Black tie terminology can be confusing—for both creating an invitation for your wedding and for when attending an event. We've got the answers to some pressing questions.

Robert Conte of Coleman’s Tuxedos in Short Hills (973-258-1948; colemanstuxedos.com) explains 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,” says Conte.

“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.”

But keep in mind that all your guests may not abide by your wishes. Try as you may to get everyone on board and arrive as dressy as possible, there's usually the few two or three who will come in what they please.