Save for the “doctor is ready now”, do any four words inspire more trepidation—and less excitement—than “cocktail attire for men ... navy, black, or charcoal) with a white shirt ...

This guide decodes every dress code from black tie to beach casual so you can dress for any wedding with confidence and style.

We get it—another dress code ... made in solid white cotton twill or broadcloth. A bow tie is the way to go, though you might sneak by with a black silk tie in borderline formal settings.