, wedding goers can opt for a formal suit and tie.
The color of the suit can vary depending on the time of day the wedding is taking place, as well as the season. Wear a darker suit for weddings that take place in the fall and winter, or that are held in the evening. Wear a lighter suit for weddings that take place in spring and summer, or during the day. Pastel colors pair nicely with darker suits, and darker ties look good with lighter suits. Think about creating a nice contrast. Wear your best watch as your accessory.
The Casual or Informal Wedding
Casual weddings are often held on beaches, at a courthouse, or at a park. You are free to wear slacks and a button down shirt. A classy gold chain can serve as an accessory, if you are looking to spice things up a little. But avoid shorts,sneakers, tank tops, and jeans. If you would not wear it to a business meeting, avoid wearing it here.
A pair of brown or tan slacks with a light blue shirt make for a stylish combination. Grey or light blue slacks with a white shirt is also a fail-safe color combination. As for shoes and belts, a general rule of thumb is that the color of your belt should match the color of your shoes. While suit jackets are not necessary, they do provide a stylish addition and can help complete your look. Also, depending on the season, you might want to bring that suit jacket to keep the chill away.
A final note to keep in mind as you prepare your outfit for that wedding: It’s always better to be dressed too formally than too casually.
Staff Writer; Jim Phelps