By Molly Tully

With all the focus on the bride and her wardrobe, it’s often easy to forget about the groom’s attire. But selecting the right men’s formalwear is just as important. Ira Coleman, president of Coleman’s Tuxedos, recommends that you visit your local tuxedo specialist at least three months prior to your big day. The time of year, along with the time and day of your wedding and the desired formality of the event, all affect your men’s attire selection.

Robert Conte of Coleman’s Tuxedos in Short Hills explains that “many couples are surprised and overwhelmed by the nuances and choices in men’s formal clothing. This is why it is so important to shop with a professional formalwear specialist who can take the time to educate them about the differences among tuxedos and what is proper fashion etiquette.”

Here are just some of your options. A reputable men’s specialist will understand each of these features and will offer recommendations in selecting the right formal ensemble for your wedding day.

Tuxedo jackets can either be full-dress or tailcoat, cutaway/stroller, or elongated jacket, with single- or double-breasted closures, and single- or multi-button closures. The fabrics are almost as varied. They include wools in various weights and polyester blends. The time of year of your wedding is especially important when determining the weight of your jacket: The lighter the better for an afternoon August wedding, while a winter wedding can withstand a heavier wool.

Lapels and collars also have their own characteristics. Lapels include notch, peak, or shawl. And collars can either be grosgrain, satin, or self-top. Formal shirts can have a collar that’s wing, lay-down, or banded, with a pleated or non-pleated front, and can be made of microfiber, cotton, a poly-cotton blend, or piqué.

Neckwear options include a bow tie, ascot, or Windsor tie. Vests can have a full back or be adjustable, or you can opt for a cummerbund. Other accessories include studs, cuff links, button covers, top hats, canes, gloves, pocket squares, and formal shoes.

And don’t think your choices end there. Black tie terminology for your invitations can be just as confusing. But Conte helps explain this formal nomenclature: “If an invitation reads ‘Black Tie Optional’ or ‘Black Tie Invited’ you can expect a nice affair with people attending in tuxedos,” he says. “Your host is leaving it up to you to dress formally or not. If the invitation reads ‘Black Tie Preferred,’ your host is hoping that you will dress formally, but will not be offended if you don’t. ‘Black Tie’ requires you to dress formally, and ‘White Tie’ requires evening tails with piqué accessories, which is the ultimate in formal dress for men.”